WORKING IN TRUCKING THROUGH A WOMAN'S LENS: JOSEPHINE COPELAND INTERVIEW By Sheryl Jordan

Josephine (Jo) Copeland, aka Lady J, graciously participated in the interview questionnaire as part of my research for my series about a female truck driver who finds herself entwined in crime-solving while delivering her loads across the country.

Jo has been an over-the-road truck driver for over seventeen years. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, and much more. I connected with Jo through her daughter, Bri Copeland, a close friend and co-worker of mine.

Here are some of Jo’s experiences of being a woman in the trucking industry:

Background and Motivation

What inspired you to become a truck driver?

·      I’ve always valued independence and the ability to work without constant overhead supervision. I like the idea of being my own boss and having control over my daily schedule. Trucking offers a sense of freedom – you’re responsible for your own work. Independence and the opportunity to travel and see new places are what motivated me to pursue this career.

How did you get into the trucking industry?

·      I became interested in trucking through a close friend who had been in the industry for over ten years at the time. He shared his experiences with me, describing the benefits of the job, the financial stability it provided, and the flexibility it allowed.

Experiences and Challenges

Describe a typical day on the road.

·        A typical day often starts with going to a port to pick up a load. That part of the job can be very frustrating because unloading or loading just one container can take hours. Sometimes the wait feels like the biggest headache of the job, to the point where I even questioned if trucking was for me. However, once I get back on the road, the drive itself is often very relaxing – that is until I hit heavy traffic or have to deal with DOT inspections, which could happen unexpectedly.

·      Depending on where I’m traveling, the experience could change. For example, when driving through Ohio and other mountainous areas, I had to be extra careful with shifting gears and managing the brakes. Losing brakes on a downhill slope is a very real danger, and I am always mindful to avoid ending up on a runaway ramp – which meant not only had I avoided a serious accident but also saved myself from the expensive towing costs that come with it.

·        One of the physical challenges I face is handling the equipment, such as opening and closing heavy container doors or working with the landing legs on the chassis. These tasks require strength and can sometimes be frustrating. Maneuvering in rural or tight areas is another challenge. I once had to back my truck up two or three miles because the road was unexpectedly closed. This tested both my patience and skills.

·       Another challenge is the harassment I face from some male truck drivers. It can feel intimidating when you’re just trying to do your job, but you’re constantly being approached or treated differently simply because you’re a woman. Even communicating over the CB (Citizen’s Band) radio could be a challenge – you need to use the right trucker “lingo” or other drivers won’t take you seriously.

·        On top of that, being in a male-dominated industry means I had to juggle many roles. After long days on the road, I still had to come home and switch into the roles of wife, mother, and caretaker. It often felt like I was wearing every hat at once, which could be exhausting.

Have you encountered any unique obstacles that your male counterparts might not have experienced?

·       Yes, as a female truck driver, I’ve faced several challenges that my male counterparts typically don’t have to think about. Some of the physical tasks—like opening and closing heavy container doors or cranking the landing legs on the chassis—require a lot of upper-body strength and can be more difficult for women, especially when the equipment is older or not well maintained.

·       Harassment has also been a significant issue. As a relatively attractive female in a male-dominated industry, I often felt intimidated by unwanted attention. There were times when male drivers were constantly in my face, trying to talk or get my attention when I just wanted to focus on my work. It created situations where I felt uncomfortable.

·    Another obstacle is the lack of proper accommodations for women. There are not nearly enough women-friendly restrooms along the road, which makes my monthly cycle especially difficult. This often forced me to either avoid using public bathrooms or resort to using the restroom in unsafe or unsanitary areas. The lack of privacy and hygiene options is something many men don’t have to consider.

·      Finally, safety is always a concern. Truck drivers cannot carry a weapon for self-defense, which sometimes left me feeling vulnerable, especially when parked in isolated areas or rest stops at night. These unique challenges required me to develop resilience, resourcefulness, and extra caution in situations where safety and comfort weren’t guaranteed.

How do you handle long periods away from home and family?

