Education

The Midlife Chrysalis

The Midlife Chrysalis is a one-hour podcast hosted by Chip Conley, bestselling author of Learning to Love Midlife and founder of MEA (Modern Elder Academy). Chip and his high-profile guests – including Maria Shriver, Hoda Kotb, Elizabeth Gilbert, Michael Franti, and more – dive into raw, vulnerable conversations about the profound transitions they’ve experienced in midlife.

Listeners get a rare look at how even the most successful individuals have to navigate life’s pivotal changes – and gain practical wisdom they can apply in their own lives for a more fulfilling and purposeful next chapter.

Latest Episodes:

Could Living Together Be the Secret to Aging Better? Aug 26, 2026

Show notes

Growing older is changing. Maybe the way we live should change with it.

In this episode of Wisdom Wednesday, Chip Conley joins Derek Gehl to explore a new approach to later life: shared homes that combine independence, connection, and community.

Drawing on MEA’s growing Golden Girls experiment, Chip shares:

Why traditional senior living and aging in place don’t work for everyone
What MEA has learned from its first shared homes and Golden Girls retreats
Why privacy, flexibility, and compromise are essential to making shared living work
How shared homes can grow into vibrant “distributed villages” built around friendship, learning, and common interests
How this model could inspire new approaches to housing and community far beyond MEA

Watch the full episode to discover a different way to think about home, community, and growing older.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to Wisdom Wednesday

(01:39) Rethinking How We Live as We Age

(05:05) The Golden Girls Shared Living Idea

(07:05) Sage House and Chrysalis House

(10:26) The Realities of Shared Living

(12:51) Are You Ready to Live With Others?

(14:46) Bringing the Concept to Other Communities

(16:38) Creating a Distributed Village

(19:09) The Long-Term Vision for MEA Homes

(22:09) What About the Golden Guys?

(23:05) How to Explore Golden Girls Living

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ChipConley #WisdomWednesday #ModernElderAcademy #MEA #GoldenGirlsLiving #SharedLiving #AgingWell #HealthyAging #PositiveAging #SeniorLiving #CommunityLiving #LifeAfter55 #Midlife #Longevity #AgingInPlace

You Got Everything You Wanted. Now What? | Edward Sullivan Aug 24, 2026

Show notes

What happens when you achieve the success you've worked for... and it still doesn't feel like enough?

In this episode of The Midlife Chrysalis, Chip Conley sits down with executive coach and Velocity Coaching founder Edward Sullivan to explore one of the most overlooked challenges of midlife: figuring out what comes after success.

Drawing on years of coaching founders, CEOs, and high achievers, Edward shares why so many people feel restless after reaching major goals, how AI is reshaping work and leadership, and what it really takes to build a meaningful life in the second half of adulthood.

Key insights include:

Why success often creates unexpected emptiness
How AI is changing leadership and work
The role curiosity plays in personal growth
Why self-care is a leadership skill
A powerful question that can help shape your next decade

If you're navigating midlife, rethinking your priorities, or wondering what comes after achievement, this conversation offers practical wisdom for building a more meaningful future.

Watch now and discover what might be waiting on the other side of success.

Timestamps:

(01:14) Meet Edward Sullivan

(02:34) What Makes a Great Coach?

(04:54) AI Anxiety and Burnout

(06:44) Tuning the Instrument

(08:37) Coaching Young Founders

(09:42) Wisdom and Age Diversity

(12:49) Building Intergenerational Teams

(17:16) Curiosity Before Advice

(20:11) Midlife and the Happiness Curve

(22:37) Right-Sizing Expectations

(24:32) Why Success Can Feel Empty

(28:56) The Power of Small Experiments

(32:17) Designing a Meaningful Life

(35:43) Advice for New Coaches

(37:57) The Business of Coaching

(40:16) Finding Your Coaching Niche

(41:32) A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

(43:41) What Now Workshop

(44:18) Building a Career Crescendo

(45:38) Closing Thoughts

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

Workshop with MEA in March 2027: https://www.meawisdom.com/workshop/what-now-finding-passion-and-purpose-after-a-big-success-march-2027/

#LifeAfterSuccess #WhatNow #PurposeAndMeaning #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerTransition #PersonalGrowth #MidlifeTransition #SuccessfulButUnfulfilled #SelfDiscovery #MeaningfulLife #ModernElder #ChipConley #EdwardSullivan #VelocityCoaching

Follow the Energy, Not the Career Script | Arun Gupta Aug 21, 2026

Show notes

Your job title tells people what you do. The problem you care about tells them who you are.

