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Prioritizing Cognitive Differences & Building Better Systems with Mina Raver

How do we build a better world by building software that adapts to us instead of the other way around? Founder and CEO of BetterCEO Mina Raver shares how her journey from a 10-year-old entrepreneur selling origami to a tech founder is rooted in challenging conventions and embracing innovation. Tune in to learn how cognitive differences and tinkering drive her work and leadership to  break down societal hierarchies and outdated systems

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Kt McBratney sits down with Mina Raver, founder of BetterCEO, to explore the intersection of accessibility, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Mina shares her unique perspective on how societal systems have historically limited accessibility and what needs to change for more inclusive environments. She also delves into her personal experiences of being a lifelong tinkerer, her journey as a solo founder, and the importance of play in her life. From discussing her neurodivergence and how it shapes her decision-making to revealing the challenges of being a tech founder limited by capital, Mina provides a thought-provoking and inspiring look at her work, leadership, and vision for a more accessible world.

Key Takeaways:
• Accessibility and Social Hierarchies: Mina explains how systemic societal structures have historically limited accessibility, from people with disabilities to mothers with strollers, reinforcing outdated hierarchies that don’t serve the majority.
• Cognitive Differences and Innovation: The conversation touches on the importance of understanding cognitive diversity and how rigid labels can stifle innovation. Mina emphasizes the need to build systems with everyone in mind.
• The Role of Play in Creativity: Mina shares how play with her family, whether through video games or imaginative activities with her children, helps keep her mentally fit and fuels her creativity.
• Entrepreneurial Challenges: One of Mina’s biggest challenges as a tech founder is navigating capital limitations, which often slow down progress. She also reflects on the transformative experience of building a team and seeing their collective contributions create something greater than she could have envisioned.
•  Navigating Advice as a Founder: Mina discusses how her synesthesia helps her visualize and categorize advice, allowing her to determine what resonates and what to reserve for later consideration. Trusting her gut is essential in her decision-making process.

Themes:
• Accessibility & Inclusion: The conversation underscores the importance of building systems that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility for all.
• Cognitive Diversity: Highlighting the value of cognitive differences, Mina encourages a broader understanding of how people think and process information.
• Entrepreneurial Grit: Mina’s journey from a 10-year-old entrepreneur to a tech founder reveals her deep passion for problem-solving and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• The Power of Play: Play is a key element in both Mina’s personal and professional life, offering mental stimulation and creative energy.
• Building with Purpose: Throughout her career, Mina has focused on creating with purpose—whether it's her early ventures or founding BetterCEO, everything she does aims to make a meaningful impact.

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