·       Fortunately, my trucking schedule doesn’t usually require me to be away from home for long periods of time. Most days, I am able to return home the same day or by the next day. On the occasions when I did spend the night on the road, I managed by staying focused on the job and keeping in contact with my loved ones whenever possible.

·     Because I am not gone for weeks at a time like some long-haul drivers, I don’t struggle as much with extended separations. Still, even those overnight trips required balancing the demands of the job with my responsibilities at home. I make it a priority to cherish the time I have with family when I am home, which helps me handle the occasional nights away more easily.

Safety and Security

What measures do you take to ensure your safety while on the road?

·       Safety is always my top priority when I’m on the road. Since truck drivers aren’t allowed to carry firearms, I have to find other ways to protect myself. I keep a baseball bat in the truck, and I also carry a heavy-duty metal tool normally used to open and close container doors—that could double as protection if necessary. Beyond that, I always stay alert and aware of my surroundings, especially in rest areas or remote locations. I keep my doors locked at all times and even use my seatbelt looped through the handles as an extra layer of security to prevent anyone from opening the door unexpectedly.

Have you ever found yourself in a dangerous situation, and how did you handle it?

·   Fortunately, I haven’t faced a truly dangerous situation while on the road. I believe that being cautious, proactive, and aware of my surroundings has helped me avoid many risks.

Work-Life Balance

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance as a truck driver?

·      I maintain balance by listening to my body and mind and not overworking myself. One of the things I value about trucking is having some control over how many hours I choose to put in. If I need to work more to meet goals, I will, but if I feel the need to slow down and take a break, I make sure to prioritize rest. Knowing when to push forward and when to pause has helped me prevent burnout and maintain a healthier routine both on and off the road.

What hobbies or activities do you enjoy when you're not on the road?

·      Outside of work, I truly value spending time with family and friends. I’m a big foodie, so I love discovering new restaurants and enjoying good meals. I also enjoy attending church, which keeps me grounded, and I like to unwind by riding my motorcycle or slingshot. Shopping—what I like to call “retail therapy”—is another favorite way for me to relax and treat myself after long days. These activities help me recharge, connect with loved ones, and keep a positive balance in my life.

Do you have any tips for managing stress and fatigue?

·      Managing stress and fatigue in trucking is all about being intentional with self-care. For me, that means taking mental health days when needed, making sure I get enough rest, and leaning on the things that bring me peace and joy. Attending church gives me strength and perspective, while small things like retail therapy or simply relaxing help me reset. The key is to know your limits, step away when necessary, and not be afraid to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being.

Industry Insights

How has the trucking industry changed since you started your career?

·        When I started in 2009, a lot of things were more stressful and time-consuming, especially at the ports. Over the years, I’ve seen positive changes. For example, ports now use appointment systems, which have reduced wait times and made the process more organized. Equipment has also improved—container doors are generally easier to open and close, and newer chassis have landing legs that are smoother to wind up and down. Overall, the industry has modernized in ways that have made day-to-day operations less physically demanding and more efficient.

What industry improvements would you like to see to support female truck drivers?

• ·     One of the biggest improvements I would like to see is better accommodations for women, starting with more access to female restrooms. While there are plenty of “porta-johns” available for men, female drivers often don’t have the same level of convenience. I’d also like to see more female-specific PPE (personal protective equipment)—gear that fits properly and is designed with women in mind. Even small things, like offering equipment in colors such as pink, can make a difference in making women feel seen and supported in what is still a male-dominated industry.

Do you think there are enough opportunities for women in trucking?

·     Yes, I do. The opportunities are definitely there for women who want to enter the industry. Trucking is a career that rewards hard work, skill, and determination regardless of gender. While the industry still has room to grow in terms of inclusivity and support, I believe the door is open, and more women are stepping through it every year.

Advice for Aspiring Female Truck Drivers

What advice would you give to women considering a career in trucking?

