EP101: Bipolar Disorder Can be a Superpower? Entrepreneurship and Mental Health with Andrew DeGood

Hey friends! I'm back with another impactful conversation - this time with Andrew DeGood. In this moving episode, Andrew courageously shares his decades-long journey living with undiagnosed, and later diagnosed, bipolar disorder. We dive into the unique mental health challenges facing entrepreneurs, his eventual bipolar diagnosis, and the importance of lifestyle protocols alongside medication. Andrew talks openly about keeping his disorder hidden for 11 years and the turmoil that caused. But there's so much learning here! We chat about finding the right medications, sticking to healthy routines, why sleep and diet matter, and more. Ultimately, Andrew's story is one of resilience and self-advocacy. He's an advocate for creating space for these conversations, especially among men. And he offers tangible tips for entrepreneurs managing mental health conditions. I found so much of our talk inspiring and think you will too. Let me know what resonates or any key takeaways! Wishing you brighter days ahead.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Understand how mental health affects entrepreneurship success.

Navigate the impact of bipolar disorder type two.

Advocate for mental health to enhance entrepreneurial well-being.

Recognize the emotional toll of leading a company.

Explore the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurship for improved well-being.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction and Overview of the Conversation

00:00:58 - The Impact of Bipolar Disorder on Work and Entrepreneurship

00:01:37 - Entrepreneurship and Mental Health Challenges

00:02:40 - Andrew's Current Projects

00:03:39 - Conclusion and Impact of the Conversation

00:18:30 - Facing Mental Health Challenges in the Workplace

00:22:02 - The Impact of Correct Diagnosis and Medication

00:29:38 - Entrepreneurship During the Pandemic

00:32:11 - Importance of Co-Founders in Entrepreneurship

00:35:25 - The Role of Luck in Success

00:35:55 - Rocket Ship Growth at Canopy

00:37:40 - Coming Out About Bipolar Disorder

00:42:42 - Financial Struggles and Company Acquisition

00:45:04 - Men's Mental Health Initiative

00:47:32 - Entrepreneurship and Mental Health

1. Mental Health Challenges in Entrepreneurship
2. Entrepreneurial Mental Health
3. Bipolar Disorder and Entrepreneurship
4. Managing Mental Health as an Entrepreneur
5. Entrepreneurial Success and Mental Well-being
6. Mental Health Support for Entrepreneurs
7. Men's Mental Health in Entrepreneurship
8. Entrepreneurial Resilience and Mental Health
9. Mental Health Awareness in Business
10. Prioritizing Mental Well-being in Entrepreneurship