Fear of Running Out of Money in Retirement? Read About What Joanne Did

I'm super excited to share Joanne's story today. She recently retired from her job of 35+ years and was ready for the next chapter in her life. She didn't want to sit around the house in retirement and surviving on a social security check is a no-go for many retirees.

Read her story to learn about how Joanne went from discovering an article on Transcribe Anywhere to becoming a virtual typist.

Facing Retirement, Joanne Johnson Did This…

You've retired. Now what? That was a question I was asking myself at the end of 2018.

I was ready for retirement after working for 35+ years as a secretary in both the corporate world and in non-profit. I retired at my official retirement age of 66, but I was not ready to completely sit around the house.

After receiving my first social security check, I realized I could not sit around the house. Social security would not cover my costs.

One day I was searching the internet for jobs and things I could do. I knew I didn't want to work for anyone ever again. Don't get me wrong. I loved what I did. I just needed a change.

I came upon an article on transcription, and I thought, “I can do this.” So I started looking into it and came upon Transcribe Anywhere.

Of all the courses I looked at, this one seemed the most thorough and fit into my schedule. After all, how hard could it be after being a secretary for 35 years?

I was in for a surprise.

I had many things to learn about transcription, and I had to brush up on my grammar and punctuation. I had no idea how to download a video or what Express Scribe was or the difficulty in hearing certain audio. I loved that I could go at my own pace.

In the process, I learned that I loved listening to the various things you could transcribe on multiple subjects: interviews, focus groups, blogs, etc.

In the meantime, I developed a website, chose a business name, worked with someone on designing a logo, and formed an LLC.

I had no idea how long it would take me to get through the course. This had nothing to do with the course, but I wanted to take my time to learn so I would be ready. And, of course, life got in the way.

I just recently passed the final, and I am now The Virtual Typist.

I am in the process of learning about finding jobs. What has been beneficial for me is that in 2018 I retired from working part-time for my church, and they have contracted with me for a few small jobs. I am trying to find my niche.

Do I want corporate work? Do I want to stick with non-profit? Perhaps I will do a little bit of both.

I am still finding my way and plan to launch my website in mid-January after a few tweaks. When I passed my final and was able to open the last module, the wealth of information on developing a business plan, how to charge, where to find customers, and how to start working on your own was invaluable.

I'm retired. I am now The Virtual Typist with a firm foundation in transcription. I am thankful to Janet, Marsha, and Transcribe Anywhere.

Our Take

What an inspiring story. We love how Joanne took life into her own hands and changed her future into retirement with Transcribe Anywhere.

Your Turn

Are you a retiree thinking about the next stage of life? Want a work from home job that's fulfilling and flexible? Check out our free mini course on Transcribe Anywhere to see if transcription is right for you.