Diverse voices—scientists, parents, educators, students, freelancers, and corporate professionals.

The Nerd Mindset

Your Voice. Our Curiosity. A Global Movement.

About the Book

The Nerd Mindset is not just a book—it’s a revolution. Written by nuclear engineer, educator, and lifelong curious mind Ira Strong, this book explores how curiosity, grit, and intellectual passion fuel success in every corner of life.

Inspired by Ira’s grandfather—who was illiterate but had a deep love of books—the project blends memoir, science, storytelling, and global voices. From boardrooms to classrooms, from kitchen tables to research labs, nerds are everywhere.

Join the Movement

Since April 2025, we’ve been collecting real voices from real people. We’re calling on curious thinkers, late-night learners, passionate parents, and professional overthinkers to shape this book with us.

Take the Survey

Want to be part of the data that defines nerdiness?

→ Take the Survey (5 minutes )

Schedule an Interview

Be featured in the book. Share your story of curiosity.

→ Book an Interview on Google Meet

Submit a Reflection

Write, upload, or record your nerd journey. What shaped you?

→ Submit Your Reflection

The Nerd Mindset Survey

Your voice matters. Your curiosity counts.

Are you the kind of person who asks why… and then actually looks for the answer?

You might be a Nerd—and we mean that in the best, most world-changing way.

This public survey is part of the upcoming book The Nerd Mindset, a global project exploring how curiosity, intelligence, and culture shape who we are and how we thrive.

We launched the survey in April 2025 and

will be collecting responses until December 2025.

Whether you're a scientist, artist, parent, student, or lifelong learner, your perspective helps shape the book and challenge old ideas about intelligence.

All survey participants will be acknowledged in the book credits. Some may even be featured (with permission).

This is your invitation to join a global movement—

and help redefine what it means to be a Nerd.

Take 5 minutes and tell us your story.

The Nerd Mindset Reflection

Not everyone wants to speak on camera—and that’s okay.

If you're shy, pressed for time, or simply prefer to share your story in writing (or audio!), this is your space. The Nerd Reflection is a thoughtful alternative to the live interview.

You can write as much or as little as you like.

Your voice still matters. Your story can inspire others.

And yes—reflections will be reviewed for inclusion in the book The Nerd Mindset and acknowledged in the credits.

Nerd Reflection

First name

Last name

Phone

Birthdate

Month

Day

Year

Profession or Working Industry

1. When you were a child, what types of questions fascinated you the most? (Follow-up: Were your questions encouraged by adults around you?)

2. Was there a moment when you realized your curiosity or intelligence set you apart? (How did that make you feel?)

3. Can you describe a time when curiosity led you to an unexpected discovery or breakthrough?

4. Growing up, how was “being smart” viewed in your community or culture? (Was it celebrated, mocked, hidden?)

5. Have you ever been called a “nerd” or “too smart”? How did you respond to that label?

6. What strategies have you developed to stay curious—even under stress, failure, or burnout?

7. What does deep learning mean to you, and how do you practice it in your field?

8. Do you believe there’s a connection between curiosity and happiness? Why or why not? (Any examples from your life?)

9. How can schools, families, and workplaces better support curiosity and deep thinking? (What changes would you like to see in society’s view of intelligence?)

10. If you could speak directly to a young person who feels “too different” for being curious or smart, what would you say to them?

I consent to my reflection being used in the book and related materials. My name will only be shared with my written permission.

Link to LinkedIn (If available)

Who We've Heard From So Far

Since launching in April 2025, we've gathered

50+

10+

12+

Survey responses from across the U.S. and Latin America

In-depth interviews with professors, CFOs, engineers, scientists, and creatives

States and 4+ countries. Ages ranging from 12 to 72 years old.

Legal & Consent Notice

By submitting a survey, interview, or reflection, you agree to allow Atom-Collab and its affiliates to store, analyze, and potentially publish your insights (anonymously or with attribution, depending on your preference). All data is used solely for The Nerd Mindset project and will not be sold or shared externally.

If you participate in an interview or send a recording, you grant permission for Atom-Collab to quote, paraphrase, or summarize your input in the published book and affiliated media, with or without your name—based on your stated consent at the time of submission.

To request changes or opt-out at any time before final publication, email us at hello@atom-collab.com.