With Hat and Cattle

AI can write the message, but it can’t carry your reputation. In an era where everyone is starting to sound polished, automated, and put-together, what actually separates the leaders people trust from the ones they don’t?In this episode of With Hat and Cattle, host Dani sits down (again) with Amir Khawaja, engineering executive and co-host of the Black Belts and Boardrooms podcast, for a candid conversation about authenticity, leadership in the age of AI, and how to stay human when the tools around you are getting smarter every day. After his first appearance had listeners texting Dani about how much it hit, Amir is back to go deeper: on trust, credibility, the Dunning-Kruger effect, AI hallucinations, and why “leave people better than you found them” is still the leadership standard that holds up. Whether you’re a leader trying to use AI without losing your voice, a young professional wondering how to build a career when entry-level tasks are being automated, or a creative worried about what authenticity even means anymore — this conversation gives you something rare: a thoughtful, grounded, real-talk framework for showing up as a human in a machine-driven world.What you’ll learn:•        Why AI can polish your words but can’t protect your reputation•        How to give AI “pre-flight constraints” so it stops flattering you and starts telling you the truth•        The difference between a chatbot and an AI agent explained without the jargon•        Why the Dunning-Kruger effect is about to get magnified by AI — and how to protect your credibility•        What every young professional should be doing right now to build a career that AI can’t replace•        The leadership philosophy that still wins: “leave people better than you found them”•        Why a liberal arts mindset and critical thinking are now competitive advantages•        Slop vs. scratch kitchen: how to feed your mind in a content-saturated worldQuotes from the episode:“AI can write the message, but it can’t carry your reputation.”“We all have a PhD in our pockets now.”“If you feed your mind slop every day, what happens to your ability to appreciate the more nuanced things in life?”“Titles are what other people give you. Can somebody honestly say I was useful to them? That would make my day.”About Amir Khawaja: Amir is a seasoned engineering executive with nearly three decades in technology, product, and transformation leadership. He is the co-host of Black Belts and Boardrooms, a podcast at the intersection of leadership, mindset, and real-world performance, and the author of the AI Brain Trust methodology shared on LinkedIn.If this episode hits something for you, send it to one person who’s navigating this AI moment with you, then follow With Hat and Cattle on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube so you don’t miss the next one. We’re sharing stories from people who walk the walk and leave you better off for listening.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What happens when you follow a passion so relentlessly that the world eventually has no choice but to make room for you?In this episode of With Hat and Cattle, Dani sits down with Jim Futrell: amusement park historian, 11-time author, and the man the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions trusts to capture the soul of an entire industry. And here's the twist: Jim never had a degree in history. He had something rarer, an unshakeable curiosity and the courage to say yes every single time an opportunity showed up.From checking out the same three library books on repeat as a kid in Chicago, to interviewing industry legends at global conventions, Jim's story is a masterclass in turning a "hobby run amok" into a legacy. He breaks down how his career in market research and his lifelong love of amusement parks weren't competing priorities. Oh, no. They were two lanes running parallel toward the same destination.What you'll walk away with:Why saying yes first and figuring out the logistics second is often the right moveHow showing up at industry events can completely redirect the trajectory of your lifeThe mindset shift that separates people chasing passion from people living itWhy "balance" is a myth, and what seasons of sacrifice actually look like in practiceA reminder that the greatest careers are sometimes built without a single class on the subjectWhether you're an entrepreneur, an executive, a career-changer, or just someone who's ever been told their interest is "too niche," Jim's story will leave you better than it found you.You can find Jim on LinkedIn: Jim Futrell - CERP, ICAE | LinkedIn.And his new book dropped April 14, 2026, and is now available on Amazon: Knoebels Amusement Resort (Images of America): Futrell, Jim, Knoebel, Dick: 9781467163132: Amazon.com: Books.New episodes drop biweekly (for now). Subscribe, share, and come join the With Hat and Cattle community.#WithHatAndCattle #FollowYourPassion  #PersonalDevelopment #AmusementParks #HistoryNerd #CareerAdvice #PurposeDrivenWork #GrowthMindset #LifeLessonsConnect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

