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.
"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.
Book and pay securely — confirmed instantly.
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.
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.
Trust isn't just a nice word on a website. Here's what it actually means in practice.
Fully background checked for your peace of mind.
You know exactly what you're paying before I ever knock on your door. No diagnostic fees, no surprise charges, no upsells. Ever.
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.
IT Project Manager by profession. 25+ years working with technology and solving real problems — not someone who learned from YouTube.
Not a national chain. I live here, I know these neighborhoods, and my reputation depends on every single appointment.
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.
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.
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.
Not sure which to pick? Book the Quick Fix — if we need more time I'll let you know upfront before we start.
Whether you're 75 or 35 — if technology is frustrating you, that's exactly what I'm here for.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Everyday tech problems. No enterprise IT, no server rooms, nothing that requires a ladder.
Setup, updates, backups, FaceTime, iCloud, email, apps, photos. New phone or tablet in the box? That's what I'm here for.
Slow machine, pop-ups, lost files, forgotten passwords, suspicious software.
Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Peacock, Apple TV, Roku, Fire Stick — set up and actually working.
Locked out? Suspicious messages? Can't remember your login? All covered.
I'll show you exactly what to look for and how to stay safe — included with every visit.
Slow internet, devices won't connect, new router setup. Home networks only.
The single most universally hated piece of consumer technology. I've fixed hundreds of them.
Learn how to use ChatGPT, Claude, and other AI tools for real everyday tasks — beyond just answering trivia questions.
Being upfront about this builds trust — when I say I can fix something, you can believe me.
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.
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.
A hands-on follow-up focused on practical daily uses — meal planning, exercise routines, home projects, understanding a confusing medical report, and finding the right gift. Leave with prompts to try that same day.
A myth-busting session tackling the most common misconceptions about AI — Does it know everything? Is it always right? Is it dangerous? — each paired with a clear, honest reality check.
Use AI as a free, 24/7 travel assistant — from choosing a destination and comparing flights and hotels to building a full day-by-day itinerary, with live trip-planning demonstrations.
A friendly walkthrough of the iPhone & Android features that matter most — home-screen navigation, essential settings, texting, calling, video chat, and taking, organizing and backing up photos.
A fun, fast-paced tour of a dozen free apps that solve everyday problems in surprising ways — from finding the cheapest nearby gas to identifying a bird by its song. Leave with a ready-to-use list.
A curiosity-driven session answering the questions people have always wondered about — how Google Maps knows traffic, how Face ID recognizes you, how an AirTag finds lost luggage — explained with simple analogies.
A no-pressure guide to buying exactly the computer you need — plain-language RAM, storage and processor speed, Mac vs. Windows, laptop vs. desktop, and realistic budgeting.
Simple, mostly free ways to make an aging computer faster and safer — updates, decluttering, startup programs, antivirus basics and backups, plus a take-home monthly maintenance checklist.
An orientation, not a debate — helping you comfortably navigate either system, with side-by-side comparisons of the desktop, taskbar vs. dock, file organization and honest guidance on fit.
A clear, jargon-free explanation of what “the cloud” actually is, where your files really live, and how everyday services like photo backup and file sharing work.
A practical guide to recognizing and avoiding today's most common scams — phishing emails, phone and text scams, AI voice cloning and gift-card fraud — with simple, memorable habits that offer lasting protection.
Cut through the confusion of Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and the rest — what each service offers, live TV vs. on-demand, comparing streaming devices, and money-saving strategies most people miss.
Demystifies the terms on the box — 4K, 8K, OLED, QLED, refresh rate and HDR — plus honest guidance on sizing, budget and how to avoid common sales-floor upsells.
An approachable introduction to smart speakers, plugs, lights, doorbells, thermostats, locks and cameras — with a live voice-assistant demo and a focus on helping older adults live independently.
No workshops in this category yet — check back soon!
Looking for engaging, well-attended programming for your group? I bring the presentation to you — let’s find a topic your members will love.
Call or email to share your organization, audience size, and preferred dates.
Choose any workshop from the catalog above — or ask for a recommendation based on your group’s interests.
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.
Upfront payment confirms your appointment and means there's no awkward money moment when I arrive. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Works the same whether you choose in-home or virtual.
Pick your session — virtual or in-home — choose a time, pay securely,
and describe your issue in plain English.
I review every booking personally and may reach out to clarify before confirming.
In-home across greater St. Louis, or a one-click virtual link sent to your phone.
I explain everything as we go. You'll understand what happened — not just that it got fixed.
Plain-English written summary plus a cheat sheet for anything you might want to remember.
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."
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.
Real reviews coming soon — this business is just getting started and I'd rather earn them than make them up.
In-home visits across St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and Jefferson County.
Virtual sessions available anywhere in the United States.
Not sure if I cover your area? Call — (314) 840-3444
Real reviews from real St. Louis neighbors.
"Derek was patient, kind, and explained everything in plain English. He set up my new laptop and showed me how to use it without making me feel silly. I'll definitely call him again!"
"I was getting scam calls and had no idea what to do. Derek came out, secured my phone, and walked me through exactly what to watch out for. Very professional and thorough."
"Fixed my printer issue in under 20 minutes — something I'd been struggling with for weeks. Showed up on time, was friendly, and charged exactly what he quoted. Highly recommend!"
Not ready to book yet? Have a question first? Send me a message and I'll get back to you within a few hours.
Tech support · Virtual sessions · AI presentations for individuals & groups