Undigital Podcast 035 - An Interview with Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky
May 11, 2022
Brian Chesky, CEO of Airbnb, leads the conversation with insights from navigating the pandemic, where the company faced an 80% business loss. He discusses why hybrid work fails to meet current demands and shares how the perception of travel is shifting towards longer stays. Chesky reveals exciting new features for travelers, such as innovative accommodation categories and enhanced guest protections. He emphasizes the anticipated travel boom this summer and the evolving habits of remote workers, reshaping workplace culture.
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Airbnb's Near-Death Experience
- Airbnb lost 80% of its business in eight weeks during the beginning of the pandemic.
- Chesky compared this experience to a near-death experience, providing clarity and focus.
Focus and Learn
- Focus on core offerings during a crisis.
- Chesky advises learning from companies that have successfully navigated similar situations, like Apple in 1997.
Data-Driven Remote Work
- Airbnb's data shows a shift in travel patterns, with longer stays becoming increasingly common.
- This data, combined with observations of employee work habits and startup culture, led Chesky to embrace remote work.