Our Team
Our Team
Michael Tillem
Founder / Chief Executive Officer
Michael Tillem is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Journey House, where his leadership and vision have been integral in establishing a supportive environment for those in recovery. Michael is a local business owner and the Founder and Executive Director of Journey House Foundation. He brings extensive experience in the hospitality field, marketing, restaurant management and sales. Journey House Foundation was created as a result of Michael’s personal passion and life experience in long-term recovery. Although his formal education includes graduating from Kecoughtan High School in 1981, Michael’s true education has come through his lifelong passion for service and helping others. Outside of work, Michael cherishes spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and beloved hounds, making family a central part of his life. A fun and quirky fact about Michael is that, alongside his friend Kyle, he’s always loved skateboarding, he’s embraced longboarding in recent years to keep the spirit alive as he ages. Michael began his recovery Journey in April 2002 and married his wife, Kimberly in 2007. Michael’s wife, Kimberly, also works with him at JHF. They have 4 children, Jeremy, Kaeler, Nathan and Garrett, as well as 3 grandchildren, Jayden, Emma, and Malachi.
Kimberly Braine-Tillem
Co-Founder/Chief Operating Officer
Kimberly Braine-Tillem is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of Journey House, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s mission and operations. With a Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Development from Virginia Tech and a Master of Arts in Human Services with a focus on Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University, Kimberly brings both academic knowledge and practical expertise to her leadership. Kimberly is a former Children’s Minister, enrichment teacher, on air radio show host and experienced Founder and Former Executive Director of The Sophie House (now known as Forward Foundation), a local 501 (c)(3) based here in Richmond. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Kimberly is deeply committed to family, enjoying activities like skiing, power walking, reading, journaling, and baking. Her passion for helping others extends beyond her work at Journey House, as she also dedicates time to dog rescue efforts and ministry work. A fun fact about Kimberly is that she was born in Japan and has lived in nine different states, which has given her a diverse perspective and an appreciation for a wide range of cultures and experiences. Kimberly is married to the Founder/Executive Director, Michael Tillem. Together they have 4 children, Jeremy, Kaeler, Nathan and Garrett, as well as three grandchildren, Jayden, Emma, and Malachi.
Lauren Stewart
Director of Operations
Lauren Stewart is the Director of Operations at Journey House, where she oversees the organization’s day-to-day operations, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science, along with certifications in Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) and Prosci Change Management, bringing a strong foundation of expertise in process improvement and organizational leadership, as well as a CSAC-S certification. Outside of work, Lauren loves spending quality time with her family, traveling, practicing yoga, and embracing the laid-back beach lifestyle. She is a retired LCDR (Lieutenant Commander) from the U.S. Coast Guard, and she was an XC distance runner, showcasing her dedication to both service and physical fitness. Somehow she ended up at Journey House and her diverse background and commitment to wellness make her a dynamic and inspiring leader at Journey House.
Jess Bero
Operations Supervisor
Jess Bero is the Operations Supervisor at Journey House, where she plays a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the center. Certified as a CPRS, Jess brings both professional expertise and a personal commitment to helping others in their recovery journey. Outside of work, she juggles “mom life” duties, indulges her HEALTHY coffee addiction, and enjoys shopping — particularly for candles and unique cups. A fun and quirky fact about Jess is that she is a registered Native American from the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (Akwesasne, New York). Her dream is to one day be able to build a home on the reservation with the rest of her family & eventually start a recovery residence for native Americans struggling with SUD on the reservation. She’s also a proud Pomeranian mom to her dog, “Chase Lee.” Jess’s vibrant personality and dedication to her family and heritage make her a well-rounded and cherished member of the Journey House team.
Kyle Goddard
Admissions Supervisor
Kyle Goddard is the Admissions Supervisor at Journey House, where he oversees the intake process, ensuring that individuals receive the support they need on their path to recovery. He holds both CPRS and FPRS certifications, bringing a strong foundation of knowledge and experience to his role. Outside of work, Kyle enjoys skateboarding, fishing, and spending quality time with his family. Kyle is under the impression that he should be 2 inches taller—after breaking both of his knees skateboarding at the age of 14, his growth was slightly stunted.
Bill Jones
Property Manager
Bill Jones is the go-to maintenance expert at Journey House, ensuring our facilities and houses remain safe, clean, and fully functional for both staff and participants. A true problem-solver, he thrives on maintaining the center’s infrastructure and enjoys tackling projects in his own home when he’s not at work. Outside of his maintenance expertise, Bill is also a gourmet chef by night, bringing his passion for fine cuisine into the kitchen. His diverse talents and positive attitude make him an invaluable part of the team, always ready to help in whatever way he can to support the recovery process at Journey House.
Chuck Ridle
Financial Specialist
Chuck Ridle is the Financial Specialist at Journey House, where he plays a key role in managing financial operations and ensuring the fiscal health of the organization. He holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Tennessee and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Virginia Commonwealth University, bringing both financial expertise and a leadership mindset to his role. Outside of work, Chuck enjoys reading, traveling, and playing guitar, using these activities to unwind and recharge. Chuck has actually appeared in a movie and had the unique opportunity to work alongside several famous figures, including Kathy Ireland, Florence Griffith-Joyner, Evander Holyfield, Chipper Jones, and Kiana Toms. His diverse experiences and interests add a unique flavor to his role at Journey House, making him an invaluable part of the team.
Gale Saunders
Executive Administrative Assistant
Gale Saunders serves as the Executive Administrative Assistant at Journey House, where she utilizes her expertise in communication to support the team and ensure the smooth operation of the center. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications, which has provided her with a strong foundation in both professional and interpersonal skills. Outside of work, Gale enjoys spending time with her husband and family, often boating, cooking, and tending to her garden. When she’s not practicing Transcendental Meditation, a practice that she has been involved with for over 50 years, she also has a passion for painting and hopes to find more time to explore this creative outlet.
Jake Schindel
Data Analyst
Jake Schindel is a Data Analyst at Journey House, where he plays a key role in managing and interpreting data to help guide decision-making and improve organizational processes. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Richmond, equipping him with the analytical skills and expertise needed for his position. Outside of work, Jake enjoys running, using it as a way to stay active and clear his mind. A fun and quirky fact about Jake is that he has never eaten a hamburger—something that certainly sets him apart from every other American. His dedication to both data analysis and personal health makes him a valuable and interesting member of the Journey House team.
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