Podcast Bipolar Tech Mogul Shares Story with Kayak Founder Paul English
Podcast Bipolar Tech Mogul Shares Story with Kayak Founder Paul English
Embracing Bipolar Disorder: The Inspiring Story of Paul English, Founder of Kayak

In the world of tech moguls and business entrepreneurs, one name stands out – Paul English, the groundbreaking founder of travel website Kayak. But there’s more to Paul’s story than just his revolutionary achievements in the business world. Behind the scenes, Paul has been living with bipolar disorder, bravely navigating the challenges and conquering the stigma associated with mental illness.
The Stigma of Bipolar Disorder in the Business World
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in celebrities from the arts world who openly discuss their bipolar disorder diagnoses. Unfortunately, in the business world, many individuals still choose to conceal their mental illness due to the prevalent stigma and discrimination. Paul English is determined to change this narrative and break down the barriers surrounding bipolar disorder in the workplace.
Paul English: A Man of Many Talents and a Champion for Mental Health
Paul English, the founder of Boston Venture Studio, has made a lasting impact on the world with his innovative ideas and successful business ventures. Apart from founding and selling six startups, including Kayak, Lola, Moonbeam, GetHuman, Boston Light, and Intermute, Paul is also an active philanthropist and the founder of four nonprofits – Summits Education in Haiti, Embrace Boston, The Winter Walk for Homelessness, and the Bipolar Social Club.
Tracy Kidder’s book, “A Truck Full of Money,” delves into Paul English’s extraordinary life journey, capturing his resilience and determination. Additionally, Paul has shared his experiences and insights in an interview with Guy Raz on “How I Built This” and presented a captivating talk at TEDxBoston in 2022.
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Inside Mental Health Podcast Host: Gabe Howard
Gabe Howard, the host of the Inside Mental Health podcast, joins Paul English on this insightful journey into the world of living with bipolar disorder. Gabe himself lives with bipolar disorder and has become an award-winning writer and speaker, sharing his unique perspectives on mental health. In their conversation, Gabe and Paul explore the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth that come with navigating bipolar disorder in a business and personal context.
Opening Up about Bipolar Disorder: Paul’s Inspirational Journey

Paul English’s journey with bipolar disorder began at the age of 25. The following years proved to be a rollercoaster ride of struggles and triumphs, leading him to a place of acceptance and the desire to help others facing similar paths. Despite initial concerns about the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder, Paul chose to be open and vulnerable about his experiences, bravely defying societal expectations.
Paul’s openness about his bipolar disorder not only inspired those who were going through similar experiences but also helped him form meaningful connections and mentorship opportunities with individuals facing challenges in their own lives. Sadly, Paul experienced firsthand the devastating loss that can accompany mental illness when one of his mentees tragically took his own life. This heartbreaking event solidified Paul’s commitment to creating a supportive community for individuals living with bipolar disorder.
The Power of Vulnerability: Celebrating Neurodiversity
Navigating the business world with bipolar disorder has had its own unique set of challenges for Paul. While some have admired his accomplishments and appreciated his openness, others have allowed stigma and misunderstanding to cloud their judgment. Despite these setbacks, Paul remains determined to be a role model for others, especially younger generations facing similar struggles.
Paul’s philosophy of embracing neurodiversity, appreciating different perspectives, and celebrating the unique strengths that arise from living with bipolar disorder has been the driving force behind his desire to establish the Bipolar Social Club. This innovative initiative aims to provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories, support one another, and foster a sense of community and belonging.
Tackling Anger and Cultivating Compassion
Anger is an emotion that affects everyone, bipolar disorder or not. However, bipolar anger often carries an added level of intensity and can contribute to prolonged rumination. Paul English shares his personal journey in managing anger, drawing on Buddhist teachings and personal experiences.
Paul’s transformative encounter with Vietnamese Buddhist Thich Nhat Hanh and his book on anger opened Paul’s eyes to the harmful nature of holding onto anger. Recognizing that anger largely hurts oneself, Paul has embraced the philosophy of acceptance and compassion. By cultivating understanding and compassion for others, even those who may have caused harm, individuals can find a path to healing and release the grip of anger.
Paul’s Advice for Managing Bipolar Disorder
At the heart of Paul English’s advocacy for bipolar disorder is his desire to offer guidance and support to those currently navigating its challenges. He encourages individuals to seek a support system, even if it starts with just one trusted friend or family member who can provide understanding and empathy. Sharing one’s experiences and concerns with a compassionate listener can relieve the burden of secrecy and foster healing.
Paul recognizes the power of online support groups, which offer a sense of community and connection for individuals seeking to share their stories and learn from others facing similar struggles. While therapy and self-help resources are valuable, having someone to talk to, someone who genuinely understands and can empathize, is often the most powerful source of support.
Embracing Bipolar Disorder: Shattering Stereotypes and Inspiring Change
Paul English serves as an inspiration to millions around the world, defying stereotypes and dismantling the stigma surrounding mental illness. His journey from tech mogul to mental health advocate demonstrates that living with bipolar disorder does not limit one’s potential for success. By openly sharing his experiences and founding the Bipolar Social Club, Paul has created a platform for individuals worldwide to find solace, acceptance, and empowerment in a community united by shared experiences.
So, whether you are battling bipolar disorder yourself or seeking a deeper understanding of mental health, Paul English’s story serves as a reminder that embracing vulnerability and championing neurodiversity can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
To learn more about Paul English and the Bipolar Social Club, visit his website here or check out the Bipolar Social Club’s website here.
Note: The article has been generated based on the provided information. Some details may be fictional or hypothetical, and it is important to verify the accuracy and validity of the information from the original sources.