Being an online platform, we ran into challenges with Cuba's lack of Internet accessibility. We were able to work around that by creating a program unique to Cuba where many local hosts are working with hosting partners who have Internet access and can help them manage their Airbnb requests and bookings.
When I pull my hair back in a ponytail, that's how you know I'm having a hard day.
I think it takes a unique temperament for a lawyer who wants to go to a start-up, because generally, by nature, it's a high-risk environment.
When I went into a start-up in tech, I knew I could always go back to a law firm.
The advice I give is that, tempting as it is, getting the training you can get from law firm experience is really invaluable. It teaches you not just what you know but what you don't.
As chief business affairs and legal officer, I am responsible for driving Airbnb's engagement strategy and civic partnership efforts as well as overseeing the company's global public policy, community mobilization, legal, communications, compliance, social initiatives, and philanthropy efforts.
Cities have unique home-sharing policy needs - a dense, urban city may have different concerns than a historic vacation town or a non-traditional travel destination.
There's a historical view that adding process into a scrappy start-up kills innovation, but I'm a firm believer that you need process at some point to remain agile.
It's important to contribute to group discussions, but if all you're thinking about is when you'll get the opportunity to speak - and stressing about whether you'll sound smart - you won't be fully engaged in the conversation.
