About Trust Virtual Services Workshops Pricing Why Choose Me Reviews FAQ Contact 📅 Book & Pay Online
Now Booking · St. Louis & Jefferson County

Technology help from
a real person.

"No question too small. No judgment — just friendly help."

Friendly, jargon-free technology help for anyone frustrated with devices, hold music, and being made to feel foolish for asking. Book online, pay upfront, and I'll come to you — or connect virtually.

📞 Rather call?(314) 840-3444
Calls returned as soon as possible, usually the same day.
💼 25+ Years Working With Technology
🏠 In-Home & Virtual
✅ Pay at Booking
🛡️ Background Checked
💬 Real Local Person
"No question too small. No judgment — just friendly help."
The one thing I hear most after every visit: "I wish I'd called sooner."
Derek Hudson - Founder, Everyday Tech Help STL
Derek
Founder · Everyday Tech Help STL
💼 25+ Years of Professional Technology Experience
📊 Professional IT Project Manager
📍 Born & Raised in St. Louis
🛡️ Fully Background Checked
💬 Patient, Plain-English Technology Instruction
About Me

A real person who genuinely loves helping people with technology.

I'm Derek — a St. Louis native and IT Project Manager with 25+ years of experience in technology. By day I manage complex IT projects. On evenings and weekends I do something I find genuinely rewarding: helping real people in my community get more out of their technology without the frustration, the hold music, or the judgment.

I started Everyday Tech Help STL because I kept seeing friends, neighbors, and family members struggling with the same technology problems — and getting nowhere with big-box store support lines and offshore call centers. I knew I could do better. I could show up, speak plainly, and actually fix things.

No question is too small here. No problem is too embarrassing to ask about. I've been in technology long enough to know that the only difference between someone who "gets it" and someone who doesn't is whether someone took the time to explain it properly.

Because this isn't my primary career, I have the flexibility to keep my prices reasonable — and I wouldn't have it any other way. I do this because I genuinely enjoy helping people feel more comfortable and confident with technology.

Book an Appointment 📞 (314) 840-3444
Sound Familiar?

Tech support shouldn't feel like punishment.

1
Are you tired of never being able to speak to an actual human being?You press 1 for English, 2 for support, 3 for billing — and somehow end up back at the main menu. When you call me, a real person answers or calls back that same evening.
2
Are you tired of being transferred four times and sitting on hold for 30 minutes?You explain your problem in full to one person. "Let me transfer you." You explain it again. And again. With me, you explain it once.
3
Are you tired of dealing with people you can barely understand?You're already confused about the technology. I'm a St. Louis local. Plain English, every time.
4
Are you tired of being made to feel foolish for not knowing something?No question is too small. No judgment here, ever.
5
Are you hearing about AI constantly but have no idea where to actually start?Everyone's talking about ChatGPT like it's obvious. There's genuinely useful stuff it can do for you — and I can show you exactly what that looks like.

There's a better way. Here's what I offer instead.

A real local number. A real person answers or calls back that evening. Plain English, your home or virtual, your problem fixed while I explain what I'm doing, exactly what was quoted — no hold music, no transfers, no attitude, no surprises.

Why Trust Us

You're inviting someone into your home.
You should know exactly who's coming.

Trust isn't just a nice word on a website. Here's what it actually means in practice.

✓ Verified
🛡️

Background Checked

Fully background checked for your peace of mind.

✓ Transparent
💰

Flat-Rate Upfront Pricing

You know exactly what you're paying before I ever knock on your door. No diagnostic fees, no surprise charges, no upsells. Ever.

✓ Honest
🤝

Honest Diagnosis Always

If your issue is old hardware or outside my scope, I'll tell you clearly and explain your options. You'll never be charged for a promise I couldn't keep.

✓ Professional
💼

25+ Years Working With Technology

IT Project Manager by profession. 25+ years working with technology and solving real problems — not someone who learned from YouTube.

✓ Local
📍

Genuinely Local to St. Louis

Not a national chain. I live here, I know these neighborhoods, and my reputation depends on every single appointment.