Most AI conversations live inside a bubble, from LinkedIn feeds flooded with hype, tech conferences full of engineers, and billionaires deciding the future for the rest of us. This episode of With Hat and Cattle breaks that open. Host Dani Raschel Chou brings together three voices you rarely hear in the same room: a historian, a chaplain, and an AI strategist, and she asked them the question everyone is dancing around: What does artificial intelligence actually mean for us as human beings?In this conversation, Dr. Dallas Cothrum, Chaplain John Betz, and AI leader Tori Begg go deep on job displacement, spiritual identity, environmental ethics, systemic bias, and why the people building AI may not be the right people making its moral decisions.Because from the Luddite riots of 1811 to ChatGPT, history keeps rhyming, but the tempo is accelerating. And this time, the machines aren't just replacing muscle. They're imitating personhood.Key Takeaways from This EpisodeThe real spiritual risk isn't that machines will think. It's that we'll forget what thinking means. AI is eliminating the entry-level rung...and not everyone is ready. Five billionaires probably shouldn't be your source of truth. The environmental debate around AI is more complicated than the headlines suggest. Who's helped? Who's harmed? Whose voice isn't at the table? Why This Episode MattersThe AI conversation is too often siloed. We have tech people talking to tech people, and policy people talking to policy people. What this episode does is rare: It holds the economic, spiritual, historical, and ethical dimensions of AI transformation in the same space, at the same time.Whether you're a parent worried about your kid's future, a professional trying to stay relevant, a person of faith wrestling with what any of this means, or simply someone who wants to understand what is actually happening right now — this conversation's for you.Fair warning: This episode asks more questions than it answers. But that's kind of the point.Stay curious. Stay grounded. And maybe start learning AI before it learns without you.Links and ResourcesYou can find Dr. Dallas Cothrum online via LinkedIn, his Dallas Morning News contributing columnist page, or on the podcast Working Title with Zach Sams.Chaplain John Betz is on LinkedIn, and he's co-host of the podcast the Chaplain's Compass, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Tori Begg is on LinkedIn, and, if you're in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you can increase your AI literacy by attending one of Mind and Machine DFW's events.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What does it take to go from sweeping shop floors to running your own company? In this replay of our very first episode, host Dani sits down with Jeremy Lennox, President of Harvey's Collision Centers, for an honest conversation about building a career the right way: with patience, hard work, and a willingness to listen.Jeremy shares the pivotal moments that shaped him as a leader, including working his way up through his father's collision repair business, relocating to Atlanta to reshape 18 locations, and eventually striking out on his own. He opens up about sobriety, work-life balance, and why listening — truly listening — is the skill he wishes he had developed sooner.Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, building your own business, or just trying to lead better at every level, this conversation is for you.In this episode:Why Jeremy's dad refused to let him skip his educationThe Atlanta move that changed everything — professionally and personallyThe leadership gap Jeremy sees in executives across every industryHow he manages stress, protects his family time, and stays groundedWhat legacy really means when you're building something to lastResources mentioned:The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. StanleyHow to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieHarvey's Collision CentersWith Hat and Cattle is a podcast for the people walking the walk and talking the talk — leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives sharing the real stories behind their success.Subscribe so you never miss a conversation.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

