This week, I sat down with Derek Crager for a conversation on the intersection of neurodiversity and artificial intelligence. Both topics are often misunderstood by the wider public, sometimes leading to misinformation, stigma, or even apprehension.
We explore how embracing different ways of thinking can unlock new opportunities in technology, why AI might be uniquely positioned to support neurodiverse communities, and what it means to build tools and workplaces that value every kind of mind.
It wasn’t until Derek was 50 years old that he himself was diagnosed with ADHD, Dyslexia, and Autism. Before that, he knew he was a bit different.
He described himself as the ‘weird’ kid in the classroom, but he never quite knew the core differences that he had compared to others. He didn't quite understand where he fit in the world. But his diagnosis completely changed his life and hs outlook.
I wanted to speak a bit more with Derek about what it meant to be neurodiverse, and what it meant to be neurodiverse in a world that's being immersed in artificial intelligence. What are some of the best ways that people can learn or develop in a world that's being completely engulfed by technology?
Well, Derek is an AI Solutions Architect and the Founder of Practical AI . Its Pocket Mentor product sets out to be an AI voice tool for those seeking assistance in some of their workplace tasks. Some of the company’s core beliefs include that:
AI should be practical
Shared learning fuels growth
Shared earning rewards effort
Transparency and fairness matter
Neurodiversity is a strength
We also discuss some of the nuances that neurotypical and neurodiverse people experience each day. He cites studies from the New England Journal, and we each share what kind of tech helps us thrive in our environments.
Please feel free to also catch this episode on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple - it has gone live there, too.
