Made It with Connor Tomkies He Built 52 Hotels and Advised AirBnb with Chip Conley
Apr 14, 2025
Chip Conley, a hospitality entrepreneur and founder of Joie de Vivre hotels, shares his remarkable journey as a mentor to Airbnb's founders. He candidly discusses his transformative near-death experience and the struggles after selling his business. Conley emphasizes the value of wisdom over mere knowledge and introduces the Modern Elder Academy. He dives into the significance of emotional intelligence and fostering curiosity in leadership, highlighting how embracing midlife can lead to personal reinvention and deeper connections.
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From Motel to Empire
- Chip Conley started Joie de Vivre at 26, growing it to 52 hotels and 3,500 employees.
- His first acquisition was a rundown motel in San Francisco, which he transformed into the famous Phoenix Hotel.
Near-Death Epiphany
- Conley's near-death experience at 47 prompted him to re-evaluate his life and career path.
- This led him to question his long-held desire to continue running his company.
Joining Airbnb
- Brian Chesky contacted Conley after reading his book, wanting Airbnb to become a "peak" company.
- Initially skeptical, Conley became Airbnb's "Modern Elder," mentoring the founders and helping shape their strategy.