Arun Gupta, CEO of NobleReach and co-author of The Mission Generation, joins Chip Conley for a thoughtful conversation about finding purpose, staying curious, and creating a meaningful career at every stage of life.

Some of the ideas they explore:

Why following your energy can lead you somewhere a career plan never could
How becoming a beginner again can bring fresh energy to midlife
Why learning, earning, and giving back can happen throughout our lives
What younger generations can teach us about work and purpose
Why our most human strengths matter even more in the age of AI

From leaving a 20-year career in venture capital to stepping into the vulnerability of teaching and public service, Arun shares why the next chapter doesn’t need to be mapped out before you begin it.

Watch the full episode of The Midlife Chrysalis.

Timestamps:

(03:39) Arun Gupta’s Mission-Driven Journey

(09:05) From India to Venture Capital

(12:50) Why Careers Don’t Follow a Straight Path

(16:28) What Gen Z Is Teaching Us

(20:33) Rethinking Learn, Earn, and Return

(22:33) Finding New Purpose Later in Life

(25:07) What Makes a Great Mentor

(29:24) Learning Across Generations

(33:23) AI and the Future of Work

(36:17) Building Human Capital in the AI Age

(39:25) Arun’s Midlife Career Reinvention

(43:46) What Problem Do You Care About?

(47:24) Doing Good and Doing Well

(49:00) Rebuilding Trust Through Interdependence

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ArunGupta #ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #TheMissionGeneration #NobleReach #CareerReinvention #PurposeDrivenCareer #MidlifeCareer #FutureOfWork #IntergenerationalMentorship #LifelongLearning #AIAndWork #CareerPurpose #MeaningfulWork #SecondAct

How to Discover the Gift That’s Uniquely Yours? Aug 19, 2026

Show notes

What if the thing that makes you different has been there all along, you just haven’t named it yet?

In this Wisdom Wednesday, Chip Conley and Derek Gehl explore how to “excavate your essence” and uncover the unique gift that can guide your work, choices, and life.

You’ll discover:

How Airbnb uncovered “Belong Anywhere” by looking beyond what the company does to why it matters
A simple five-question exercise for getting beneath the obvious answers
How Chip discovered his gift as a “social alchemist” and used it to better understand his path
Why other people and the right environment can help you see what’s difficult to uncover alone

Your essence isn’t something you need to invent. It’s something you can uncover.

Watch now and ask yourself: What gift can I offer?

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to Wisdom Wednesday

(01:45) How to Excavate Your Essence

(02:04) What Makes You Different?

(04:04) The Five Questions Exercise

(04:59) How Airbnb Found Its Essence

(06:28) What Gift Can You Offer?

(08:00) Discovering Your Unique Gift

(10:38) Let Your Essence Guide You

(12:09) Why You Can’t Do This Alone

(14:31) Make Space for an Epiphany

(14:54) Try the Essence Exercise

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ChipConley #MidlifeChrysalis #WisdomWednesday #ExcavateYourEssence #FindYourGift #MidlifePurpose #SelfDiscovery #ModernElderAcademy #MEA #PersonalGrowth #MidlifeWisdom #FindYourEssence #UniqueGifts #PeterDrucker #SocialAlchemist

How to Talk to People You Profoundly Disagree With | Shamil Idriss Aug 17, 2026

Show notes

How do you find common ground with someone you profoundly disagree with?

At a time when political, religious, and cultural divisions seem deeper than ever, peacebuilder Shamil Idriss, CEO of Search for Common Ground, shares what decades of bringing people together have taught him about trust, conflict, and human connection.

In this conversation with Chip Conley, Shamil explores:

Why being heard and respected matters more than being agreed with

How building trust before a crisis can bridge even deep divides
Why curiosity is more powerful than judgment
How taking just one meaningful action can restore hope
Why today’s breakdown may ultimately lead to breakthrough

From global conflicts to disagreements in our own communities, Shamil offers a hopeful reminder that our futures are interconnected, and that each of us can help build common ground.

Watch now to discover how connection can begin, even when we disagree.

Timestamps:

(03:50) Meet Shamil Idriss

(04:55) The Beginning of Peacebuilding Journey

(08:48) Inside the UN Alliance of Civilizations

(11:02) Why Our Futures Are Connected

(15:07) How to Build Common Ground

(19:40) What Can We Do Together?

