brainSTEM20 Nov 2025

E26 – Neurodiversity, ADHD, and the Future of the Brain

In this episode of BrainSTEM, Dr. Hilary Marusak sits down with neuroscientist, innovator, and thought leader Dr. Prantik Kundu to explore the evolving science and personal realities of neurodiversity.

What does it really mean to have a “neurodivergent” brain? How do conditions like ADHD—often framed as deficits—also hold hidden strengths? And as society shifts toward AI-driven productivity, why might neurodiverse minds become more valuable than ever?

Dr. Kundu shares how ADHD has shaped his life and work, reframing traits like impulsivity, alternative thinking, and intense curiosity as powerful cognitive strengths. Drawing an analogy to the history of left-handedness—once stigmatized, now simply a natural variation—he argues that we may be at a similar turning point in how society views ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity.

Together, we unpack the science, the stigma, and the extraordinary potential of diverse minds in a rapidly changing world.

With neurodiversity gaining global attention, this episode offers a fresh and hopeful perspective on why different brains matter—and how embracing them could shape the future.

🔗 Topics Covered

What neurodiversity really means

ADHD as a strength—not just a disorder

Emotional intensity and rejection-sensitive dysphoria

Creativity, innovation, and impulsivity

How AI may reshape how society values neurodiverse minds

Misconceptions about ADHD

The future of neurodiversity in science, culture, and policy

🌿 Tune in for a compelling conversation that blends cutting-edge neuroscience with lived experience — and rethinks how we define “normal.”

🔗 Learn more about Dr. Kundu’s company, EyeThree: https://eyethree.ai/

📢 Follow us on Instagram @brainstempodcast to submit your questions for future episodes.

🎧 Available now on Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts!

❤️‍🩹 Help is available 24 hours/day at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.

🧠 BrainSTEM is hosted by neuroscientist Dr. Hilary Marusak. Production by Amanpreet Bhogal, Manmeet Bhogal, and Gabby Maramag. This podcast is made possible by the generous support of the Society for Neuroscience and the Michigan Society for Neuroscience.

🎙️ Subscribe, share, and follow us! Visit our website: www.brainSTEMpodcast.com.
Our video podcasts are also posted on YouTube.

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