Meet Bunim Laskin
Founder of Swimply | Forbes 30 Under 30 | Co36 Customer
Every Sunday, we spotlight a Co36 customer — real people, real stories.
This week, meet Bunim Laskin, the founder of Swimply, a startup reshaping the way people access private spaces like pools, tennis courts, and more.
He’s been featured in Forbes 30 Under 30, raised millions in venture capital, and turned an unconventional idea into a nationwide movement.
David sat down with Bunim for a conversation on resilience, clarity, and building something that truly helps people — all while keeping style effortless.
David: Most people know you as the guy who helped start “the Airbnb for pools.” Where did that idea even come from?
Bunim:
I was 19 and living at home in New Jersey. My neighbor had a pool they barely used, and I had siblings who were constantly begging to go swimming. So I asked if we could pay to use it sometimes. That turned into a neighborhood trend. Eventually, I thought — what if anyone could rent out their private space, the same way they rent out homes?
David: Swimply has grown like crazy. But what’s something people don’t see?
Bunim:
The truth is, behind the scenes it’s been a rollercoaster. Building Swimply has been the greatest privilege of my life — but it’s also tested every part of me. There were times I thought we wouldn’t make it. But I had a mission I believed in, and I refused to let the tough days define the outcome.
David: What’s one lesson you’ve had to learn the hard way?
Bunim:
Clarity. When you’re young, it’s easy to chase big numbers or shiny outcomes. But I learned that without clarity — on the mission, the team, the culture — you’re just running in circles. You have to get brutally honest about who you are and what kind of company you want to build.
David: What does success mean to you now?
Bunim:
Freedom. Not in the money sense, but in the way you move through the world. Can you say no to things that don’t align? Can you wake up and be proud of what you’re building? That’s what I’m chasing.
David: Let’s bring it home. What made you start wearing Co36?
Bunim:
I’ve never been the guy who wants to spend 20 minutes deciding what to wear. I need to move fast — meetings, pitches, travel. Co36 is clean, structured, and doesn’t try too hard. I wear the same black tee or polo constantly because it works. It’s like my armor.
Bunim’s Go-To Co36 Pick
Bunim, appreciate you sharing the behind-the-scenes journey.
We’re proud to have you in the Co36 community.
— David, Founder
Co36
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