Suite Mornings

Danielle Chou
  • 5.0 (4)
  • BUSINESS

Suite Mornings is your go-to podcast for unlocking the secrets of success from the leaders who’ve made it. Hosted by Dani, an executive assistant who’s learned from the best, each episode offers exclusive insights into the personal growth journeys of high-level executives. Whether you're looking to level up your career, grow your business, or find new ways to lead with confidence, Suite Mornings gives you the tools and inspiration you need to take charge. Tune in for actionable tips, real-world stories, and a peek into the rooms where success is built. If you're ready to rise, it’s time to start your mornings with Suite Mornings.

  1. JAN 29

    Perpetual Students Win: Learning, Leading, and Leaving People Better with Amir Khawaja

    What if the most effective leaders aren’t the loudest in the room, but the most committed to learning? In this episode of Suite Mornings, Dani sits down with Amir Khawaja, Senior Director, technology leader, and co-host of Black Belts and Boardrooms, to explore what it really means to lead with presence, discipline, and care. Amir shares how being a perpetual student has shaped his approach to executive decision-making, team development, and personal growth. From earning his black belt in Taekwondo after 40 to leading teams of hundreds, Amir reframes leadership as a daily practice. Together, they unpack why grace, accountability, and perspective matter more than ego in the boardroom.  In this episode, you’ll learn: Why leadership is not a title but a responsibilityHow discipline and practice translate from martial arts to the boardroomThe role of journaling, reflection, and active listening in executive presenceHow confidence grows from courage and continuous learningWhat it means to truly leave people better than you found themListen now and discover why perpetual students win, not just in leadership and business, but in life, too. And you can learn more about the Black Belts & Boardrooms podcast on LinkedIn, and listen on YouTube or wherever else you get your podcasts. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    49 min

  2. JAN 15

    Using What’s in Front of You: Sarah Vander Neut on Starting a Fashion Brand Without Waiting

    In this episode of Suite Mornings, we sit down with Sarah Vander Neut, founder of Vanderjacket, to talk about what it's like to start before you feel ready, and to create using only what’s available to you. Sarah shares how her fashion and running brand began with deadstock fabric not as a mission-driven statement, but out of necessity. She opens up about the early fear of using materials that couldn’t be reproduced, the pressure of making irreversible decisions, and how those moments forced her to trust her instincts and learn fast. Throughout the conversation, Sarah reflects on failure as a teacher, the steep learning curve of entrepreneurship, and the importance of listening to the people around you, because often, the best ideas don’t come from doing it alone. As she puts it, “I started from ‘I didn’t know’ to ‘now I know,’” a quote that left our host speechless because this is a mindset that truly captures the heart of growth through experience. This episode is for founders, creatives, and professionals who are waiting for the right time. Sarah’s story is a reminder that clarity can come from action, and that confidence really does come from learning.  Sarah also teaches us that resilience is built by surrounding yourself with people who can pull you through the hard seasons. In this episode, we cover: Starting a business with limited resourcesLearning from mistakes and early failuresMaking decisions when there’s no do-overWhy listening to others can accelerate growthBuilding confidence through experience, not perfectionThe power of surrounding yourself with the right peopleAre you learning as you go? Good. You're in the right place. And if you've been waiting, take this as a sign: Start. Sarah can be found on Instagram here, and you can check out what's in stock on Vanderjacket.com. Sarah's currently reading Good is the New Cool Guide to Meaningful Marketing: Guide to Meaningful Marketing by Afdhel Aziz and Bobby Jones, and a theological book written by Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII's sixth wife. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    43 min

