Fireside Chat: Michael Acton Smith, Co-founder of Calm

Join us for an intimate session at Ideas Fest dedicated to uncovering the story behind one of the most innovative and impactful wellness apps in the world. 

Join us as Michael Acton Smith takes us on a journey through the inception, rise, and global influence of Calm, the leading app for meditation and sleep.

This candid conversation will explore the personal and professional paths that led Michael to co-found Calm, highlighting the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way. Attendees will gain unparalleled insights into the mindfulness movement, understanding its relevance not just as a personal practice but as a critical component of modern entrepreneurship.

Key aspects of the chat will include:

• Origins of Calm: Discover the inspiration and mission behind creating the Calm app. Learn about the early days, the vision for the company, and the drive to make mindfulness accessible to all.
• Entrepreneurial Journey: Michael will share his experiences navigating the challenges of building a startup into a global brand, offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs on resilience, innovation, and leadership.
• The Impact of Mindfulness: Delve into the profound effects of mindfulness on personal well-being and professional performance. Discuss the science behind meditation and sleep enhancement, and how Calm is contributing to global mental health.
• Future of Wellness Tech: Get Michael’s take on the future trends and technologies in the wellness and mindfulness space. Explore how apps like Calm are evolving to meet the changing needs of society.

Lessons Learned: Reflect on the key lessons Michael has learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey and his personal practice of mindfulness. Gain valuable insights into balancing business growth with personal development.