✓ Private
🔒

Your Privacy Protected

I only access what's needed to help solve your issue. During virtual sessions, you control the screen share and can end it instantly. Nothing is accessed without your knowledge and permission.

The Simple Promise: No Surprises. Ever.

You pay what you booked — nothing more added at the door. If your issue turns out to be something outside my scope, I'll tell you honestly and point you in the right direction. You will never be charged beyond what you agreed to.

✓ Flat-rate pricing
✓ No hidden fees
✓ Honest diagnosis
✓ Free 24hr cancellation
✓ Background checked
Virtual Sessions

Can't wait for a home visit?
Let's connect online.

💻 Sessions from $39 · No travel required

For many tech problems I don't need to be in the room. We can connect online and I'll walk you through the fix in real time — whether that's a screen share, a guided conversation, or simply talking it through step by step. From your couch, right now.

Quick Fix — $39
30 minutes · screen share, guided call, or both
Works well for:
  • One specific question or stuck point
  • Email login or password reset
  • Single app not working
  • Quick settings change or update
  • Connecting a device to WiFi
Book 30 Min — $39
More Time = More Done
Full Session — $65
1 hour · screen share, guided call, or both
Works well for:
  • New phone or device setup
  • Multiple issues in one session
  • iCloud, backup, or account setup
  • Scam incident — securing your accounts
  • Slow computer cleanup & tune-up
Book 1 Hour — $65

Not sure which to pick? Book the Quick Fix — if we need more time I'll let you know upfront before we start.

🖥️
Easy to Connect — Takes 2 Minutes
If you can open an email link or answer a phone call, you can do a virtual session — I'll walk you through every step.
Often Same-Day Available
No travel time means more flexibility. Need help tonight? There's a good chance I can connect tonight.
🌎
Help Anyone, Anywhere
Outside St. Louis? No problem. Adult children who want to help parents remotely — this is perfect for you.
🔒
You Stay in Control
If we use screen share, you control it and can end it instantly. Prefer to just talk it through? That works too — whatever makes you most comfortable.
Who I Help

Tech confusion doesn't
discriminate. Neither do I.

Whether you're 75 or 35 — if technology is frustrating you, that's exactly what I'm here for.

👴👵

Seniors

New iPhone still in the box? Can't get streaming working? Worried about scammers? We go at your pace — no rushing, no eye-rolling, no jargon. No question is too basic.

👨‍👩‍👧

Adult Children

Tired of being your parents' IT department? Book an appointment for them — in-home or virtual — and I'll handle the Sunday evening printer calls so you can enjoy your weekend.

🙋

Anyone, Really

New device, slow computer, WiFi headaches — if it's frustrating you and Google hasn't helped, there's a very good chance I can help. No problem is too small or too embarrassing to ask about.

Now Available · AI Basics for Everyday Life

🤖 AI Basics for Everyday Life — Curious but not sure where to start?

Everyone's talking about ChatGPT — but are you still just using it for trivia questions? There's so much more it can do in everyday life. I'll show you the practical stuff that actually makes a difference.

Learn AI the Right Way →
Services

What I fix — and what
I honestly don't.

Everyday tech problems. No enterprise IT, no server rooms, nothing that requires a ladder.

📱

iPhone, iPad & Android Phones & Tablets

Setup, updates, backups, FaceTime, iCloud, email, apps, photos. New phone or tablet in the box? That's what I'm here for.

💻

Windows & Mac Computers

Slow machine, pop-ups, lost files, forgotten passwords, suspicious software.

📺

Streaming & Smart TV

Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Peacock, Apple TV, Roku, Fire Stick — set up and actually working.

📧

Email & Passwords

Locked out? Suspicious messages? Can't remember your login? All covered.

🔐

Scam Awareness & Protection

I'll show you exactly what to look for and how to stay safe — included with every visit.

📡

Home WiFi & Routers

Slow internet, devices won't connect, new router setup. Home networks only.

🖨️

Printers

The single most universally hated piece of consumer technology. I've fixed hundreds of them.

🤖

AI Basics for Everyday Life New

Learn how to use ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI tools for real everyday tasks — beyond just answering trivia questions.

