Airbnb's Brian Chesky on Y Combinator's Success Stories

The transcript discusses Airbnb's journey through Y Combinator, highlighting initial uncertainties and eventual growth. It emphasizes the significant role Y Combinator played in Airbnb's success, comparing it to other successful companies like Dropbox and Stripe. The discussion also addresses criticisms of Y Combinator's success rate, ultimately defending its track record and high return on investment.

What was the initial plan of Airbnb's founders when they joined Y Combinator?

• To decide in three months whether to continue with Airbnb

• To immediately expand their business

• To focus on a different startup idea

• To sell Airbnb to a larger company

How did Paul Graham influence Airbnb's founders during their time at Y Combinator?

• He recommended they focus on a different industry

• He encouraged them to continue, comparing them to a potential marketplace like eBay

• He advised them to pivot to a new business model

• He suggested they merge with another startup

What is the perceived impact of Y Combinator on Airbnb's existence and growth?

• YC had no impact on Airbnb's success

• Airbnb might not exist or be much smaller without YC

• Airbnb would have been equally successful without YC

• Airbnb was already successful before joining YC

What criticism does Y Combinator face despite its success stories?

• Focusing too much on technology startups

• Providing insufficient funding

• Not having enough successful companies

• Having a low acceptance rate

Which of the following companies is NOT mentioned as a success story from Y Combinator?

• Facebook

• Dropbox

• Stripe

• Twitch