What happens when your smartphone becomes your biggest enemy in managing ADHD? In this powerful conversation, Annie sits down with Alastair Brayne, founder of MyCoPilot.ai, who turned his personal struggle with executive dysfunction and digital addiction into a mission to help others.

Alastair shares the raw reality of building a startup while neurodivergent, from developing "a really dumb little app" in his bedroom to creating an AI-powered platform that provides compassionate support for people with ADHD. We dive deep into the neuroscience behind why smartphones can make ADHD symptoms worse, the challenges of securing funding as a neurodiverse founder, and the personal cost of pursuing a mission-driven business.

This episode explores the darker side of our relationship with technology, the power of AI to heal rather than harm, and what it truly means to build "Tech for Good" - even when it feels like an act of revenge against the systems that failed you.

Takeaways

• The journey of building MyCoPilot.ai began with personal experiences of executive dysfunction.

• Smartphones can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and digital overuse.

• AI can provide compassionate support for mental health challenges.

• Startup development is fraught with challenges, especially for neurodiverse founders.

• Community and networking are crucial for startup success.

• Personal wellbeing can be sacrificed in the pursuit of entrepreneurship.

• Tech for Good is driven by a sense of vengeance against societal issues.

• Funding and support are critical for startup growth and sustainability.

• The future of MyCoPilot.ai includes expanding its user base and improving its offerings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to MyCoPilot.ai and Its Purpose

01:06 The Journey of Building MyCoPilot.ai

04:05 Understanding ADHD and Digital Overuse

07:08 The Development and Current Status of MyCoPilot.ai

16:06 Challenges in Startup Development and Funding

19:16 Support Systems and Resources for Founders

26:36 Reflections on the Startup Ecosystem and Advice for New Entrepreneurs

28:15 The Regret Factor in Entrepreneurship

28:51 Balancing Personal Mission and Wellbeing

29:59 The Cost of Sacrificing Health for Success

30:53 Authenticity and Neurodiversity in Startups

31:50 Vengeance and Passion in Founding Startups

33:40 Navigating the Startup Journey and Learning

35:30 Funding and Growth Challenges

37:28 The Importance of Timing in Seeking Investment

38:55 The Role of Founders in Startup Success

39:52 Defining Tech for Good

41:10 Building Community and Connection through Technology