What I Don't Do

Being upfront about this builds trust — when I say I can fix something, you can believe me.

Business / Enterprise NetworksServers, corporate infrastructure, VPNs, Active Directory.
Physical Hardware RepairCracked screens, broken ports. I fix software — not physical damage.
Custom Software DevelopmentBuilding apps, websites, or databases from scratch.
Anything That Requires a LadderTV mounting, running cables through walls.
Data Recovery from Dead DrivesSpecialized lab equipment required. I'll refer you to the right place.
Not sure if your issue is on this list? Call me — (314) 840-3444. I'll tell you straight whether I can help.
Presentations & Workshops

A catalog of technology workshops
for your community.

Browse 15 technology workshops covering artificial intelligence, smartphones, computers, online safety, streaming, and smart home technology — patient, judgment-free education for adults & seniors across St. Louis. Delivered on-site or virtually.

↓ Download Workshop Catalog (PDF) Request a Workshop
🤖Artificial Intelligence

AI Basics for Everyday Life

A friendly, jargon-free introduction to ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and the other AI assistants making headlines — what AI actually is, how they compare, and how to have a natural conversation with one, with live demos.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners
View details & book →
🤖Artificial Intelligence

Everyday AI: Real Help for Real Life

Go beyond the basics with practical, everyday ways AI can make tasks easier — meal planning, home projects, brainstorming, planning activities and more. Leave with useful prompts to try right away.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners
View details & book →
🤖Artificial Intelligence

AI Myths vs. Reality

AI is surrounded by big claims and misconceptions. We separate fact from fiction — what AI really knows, where it gets things wrong, the genuine risks, and what it can and can't actually do.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners & curious learners
View details & book →
🤖Artificial Intelligence

Travel Smarter with AI

Discover how AI can be your personal travel-planning assistant — choosing destinations, researching flights and hotels, building day-by-day itineraries, and organizing your next trip, with live demonstrations.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners & travelers
View details & book →
📱Smartphones & Apps

Smartphone Basics: Understanding Your Smartphone

A friendly, jargon-free walkthrough of the iPhone and Android features that matter most — home screen, settings, texting, calling, video chatting, photos, battery and storage.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners
View details & book →
📱Smartphones & Apps

Hidden Gems: The Best Apps You've Never Heard Of

A fun, fast-paced tour of useful apps that solve everyday problems in surprising ways — from saving money and making travel easier to identifying a bird by its song. Leave with a ready-to-use list of new apps to explore.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
📱Smartphones & Apps

How Does My Phone Know That?

A curiosity-driven session answering the technology questions you may have always wondered about — how Google Maps knows about traffic, how Face ID recognizes you, how AirTags locate lost items, and more — all explained with simple, everyday analogies.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
💻Computers

Buying a New Computer Without the Sales Pitch

A no-pressure guide to choosing the computer that actually fits your needs — RAM, storage and processors in plain English, Mac vs. Windows, laptop vs. desktop, realistic budgets, and avoiding features you don't need.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
💻Computers

Spring Cleaning Your Computer

Simple, mostly free ways to help an aging computer run faster, stay organized and remain secure — updates, decluttering, startup programs, antivirus basics and backups, plus a take-home monthly maintenance checklist.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
💻Computers

Windows vs. Mac: Understanding Your Computer

An orientation, not a debate — feel comfortable using either system through side-by-side comparisons of Windows and macOS: the desktop, taskbar vs. Dock, file organization, shortcuts and the everyday differences that matter.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
💻Computers

Understanding the Cloud

A clear, jargon-free explanation of what the cloud actually is, where your files and photos are stored, and how backup, syncing and sharing work across your devices.

⏱ 30–45 minBeginners
View details & book →
🛡Online Safety

Online Safety: Understanding & Avoiding Scams

A practical guide to recognizing and avoiding today's most common scams — phishing emails, fraudulent calls and texts, impersonation scams, AI voice cloning and gift-card fraud — with simple habits to protect your money, accounts and personal information.

