180 From Letterboards to Augmented Reality: Building Tech That Respects Neurodivergence with Prof Diwakar Krishnamurthy

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Diwakar Krishnamurthy—engineer, AI researcher, and parent of a non-speaking autistic teen—about what it takes to build truly accessible communication tools. We discuss:

• Why most autism tech fails non-speakers
• How apraxia—not cognitive delay—affects communication
• What happens when you design technology with non-speaking autistic users
• How augmented reality tools can support motor planning, regulation, and independence
• What it means to integrate AI without removing human connection

We also talk about the real cost of gatekeeping, the burden placed on parents, and why presuming competence isn't idealism—it's the foundation for meaningful progress. Links + Resources:

• Learn more and explore the research: etherealresearch.ca
• Follow me on Instagram: @drvaishsarathy
• Get the free Non Linear Learning Ebook www.drvaishsarathy.com/nonlinearlearning