LEADERSHIP
CREDIT: AIRBNB
FROM
RENTING AIR MATTRESSES in a San Francisco apartment to leading one of the world’ s most influential technology platforms, Brian Chesky has transformed the way people travel, connect and experience the world. As Co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, he has built a business rooted in design, community and belonging, proving that some of the most disruptive ideas begin with a simple question and a willingness to challenge convention. In 2007, Chesky and his Co-founders, Joe Gebbia and Nathan Blecharczyk, were struggling entrepreneurs trying to make ends meet. When a design conference filled San Francisco hotels to capacity, the trio rented air mattresses in their apartment, offering desperate travellers a place to stay, along with breakfast. It generated income but, more importantly, it revealed to Chesky and his roommates an untapped opportunity. Travellers wanted authentic, affordable alternatives to hotels, while homeowners had unused space and a desire to earn additional income. That small experiment grew into a company that has hosted billions of guest arrivals and built a community reaching just about every corner of the globe. Chesky challenged the traditional hospitality model along the way, and helped redefine what it means to belong in an increasingly connected world.
businesschief. com
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