What happens when ambition slows down, and wisdom begins to lead? Chip Conley, founder of Modern Elder Academy and host of Midlife Chrysalis, sits down with California Governor Gavin Newsom for a rare, deeply personal conversation shaped by nearly 30 years of mentorship and friendship. This is not a political interview, it’s an honest exploration of midlife, identity, and becoming.Together, they reflect on:
- How Gavin’s upbringing and dyslexia shaped his leadership
- Why legalizing same-sex marriage became a defining moral moment
- What the “winter years” between mayor and governor revealed
- How fatherhood and midlife reshaped his relationship with power
- Why grace, humility, and resilience matter now more than ever
Warm, thoughtful, and deeply human, this episode explores what’s possible when we slow down and listen. If you’re navigating change or reinvention, watch now and step into the chrysalis.
Timestamps:
03:26 Welcome to Midlife Chrysalis
04:06 Long friendship and early mentorship
05:54 Childhood and family background
08:48 Gavin’s writing experience
16:03 Becoming mayor of San Francisco
17:38 Decision to legalize gay marriage
25:11 Impact of marriage equality
27:54 Political winter as lieutenant governor
29:24 Identity loss and slowing down33:21 Humility and leadership lessons
35:22 Grace humility after years of division
38:46 The lost art of civil disagreement41:49 Political vision and building bridges
44:10 Stoicism and wisdom traditions
47:44 Fatherhood and authenticity
49:27 Wisdom bumper stickerLearn more about MEA at https://www.meawisdom.com/