Some leadership lessons don’t come from textbooks. They come from moments that stick with you for years, sometimes decades.In this episode of With Hat and Cattle, we pulled a previous conversation from the archives that deserves a repeat listen. Heath Hilliard shares the stories that shaped how he leads today. From showing up to a major sales meeting dressed completely wrong, to reconnecting years later with the mentors who challenged him the most, Heath reflects on the hard-earned lessons that changed how he thinks about leadership, business, and personal growth.Those experiences eventually led him to launch EQHR and become a facilitator of the ZeroRisk hiring system, which helps companies avoid costly hiring mistakes and place the right people in the right roles.In this conversation we talk about the following: • Why culture fit matters more than raw performance • The role emotional intelligence plays in leadership • How great mentors shape the leaders we becomeRemember, leadership isn’t built overnight. It’s built through stories, mistakes, and the people who challenge us to grow.Thanks for joining us on With Hat and Cattle, where we bring you stories from people who walk the walk and leave you better off for listening. People like Heath, who you can connect with on LinkedIn.And learn more about EQHR Consultants here.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What if the patterns shaping your leadership, relationships, and life decisions started long before you realized it?In this episode of With Hat and Cattle, Dani sits down with executive leadership coach and Certified Enneagram Coach Darin K. Newbold to explore how the Enneagram can help you understand your core motivations, fears, blind spots, and purpose.This is not surface-level personality talk. This is about the real work.Darin breaks down:What the Enneagram actually is (and what it’s not)How childhood coping strategies become adult leadership patternsWhy understanding your Enneagram type improves communication and relationshipsHow stress and growth paths show up in real lifeHow the Enneagram integrates with purpose discovery through his Bold GPS frameworkDani shares her experience as an Enneagram 4 and how self-awareness transformed the way she navigates shame, creativity, and relationships. Darin unpacks life as an Enneagram 7 and what it means to chase joy without running from discomfort.If you’re interested in any of the following, this episode has your name written all over it and gives you language for the story you've been living:Personal developmentExecutive coaching insightsLeadership growthSelf-awareness toolsRelationship dynamicsFinding your purposeBe sure to connect with Darin K. Newbold on LinkedIn, and learn more about Your Bold Solutions here.Start your Enneagram journey with these books Dani and Darin discussed: The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne StabileThe Purpose Factor by Brian Bosche and Gabrielle BoschePersonality Types: Using the Enneagram for Self-Discovery by Don Richard Riso and Russ HudsonThe Path Between Us: An Enneagram Journey to Healthy Relationships by Suzanne StabileIf this episode resonates, share it with someone who’s walking their own growth journey. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join us as we continue sharing stories from people who walk the walk, and leave you better off for listening.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What does bull riding have to do with executive leadership? More than you think.In the very first episode under the With Hat and Cattle rebrand, Dani sits down with Brandon Denmon, former COO, endurance athlete, and newly appointed Vistage Chair, to talk about courage, community, and what it really takes to be a leader at the highest level.Before he was coaching CEOs, Brandon was riding 2,000-pound bulls at 13 years old. That early exposure to risk, resilience, and responsibility shaped the way he approaches business, leadership development, and high-performance teams today. Now the founder of Peak Executive Solutions and a Vistage Chair serving middle-market CEOs, Brandon helps leaders grow their companies with less stress, more clarity, and stronger community.In this episode, we cover allllll of the following:• Why CEOs and high performers still need coaches• How executive peer groups like Vistage reduce leadership isolation• The power of vulnerability in business leadership• Building high-performance teams rooted in trust• The “Five Dysfunctions of a Team” in real-world application• Why leaders with ranching or blue-collar backgrounds often excel• Margin vs. burnout (and how to engineer culture intentionally)• Entrepreneurship after corporate life• The Go-Giver mindset in business networking• How endurance sports shape mental resilience and business growthSee, With Hat and Cattle is about leaders who are walking the walk they're talking.📚 Books on Brandon's shelf:– The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni– The Go-Giver by Bob Burg– The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz– The 10X Mentor by Grant Cardone– The Triathlete’s Training Bible by Joe FrielBe sure you're subscribed for more conversations with people who walk the walk, from Texas boardrooms to endurance finish lines.And you can find Brandon here on LinkedIn.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 outWhether 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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 boardroomSo 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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

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 SullivanIf 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 Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

In this episode of Suite Mornings, Lea Genders gets real about her personal wellness journey, and how she turned her professional strengths into powerful tools for lasting change. From navigating her own challenges to coaching others and expanding into corporate wellness, Lea’s story shows you the importance of living with intentionality.Key takeaways to get you leveling up your success today:SMART goals and why you should set themTools that are available when you don't have access to a gym or trainerThe importance of community, in wellness and businessLea reminds us that intentionality isn’t about perfection; it’s about small, meaningful wins that add up over time. Whether you're an executive, entrepreneur, or someone working to level up in life, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead yourself well, on purpose.Get Lea's dumbbell program for free here! Where can you find Lea:Website: Lea Genders FitnessLinkedIn: Lea Genders | LinkedInInstagram: @fortworth_trainerConnect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What does it take to build a lasting career in commercial real estate? In this episode of Suite Mornings, host Dani Chou sits down with Tom Metcalfe, President of Metcalfe Commercial Realty, to explore the foundations of his 30+ year journey through the dynamic world of real estate development in Dallas, Texas.From high-stakes land assemblage deals to navigating shifting trends in urban development and redevelopment, Tom shares hard-earned insights into what makes the Dallas market tick. Whether you're a seasoned investor, someone curious about the future of commercial real estate in Texas, or interested in how to craft a successful, lasting career, this conversation offers industry wisdom and a deep dive into the mindset of a long-term market leader.This episode is more than a real estate conversation. It’s a blueprint for long-term success, smart risk-taking, and seeing opportunity where others may not.Tune in and take notes. Your next move might just start here.Tom can be found on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/metcalfecommercialrealty/You can also learn more about him at https://www.metrealestate.net/Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

If financial planning has ever felt overwhelming, this episode is your reset button.In this conversation, Dani sits down with financial advisor Vivian Ong to break down the basics of building wealth with intention. No jargon, no judgment.Vivian shares approachable insights on how to get your money working for you. We cover what it means to build a legacy, and how you don't need thousands and thousands of dollars to begin investing today, and how the best way to begin is to be honest with yourself.This is an empowering, judgment-free conversation about money, values, and future planning. If you’ve been telling yourself you’ll figure it out “someday,” consider this your call to action.You can find Vivian on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivianyong/.In the episode, Vivian's gives the following sites as tools to learn more (but remember to do your research):Investopedia: https://www.investopedia.com/The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/Influencers: Your Rich BFF at https://www.yourrichbff.com/ and Kattie Gatti at https://www.morningbrew.com/contributor/moneywithkatieConnect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

