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I don't know about hard-working, but my impression after meeting the founders was that they were clueless stuffed-shirts who have no idea why their idea created a community of authentic enthusiasts - and they're desperately trying to cash out without killing the goose that lays the golden eggs.

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As someone who knows them well, I can tell you that you're so mistaken that it makes me wince. The Airbnbs are among the most earnest and dedicated founders we've funded.

Earnestly and dedicatedly inducing people to break their contractual obligations, fall afoul of local hotel regulations, and make life suck a little more for their neighbors.

They're not nice people.

That's possible! Can you hire them an image coach or acting classes or some sort of interpersonal communication coaching, though? I turned down a job offer from them because of how inauthentic several of the airbnb's office personalities (not only the founders: some of the staff, too) seemed to be.

I'm having trouble replying to this comment, having met Brian in 2009 and later interviewing him for a book. I am wondering if you are confusing them with some other founders.

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