  3. JAN 2

    Framing the Future: Jeffery Mercier’s Blueprint for a Purpose-Driven Life

    In this powerful follow-up episode, host Dani Raschel Chou reconnects with Jeffery Mercier, who returns with major updates since his first appearance. Jeffery, a construction consultant, bodybuilder, and motivational speaker, has made huge strides in just six months. What's he been up to? Oh, you know: Competing in his first bodybuilding competitionEarning the elite title of Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), andStepping into a new leadership role in the construction industry.We dive into what it takes to stay consistent and keep moving forward, even when the spotlight isn’t on you yet. In this episode, Jeffery shares: How Toastmasters continues to help him master storytelling and public speakingThe discipline and mindset needed for bodybuilding and professional growthWhat it means to build a life that aligns with your callingTips for stepping into your next chapterThis episode is packed with motivation and practical takeaways for anyone on a personal or professional growth journey, so give the conversation a listen now! You can find Jeffery on LinkedIn, and on Instagram. He's also on YouTube. The books he's been reading include: The Way of the Superior Man by David Deida The Science of Scaling by Dr. Benjamin Hardy and Blake EricksonRich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. KiyosakiStart With Why by Simon SinekSuite Mornings is about real people doing remarkable things, and Jeffery reminds us all: Your voice, and your actions, are your power. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    49 min

  4. 11/17/2025

    Authenticity on the Court and in Life: How Dallas Cothrum Navigates High-Pressure Leadership

    In this week’s episode, host Dani Raschel Chou sits down with Dr. Dallas Cothrum—CEO, former referee, and Dallas Morning News op/ed columnist—to explore what authentic leadership really looks like when pressure, people, and public opinion collide. Raised inside a growing family business, Dallas learned early on what it means to nurture something bigger than yourself. Those experiences shaped not only his work ethic, but his belief that leaders must genuinely know and invest in their people if they want to build anything that lasts. We dive into: • Authenticity in leadership  • The lessons learned from growing up in a family-run business  • How refereeing prepared him for emotionally charged land-use projects and public scrutiny • Understanding people’s emotions, especially when his columns or projects hit sensitive community issues • Why a leader must know their people, and why employees thrive when they know each other • Dallas’s commitment to an employee-first mindset, and how it shapes culture from the inside out Whether you are an emerging leader, a seasoned executive, or someone navigating complex conversations at work, this episode offers grounded wisdom on leading with integrity, humanity, and courage. If you’re ready to learn from one of DFW’s most respected voices in land use and leadership, this conversation is a must-listen. Read Dallas's columns here. Be advised a subscription to DMN is required. Connect with Dallas on LinkedIn. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    53 min

  5. 10/27/2025

    Inked with Intention: How Sharon Flatte Built a Thriving Tattoo Studio Through Love and Vision

    Dallas tattoo artist and studio owner/entrepreneur Sharon Flatte's story is as bold and beautiful as the art she creates, and if you've ever dreamed of turning passion into purpose, this episode is for you. Sharon opens up about building a business in an industry that hasn’t always made space for women. From the early challenges of running a tattoo studio in a changing Dallas neighborhood to establishing herself as a respected artist and mentor, Sharon’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and deep partnership. She shares how love became the foundation of her business, what it takes to stay grounded while creating art that lives forever, and how she’s leaving her mark, literally and figuratively, on her community. Tune in for insights that will inspire you to take charge and embrace growth! Here at Suite Mornings, we take you from your seat to the C-Suite. Remember to subscribe to level up your leadership journey and/or personal growth one today! Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    49 min

