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!

A TRIBUTE TO MOTHERS By Sheryl Jordan

 

On Mother’s Day, we pause to honor the women whose love has shaped our lives—mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, adoptive mothers, and every mother-figure who has cared, guided, and stood strong.

A mother’s love is often quiet and constant—heard in the early-morning check-ins, felt in the extra plate of food, and seen in the way she shows up again and again, even when she is tired. It is the kind of love that makes a house feel like home and a hard day feel survivable.

Mothers teach us long before we understand the lesson: how to be brave without being loud, how to care without keeping score, how to keep going when life demands more than we thought we had. Their sacrifices don’t always look like grand gestures; more often, they look like patience, persistence, prayer, and the steady work of loving a family well.

Mother's Day, we say thank you—for the hugs that healed, the words that guided, the boundaries that protected, and the hope that never let go. Thank you for the strength you carried, the kindness you modeled, and the love you gave in a thousand ordinary moments that turned out to be extraordinary.

To every mother: may you feel celebrated, valued, and deeply loved today—and may the care you’ve poured into others return to you in peace, joy, and gratitude. Happy Mother’s Day.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH by Sheryl Jordan

Origins

The observation of Black history was originally called “Negro History Week” in 1926. Carter G. Woodson, a historian of African American Life and History, established it. The week was chosen to coincide with Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays, February 12^, 1809, and February 14, 1818. President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1976, and since then, it has been celebrated annually in the United States and Canada.

CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY TRADITIONS: THEN AND NOW By Sheryl Jordan

Each year, as the Christmas season approaches, I find myself reflecting on the traditions of my childhood and how my family celebrates today. While some customs have changed, many cherished traditions continue to bring us together year after year.

Then

As a child, I would feel the excitement for Christmas begin the weekend after Thanksgiving, when our family would assemble and decorate the tree. For many years, we had a beautiful silver tree adorned with blue ornaments. The house—and our neighborhood—sparkled with festive lights and decorations. I loved visiting stores to admire the dazzling ornaments and twinkling lights on the most stunning trees I had ever seen.

The anticipation grew as I participated in school concerts and plays, which helped the days pass more quickly. I was always eager to see what Santa would bring for my family. Of course, my siblings and I received plenty of gifts from Mom and Dad—perhaps too many, some might say!

A few days before Christmas, the house filled with the delicious aromas of holiday cooking. Mom and Dad prepared greens, thawed the turkey, and diced vegetables for the dressing. The Christmas ham waited in the refrigerator, and sweet potato and egg custard pies baked in the oven, making my mouth water.

On Christmas morning, my siblings and I would wake up around four a.m., anxious to see if “Santa” had delivered our wishes. We waited for our parents to join us before opening any presents, savoring the moment together.

Later in the day, friends and family gathered for a festive meal. Our table overflowed with turkey, dressing, ham, macaroni and cheese, mustard greens, cornbread, chitterlings, green bean casserole, and pies. When Aunt Lottie visited, she brought her homemade apple-peach cobbler—a special treat. The day was always filled with laughter, delicious food, and memories that have lasted a lifetime.

As we grew older and started our own families, our children would open their gifts at midnight. Later, we’d visit my parents’ home to celebrate with extended family, followed by visits to cousins and in-laws.

When my husband joined the U.S. Navy, and we moved away from our families, we adapted our traditions. We decorated two weeks before Christmas, and our shopping usually happened the weekend before Christmas Day—sometimes last-minute, but we always found what we needed. On Christmas Eve, we attended church services, and the kids opened presents early Christmas morning. Our holiday meals remained much the same, though I began making Strawberry Pretzel Dessert instead of egg custard pies, and collard greens replaced mustard greens. Turkey eventually disappeared from our menu.

Now

Today, we put up our trees the day after Thanksgiving. The grandchildren take charge of decorating, while I offer guidance (or, as they say, supervise). The main floor tree is adorned with a gold-and-ivory garland and a delicate angel in an ivory dress trimmed with gold. I love gazing at the tree as its twinkling lights fill our living room. In the basement, the grandchildren have full creative freedom, decorating a tree with multicolored lights and a collection of ornaments made or gathered over the years.

We shop throughout the season, mostly online and at local small businesses. Gifts are wrapped as they’re purchased, so we’re not up all night on Christmas Eve—a welcome change from years past.

Throughout the season, I enjoy watching Christmas movies, especially “A Christmas Story” on Christmas Day, as well as all the NFL football games.

