Daily Inspiration: Meet Roderick Jackson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Roderick Jackson.

Hi Roderick, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started Rugs by Rod because I wanted a custom rug for my photography studio but couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for. Instead of settling, I decided to learn how to make one myself. What started as a creative challenge quickly became a passion. Over the last five years, I’ve dedicated myself to learning the craft, improving my skills, and creating more than 150 custom rugs for clients.

Today, Rugs by Rod is more than just a business—it’s a way for me to combine creativity with entrepreneurship. I specialize in one-of-a-kind rugs for homes, businesses, brands, and collectors, turning ideas into handcrafted pieces of functional art. My long-term vision is to continue growing the business while also creating opportunities to teach others the trade through workshops and community programs. Every rug I make represents my commitment to quality, creativity, and building something meaningful from the ground up. Ironically I have yet to make the rug for my studio although I have made over 150 rugs for my clients
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Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s been an enjoyable and rewarding journey. One of my biggest challenges has been mastering the techniques needed to create high-quality rugs. Early on, I constantly compared my work to other artists and struggled to make my rugs look as polished and “perfect” as I envisioned. Through a lot of practice, trial and error, and learning which tools and techniques worked best for me, I was able to improve my craftsmanship. Even today, I’m still learning and pushing myself to get better with every rug I make. I believe there’s always room to grow, and that mindset has been one of the biggest reasons I’ve continued to improve.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a creative entrepreneur with a passion for turning ideas into something people can experience and remember. Through my photography business, Shots by Rod, I specialize in real estate, editorial, product, and event photography, helping businesses, brands, and individuals tell their stories through high-quality imagery. I also own Cleveland Sky Studio, a creative space where photographers, videographers, and content creators can bring their visions to life.

Alongside photography, I own Rugs by Rod, where I design and handcraft custom tufted rugs that transform logos, artwork, and personal ideas into functional pieces of art. Whether it’s behind the camera or behind a tufting frame, I enjoy creating work that is unique and meaningful.

What I’m most proud of is building multiple creative businesses from the ground up while continuously learning and improving my craft. I think what sets me apart is my ability to combine different forms of creativity. My background in photography gives me a strong eye for design, color, and composition, which naturally carries over into my rug-making. More than anything, I’m committed to creating high-quality work, providing a great customer experience, and continuing to grow as both an artist and an entrepreneur.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory had to be taking family trips. I can think of many specific ones, Niagara Falls, Florida, East Coast, the south, all of these times hold singular moments but ultimately made me feel the same type of joy. I enjoyed this time mainly because it was an escape from reality and responsibility. Although problems still seem to arouse, I always had the most time and hated when it was time to head back home.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shotsbyrod.co
• Instagram: @Rugsbyrod
• Facebook: @rugsbyrod