Photo of Jacquelyn and Jerry Clement, owners of Create Teach Inspire.

Jacquelyn Lynn and Jerry Clement create, teach and inspire others

by

For many, retirement signals the start of leisurely mornings, long afternoons of golf, and ticking off travel destinations. But for Jacquelyn Lynn and Jerry Clement, life after 50 has been anything but slow-paced.

This dynamic couple, now in their 70s, have embraced their creative passions to not only build a thriving business but also to inspire others to find purpose and fulfillment at any age.

Their business, aptly named Create Teach Inspire, is more than a company — it’s a mission. By combining their unique talents in writing, photography and videography, Jacquelyn and Jerry have created a meaningful second act for themselves, while empowering clients of all ages to tell stories and bring their visions to life.

“We’re making a living, we’re having fun, and we’re helping people,” Jacquelyn said. “Does it get any better than that?”

From necessity to vision

The journey to Create Teach Inspire began unexpectedly. Years ago, Jacquelyn and Jerry were heavily reliant on a single client, who accounted for 95% of their income. When that client’s business unexpectedly folded, the couple realized they needed a new approach to stay afloat.

“I remember brainstorming in the car after visiting our grandkids,” Jacquelyn recalled. “We like to create things, and we help our clients teach by producing books. Most importantly, we want to inspire. That’s who we are.”

That simple conversation sparked a revelation. They searched for the domain CreateTeachInspire.com and found it available, a sign that they were on the right path. The name encapsulated everything they wanted their business — and their lives — to represent.

Christian businesses sometimes pick names that are hard to spell, difficult to pronounce and leave people wondering what purpose the company fulfills. But Create Teach Inspire says it all right in the name.

A perfect partnership

The business thrives on Jacquelyn and Jerry’s complementary skill sets. Jacquelyn, a self-proclaimed “wordsmith,” focuses on writing, editing and book design. Jerry, the visual mastermind, handles photography, videography and graphic design.

Together, they produce books, shareable content and videos which resonate with clients and their audiences alike.

“We divide and conquer,” Jerry explained. “Jackie does the writing, and I handle the visuals. It’s a good relationship for us.”

Their collaboration doesn’t stop at business. Their synergy extends to brainstorming creative ideas, solving client challenges, and even managing their personal lives.

“If you had told me 30 years ago that I could spend this much time with one person without killing him, I wouldn’t have believed you,” Jacquelyn joked.

The couple’s work ethic and humor are evident in everything they do. Whether producing inspirational Shareable Saturday videos or designing book covers for clients, they approach each task with enthusiasm and a deep sense of purpose.

Embracing technology after 50

Starting a business later in life comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to technology. Jacquelyn and Jerry have faced their fair share of hurdles, but refuse to let age be a barrier.

“When you’re in your 70s, younger people don’t always see you as tech-savvy,” Jacquelyn admitted. “But we’re constantly learning.”

Jerry, who initially learned photography in the film era, transitioned to digital photography in 2012 at the urging of their son.

“I had a wonderful darkroom at home, but digital opened up so many new possibilities,” he said.

Their commitment to staying current extends to their tools and methods. They’ve mastered advanced publishing software, like Adobe InDesign, and learned to operate drones for aerial photography and videography.

“Each new piece of technology is both a challenge and an opportunity,” Jerry explained. “It’s all about staying curious and keeping up.”

Despite occasional frustrations, they find immense satisfaction in overcoming these learning curves.

“Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that this is a business, not just playtime,” Jacquelyn laughed.

Building a life of purpose

Jacquelyn and Jerry didn’t start Create Teach Inspire until after they turned 50, but their entrepreneurial spirit and creative talents have been with them all along. Jacquelyn’s passion for writing began in her youth, though it took years for her to pursue it professionally.

“When I was very young, I wanted to be an elephant,” she said with a chuckle. “When I found out that wasn’t possible, I decided to be a writer.”

After working in the transportation industry for several years, Jacquelyn made a bold decision in her 30s to leave her job and follow her dream. She credits a writer’s conference with giving her the tools and confidence to succeed.

“I did exactly what the speaker said, and three weeks later, I had my first assignment from a national magazine,” she recalled.

Jerry’s path was similar in its twists and turns. After serving in the military, he worked for an insurance company for nearly 30 years before rediscovering his love for photography.

“I was spending way too much time on I-95,” he said. “I decided it was time to make a change.”

Their shared willingness to take risks and adapt has been key to their success.

“I might have skipped the corporate world if I’d known what I know now,” Jerry admitted. “But, I learned a lot from it, and that experience has helped me in my current life.”

Christian Business Almanac

Faith has always been a cornerstone of their lives and work, and nowhere is that more evident than in their latest project, “Christian Business Almanac.” The book, which took nearly two years to complete, offers daily inspiration through scripture, quotes, trivia and professional advice.

“It’s a perpetual almanac,” Jacquelyn explained. “You can use it year after year because scripture speaks differently every time you read it.”

The almanac has been a hit with readers of all backgrounds, from business professionals to retirees.

“I love it because it gives me something to think about every day,” one reader told the couple in a review of the book.

For Jacquelyn, the project was a long-time dream finally realized. “God spoke to me and said, ‘It’s time to make this my almanac,’” she shared. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to see it come to life.”

Never stop learning

One of the couple’s core beliefs is that learning should never stop, no matter your age. “If you stop learning, your days are numbered,” Jerry said.

Jacquelyn agreed, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and curious. “I tell clients, ‘We’ve never done this before, but we’ll figure it out together.’ That willingness to learn is what keeps us going.”

Their advice to others is simple: don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back.

“If you’re not happy with what you’re doing, figure out what will make you happy and pursue it,” Jacquelyn said. “It’s never too late to reinvent yourself.”

Finding love and purpose later in life

Jacquelyn and Jerry’s journey isn’t just about professional success — it’s also a testament to the power of love and partnership. Having both been married before, they met later in life while serving on a church committee.

“We were serving on what we jokingly call the ‘committee from hell,’” Jacquelyn said with a laugh. “But it turned out to be a blessing in disguise.”

Their relationship grew through late-night debriefs over drinks after committee meetings. Over time, their friendship blossomed into something more.

“We’ve both come out of challenging relationships,” Jacquelyn said. “But we’ve built something beautiful together.”

A message to people over 50

For seasoned citizens over 50 who feel stuck or unsure of their next step, Jacquelyn and Jerry offer words of encouragement.

“Don’t stop,” Jerry said simply. “Keep learning, keep exploring, and don’t be afraid to try something new.”

Jacquelyn added, “If you’re passionate about something, find a way to make it part of your life. It’s never too late to start.”

Their story is a powerful reminder that life after 50 can be a time of growth, creativity and fulfillment. Whether it’s starting a business, learning a new skill, or rediscovering an old passion, the possibilities are endless.

Looking ahead

As Jacquelyn and Jerry continue to grow Create Teach Inspire, they remain committed to their mission of helping others succeed. Their work isn’t just about creating content; it’s about inspiring others to find their own purpose and live with intention.

“Retirement doesn’t mean stopping,” Jacquelyn said. “It means finding what you love and doing it.”

For people looking for inspiration, Jacquelyn and Jerry’s journey is proof that it’s never too late to create, teach and inspire.

For more information

The Clements’ book, “Christian Business Almanac” can be found on Amazon, ChristianAlmanac.com and in bookstores.

If you order the almanac from an Amazon link above, Forward From 50 may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Post Views: 102