Carol Ann, Somerset West
Our Listener – Carol Ann, Somerset West
“Finding meaning in every word, and calm in every stitch.“
For Carol Ann, work has always been about more than earning a living: it’s about finding purpose in what she does. Before transcription entered her world, she had long been self-employed, building her days around precision, focus, and a quiet satisfaction in getting things right. “I’ve always had a genuine passion for working on a computer,” she says. “Whether it’s data capture, organising information, or working with numbers, I just enjoy it.” When a friend of a friend mentioned Way With Words, she was intrigued. The idea of turning spoken words into written form, of capturing the heart of human conversation, appealed instantly. She decided to give it a try. Seven years later, she still calls it one of her best decisions.
“It opened up a whole new world for me,” she says. “From the moment I started, I truly enjoyed the work and haven’t looked back since.” For Carol Ann, transcription is both a craft and a calling. It’s a balance between accuracy and empathy. Each recording holds a story that needs to be understood, not just transcribed.
She’s seen how technology has changed the field, and she’s clear about where the human touch still matters most. “Machines can capture words, but they often miss the subtle nuances, tone, and emotion behind them,” she explains. “I’ve seen automated transcripts change the meaning of what someone was actually saying, especially in sensitive situations like when people talk about their health. It’s in those moments that the human ear and heart truly matter.”
Her sensitivity to context was deepened through one of the most moving assignments she’s worked on: interviews with people living with cancer. “I was deeply touched by their courage and resilience,” she recalls. “Each person had their own way of coping, shaped by their personality, support system, and outlook. What stood out was their willingness to open up and help others. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength people have, even in the most difficult circumstances.”
Outside of work, Carol Ann turns to her hands for restoration. Crochet, knitting, sewing, and journaling bring her a sense of calm and creativity that mirrors her approach to transcription, being patient, deliberate, and thoughtful. “I love the creativity and calm that come with making something from scratch,” she says. Long walks outdoors are her other sanctuary, where she finds space to think, reflect, and recharge. “It’s my favourite way to unwind, reflect, and find fresh inspiration.”
Ask her what makes a great transcriber, and her answer is immediate. “A keen eye for detail, of course – but also curiosity. Every recording is different, and being open to learning about any topic helps you do the work justice.” It’s this blend of focus and openness that has sustained her through thousands of hours of transcription.
“I’m really glad I found the world of transcription,” she says finally. “It’s made work so much more interesting. Every project brings something new, and I love the variety it offers. It’s rewarding to dive into different topics while constantly learning and adapting. Transcription keeps me engaged and always offers something fresh to tackle.”
Way With Words
At Way With Words, every transcript begins with a listener. Our contractors — like Carol Ann — bring human understanding to the art of transcription, ensuring that every voice, every pause, and every story is captured with care.