Chase Chrisley, the son of Todd and Julie Chrisley, has experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and growth over the past couple of years.
The unexpected conviction and imprisonment of his parents for fraud and tax evasion left a significant mark on the family, but it also served as a turning point for Chase, who learned valuable lessons and had to step up in ways he never imagined.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Chase opened up about the lessons he learned, his new business ventures, and the emotional journey that led to his personal transformation.
A Humbling Experience: Finding Positives in Difficult Times
Chase explains that despite the incredibly difficult circumstances surrounding his parents’ legal issues, he chose to focus on the positives. “I try to find a positive in every negative,” he says. “My parents going away, even though it was a terrible situation, I had to learn a lot of lessons I probably wouldn’t have learned until way later on in life.”
He admits that the situation forced him to become more appreciative of the things that truly matter, particularly family and personal growth.
The emotional toll of his parents’ imprisonment in January 2023 created an opportunity for Chase to prove himself. He describes it as the first time in his life where he needed to prove to himself that he could handle things on his own.
“It was time to pull it together and show myself I could do it,” Chase reflects. “I didn’t need my mom or my dad to fall back on, even though I know they would be there for me.”
Building New Businesses and Embracing Sobriety
During this challenging time, Chase focused on building his businesses, including the Chase Chrisley Collection and his roofing company. He’s also venturing into the world of beverages with his new zero-alcohol seltzer brand, Gold Drop, which is set to launch on July 1. The product has been years in the making, and it reflects Chase’s journey toward sobriety.
Chase acknowledges that alcohol had been a source of personal struggle for him. “It makes the highs, highs and it makes the lows, lower,” he says, reflecting on how alcohol has impacted his life. “I think that going through what we went through with my family, and then my personal journey, it’s time for me just to put alcohol down.
We just don’t agree with each other.” Gold Drop aims to provide a healthier alternative, offering a drink that’s both natural and free of additives, while still being fun and stylish.
“I wanted to put a product out there that is zero alcohol, it’s good for you and has all natural things from the earth,” he shares. Chase hopes that Gold Drop can inspire others who might be facing similar struggles to make healthier choices.
Honoring His Father’s Work Ethic
Chase attributes much of his work ethic to his father, Todd Chrisley, who instilled in him the value of hard work. “He’s always raised me and the rest of my siblings up, too, ‘If you want to be the boss, you have to be willing to do every single job,’” Chase recalls.
This lesson is evident in how Chase approaches his business ventures, particularly his role in the roofing company he helped create.
Chase believes in setting an example for those working with him. “I don’t want anyone to think that I think I’m above them, because I am not,” he explains. “It’s more of a respect thing.
I feel like it’s my job to get out there, set the example, and show people that I’m willing to do everything you’re willing to do.” Chase’s approach reflects his dedication to humility, hard work, and earning the respect of others.
A Joyful Reunion with His Parents
Todd and Julie Chrisley were released from prison on May 28, following a full pardon granted by President Donald Trump. Chase reflects on the emotional journey leading up to this moment, expressing how he always believed that the situation was not the end for his parents. “I feel like I was just carrying around, just waiting, waiting, waiting for something to happen,” he shares.
The pardon was a turning point, and Chase couldn’t be more relieved. “Thank God to President Trump, something did. Something great happened,” he says, acknowledging that it felt like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
The reunion with his parents has been nothing short of a blessing, and Chase is grateful for the opportunity to spend quality time with them, free from the weight of the legal battle.
Embracing a New Chapter
Chase Chrisley’s journey has been filled with trials, but it has also been a path of personal growth, self-discovery, and resilience. With his new ventures, including his sobriety journey and business efforts, he is determined to build a better future for himself and his family.
The experiences that once seemed like setbacks have become stepping stones toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
