We recently had the chance to connect with Leslie Chapus and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Leslie, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
My days start early, around 6 AM, with some quiet time before the household wakes up. I use this time to review priorities and catch up on emails from our European partners. Once my family is up, it’s all about getting everyone ready – my older child to school and making sure my baby is settled.
By 9 AM, I’m usually at the office or in back-to-back calls. My mornings are typically focused on strategic decisions – product development meetings, dealer network calls, or reviewing new market opportunities. I try to block the first few hours for the most important decisions when my mind is sharpest.
Afternoons are more operational – team meetings, reviewing financials, or working on our sustainability initiatives. I’ve learned to be more intentional about my schedule since becoming a mother again. I block time for deep work and try to be fully present whether I’m in a board meeting or helping with homework.
Evenings are family time. We try to have dinner together, and I use that time to disconnect from work. Before bed, I often spend 30 minutes planning the next day.
The biggest change this year has been learning to balance being present for my family while growing the business. Some days are more chaotic than others, but staying aligned with our values keeps everything manageable.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Leslie Chapus, Co-Founder and Vice President of Azenco Outdoor, a manufacturer of high-end, fully customized aluminum pergolas, cabanas, and carports. Our mission is to create refined outdoor living spaces that blend design, innovation, and functionality , turning backyards into luxury extensions of the home.
What makes Azenco unique is our ability to combine European design with American establishment , offering a seamless mix of technology, beauty, and craftsmanship. We’re passionate about creating spaces that let people connect with nature, relax, and celebrate life outdoors.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Becoming a mother for the first time changed everything for me, but being a mother a second time it is even more different especially when you are older. It taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of leading with purpose, not just ambition. It also made me realize that balance isn’t about doing everything perfectly, but about staying aligned with your values no matter how full life gets. That perspective has shaped the way I lead my team and build our company culture.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Trust yourself more. The road will never be perfectly mapped out, but every challenge you face will become part of your strength. I’d tell her to embrace the unknown, take more risks early on, and stop waiting for the “right moment”, because it rarely comes. You create it.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m deeply committed to empowering women in business and manufacturing. It’s still an industry where women are underrepresented, and I want to help change that narrative. At Azenco, we’ve been intentional about building a diverse leadership team and creating opportunities for women to thrive in roles traditionally dominated by men.
Beyond that, I’ll always stay committed to sustainability and responsible manufacturing , proving that luxury and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I built with heart. That I believed in people and gave them the confidence to dream bigger. And that I left behind not just a successful brand, but a legacy of beauty, integrity, and kindness, in business and in life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://azenco-outdoor.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azenco.outdoor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/azenco.outdoor
Image Credits
Azenco Outdoor
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