What is the Modern Elder Academy?

The Modern Elder Academy (MEA) is described as the world's first midlife wisdom school, designed to help individuals navigate transitions, cultivate purpose, and reframe their relationship with aging. Founded by Chip Conley, MEA emerged from his own experiences and epiphanies about the need for a supportive environment during midlife, much like adolescence has schools and guidance systems.

MEA offers programs primarily in Baja California, Mexico, including retreats and online courses. Its curriculum is built around four key pillars:

1. Reframing Aging: Encouraging individuals to see aging positively, emphasizing growth in emotional intelligence and spiritual awareness.
2. Shifting Mindset: Promoting a shift from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset, focusing on learning and self-improvement.
3. Navigating Transitions: Providing tools and perspectives to manage midlife transitions effectively.
4. Regenerative Lifestyle: Aiming to rejuvenate one’s purpose and community, and fostering ongoing personal development and social contribution.

The academy caters primarily to those aged 45-65, but it has participants ranging from 28 to 88 years old, with some younger individuals attending due to their interest in wisdom and learning from older generations 1 2 3 How To Be HAPPIER In Your 60s Than In Your 20's | Chip Conley x Rich Roll.

The MEA’s approach combines personal growth workshops with practical activities, like surfing, to provide holistic experiences. It emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, drawing on the wisdom of experienced faculty and encouraging intergenerational learning 4 5.