In this episode, we sit down with Jeffery Mercier, Vice President of Project Management at a local Fort Worth construction company, as he takes his first bold steps into motivational speaking and entrepreneurship.Jeffery shares what inspired him to build on his successful career in construction to a new calling: Using his voice to uplift, empower, and encourage others. We explore the mindset shifts required to step into the unknown, so tune in to hear:-How to start your journey as an emerging leader-What organization Jeffery credits for his success-The importance of just startingThis episode kicks off a two-part check-in series, because we’re reconnecting with Jeffery in six months to see how far he’s come.You can follow Jeffery on Instagram at @oratorofdivinity and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jefferymercierbh/.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What if your next hire could make—or break—your business?In this episode, I sit down with Heath Hilliard, founder of EQHR and expert in the ZeroRisk Hiring System. Heath shares how emotional intelligence isn't just a buzzword—it's the secret weapon behind smarter interviews, stronger teams, and fewer costly hiring mistakes.We cover how to interview in a way that reveals the real candidate, and what founders and future execs need to know before making their next hire.Whether you’re building your first team or leveling up your leadership, this conversation will shift how you think about hiring—for good.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What does it really take to build a business when your body is fighting against you? In this powerful episode of Suite Mornings, we sit down with Juan Valles, entrepreneur and owner of VBI LLC, who shares how he redefined success while managing Lupus—a chronic illness that changed everything. From rebuilding his health and business to growing a successful second company, Juan’s story offers real, actionable insights for anyone navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.Whether you're launching a business, pivoting your career, or simply looking for motivation to keep going, Juan’s journey will remind you that resilience is a skill—and success can be built one intentional step at a time.You can find Valles Brothers Industries here:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/valles-brothers-industries-llc/posts/?feedView=all  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093667547194InstaWebsite: https://vallesbrothersindustries.com/And you can follow Juan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vbillc/InConnect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

In this episode of Suite Mornings, we’re joined by Nicki Ketcham, Founder of Big Future Consulting, a marketing firm dedicated to helping small businesses grow with purpose-driven strategies. Nicki shares her insights on how to shift from being busy to being productive by focusing on what truly matters: your clients. And when you do this, you're not only leveling up your business, but you're also leveling up yourself.Nicki also breaks down how to create marketing strategies that tell a compelling story and put your client’s customers at the heart of it all.Bonus: Nicki gives us a mini masterclass in networking! Ever thought of holding your drink in your left hand so your right hand is free (and dry!) for shaking with? Now you do!Whether you're just starting your career or are already a seasoned business owner, this conversation will give you tips to up your marketing game and create meaningful connections with your audience. Tune in for valuable insights that will help you turn your marketing efforts into a strategy that truly works.Follow Big Future Consulting on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-future-consulting and on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/bigfutureconsulting.And be sure to like and subscribe to Suite Mornings to keep up with future episodes.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

What happens when you're running a successful business on the outside—but barely holding it together on the inside? In this raw and redemptive conversation, Paul Dallas Roberts shares what it was like to sell a company while battling alcoholism, and how recovery didn’t just save his life—it reshaped his definition of success. Now the founder of a thriving new venture, Paul opens up about rebuilding from the ground up, leading with vulnerability, and what it truly means to come back stronger.This episode is for the builder who's quietly struggling, the leader questioning their worth, and anyone who believes it's too late to start again. Spoiler: it’s not.Topics include:Navigating leadership through personal crisisHow addiction shaped—and sharpened—Paul’s entrepreneurial journeyThe mindset shifts that turned recovery into a superpowerBuilding a second act with purpose, grit, and graceListen in and get ready to rethink what growth really looks like. Be sure to pick up Paul's book, now on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8WBncxj. And check out his site at www.icantquit.life.Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!

In this very first episode of Suite Mornings, Jeremy Lennox, visionary leader of Harvey's Collision Centers, takes us through his journey of building a successful business in a competitive industry and the personal growth that fueled his leadership.From overcoming challenges to motivating his team, Jeremy shares actionable advice for anyone looking to elevate their own leadership skills. We dive into what it takes to transition into leadership and the importance of your interests (like fitness and music) in the face of responsibility.Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re already on the path to leadership, this conversation will help you level up and reach your goals. Tune in for insights that will inspire you to take charge and embrace growth!Connect with Dani Raschel Chou on Instagram @withhatandcattle or via email at [email protected]. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more conversations that leave you better off for listening: With Hat and Cattle I Hosted by Dani Raschel Chou - YouTube! Go to www.withhatandcattle.com to sign up for our mailing list so you don't miss weekly insights. Be sure to check out our affiliate links!