(21:39) How Trust Is Built Across Differences

(24:07) Being Heard Matters More Than Agreement

(26:19) Curiosity Instead of Judgment

(29:10) Why Peacebuilding Is Harder Today

(32:00) The Power of Doing One Thing

(36:48) How to Hold On to Hope

(40:38) A Lifetime of Lessons

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ShamilIdriss #SearchForCommonGround #Peacebuilding #CommonGround #PoliticalPolarization #ConflictResolution #BridgingDivides #BuildingTrust #CulturalCuriosity #HumanConnection #Dialogue #MidlifeWisdom #Ubuntu #SocialCohesion #ChipConley

Why Retirement Is the Wrong Goal | Ken Dychtwald Aug 14, 2026

Show notes

Midlife isn't the beginning of the end. For more than 50 years, Dr. Ken Dychtwald, psychologist, bestselling author, and founder of Age Wave, has studied what it really means to grow older.

In this conversation, he explains why midlife isn't the beginning of the end, but the start of one of life's most meaningful transformations.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why midlife is a time of growth, not decline
The powerful idea of "middle essence" and how it changes the way we think about aging
Why retirement may be one of today's biggest myths
How purpose becomes even more important as we get older
The simple advice Ken believes can help anyone build a richer, more meaningful life

If you're navigating midlife or wondering what's possible in the years ahead, this conversation will change the way you think about aging.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs this message.

Timestamps:

(03:39) Ken Dychtwald's Early Journey

(08:31) The Exercise That Changed His Career

(10:42) Predicting the Age Wave

(14:55) Why Ageism Persists

(16:34) Midlife Is a Chrysalis

(18:05) The Case for "Middle Essence"

(20:55) Why Society Doesn't Support Midlife

(25:41) Ken's Midlife Lessons

(29:56) Why He Never Retired

(31:00) The Untapped Purpose of Older Adults

(33:10) The Two Books Everyone Should Read

(34:54) Advice for Chip Conley

(36:38) Why Deep Questions Matter

(37:22) The Future of Midlife

(40:01) Think Bigger Than Yourself

(42:18) Love, Mentors, and Lifelong Relationships

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#KenDychtwald #MidlifeTransformation #MiddleEssence #SecondHalfOfLife #PurposeAfter50 #AgeWave #Retirement #Ageism #PsychologyOfAging #HumanPotential #PersonalReinvention #ChipConley #Elderhood #Midlife #Purpose

Why Midlife Feels Stuck (And How to Break Free) Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

Don't wait until it's too late to tell someone what they mean to you.

In this inspiring Wisdom Wednesday episode, Chip Conley joins host Derek Gehl to share a powerful idea that could change the way we celebrate the people we love: the social eulogy. Instead of waiting until a funeral, why not tell people the impact they've had on your life while they're still here to hear it?

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why we struggle to express appreciation when it matters most.
The difference between a living funeral and a social eulogy.
How anticipating loss can help you live with fewer regrets.
Why meaningful human connection is more important than ever in the age of AI.
A simple challenge you can put into practice today.

🎧 Watch now, and if this conversation resonates with you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who deserves to hear how much they matter.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:18) What Is a Living Funeral?

(03:02) The Social Eulogy Explained

(07:19) Seeing Your Impact on Others

(08:01) Why Age 50 Is the Perfect Time

(09:20) Why We Wait to Express Appreciation

(10:42) The Power of Anticipating Loss

(11:36) The Cost of Leaving Things Unsaid

(12:30) Lessons From People at the End of Life

(14:11) Who Should Be Part of a Social Eulogy?

(16:32) Becoming More Human in the Age of AI

(17:33) This Week's Challenge

(18:54) Why This Gift Costs Nothing

(19:18) Final Thoughts

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ChipConley #SocialEulogy #LivingFuneral #MidlifeChrysalis #WisdomWednesday #ModernElder #MeaningfulRelationships #HearYourEulogy #LeaveNothingUnsaid #HumanConnection #LifeLessons #Legacy #MidlifeWisdom #EmotionalWellbeing #RelationshipAdvice

How Psilocybin Can Change Your Life After 40 | Neil Markey Aug 10, 2026

Show notes

Could one guided psychedelic experience transform the way you think, feel, and live?

In this episode of The Midlife Chrysalis, Chip Conley speaks with Neil Markey, CEO of Beckley Retreats, former Army Ranger captain, McKinsey consultant, and Harvard public health student, about the growing role of psilocybin in personal transformation and mental well-being.

Together, they explore:

Why midlife may be the ideal time for a psychedelic experience.
What really happens during a professionally guided psilocybin retreat.
Why preparation and integration are just as important as the experience itself.
The benefits, risks, and biggest misconceptions about psychedelic therapy.
How meditation, nature, and new habits can create lasting change.

