Recode Decode: Kayak co-founder Paul English

Mental Health

Paul English's journey with bipolar disorder significantly shaped his life and career. Tracy Kidder highlights how Paul managed to overcome the debilitating lows of depression with the help of medication, although the highs of hypomania remained a challenge 1. This duality influenced his entrepreneurial spirit, driving him to take risks and pursue ambitious projects. Kidder reflects on the romanticization of mental illness in creative fields, cautioning against viewing it as a necessary ingredient for success 2.

   

Overcoming Challenges

Paul's ability to manage his mental health challenges is evident in his entrepreneurial endeavors. Despite his obsession with details, such as the design of his new company's office, he successfully raised $20 million without a solid business plan 3. His calm demeanor in stressful situations, like Boston traffic, showcases his control over his temper, a stark contrast to his past 3. Tracy Kidder notes that while technology advances rapidly, it cannot replace the human touch, as seen in Paul's ventures like Lola, which aimed to revive the personal touch of travel agents 4.