How I Built This with Guy Raz KAYAK: Paul English (2021)
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Jul 15, 2024 Paul English, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Kayak, shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to building a billion-dollar travel platform. He discusses how chaotic early life experiences fueled his entrepreneurial spirit and the innovative strategies that positioned Kayak against competitors. Paul also delves into the creative process behind the company's name and reflects on personal challenges, including mental health, that shaped his career. Excitingly, he hints at his future endeavors, including a new dating app!
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Crowded House
- Paul English grew up in a crowded, three-bedroom house with six siblings and one bathroom.
- The four boys slept in the unheated and uncooled attic, each having a strict 15-minute bathroom slot.
Respectful Father
- Paul's father, a pipe fitter for 49 years, ran a strict household.
- Though not physically imposing, he commanded respect, as evidenced by an incident where he intimidated a much larger man.
Mother's Recovery
- Paul's mother suffered from myasthenia gravis for 10 years.
- She experienced a remarkable recovery attributed to a Catholic faith healer, after which she became active and defied doctor's expectations.