By Bernie J Mitchell
The podcast currently has 278 episodes available.
In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise of running a micro or small business.
Ann Hawkins, founder of Drive, the Collaborative Network, joins us to share advice on simplifying the chaos and finding success by working together.
Ann believes running a business doesn’t have to be a lonely grind—collaborating with the right people can be clear, focused, and rewarding.
We cover everything from nailing down your personal 'why' to setting practical goals and how the right resources and skills can further your business without burning you out.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by running your own business, Ann’s insights will remind you that it doesn’t have to be complicated.
More importantly, collaboration—even with competitors—might be the best-kept secret to thriving in the coworking world.
Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' Checklist gets a spotlight here.
It offers sharp, actionable steps for anyone who wants to run a business without losing their mind.
Plus, we explore how partnerships within the coworking community can propel your business forward in unexpected and powerful ways.
Timeline Summary:
* [00:33] – Meet Ann Hawkins, small business success and collaboration champion.
* [01:45] – Why teaming up with your competitors can be a game-changer.
* [03:03] – The importance of learning from others to avoid isolation in business.
* [05:36] – Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' checklist kicks off with understanding your personal 'why'—the core reason that keeps you motivated in business, especially on tough days.
"So the first one is to have a very clear vision of why you're doing it, and this isn't the Simon Sinek thinking everybody needs to understand my whyThey really don't care, but what you need to do is you need to understand your why..."
* [07:00] – No need for a grand business vision—sometimes, simple goals are what you need to stay grounded.
* [10:52] – How a strong driving need keeps you focused and steers you clear of distractions.
* [12:56] – Why outsourcing and collaboration are the antidotes to skill gaps and overwhelm.
* [19:02] – How time and money are the real game-changers for sustaining your business.
* [26:12] – The role of a flexible plan and how consistent action leads to long-term success.
* [33:50] – How building a supportive community and collaborating with others keeps you accountable.
* [40:38] – Creative community-building with Ann’s Drive network and groups like The Neotists.
Episode Breakdown:
Ann Hawkins cuts through the fluff with her six steps to small business success, starting with understanding your personal ‘why.’
It’s not about selling your purpose to the world but knowing precisely what drives you, especially when it gets tricky.
It could be as simple as wanting more control over your life, financial security, or finding work that truly matters to you.
From there, Ann makes it clear: you’ve got to have a genuine need driving your business.
Whether making enough to live well or doing work that aligns with your values, this need keeps you going.
We explore how outsourcing and working alongside others can fill skill gaps that otherwise leave people feeling stuck.
Ann is about strategic simplicity—handling time, money, and resources without overcomplicating things.
She advocates starting small, ideally alongside another job, to build financial stability before taking the full plunge.
Her advice on pricing confidently is a sharp reminder to never undervalue your work, even when you’re just starting.
One of the most potent takeaways is Ann’s emphasis on collaboration. In coworking, competition is often overrated.
Seeing each other as collaborators rather than competitors opens up growth opportunities you didn’t see coming.
It’s the core philosophy behind her Drive network, which is why it’s been such a game-changer for small business owners.
Finally, Ann reinforces the power of consistency.
Keep showing up and sharing what you do, even on the rough days.
You never know when someone will be ready to work with you, but they’ll only know about you if you keep getting yourself out there.
Links & Resources:
* The Drive - Collaborative Network
* Dan Pink - Drive
* The Neotists - A Community Of Creatives
* RSVP: For Adventures In Democracy: Everyone A Citizen
* 🎙️Tony Bacigalupo and Jon Alexander
* 🎙️Emily and Martyn Sibley
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Ann on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie jams with Jamila Daly, founder of Get That Money Fundraising and a consultant for Urban MBA in London.
Jamila shares how she got into fundraising and offers practical advice on how coworking spaces and small businesses can secure grant funding.
We talk through leveraging existing assets, crafting more robust grant applications, and partnering with others for mutual benefit.
Jamila also explains how organisations can escape the endless cycle of grant applications and shift towards being more self-sustaining.
If you're looking to improve your projects with external funding, this episode offers actionable insights.
