Dave WordenTriumph Business Solutions · Founder

Success and mental health #entrepreneur #mentalhealth #burnout #mentalhealthmonth

22 May 2026 · 1 min

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In this brief YouTube dialogue, the speakers reflect on the tragic death of fashion designer Kate Spade, emphasizing how her long‑standing depression and anxiety were compounded by the pressure to maintain the upbeat, colorful persona of her eponymous brand. Speaker A notes that Kate avoided seeking professional help because she feared harming the brand’s positive image, while Speaker B expresses shock at learning of her passing. The conversation underscores that outward markers of success and wealth do not guarantee mental well‑being, and it serves as a cautionary example for entrepreneurs about the hidden mental‑health costs of running a celebrated business.

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. Like, kind of 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, right? 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.