·     My biggest piece of advice is to go in prepared, both mentally and physically. Trucking is still very much a male-dominated industry, and you will often find yourself having to prove that you can do the job just as well as your male counterparts. Don’t expect men to step in and help with the tough physical tasks—many times they won’t, and that’s okay. Learn how to handle the equipment, build your confidence, and trust your own abilities. At the same time, embrace the independence this career offers. Trucking gives you a sense of freedom and self-reliance that few other jobs can. You’ll get to travel, set your own pace, and build a career on your own terms. It may be challenging at times, but if you stay strong and determined, it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll have.

What skills or qualities are essential for success in this field?

·   To succeed in trucking, you need a combination of technical skills and personal strength. First and foremost, you need strong driving skills; that’s the foundation of the job. Beyond that, qualities like thick skin, resilience, and confidence are essential. You’ll encounter tough situations, whether it’s dealing with long hours, difficult weather conditions, or people who underestimate you because you’re a woman. Having the mental toughness to handle those challenges is key.

·    Patience and problem-solving are also important. From navigating traffic and tight delivery schedules to figuring out mechanical issues on the road, you’ll need to stay calm under pressure. And finally, good communication skills matter—whether you’re working with dispatch, dealing with customers, or even using the CB radio, being able to assert yourself clearly and professionally makes a big difference.

Personal Stories

Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time on the road?

·    One of my favorite memories was when my husband used to ride with me during his transition out of the military before he found new employment. Having him there made the long hours and unfamiliar routes so much easier to handle. He would make me sandwiches, open and close the container doors, and just keep me company during those quiet stretches of the road. It turned what could have been stressful or lonely trips into something more comforting and even enjoyable.

·     Another memorable part of my journey was driving with my brother. We worked for the same company for about nine years, and our routes often overlapped.  Being on the road with him gave me a sense of security, because he would help me with some of the more physically demanding tasks, like opening or closing heavy doors. It wasn’t just about the help, though—it was about the bond. Knowing a family member was out there with me made the job a lot more enjoyable. 

Have you formed any lasting friendships or connections in the industry?

·       Yes, I’ve built friendships that have lasted over ten years. Some of the people I met early in my career are still a part of my life today. Trucking may seem like a solitary job, but there’s a real sense of community out there, especially when you cross paths with the same drivers over and over again. In fact, I even brought my brother into the industry, which gave me one of the closest professional and personal connections I could have asked for.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

·      What I love most about trucking is the independence. I get to control my hours and workload. If I want to push harder one week, I can, but if I need to take a step back, I have that flexibility. Of course, the financial benefits are important too-it’s a career that rewards effort.

Curiosity

Do male truckers try to be over-accommodating towards you, like pumping fuel or trying to help you when they wouldn’t help other male truckers in similar situations?

·      Sometimes, yes. Male truckers would offer help if I asked, but I rarely asked. I wanted to prove to myself—and to others—that I could handle the job on my own. While the gestures were usually well-meaning, I made it a point not to rely on that kind of special treatment. It was important for me to earn respect in the industry by showing that I could do the same work as anyone else.

Do “lot lizards” still exist?

·       Yes, they are still very much around. You’ll find them at almost every truck stop. 

What do you do during your “downtime” on the road?

·       During my downtime, I like to unwind in simple ways. I usually listen to music to keep my energy up, or I’ll call my husband to check in and feel connected while I’m away. Sometimes I’ll read a book, which helps pass the time and keeps me relaxed. Those small moments of downtime are important for recharging after a long day behind the wheel.

Are there any myths about being female in the industry?

·        One of the biggest myths is that women can’t handle the physical or mental demands of trucking. While there are definitely challenges, women are just as capable of doing this job successfully as men. Another misconception is that female drivers are automatically less experienced or need extra help, which isn’t true. Many of us are just as skilled, if not more so, because we’ve had to work even harder to prove ourselves in a male-dominated field.

I enjoyed the interview with Lady J! It enlightened me in so many areas of women truck drivers' lives and is extremely helpful in writing my series. Many thanks and appreciation to Jo and Bri!

To all the women truck drivers, truck on! You are greatly appreciated!

