Fierce Fearless & Fantastic: A Scientist's Way to Crisis & Connection | Amanda Shapiro | TEDxBoulder

In this heartfelt yet humorous TEDxBoulder talk, Amanda Shapiro opens up about her recent mental health crisis, providing a candid and unconventional perspective on her journey. Ten months postpartum, working over a hundred hours a week, Amanda found herself diagnosed with Bipolar Type 1. Rejecting societal stereotypes, she employs the scientific method to question her own diagnosis and challenges the impact of labels on self-perception.


Amanda's talk is a powerful exploration of mental health, resilience, and the transformative role of genuine human connections. Her story serves as a reminder to be fierce, fearless, and fantastic in asking questions that lead to a deeper understanding of mental health, fostering a more compassionate and supportive society for those facing similar challenges. Join Amanda as she shares her journey of self-discovery and emphasizes the profound impact of authentic connections in navigating mental health crises. Amanda Shapiro is a Chicago-based marketing executive and stand-up comic. Her son, Alan, is 8 and in the process of discovering the Harry Potter books for the first time. Her daughter, Amelie, is 2 and still has no idea how to pronounce her own name. Her husband, Scott, is her biggest supporter and has been the oldest person in attendance at Lollapalooza for the last 12 years. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx