Chip Conley

Background

About Chip Conley

Chip Conley is a renowned entrepreneur, best-selling author, and dynamic speaker celebrated for his innovative approach to leadership and hospitality. As the founder of Joie de Vivre Hospitality, Chip transformed a single boutique hotel into the second-largest boutique hotel brand in the United States. In 2013, Chip joined Airbnb as Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy and the in-house mentor to the three Millennial founders (he became known as the “modern elder” of the company, “someone as curious as they are wise”). Leveraging his extensive experience, he played a crucial role in guiding Airbnb through its rapid growth phase, mentoring the executive team, and shaping the company’s culture and host and customer experience. Inspired by his own midlife journey, experience at Airbnb, and extensive research and collaboration with thought leaders in the area of aging, Chip co-founded the Modern Elder Academy (MEA) in January 2018. Located in Baja California, Mexico, MEA is the world’s first midlife wisdom school, offering transformative programs to help individuals navigate midlife transitions and cultivate a renewed sense of purpose. Building on the success of the Baja campus, MEA expanded in May 2024 to a second campus located on a 2,600-acre regenerative horse ranch in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Chip is a prolific author, with several influential books to his name, including Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder and his latest bestseller, Learning to Love Midlife: 12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age. His writings explore the intersections of psychology, business, and leadership, providing profound insights into creating meaningful and sustainable success. His latest book quickly rose to the #1 spot in Happiness/Self-Help on Amazon following its release and led to appearances on "Good Morning, America" and "The Today Show." Chip is a sought-after keynote speaker, captivating audiences with his compelling stories and actionable wisdom. His 2023 TED talk on the "midlife chrysalis" further solidified his position as a thought leader in reframing the concept of aging. With a unique ability to blend intellectual rigor with heartfelt empathy, Chip Conley continues to inspire individuals and organizations to achieve their highest potential. He has made a lasting impact on the fields of hospitality, business, and personal development. His legacy is one of innovation, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of wisdom and growth.