⏱ 30–45 minGreat for seniors
View details & book →
📺Streaming & Entertainment

Streaming Made Simple

Cut through the confusion of Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and other streaming services — what each offers, live TV vs. on-demand, streaming devices, and practical ways to get the entertainment you want without overpaying.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
📺Streaming & Entertainment

Smart TV Basics: Buying the Right TV Without the Guesswork

A plain-language guide to buying the right TV — 4K, OLED, QLED, HDR and refresh rates, plus guidance on screen size, budget and which features are worth paying for.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
🏠Smart Home

Smart Home Devices Made Simple

A practical introduction to smart speakers, plugs, lights, doorbells, thermostats, locks and cameras — how they work together, what they can do for you, and how to get started without making things complicated.

⏱ 30–45 minAll skill levels
View details & book →
Who I Present For

Trusted by organizations
across the St. Louis area.

🏡Senior Living Communities
📚Libraries
Churches
🏢Community Centers
🏘HOAs
🏛Civic Organizations
💼Businesses

Looking for engaging, well-attended programming for your group? I bring the presentation to you — let’s find a topic your members will love.

Request a Workshop📞 (314) 840-3444
How to Book a Workshop

Three simple steps.

1

Reach out

Call or email to share your organization, audience size, and preferred dates.

2

Pick a topic

Choose any workshop from the catalog above — or ask for a recommendation based on your group’s interests.

3

We handle the rest

Derek brings his own laptop and materials. You only need a TV, projector, or screen when available — just let us know in advance if one isn’t.

Simple Pricing

You pay when you book.
No surprises. Ever.

Upfront payment confirms your appointment and means there's no awkward money moment when I arrive. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

📋 You'll be asked to briefly describe your issue at booking Just tell me what's frustrating you in plain English — "my iPhone won't connect to WiFi" is perfect. This helps me come fully prepared.
Virtual
Virtual Quick Fix
$39
30-min online session
Fastest way to get help. Connect online from wherever you are — often same-day.
🔒 Paid at booking
  • Screen share or guided call
  • Often same-day
  • Works anywhere in the US
  • Free cancellation 24hrs
Book Virtual
Virtual
Virtual Full Session
$65
1-hour online session
Need more than 30 minutes? A full hour of focused virtual help — perfect for setup, walkthroughs, or anything complex.
🔒 Paid at booking
  • Screen share or guided call
  • Often same-day
  • Works anywhere in the US
  • Great for new device setup
  • Free cancellation 24hrs
Book Virtual Hour
Most Popular
Standard Visit
$75
1-hour in-home visit
Right for multiple issues, new device setup, or anything you've been putting off.
🔒 Paid at booking
  • In-home appointment
  • Multiple issues covered
  • Plain-English recap
  • Scam protection included
  • 48-hr follow-up call
Book Standard Visit
The Process

Five steps. Zero hassle.

Works the same whether you choose in-home or virtual.

1

Book & Describe

Pick your session — virtual or in-home — choose a time, pay securely,
and describe your issue in plain English.

2

I Confirm

I review every booking personally and may reach out to clarify before confirming.

3

I Come to You

In-home across greater St. Louis, or a one-click virtual link sent to your phone.

4

We Fix It

I explain everything as we go. You'll understand what happened — not just that it got fixed.

5

You Get a Recap

Plain-English written summary plus a cheat sheet for anything you might want to remember.

Sound Familiar?

Why People Choose Me

If any of these sounds like you — you're in exactly the right place.

📱

"I bought a new iPhone and don't know where to start."

🖨️

"My printer stopped working — again."

⚠️

"I got a suspicious email and I'm not sure if it's a scam."

📶

"My Wi-Fi works in one room but not another."

🤖

"Everyone keeps talking about AI and I have no idea what it even is."

💻

"My computer is so slow it's driving me crazy."

🔑

"I can't remember any of my passwords and keep getting locked out."

📦

"My phone keeps saying storage is full and I don't know what to do."

👨‍👩‍👧

"I want to video call my grandkids but I don't know how to set it up."

🚨

"I got a pop-up saying my computer has a virus — is it real?"

🔓

"I think someone may have gotten into my account — what do I do?"

