The Chill Zone
The Chill Zone: Justin Pugh
We sat down with Accounting Supervisor Justin Pugh to learn about his journey to Thermo-Kool, his thoughts on the industry, and his dream game to...
Welcome back to The Chill Zone where we get to know one of our team members, who are the backbone of our company, better. We sat down with Michaela Odom, who is our Receptionist/Sales Secretary. One of the first people that people who are calling in speak to, Michaela is on the front line when it comes to making sure our customers and reps are taken care of. Let's learn a little more about Michaela's journey to Thermo-Kool, how she sees the company, and the who the most important people in her world are.
How did you land in the foodservice industry?
Carol Hathorn, who is the Scheduling Supervisor for Thermo-Kool, told me about the position. I was attending the same church as her at the time, and she told me I could be a great asset to the Thermo-Kool team. I was already on the lookout for a more stable and professional career. And here I am, two years later, working with an amazing team.
If you could describe Thermo-Kool in one word, what would it be?
Prestigious. Being the first person to interact with our customers on the phone when they call Thermo-Kool, I hear how our team and company are very well-respected and have a high reputation because we deliver expert customer service and a quality product. Quality always outweighs quantity. Here at Thermo-Kool, our customers are our top priority from the start of that very first phone call.
Where do you think the industry is headed?
From my perspective and learning how amazing our industry can adapt to different challenges and fast-paced changes, I believe we are and will be, in the future, successful no matter what challenges and changes we face along the way. This is most definitely the strongest team and company I have worked for.
Do you have a favorite restaurant?
My favorite restaurant would have to be The Huff Bar and Grill. It’s located in my hometown of Waynesboro, Mississippi. I haven’t tried anything on their menu that hasn’t been absolutely delicious.
What's your go-to order?
Their Barnyard Burger with sweet potato waffle fries and a side of their homemade ranch dressing. The bun is sweet. The burger is cooked to perfection and topped with bacon and egg. It’s definitely my most favorite go-to order from The Huff.
Do you have a favorite food?
I love Italian food of all kinds, but my top favorite is my mom’s homemade spaghetti with Italian sausage and sauce. It’s mouthwatering just thinking about it.
Do you cook at home? What's your favorite tool or appliance?
I do cook at home. I am a new mom now, so time is of the essence. Casseroles and crockpot recipes are the way to go. So, I would have to say my oven and my crockpot are my favorite appliances.
Are you binging any TV shows right now?
Since being on maternity, we have been binge watching all the cooking and baking contest shows on Netflix. That goes to show you that I miss my work and work-family when I’m not there.
What's the coolest place on Earth you've ever been?
I love going to the beach. Destin, Florida would have to be my favorite. The water is so beautiful.
Anything else we should know about you that you'd like to share?
Recently my husband and I welcomed our new baby boy, Kohen, into the world. He most definitely has us wrapped around his little finger. I am also a bonus mom to my husband’s daughter, Brylee who is 2 years old. She has the sweetest personality and is full of pure sass. My family is the most important thing to me. They are the highlight of my life, and they push me to be a better woman, mom, wife, co-worker, and team player every, single day.
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