IRELAND IN THE 1950S - A DIFFERENT WORLD FROM AMERICA by Ellen Butler

Today we are rounding out the last article focused on the 1950s. I decided to focus on what my character, Ariadne Winter would have experienced when it came to visiting Ireland (the location of Deadly Secrets at Ballyford Castle) verses her home in America. In the 1950s, Ireland and America seemed worlds apart. While Americans embraced post-war prosperity, suburban growth, and shiny new automobiles, much of Ireland remained rural, agricultural, and rooted in traditions that had changed little for generations.

Following World War II, the United States experienced an economic boom. Families moved into newly built suburban homes, with flashy new appliances, and filled driveways with chrome and candy colored automobiles. Jobs were plentiful, and consumer goods became increasingly accessible to the average family.

Ireland's experience was very different. The country struggled economically throughout much of the decade. Outside of cities such as Dublin and Galway, much of the population lived in small villages and on family farms. Many homes lacked modern conveniences that Americans took for granted, including indoor plumbing, central heating, and reliable electricity.

By the 1950s, automobiles were common in America. In rural Ireland, however, horses remained an important means of transportation and farm labor. Horse-drawn carts could still be seen traveling narrow country roads, carrying goods to market or transporting families between villages. For many farmers, purchasing a car was simply beyond their financial reach.

Education also differed significantly. Irish children generally attended primary school, but economic realities often limited further education. Many teenagers left school early to work on family farms or seek employment. Secondary education was not free in Ireland until the late 1960s, making continued schooling difficult for many families. In contrast, most American children attended high school, and growing numbers pursued college degrees.

Employment opportunities were another challenge. Ireland's economy offered limited industrial and professional jobs, particularly in rural areas. Agriculture remained the primary source of employment for many families, while others found work in small local businesses or trades. As a result, emigration became a way of life. Tens of thousands of young Irish men and women left for England, the United States, and Canada in search of better opportunities and higher wages.

Despite economic hardships, rural Ireland possessed a strong sense of community. Neighbors relied upon one another during harvests, weddings, funerals, and family harships. Traditional music, storytelling, church gatherings, and local dances provided entertainment in an era before widespread television ownership.

For Americans visiting Ireland in the 1950s, the country may have seemed decades behind technologically. Yet many Irish people remembered the era fondly for its close-knit communities and enduring traditions—qualities that modernization would gradually transform in the decades that followed.

HAPPY 250TH BIRTHDAY AMERICA! by Kimberly R. Thorn

Is it me of does it seem like it should have been more than 250 years since this great county started?  But upon my disbelief, I did do the math and it is indeed exactly 250 years ago today that America began.  Now, some may believe that this is not a great country at this present time.  Do I agree that we have many things that we, as a country need to work on, yes.  But the overall idea of our forefathers of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness does still exist.  Let’s ask ourselves the question, what other country in the world that has these same three principles?

Please don’t get me wrong.  I am well aware of the turmoil that we as American’s face.  I would be dumb not to realize them.    The biggest one is the division between all of us currently.  There are Democrats, Republicans.  Pro-life versus Pro-Choice. Professed Christians and Non-Christians.  Homosexuals and Heterosexuals.  Just to name a few.  If I proceeded to name all of the divisions in this blog, it would take days.  I think you get the gist of what I am saying, though. 

There are two points that I would like to make today, when we are celebrating the 250^th anniversary of this country.  First, where else in the world would you be able to express your differences so openly and freely?  Try it in another country and you would be punished or killed.  Second, let’s remember that even though we are all different people with different beliefs, ideals, preferences, etc. (as I know I am missing tons of specifications), we are all still Americans.  Let us celebrate these divisions and not let them divide and conquer us.  We need to stand united and firm.  We cannot let our differences alienate us from each other. 

Please understand that I do not want to offend anyone.  That is not my intention at all.  I am just so tired and disappointed of the name calling, the finger pointing and the hateful ways that we, as Americans are talking to each other.  We, as a people, will not accomplish anything if we are arguing amongst ourselves.  United we stand, divided we fall.