Our holiday dinner features the same beloved dishes each year, but now I have wonderful help in the kitchen. One granddaughter makes Strawberry Pretzel Dessert and Banana Pudding, with assistance from her younger sisters. My daughter prepares sweet potato casserole, collard greens, and dinner rolls. I’m in charge of macaroni and cheese and ham. We buy apple and sweet potato pies, since I’ve been told my sweet potato pies are delicious, but not quite like my dad’s!

A new tradition we’ve added is sharing a scripture related to the meaning of Christmas during dinner, with each person explaining why it’s meaningful to them.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or another special holiday, I encourage you to reflect: How have your traditions changed or stayed the same over the years? The heart of the season is found in the memories we create and the love we share.

HOA DRAMA, SHENANIGANS, AND MYSTERY by Sheryl Jordan

 A homeowner’s association (HOA) governs and manages a housing community, setting rules and bylaws (with the assistance of a hired attorney) for its residents. Residents pay fees to cover the cost of amenities and services provided, such as swimming pools, landscaping of common areas, clubhouses, gyms, etc.

My first experience living in a community with an HOA during the late 1980s – early 1990s was relatively uneventful. Everything was organized, and communication of changes and updates was timely, even though it was done by postal mail, or letters and flyers placed on your screen doors.

Two years ago, we purchased a home in a beautiful golf course community. I love living in our community, as most residents are friendly, and I have built close friendships with some of them. Our HOA offers numerous committees for residents to get involved in, as well as activities for children, adults, and families residing here.

After attending several meetings and reading some of the comments in their aftermath, I was prompted to write a fictional mystery short story or novel about the shenanigans and cutthroat drama that occur in a fictitious HOA community.

I began researching HOAs and community posts on various websites. I found there is dissatisfaction with HOAs across the United States. Not just with the HOA, but discord amongst the people living in these types of communities.

I read about instances where arguments between HOA Board members and residents escalated into full-blown fights during meetings, acts of revenge, and sabotage among committee members and neighbors.

Although I won't be sharing many details of my story in progress, rest assured that it will include drama, revenge, and a deceased body or two.

What were your experiences with an HOA or neighborhood you’ve had the pleasure of residing in? Please share your story, good, bad, ugly, or funny.

SWEET DAYS OF SUMMER by Sheryl Jordan

Summer is just around the corner, and everyone is getting ready for some fun in the sun! There is a lot to do in the beautiful summer months. Some people will take vacations they have planned months before, while others will travel spontaneously to their destinations. Staycations are also popular choices; experiencing local outings can be a fantastic way to spend summer days.

Summer, oh, how it stirs up nostalgia in me! It is one of my favorite seasons, a time when I find myself reminiscing about summers gone by. The fun-filled days and the not-so-perfect moments—all of them are etched in my memory as wonderful experiences. From family vacations, driving to different states to visit family and friends, going to amusement parks to the bee/wasp stings I endured while playing outside, going on fishing and camping trips, to baseball games where I once sat on a red ant’s nest.

My fondest memories are the Fourth of July celebrations. As I write this, the smells and booms of fireworks shooting up in the sky, bursting to show their bright colors of red, green, blue, and orange, are vivid. It was my highlight of summer, followed four days later by my birthday celebrations.

In recent years, I traveled to various cities during the summer. This summer, I decided not to travel but to do a staycation to relax and unwind. We will attend Juneteenth and 4^th of July celebrations, watching fireworks and joining in the festivities. Some of my family will visit in July for my birthday. I look forward to spending time with them and creating new memories. I also look forward to cookouts and going to the Virginia Beach Ocean Front, Williamsburg, and Bush Gardens.

In my writer’s life, I am going to complete the first two books of a mystery series. To do so, I am setting up interviews with professional female truck drivers. Who knows, I may even be able to go on the road for research with one of them. Now, that would be an adventure! I will also finish building my author’s website and participate in many book signings. An anthology I am a contributing author in will be released soon, so I will be participating in a launch party and promotional book signings.

On the not-so-busy days this summer, I am looking forward to reading, binge-watching movies, and television shows, and just enjoying the dog days of summer.

What are some of your most memorable summers? What plans do you have for this summer?

THE POWER OF INFLUENCE by Sheryl Jordan

 

Do you ever think about what influences you or how you influence people? I have been thinking about this lately and realize how much influence is a part of life.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, influence is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself.

Merriam-Webster states influence is the power to change or affect someone or something—especially the power to cause changes without directly forcing those changes to happen.