Whether you're curious about psychedelics or looking for new ways to navigate midlife, this conversation offers a thoughtful, evidence-informed perspective on one of today's most talked-about topics.

If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would find it valuable.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:54) Neil Markey's Background

(06:53) First Psilocybin Experience

(09:45) The Story Behind Beckley Retreats

(15:53) Amanda Fielding's Legacy

(18:20) Joining Beckley Retreats

(21:31) What Happens at a Beckley Retreat

(26:45) Inside a Psilocybin Session

(29:26) What a Psychedelic Experience Feels Like

(33:33) Why Midlife Is the Right Time

(40:20) The Importance of Integration

(43:11) The Future of Psychedelics in the US

(47:36) Life Lessons and Final Thoughts

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#Psilocybin #Psychedelics #PsychedelicTherapy #MentalHealth #Midlife #MidlifeTransformation #PersonalGrowth #Healing #Meditation #SelfDiscovery #Wellness #Neuroplasticity #MentalWellbeing #BeckleyRetreats #TheMidlifeChrysalis

Your Brain Is Lying to You About Happiness | Dr. Laurie Santos Aug 07, 2026

Show notes

We've been chasing happiness the wrong way. Dr. Laurie Santos explains what actually works.

Join Chip Conley and Dr. Laurie Santos, Yale's renowned happiness professor and creator of the university's most popular course, for a thought-provoking conversation on the science of happiness, the opportunities of midlife, and the habits that lead to a more fulfilling life.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why your brain often pushes you toward the wrong definition of success
The habits that matter more than money, achievement, or status
How your mindset can shape your happiness, health, and even longevity
Why midlife is the perfect time to rethink your priorities and invest in what truly matters
The simple piece of advice Laurie wishes she'd learned much earlier in life

If you've ever wondered whether you're spending your time on the things that really matter, this conversation will change the way you think about happiness, purpose, and the second half of life.

If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who could use a fresh perspective on living well.

Timestamps:

(02:10) Meet Dr. Laurie Santos

(03:13) Growing Up and Finding Purpose

(05:19) Studying Monkeys at Harvard

(07:23) What Monkeys Teach Us About Human Thinking

(09:08) The Most Popular Class at Yale

(12:24) The Science of Happiness

(16:40) How Mindset Shapes Longevity

(18:47) Turning 50 and Rethinking Midlife

(21:51) The Power of Midlife Rituals

(25:00) Why Everyone Needs a Sabbatical

(30:44) Giving Back and Building Strong Relationships

(32:50) The Future of Higher Education

(37:04) It Doesn't Matter as Much as You Think

(38:24) Final Thoughts

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#LaurieSantos #ChipConley #HappinessScience #PsychologyOfHappiness #PositivePsychology #Midlife #MidlifeChrysalis #Mindset #HealthyAging #Longevity #SocialConnection #PurposeInLife #Yale #HappinessResearch #LiveWell

Why High Achievers Still Feel Like Imposters Aug 05, 2026

Show notes

Do you ever feel like you're not good enough, even when you're succeeding?

You're not alone. In this Wisdom Wednesday, Chip Conley explores why imposter syndrome follows so many high achievers and, more importantly, how to break free from it.

In this conversation, you'll discover:

Why imposter syndrome doesn't disappear with success
How to replace fear with curiosity and become an "explorer" instead of an imposter
Why vulnerability often earns more respect than pretending to be perfect
A simple mindset shift that makes taking risks feel much less overwhelming
How embracing beginner status can unlock growth at any stage of life

If you've ever questioned your abilities, avoided new opportunities, or felt held back by self-doubt, this episode offers practical insights that can help you move forward with greater confidence.

Watch now, and if you enjoy the conversation, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs this reminder.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(00:36) What Is Imposter Syndrome?

(03:28) Growth Mindset vs Fixed Mindset

(05:21) Use Humor to Quiet Your Inner Critic

(06:27) Curiosity Over Fear

(08:02) Why Vulnerability Builds Trust

(13:05) From Imposter to Explorer

(14:34) Career Transitions in Midlife

(17:36) Above vs Below the Waterline Decisions

(20:39) How AI Helps You Learn

(22:39) The Human Skills AI Can't Replace

(24:21) A Simple Exercise for Imposter Syndrome

Learn more about MEA at ⁠https://www.meawisdom.com/

#ImposterSyndrome #SelfDoubt #GrowthMindset #HighAchievers #CareerTransition #Midlife #PersonalGrowth #Mindset #Confidence #Vulnerability #FearOfFailure #ChipConley #ModernElderAcademy #MidlifeChrysalis #EmotionalIntelligence

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