Stay tuned to learn how your coworking space can tap into local authority grants while becoming a stronger candidate for funding by knowing your numbers, engaging your community, and maximising what you already have.
This conversation is full of tips you can start using today.
Timeline Summary
* [00:50] – Jamila breaks down what she does at Get That Money and how she helps organisations with funding, asset use, and income generation.
* [02:05] – Jamila shares how she stumbled into fundraising and turned it into a successful career.
* [04:44] – Bernie and Jamila discuss the challenges of finding grants and offer practical advice on researching and identifying the right opportunities.
* [06:47] – Jamila discusses her approach to competitor research and using free resources like the Charity Commission to find funding leads.
* [11:38] – How to make your coworking space an attractive candidate for funding by aligning your metrics and community impact with grant criteria.
* [14:06] – Collaborating for funding: Tips on evaluating potential partners and ensuring that partnerships are beneficial and aligned with your goals.
* [19:11] – Breaking free from the endless grant cycle: Why sustainable income models are crucial for coworking spaces.
* [24:06] – How to measure impact effectively and create engaging, concise reports for grant applications.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
How Jamila Discovered Her Passion for Fundraising:
Jamila recounts her shift from corporate life into fundraising. Hired as an office manager at a charity, she quickly noticed a lack of focus on where the money came from. After pitching a plan for fundraising training, she dove into the world of grant funding and hasn’t looked back since.
Finding Grants for Coworking Spaces:
Bernie and Jamila explore the challenges coworking spaces face when searching for grants. Jamila shares her process, which includes starting with competitor research, using free databases like Charity Excellence, and signing up for local authority mailing lists. Her advice? Build a clear roadmap before diving into the grant world.
Positioning Your Space for Funding Success:
Jamila stresses the importance of knowing your numbers—who uses your space, their demographics, and the outcomes of your activities. By repackaging services, like offering programmes for women-led businesses, you can make your space more appealing to specific funds. It’s about highlighting what you already do well rather than reinventing the wheel.
Collaborating for Funding:
Jamila gives practical tips on evaluating potential partners for joint funding applications. Open discussions about roles, financial splits, and shared goals are crucial to ensuring collaborations benefit all parties involved.
Escaping the Grant Cycle:
Jamila talks about the pressure many organisations feel to apply for grants constantly. While grants are helpful, she encourages coworking spaces to explore sustainable income streams, such as desk rentals and hosting workshops. Diversifying revenue can prevent over-reliance on external funding.
Measuring and Reporting Impact:
Jamila highlights the importance of keeping impact reports short, sharp, and visually engaging. A well-designed five-page report with infographics and photos will resonate much more than a 40-page text-heavy document. Knowing your numbers and presenting them effectively makes your organisation stand out to funders.
Links & Resources:
* Jamila on Instagram
* Urban MBA
* Jamila’s workshop at Urban MBA
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Jamila on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
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In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie and Emily cut through the fluff to discuss why vision, mission, and values are more than just corporate jargon. They keep you from falling off the map, whether running a coworking space, a business or just trying to get through the day.
Through personal stories and honesty, they show how these principles drive everything, especially when things get tough.
You'll hear why so many businesses get this wrong and how you can avoid that trap, plus tips on cutting through the noise and keeping it simple.
If you've ever felt lost or unsure about what you're doing, this conversation will help you get your head straight.
Episode Timeline:
* [00:00] Bernie introduces the Community Builders cohort, a peer-to-peer learning programme for those who want to transform their community from invisible to unstoppable.
* [01:01] Emily checks in from Ohio. They dive into how vision, mission, and values should guide every team meeting and not be a dusty artefact.
* [02:39] Bernie shares a personal story of how a startup he worked with treated vision and values like a marketing task and why that’s a big mistake.
* [03:09] Emily breaks down why the whole team needs to be in on shaping a company’s principles, not just the leadership.
* [06:15] Bernie asks what happens when someone loses their way. Emily describes vision and values as the “lighthouse in the storm” when you're adrift.
* [09:25] Bernie and Emily talk about how outsourcing your vision to AI strips away authenticity—and why you can spot it a mile away.