I thank all who have ever served and still serve our great country along with our forefathers, for giving us the opportunies that we have, even today.  We’ve come a long way and while we still have tons more work to do, I know that we, as Americans can continue to grow and improve.  I remember after 9/11.  We didn’t see each other as different political party members, by sexual orientation, or by religion.  Prior to 9/11, we were divided then as well, but we all came together, as Americans and stood up against those that attacked our people and our Country.  We helped each other.  There were volunteeers from countless communities that all joined together.  That is my America!  One where we pulled together and not let it separate us.  Let’s remember that today as we celebrate our country’s 250^th Anniversary.

Happy 250^th 4^th of July y’all!  Be safe and cool today!  LET FREEDOM RING!

250 Years of American Wit and Wisdom by Yvonne Saxon

It’s our birthday! From sea to shining sea we are celebrating the 250th anniversary of our independence. Picnics, parties, and parades will take place all over the USA and fireworks will turn night skies red, white and blue! As a party favor, I’ve collected a handful of quotes from American writers that spans the last 250 years. From presidents to pundits to activists, their writings have influenced our culture. Enjoy!

 

Hello June by Teresa Inge

As we step into my favorite month, I can’t help but smile. June has always held a special place in my heart. It’s the month I graduated many years ago, the month I got married, and the month when flowers bloom in my yard and my garden comes alive with fresh tomatoes and other homegrown goodness.

For me, June is more than the start of summer. It’s a time of leaving the cold behind, welcoming what’s new, and settling into a season of being outdoors.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy the month is by reading a book by the pool or at the beach. There’s just something about being near the water with a mystery book in hand that I love.

June also carries a sense of celebration. Schools mark the end of the academic year with graduations, weddings fill the month with joy, and for many families, it signals the beginning of summer vacations. My husband and I just took a major RV trip through nine states in eleven days, so we are not planning another big getaway right now. Still, I do plan to take time off at the end of the month to enjoy our beach house in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. I also have outdoor book signings scheduled with author friends, including my favorite annual event at a wine and craft festival, which is always fun.

Another reason I love June is the extra sunlight. With the summer solstice arriving around June 20 or 21, the days stretch longer and give us more time to enjoy the season. 

In the end, June is my kind of month, full of sunshine and fresh air, walking cool hiking trails with my husband and dogs, taking my 1955 T-Bird out for a cruise, and spending time with family and friends.

FIVE YEARS IN THE MAKING: THE KING'S COLLAR DEBUTS By Jeff Tanner

 

The King’s Collar (Koehler Books), publishes June 30. The book, set in 1929 Boston, features many real people, including Joseph Kennedy, Jack Haley (Tin Man in The Wizard of Oz), and mobster Charles “King” Solomon. The story is an adventurous mystery featuring disgraced would-be Harvard graduate Charlie “Bones” Bohannon, and centers around his hunt for missing artifacts to clear his name and graduate, all while being threatened by others who desire the wealth those artifacts could bring.

Boston seemed the perfect setting. As a port, it was almost as important as New York. The city, already known for banning books, was also the home of 4000 speakeasies, quadruple the number at the start of Prohibition. Nowhere else in America was there such a surface divide between the pious elite and the powerful mob.

The idea for The King's Collar came not in Boston but in Newport News, Virginia. I was touring backstage of that city’s Mariners’ Museum, primarily built to keep Huntington Shipyard workers employed during the Depression. The founders, therefore, had no idea about acquiring and curating artifacts, so the museum now has an abundance of some items and a dearth of others.

Immediately, the idea of an Indiana Jones-type adventurer searching the globe for maritime artifacts came to mind.

Gratifying, then, are early readers’ comments, such as “Indiana Jones meets The Maltese Falcon” by Margit Weisgal of the Baltimore Sun and others, “…Jones meets The Sting” by award-nominated author (and regular blogger here) Michael Rigg, and similar comparisons.

Here’s a synopsis:

Boston, May 1929. Expelled from Harvard and disowned by his father, Charlie Bohannon is down to his last nickel when he stumbles across a chance at salvation: a priceless Egyptian statuette hiding in the smoky recesses of a speakeasy. Learning it was stolen from a long ago-expedition led by his college dean, he sees returning it as his only shot a redemption – but the plan shatters when the artifact is stolen and the thief is murdered.

