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/

If you eat fat - you NEED to hear this