Christie JungeA Plus Solutions Inc. · CEO | Profit First Professional

The Hidden Cost of Success: Kate Spade's Story

18 Jul 2026 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

0:50

In this brief YouTube discussion, the speakers reflect on the tragic reality that fashion designer and entrepreneur Kate Spade suffered from long‑standing depression and anxiety, ultimately declining treatment to protect the upbeat, colorful image of her brand. The conversation underscores how the pressure of maintaining a successful, happy‑looking business can mask personal mental‑health struggles, illustrating that wealth and outward success do not safeguard against psychological challenges. The speakers express shock and empathy, using Kate Spade’s case as a cautionary example of the hidden costs of entrepreneurial pressure.

Chapters

Kate Spade had been suffering with depression and anxiety for years, and her sister expressed that one of the reasons Kate declined going to a facility for help is because she didn't want to impact the brand's positive persona.
Heartbreaking. My heart breaks.
It takes my breath away. The idea of running this business, which is so outwardly up and fun and colorful and alive and happy, and the person behind it all is just struggling to make it. And we're sharing her story because it's an example of a successful entrepreneur who is succumbing to the pressure of running a business.
I, I was shocked. We were doing prep yesterday for this, and I did not know she passed away. I know the brand, the Kate Spade brand, in particular, so well.
It highlights that mental health cannot be determined by success and wealth.
And maybe success and wealth are not synonymous. Maybe we have to have our definition of success.