Bio

Barry Shainbaum is an icon of survival and success. Today he is a renowned public speaker, broadcaster and celebrated photographer, acclaimed for documenting some of the world's most famous and heroic individuals.

Twenty years ago, however, none of this seemed remotely possible. For years, Barry suffered the personal hell of bipolar disorder. Hitting bottom was a swirling cloud of suffering, medication and poverty, as he languished for over a year in a skid-row boarding house.

Modern medicine predicted Barry would be mentally ill and drug dependant for life. Through psychotherapy, medicine, self-study and visualization amongst others, Barry defied all medical labels to overcome bipolar disorder. Against all odds, he completely turned his life around to become a noted speaker, broadcaster, photographer and author.

For the last decade, Barry has brought his message of hope and survival to corporate and mental health groups across North America.

Glowing Recognition

Barry has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, FOX TV - New York City, Toronto Star, Toronto Sun, Canada AM, Breakfast TV, TV Ontario, Court TV, and numerous radio stations across North America.

Barry has been nominated for the "Courage to Come Back" awards in 2004, 2005 and 2006, organized by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto. He has also been nominated in 2004, 2005 and 2006 for the "Hero Award", part of the Inspiration Awards organized by the Mood Disorders Association of Ontario, Toronto.

His life journey inspired a ground-breaking photo-essay book, Hope & Heroes: Portraits of Integrity & Inspiration.