Tech Titan’s Triumph: Kayak Co-Founder Paul English Navigates Bipolar Disorder in Silicon Valley

Kayak Co-Founder Paul English Opens Up About Bipolar Disorder and Leadership

Paul English, co-founder of the popular travel search engine Kayak, recently shared insights into his journey with bipolar disorder and its impact on his leadership style. In a candid discussion, English emphasized the importance of vulnerability in leadership and how it shaped the culture at Kayak.

English’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2003 when he met Steve Hafner to discuss launching a travel company. Their partnership, with English as CTO, led to the creation of Kayak, which was later acquired for $2.1 billion in 2013 after a successful decade-long run.

Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 25, English initially kept his condition private. However, he gradually became more open about his experiences with manic and depressive episodes. This transparency, he believes, fostered an open and supportive team culture at Kayak.

“Building a great team was always my top priority,” English stated. He focused on hiring fast, smart individuals with strong team skills and created a supportive work environment. English even took customer support calls personally during Kayak’s first year, involving engineers in customer service to drive problem-solving motivation.

English’s approach to managing his bipolar disorder at work involved open communication with his team. He acknowledged that while the condition influenced his work behavior, it also brought benefits, particularly during hypomanic phases, which he credits for driving innovation and energy.

Reflecting on leadership, English emphasized the importance of balancing confidence with vulnerability. “Creating an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing personal challenges is crucial,” he noted.

Since leaving Kayak after its acquisition by Priceline in 2013, English has continued to engage with mental health communities. In 2023, he founded the Bipolar Social Club, further demonstrating his commitment to mental health awareness and support.

English’s story highlights the intersection of mental health and leadership in the tech industry, offering valuable insights into building successful companies while managing personal challenges.