* [12:15] Bernie dives into the emotional drive behind staying aligned with your mission, especially when times get tough.
* [16:03] Emily talks about how founders can confuse community-building with day-to-day tasks and how that stalls progress.
* [18:59] Bernie and Emily discuss the importance of discussing money and balancing financial goals with the bigger picture.
* [20:30] Bernie shares how a lack of clear vision can fragment a team and drain the life out of a project based on his own experiences.
No BS Breakdown:
This episode is about vision, mission, and values—whether you’re running a business, building a community, or figuring out your next move. Bernie and Emily tear down the idea that these are just corporate buzzwords, showing how they’re practical tools for staying on track when the going gets rough.
Bernie shares how some founders get so caught up in startup chaos that they pawn off the important stuff, like defining their vision, to marketing teams. This is a big mistake. Vision and values need to come from the top, and Emily backs that up, explaining that the whole team needs to understand why certain values matter and how they manifest in daily work.
Revisiting these values regularly is vital. It’s not a one-and-done thing—it’s your lighthouse when everything’s going sideways. Emily digs into why personal alignment with a company’s mission fuels the team, especially during hard times. They also discuss how money can’t be ignored—yes, the mission matters, but if the bills aren’t getting paid, there is no mission.
Bernie shares his frustration with businesses that outsource their vision and values to AI or marketing consultants.It’s hollow, and everyone in the company feels that disconnect. Real vision has to come from within, or it will fall flat.
Emily finishes by offering a challenge to listeners—define your vision, mission, and values. These aren’t just tools for business; they’re for life. They’ll help you figure out where to go when things go off the rails.
Links & Resources:
* Hero On A Mission - An online morning ritual and vision planner
* OuiShare Community & Festival
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
Episode Show Notes:
London Flex Brand Index Report: Inside the Numbers with Zoe Ellis-Moore
In this episode, we dive into the first-ever London Flex Brand Index Report with Zoe Ellis-Moore, founder of Spaces to Places.
Zoe uses her passion for placemaking and expertise in the flex office market to analyze the report's findings about London’s coworking and flexible office scene.
This episode unpacks the categories, tiers, and trends highlighted in the report, offering a clearer view of where the market is heading and why branding matters more than ever.
Zoe explains the confusion surrounding coworking vs flex, clarifies how different segments are emerging, and explains how brands like Regus, WeWork, and neighbourhood spaces shape the market.
If you manage a space or are just curious about how flex spaces are transforming post-COVID, this episode is packed with real data and actionable insights straight from the London Flex Brand Index.
Timeline Summary:
[00:27] - Zoe Ellis-Moore introduces herself and her passion for placemaking
[02:25] - Defining the difference between coworking and flex office spaces
[04:55] - Unpacking the London Flex Brand Index and why categorising the market matters
[07:51] - Breaking down flex office brands: from niche players to mainstream giants
[12:17] - Why Regus’ Net Promoter Score is so low and what it means for the market
[18:24] - The rise of neighbourhood workspaces and how they’re changing local economies
[23:24] - Post-COVID shifts in workspace demand and the role of local authorities in boosting neighbourhood coworking
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
* Placemaking and the Flex Office RevolutionZoe explains her passion for turning empty, soulless spaces into thriving places people want to be. This philosophy sets the stage for understanding how placemaking influences the way we work and live, especially in the evolving landscape of coworking and flex offices.
* What is Flex and Why Does It Matter?Zoe provides a straightforward breakdown of the differences between coworking and flex spaces, focusing on the contract terms that distinguish them. Flex offices cater to businesses that need professional spaces but want the flexibility of shorter leases—under three years, to be exact. On the other hand, coworking often feels more like 'pay-as-you-go,' serving individuals and freelancers who need communal, adaptable environments.
* The London Flex Brand Index: Cutting Through the ClutterZoe introduces the report and its methodology. With over 60 brands and 686 locations across London, the flex market is dynamic but fragmented. The London Flex Brand Index categorises providers based on their market presence, breaking them down into mainstream, niche, premium, and value categories to help operators understand their position.