📺

"I just got a new Smart TV and can't figure out how to set up Netflix."

What to Expect

Every appointment, every time.

I'll arrive on time and introduce myself. I'll listen to what's been frustrating you before touching anything.
I'll explain what I'm doing as I go — in plain English, not tech speak.
Before I leave I'll give you a simple written recap of what was done and anything you should know going forward.

✓ Always on time
✓ Listen first, fix second
✓ Plain English always
✓ Written recap before I leave
✓ No judgment. Ever.

Real reviews coming soon — this business is just getting started and I'd rather earn them than make them up.

Questions

Things people usually ask.

How do virtual sessions work?
I'll send a one-click link by text or email. You click, share your screen, and I can see exactly what you're seeing. If you can open an email, you can do a virtual session — I promise.
Why do you confirm bookings manually?
I review every booking personally. If I need clarification or want to ensure the session is the right fit, I'll reach out first. Most bookings are confirmed within a few hours.
When are you available?
Evenings after 6pm Monday–Friday, and Saturday mornings from 9am–1pm. I'm an IT Project Manager during the day — real professional expertise, not hobby-level knowledge. Sunday is family time.
What if you can't fix my problem?
I'll always be upfront. If your issue is failing hardware or outside my scope, I'll tell you clearly and explain your options. You pay for the session as booked but never beyond what you agreed to.
How far in advance do I need to book?
In-home visits require at least 24 hours notice. Virtual sessions can sometimes be available with shorter notice — check the booking calendar for availability.
Can I book for someone else as a gift?
Yes — one of the most popular things people do. Purchase online and the recipient picks their own time. Virtual sessions especially make great gifts for parents who live outside St. Louis.

Serving Greater St. Louis

In-home visits across St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and Jefferson County.
Virtual sessions available anywhere in the United States.

📍 St. Louis City & County
ArnoldBallwinBrentwoodChesterfieldClaytonCreve CoeurDes PeresEllisvilleEurekaFentonFlorissantFrontenacKirkwoodLadueManchesterMaplewoodMaryland HeightsOakvilleRichmond HeightsSt. Louis CitySunset HillsTown & CountryValley ParkWebster GrovesWildwood
📍 Jefferson County
ArnoldBarnhartCedar HillCrystal CityDe SotoFestusHerculaneumHigh RidgeHillsboroImperial

Not sure if I cover your area? Call — (314) 840-3444

💻 Virtual sessions available nationwide — no travel required
Client Reviews

What Clients Are Saying

Verified 5-star reviews from our Google Business Profile.

★★★★★

"Derek recently started Everyday Tech Help STL, and I was happy to be one of his first clients. I booked a virtual session because I needed help with my computer, and the whole process was so easy. The online booking process was simple, and I got a confirmation with all of the details right away. Derek was incredibly patient and never once made me feel silly for asking questions. He explained everything in a way that made sense. It's a relief to have someone I can call who doesn't rush me or talk down to me."

Sharon Hudson
★★★★★ · Verified Google Review
★★★★★

"A friend told me about Derek of Everyday Tech Help STL and Derek was extremely helpful and patient. He spent a lot of time with me and was instrumental in getting my old printer synced with my new laptop and working wireless again. I was clueless how to do it and he came through. He answered all my questions (even the stupid ones!). People who struggle to understand computers (me) greatly appreciate professionals like Derek. It's nice to know there are oases like ETH STL for people who lack the computer gene in their brains. I recommend Derek to anyone who needs help with their computer issues!"

Scott Miller
★★★★★ · Verified Google Review
⭐ See All Google Reviews →
Get In Touch

Send a Message

Not ready to book yet? Have a question first? Send me a message and I'll get back to you within a few hours.

🔒 Your info is never shared. I'll reply personally within a few hours.

Ready to stop dreading your devices?

"No question too small. No judgment — just friendly help."

Tech support · Virtual sessions · AI presentations for individuals & groups

🏠 Book In-Home Visit 💻 Book Virtual Session 📞 (314) 840-3444 ✉️ derek@everydaytechhelpstl.com