Building Startups Without Losing Yourself: Lessons from Andy Dunn
Entrepreneurship is exhilarating but often takes a toll on mental health. Andy Dunn, founder of Bonobos and now Pie, shares invaluable lessons on balancing ambition with well-being. Diagnosed with bipolar disorder in college, Dunn faced untreated struggles that culminated in a severe manic episode in 2016. His recovery journey—anchored in therapy, medication, and self-awareness—emphasizes the importance of stability for sustained success. In his book Burn Rate, Dunn explores how hypomania fueled creativity but strained relationships at Bonobos. Today, with his new venture Pie, he fosters open collaboration, embracing team input even during disagreements. He also advocates for mental health support in startups , pushing for change through initiatives like the Founder Mental Health Pledge. Dunn’s story proves that prioritizing mental health isn’t a weakness—it’s a cornerstone of enduring success. As he puts it, “Balance and ambition can coexist.”