#HappyPeople is a series dedicated to the humans who make Happy + Hale special. Today we introduce you to Jeremy Lilly, our Lead Kitchen Trainer and all-around great guy. Jeremy has been with us since 2016 and can be found in one of our kitchens coaching the team, preparing for the lunch rush, or attempting to tell a funny joke. Without further adieu….
We know you like to keep it light in the kitchen - tell us a joke!
Why did Beethoven get rid of his chickens? Because all they said was Bach, Bach, Bach. (hehe)
What was your life like before starting at Happy + Hale?
I grew up in Wilmington, North Carolina with my family. My parents got divorced when I was young and my mom left my siblings and me shortly thereafter. Later, I made some bad choices in life that led me to imprisonment and alcoholism.
What is your experience working for Happy + Hale?
Before I started working for Happy + Hale, I was released from jail and was already working full time. But, I wanted something more and I needed a part time job to stay busy. The place looked fresh and bright. I knew I wanted to work here. I had an interview with Tyler, and shortly after I became a line cook. I worked hard. I tried to learn everything I could in the kitchen from the Chef. I memorized most of the recipes. I wasn’t sure what life prepared for me career-wise—I didn't go to school for cooking. But, I believe that experiences like these are the best way for me to learn. After working hard, I was presented with the amazing opportunity to become a Kitchen Manager. I intuitively embraced this leadership role with help of the senior leaders around me. I used to ask myself: "when will I feel comfortable financially and be doing what I love?" I finally have both working at Happy + Hale.
“My life doesn’t have any room for negativity. I am around people who are successful, and it helps me stay focused.”
What are you most proud in your life?
My friend died in 2010, and I couldn't really help him. So, last summer, when I found one of my friends had overdosed, I was able to save his life and give him another chance.
Also, I volunteer at a local jail two days a week. I feel like people need to hear from other people, like me, that have made it out of similar circumstances. People who have made a successful life for themselves. Often, from an early age, people get locked into a vicious cycle, and it is hard to change that when you know life from only one angle. But, when they know someone who has been able to completely change their environment and the people they associate with, I believe it affects their choices. In the future, they can go a different way. I also believe when you make it out [of the system], it is only right to give it back to that community. I have a successful life today, but in the past I had felonies. I am not ashamed of my past. I had to go through hurt and pain before I was able to make a change. Now, I am sober. I don't drink or take drugs, because my life doesn’t have a room for alcohol or drugs. My life doesn't have any room for negativity. I am around people who are successful, and it helps me stay focused.
What does happy look like for you?
My "happy" is my sobriety, my spiritual growth, giving back to the community, and spending time with my son.
What is the biggest challenge in life?
I accept everything that comes my way. I try not to dwell on the difficulties that life brings me. I just want to accept it—the way life is. My challenge, though, is to be the best that I can be in the moment.
What is your favorite Happy + Hale bowl?
The Chimichurri Steak Bowl or the Thai Chicken Crunch. And, I like the Almond Brothers Smoothie.
If you were a superhero, what would your power be?
My power would be to bring people back that have passed away.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
The best piece of advice I received was actually from my grandmother years and years ago. She always said to me, “Honey I love you, no matter what you do. But, I hope you find God.”
What is the funniest thing you have seen stranger do?
I saw a guy pop the fire hydrant open to take a shower in the middle street.