  6. 10/13/2025

    Beyond the Finish Line: What Triathlon Teaches Us About Business and Life

    Lucky number 13, published on October 13th, and it's a first--our first virtual interview! From knocking on the doors of diabetes and high cholesterol, to competing at the IRONMAN World Championships, Coach Hector Torres embodies what it means to turn your life around, one disciplined choice at a time. In this episode of Suite Mornings, Dani sits down with USA Triathlon Level 3 Certified Coach Hector Torres, founder of TriPeak Athlete and host of the podcast Coffee Time with Coach Torres. Hector shares his journey from receiving a wake-up call at 18 to becoming one of the top endurance coaches in the sport, guiding athletes at all levels to reach their full potential. Hector opens up about the mental side of triathlon (how athletes often enter endurance sports to heal from trauma), and reveals his own battles with fear and self-doubt. He dives deep into the power of finding your why, facing the fear of the unknown, and leading by example, both on and off the course. Whether you’re an experienced triathlete, a weekend warrior, or someone chasing growth, this conversation will leave you motivated to face your own Ironman, whatever that looks like in life. Tune in for: The story behind Hector’s transformation from 263 pounds to elite triathleteInsights into training the mind as much as the bodyCoaching wisdom from years with TriPeak Athlete and Special OlympicsThe mindset behind endurance, resilience, and conquering fearHow to uncover your personal “why” to keep moving forwardSo, as always, go grab your coffee, and join us as we go from your seat to, this week, the coach's seat. Coach Torres references his motivation go-to video Goliath, which you can watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPzidEs2U3c&feature=youtu.be. And you can find Coach Hector Torres in the following ways: Website: Welcome - Tri Peak AthleteLinkedIn: Hector L Torres | LinkedInInstagram: @tripeakathleteConnect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    37 min

  7. 09/29/2025

    Why Presence Matters: Renard Henry on Executive Swagger and Mentorship for Career Growth

    Executive Swagger. Presence. Purpose. In this episode of Suite Mornings, we sit down with Renard Henry, IT leader, co-host of the Black Belts & Boardrooms podcast, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, to explore what it really takes to own the room, from presence and polish to connection and confidence. We talk about what Renard calls "executive swagger," or that unique blend of self-awareness and professionalism that helps you be "a lion in a room full of lions." Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, building a business, or figuring out how to lead with impact, this conversation is a must-watch. Topics We Cover: ✔️ How to build executive presence ✔️ The importance of connection ✔️ The power of asking for mentorship ✔️ How your fitness goals prepare you for the boardroom So listen today, and be sure to subscribe for more behind-the-scenes access to the rooms where growth happens. Here on Suite Mornings, we take you from your seat to the C-Suite. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    55 min

  8. 09/15/2025

    Coaching the Coach: Inside the Mind of a Leader Who Builds Leaders with Dennis Howard

    In this episode of Suite Mornings, we sit down with Dennis Howard, Vistage Chair and self-described professional question asker. With a career dedicated to empowering executives, Dennis brings a fresh perspective on leadership, imposter syndrome, and the power of betting on yourself. Dennis shares what it’s really like to coach CEOs, how great leaders overcome doubt, and the most important question he finds himself asking, again and again, at the Vistage table. Whether you’re leading a company or stepping into your own next chapter, this conversation will challenge how you think about your circle, your mindset, and your mission. He also gives us some insights into his upcoming book 1% Leader: And the 11 Elite Skills the 99% Never Master (dropping next year with accompanying assessment!) and the books that should be in your library: 📚 Good to Great by Jim Collins 📚 Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute 📚 What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith 📚 10X Is Easier Than 2X by Benjamin Hardy & Dan Sullivan If you’re looking to grow with intention, and/or lead with clarity, you won’t want to miss this one. You can find Dennis on LinkedIn at Dennis Howard, PCC | LinkedIn, or on his site Intrepid CEO – Peer Group & Individual Executive Coaching. You can also get access to the second chapter of his book here: Intrepid CEO. And remember: Subscribe, share, and tune in to level up your leadership journey now. Connect with Dani Chou on Instagram @suitemornings. And find us on YouTube: Suite Mornings with Dani Chou - YouTube! Be sure you like and subscribe. Go to www.suitemornings.com to sign up for our mailing list so you won't miss an episode.

    1h 1m
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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Suite Mornings is your go-to podcast for unlocking the secrets of success from the leaders who’ve made it. Hosted by Dani, an executive assistant who’s learned from the best, each episode offers exclusive insights into the personal growth journeys of high-level executives. Whether you're looking to level up your career, grow your business, or find new ways to lead with confidence, Suite Mornings gives you the tools and inspiration you need to take charge. Tune in for actionable tips, real-world stories, and a peek into the rooms where success is built. If you're ready to rise, it’s time to start your mornings with Suite Mornings.

Information

  • Creator
    Danielle Chou
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Suite Mornings
  • Show Website
    Suite Mornings