Ep 125: Modern Elder Academy with Chip Conley

Episode 125: Show Notes

Today’s guest, Chip Conley, has been a serial disruptor of the hospitality industry for many decades, and since acquiring his first hotel in his 20s, has blazed a trail of innovative and successful businesses catering to a variety of different client bases.

Chip was also instrumental in the rise of Airbnb in the contemporary landscape, and has most recently founded the amazing Modern Elder Academy, which is aimed at mentoring individuals through the later stages of human development.

In our chat, we get to hear from Chip about the lessons he learned from his father, why he has always pursued creativity over profit, and the vital part that mentor relationships have continually played in his life.

Our guest shares some great book recommendations and some insightful thoughts on living with purpose, before we close off with some thoughts on courage, self-belief, and his continued commitment to his calling of social alchemy. Join us to hear it all!

Key Points From This Episode:

Looking back on Chip's early years in San Francisco, and the significance of his birthdate.
The influence of Chip's dad and the experience of coming out as gay.
Reflecting on Chip’s early ideas about success and overcoming nervousness.
The introduction of meditation into Chip's life in his 20s, and its ongoing role in his journey.
Chip's decision to take a leap of faith and acquire a hotel in San Francisco.
The rock 'n roll clientele that Chip pitched his hotel towards.
How Chip dealt with a tricky situation with a regular called Vinnie the Pimp.
The important mentorship that Chip received from Herb Kelleher from Southwest Airlines.
Chip's opinion on what makes a great mentee.
The biggest mistake that Chip made in his years in the hospitality industry.
Chip's proudest achievement regarding nurturing entrepreneurs and creating a great company culture.
Experiences of hiring and firing and what Chip sees as the most important factor in great leadership.
The near-death experience that Chip had and how this contributed to his understanding of meaning in his life.
Chips' journaling practice and how it increased his compassion and wisdom.
The idea of the modern elder and the birth of Chip's academy.
Working with Airbnb and the vision that Chip helped to create.
Chip's mindset when founding the Modern Elder Academy and who he thought would attend.
Connecting with Paul Hawken and starting regenerative communities.
Culture, process, and vision; Chip's philosophy towards hands-on leadership.
Chip shares what attendees can expect at the Modern Elder Academy.
How Chip has managed to build a network of amazing people to present at the academy.
A little about Chip's schedule and how he manages all his commitments and goals.
The evolution of Chip's approach to success.