Meet Brandi Jorgensen, Lead Line Cook at Clean Eatz (cleaneatz.com).

Tell us a little about your business. – Clean Eatz is a restaurant and meal prep service that focuses on providing healthy, balanced meals. We offer a variety of options, including meal plans, grab-and-go meals and a cafe menu with items like burgers, wraps, bowls and smoothies. Our goal is to support a healthy lifestyle by making nutritious food accessible and convenient. We also provide catering services.

How did you get started in the business? – I’ve worked in restaurants and kitchens for half my life, so I have a lot of experience in the industry. I applied to Clean Eatz in January of this year, and since then, I’ve worked my way up to a lead position. My background in the culinary field has been invaluable, allowing me to quickly adapt and excel in my role. The supportive environment at Clean Eatz has also played a significant part in my growth, providing me with opportunities to develop my skills and take on more responsibilities.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest challenge I’ve faced professionally was stepping into the role of a team lead in a kitchen for the first time. Managing a diverse group of people, each with their own strengths and personalities, was a significant learning curve. I had to quickly develop leadership skills, learn how to delegate tasks effectively and ensure that everyone worked together harmoniously under high-pressure conditions. Balancing the demands of the job while fostering a positive and productive work environment was tough, but it taught me invaluable lessons in communication, teamwork and resilience.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – My most important professional achievement has been graduating with honors in Computer Engineering, becoming the first in my family to earn a college degree. This accomplishment is particularly meaningful to me because it represents not only my dedication and hard work but also the support and encouragement from my loved ones. Balancing my studies with personal challenges, including overcoming addiction and living as a single mother, made this achievement even more significant.

Tell us a little about your family. – My family story is one of resilience and love. Both of my parents passed away when I was very young due to their addictions and lifestyle choices. Despite this tragic loss, my grandparents stepped in and raised me and my two sisters. They provided us with an incredible life, filled with the love and support we never received from our parents. Their unwavering dedication and care shaped us into the people we are today. My grandparents’ strength and compassion have been a constant source of inspiration for me, and I am forever grateful for the sacrifices they made to give us a better future.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – One of the biggest turning points in my life was overcoming addiction. This journey was incredibly challenging, but it marked a significant shift in my personal and professional life. Breaking free from addiction required immense strength, support from loved ones, and a commitment to change. This experience taught me resilience, self-awareness, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – My favorite book is White Oleander by Janet Fitch.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (531) 867-4909