We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jenell Copeland. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Jenell, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I wake up before the sun comes up, though as I’ve gotten older mind the 5:30 alarm less and less. The morning is quiet, initially. I have time to breathe and get ready, before heading off to work. I teach middle school science. My room is the fun, energetic often silly gathering spot. Students stop in my room before they head to class. I hear stories, give hugs and high fives and leave them with smiles.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I teach middle school science by day and run Rozdel Designs in my extra minutes/ weekends. My company specializes in jewelry using flowers local and often native to North Carolina. Those that aren’t wild, are grown in my garden. All plants are harvested, dried and pressed in my home. This creative aspect of my jewelry making definitely sets me apart from many other earring makers or those that use resin.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I changed as both a person as well as an educator teaching through Covid. I realized just how vulnerable many were around me and that my teaching needed to be centered around compassion and love. For a segment of time, fears were allowed to be vocalized
There was a certain safety in admitting worry . The further we move from Covid, the less those feelings are vocalized. I try to make sure my classroom is always that safe space.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell middle school and high school Jenell that it all turns out ok. I would let myself know that there is more than “popular kids” once you leave the safety of high school and that being successful and well liked certainly doesn’t depend on who you were as a 10th grader.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I would say honesty, integrity and a strong work ethic. I think my friends tend to share similar values and therefore recognize those are important aspects in my life.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My holiday earrings! I have frequent requests for new molds, especially during the bigger main holidays. I have several that buy new seasonal each year just because it’s fun and they are reasonable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.rozdeldesigns.com
- Instagram: @rozdeldesigns
- Facebook: Rozdel Designs