From the corrupt halls of power where Joseph Kennedy pulls the strings to the seedy docks of the Atlantic, Charlie suddenly finds himself in the crosshairs of several dangerous men. They don’t just want the statue; they want its legendary counterpart, the jewel-encrusted King’s Collar. They think Charlie can find it. And they’ll happily kill for it.

Aided in his quest to find the King’s Collar by daring socialite Olivia and salty ex-sailor Punchy, Charlie plunges into a shadow-game where killers hide in plain sight. When his friends are kidnapped, the hunt for the Collar becomes a race against time. In the cut-throat world of the Prohibition era, Charlie must find the treasure – or pay for it with their lives.

Another surprise for me is how much early readers like Punchy, the “salty ex-sailor.” So much so that I now offer readers a free short story with Punchy as the protagonist.  (www.authorjefftanner.com/fiction/punchy)

The King’s Collar publishes June 30, and can be found at The Book Bin on the Eastern Shore, or pre-ordered online (Amazon.com: The King's Collar: 9798897471522: Tanner, Jeff: Books). Or, if you’re likely to run into me soon, you can order it on my website and I’ll bring you a signed copy!

Dolls, second in the series, publishes December 8.  Both books are published by Koehler Books. I’ve already written books three and four; with any luck, we’ll see those hit the market in 2027.

Clair Lamb, editor, said this about Charlie. “I like Charlie; he’s good company.” I hope others agree.

THE ART OF STORYTELLING: PART II: A BRIEF HISTORY OF ORAL STORYTELLING by Penny Hutson

Storytelling is one of the oldest art forms. Historians believe people told stories orally long before the invention of written language or any writing instruments. The earliest stories were likely simple chants and myths created to explain natural occurrences. Over the years, more intricate stories of gods and goddesses, monsters, and people with superhuman qualities emerged, creating the hero tale.

During the Middle Ages, oral storytelling became a favorite pastime. Minstrels, bards, and troubadours roamed the countryside in Eastern Europe. They knew all the popular tales, noteworthy university theses, scandals of the royal court, and the healing power of herbs and simple medicines. Many learned to play whatever instruments were in favor at court and compose verses at a moment's notice. In a way, they acted as modern-day journalists keeping society informed of local and world of affairs; but they were also entertainers, which is likely why they were welcomed at the royal courts, villages, and marketplaces alike.

With the invention of moveable type and the printing press, however, interest in oral storytelling declined as more people learned to read. By the 1800s folktales became popular with the publication of the Grimm’s Fairytales, Hans Christian Anderson folktales, and other collected regional stories.

By the early 1900s, there was a rise in oral storytelling again thanks to Marie Shedlock, a schoolteacher in England, who became the first professional oral storyteller. She toured in Europe and the United States and proposed oral storytelling as a natural way to introduce literature to children. She’s also credited with inspiring the first storytelling organization, The National Story League, created in 1903, which is still in operation today.

Then, with the invention of the television, oral storytelling declined again until the 1970s when other storytelling organizations formed. In 1973 the first National Storytelling Festival was created in Jonesborough, TN, and is still held annually. Similar scenarios began happening in England and other places around the world. Currently, there are dozens of storytelling festivals and hundreds of professional storytellers around the world, including an international celebration on World Storytelling Day every March 20.

Since the early 2000s, the internet has connected storytellers from all over the globe and helped to increase interest in telling stories, both written and oral. Ordinary people’s personal stories, true crime, and the lives of famous people are particularly popular right now.

There are many online sites, as well as television programs dedicated to storytelling, such as the Public Broadcasting Service’s (PBS) “On Story” and Music Television’s (MTV) “Storytellers.” Currently, people’s personal stories – funny, sad, scary, and just plain interesting ones are very popular.

I don’t know what storytelling will look like in the future, but I am certain it will still be around in some form or another. Storytelling has stood the test of time and appears to be endemic to the very fabric of humanity itself.

So, when’s the last time someone told you a good story? If it’s been a while, tune into a radio station like the Moth Radio Hour, find a storytelling program on TV, listen to a podcast or Utube channel, or check out an audio book from your local library. Experience the magic and power of the spoken word. It may surprise you.