Episode 223

Tech Support is Nearer than You Think! - with Ferrona Lie

Published on: 19th March, 2023

Ferrona Lie is the CEO and co-founder of near Technology, Inc., a Northwestern University-spinout startup providing personalized tech coaching to enable all individuals to use technology to stay connected with their loved ones, stress-free.

The idea stemmed from the founders' shared experiences trying to help their parents and other older relatives with tech issues involving smart phones, tablets, and computers. Ferrona and her business partner realized that as people begin to move out of the regular workforce, the usual tech support offered by companies' IT departments was no longer available and this left a void in people's lives.

By getting to know their clients, the staff at near is able to assign a specific "near neighbor" to each person, someone who will help that client with their problems on an on-going basis - like a personal trainer for technology support. Their goal is to teach each client to become self-sufficient, not to do the work for them.

Support is currently offered in person in Chicago, Detroit, and San Francisco, but working through Zoom, it's possible to get support wherever you might be. You can reach out to Ferrona and the team through their website, https://feelnear.com and you can schedule a free consultation by emailing them at info@feelnear.com or by calling (847) 994-4111.

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Beyond Retirement

About the Podcast

Beyond Retirement
What really happens after retirement?

If you’re approaching retirement—or already there—and wondering what now?, you’re not alone. The world is full of financial advice for retirement, but there’s far less about how to actually live a fulfilling life once the 9-to-5 ends.

Beyond Retirement is the podcast that explores what comes after the career chapter. Whether your retirement was planned or unexpected, joyful or jarring, you’ll find real stories, honest conversations, and practical inspiration here.

Join host Jacquie Doucette as she shares her own journey and speaks with people who’ve reimagined life after work—some fully retired, some shifting gears, and all discovering new meaning in this next stage. From finding purpose to building community, embracing play, and navigating change, we’ll explore how to create a life that truly fits.

Because retirement isn’t the end—it’s a new beginning.

Let’s figure out what comes next, together.

About your host

Profile picture for Jacquie Doucette

Jacquie Doucette