Meet this Fayetteville teacher and mother of two
Meet Nyoshi Bizzell, a teacher, business owner and mother of two.
What's your name and where are you from?
My name is Nyoshi Bizzell and I'm from Selma, but I have been living in Fayetteville for about 17 years.
Tell us about you and your family.
I'm a business owner and a 7th-grade English Language Arts Teacher at The Capitol Encore Academy in Fayetteville. I have been doing both for two years now. I am also a mother of two children, 9-year-old daughter and 16-year-old son, as well as two bonus kids.
You have not one but two occupations. Please give us details on your career journey and how you end up in your current positions.
When it comes to teaching, that happened by accident (laughing). I always say that because I never dreamed of being an educator. In the beginning, I was subbing for extra money and in the process, I realized how much I loved it. I enjoyed working with the kids and being there for them and I never realized how much joy it brought me. I had been searching for purpose and when I finally allowed God to lead me, and he showed me where I was supposed to be.
In addition to being an educator, I own a business called Bodies By Bunny, specializing in body sculpting. I enjoy being able to help women feel confident and love who they are. This business allows me to interact with many amazing women, creating a safe space while getting to know them.
What techniques do you use to relieve stress when things get hectic, balancing motherhood and a career?
I've learned how actually to take "Me time." I would always say I was taking the time but still running around. So I had to make myself sit still, which includes journaling. Another step is setting the alarm on my phone to remind myself to take "Me Time."
What's the most important lesson you want to pass on to your children?
Always believe in yourself. Never allow your fears to stop you from pursuing your dreams.
All mothers need a day to themselves once in a while. What does a fun/free day look like to you?
Simply lying on the couch and doing nothing is my day to recharge. If I go outside of the house, I love walking and visiting botanical gardens.
How does being a mother help you with your teaching job?
It helps me understand kids better, especially my own. I always think, "Oh my, why is my child like this or doing this" and then I get to school seeing it's not just my child; It's all of them (laughing). However, it does help me understand they are human beings and, like us, they want respect. They are learning what respect is as well as who they are. Children face life issues just like adults do, just on a different level.
What books, articles, or podcasts would you recommend mothers check out?
I read many self-help books, so I recommend mothers read anything uplifting. Yet my favorite person to currently listen to is Sarah Jake Roberts.