* Regus, WeWork, and the NPS DilemmaWhile brands like WeWork and Regus are household names in the flex market, their Net Promoter Scores tell a different story. Zoe highlights why Regus, despite being a giant, scores a shocking -82 on the NPS scale. She dives into the customer frustrations and friction points that lead many users to start with Regus but then transition to higher-quality spaces once they understand the market.
* Neighbourhood Coworking: The Post-COVID BoomThe conversation shifts to the rise of neighbourhood coworking spaces. Post-COVID, local authorities have recognised the value of keeping people working closer to home. Zoe explains how this shift has led to a boom in local, multifunctional spaces that blend work, lifestyle, and community. These spaces aren’t just about desks—they’re about creating local hubs where people live, work, and interact.
* Educating the Public: The Big ChallengeBernie and Zoe discuss the ongoing challenge of educating the public about the value of flexible workspaces. Many people don’t realise these options exist in their neighbourhoods. Zoe stresses the need for the industry to step up and bridge this awareness gap by showing people the benefits of working in these spaces firsthand.
Which flex providers are leading the London market?
Links & Resources:
* Get your copy of The London Flex Brand Report Here
* Spaces to Places - Zoe’s Flex space consultancy
* Follow Spaces to Places on Instgram
* Mister Rogers' Neighborhood
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Zoe on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, Bernie sits down with Vanessa Sans, a leader and quiet storm who’s been rewriting coworking rules across Europe, Africa, and beyond for over fifteen years.From the gritty streets of Barcelona’s transforma bcn to the sun-drenched calm of Kalima Coliving, Coworking & Cafè, Vanessa’s work isn’t just about creating workspaces but connecting people in ways that matter. Her influence stretches across continents like a thread between the wild, untethered lives of digital nomads and the locals who shape these communities from the ground up.
But this isn’t your typical coworking success story. It’s about sweat, failure, and the hard lessons learned in the trenches. Kalima—a place born from vision and struggle—is more than just a coworking space by the sea. It’s a personal victory for Vanessa, a testament to the power of community-led neighbourhood coworking. Here, the lines blur between work and life as Kalima - Coliving | Work Café breathes new life into the local economy, revitalising the neighbourhood and building a culture far beyond desks and Wi-Fi and just 7 seconds from the beach.
This is where Vanessa’s journey and the coworking community’s future collide in something raw, natural, and undeniably triumphant.
Timeline Summary:
* [00:26] – Bernie introduces Vanessa Sans as a coworking leader and a community architect whose projects span continents.
Her work has brought people together in coworking spaces beyond the physical—spaces that breathe life into cities and create lasting bonds.
* [02:51] – Vanessa reminisces about her first encounter with coworking at Utopicus - it wasn’t just a moment of inspiration but a revelation.
It was a place that wasn’t just about working but connecting and building something bigger than yourself.
* [04:48] – The birth of transforma bcn. Vanessa doesn’t just talk about founding this space; she explains her vision of coworking as a tool for transformation.
* She didn't just want to build a business—she wanted to create a movement that brings culture, creativity, and collaboration together.
* [06:04] – Coworking in Europe back in 2012. This was the beginning of something much more significant. Vanessa reflects on how she helped shape coworking into more than an office space—it became a cultural hub, a place for ideas to meet and grow.
* [09:55] – The 2014 Coworking Europe Conference in Lisbon. This wasn’t just a conference; it was a reunion of sorts—a meeting of minds that were shaping the coworking world. For Vanessa, this was a pivotal moment when coworking became more than just an idea; it became a movement that connected people across borders.The video below was made at the Copass Camp at Coworking Europe Lisbon in 2014.Watch out for Vanessa and Bernie in this video below.(And the goodbye hugs with our late great coworking friend Matija Raos in the final scene.)
* [15:41] – The serendipity of Kalima. Vanessa describes when she stumbled upon a beachside hotel in Catalonia that would soon become her latest venture. Kalima - Coliving | Work Café isn’t just a coworking space—it’s a community by the sea where remote workers and locals come together to create something unique.
* [20:19] – The magic of co-creation. Vanessa didn’t build Kalima - Coliving | Work Café alone—she invited local and international remote workers to help shape its branding and philosophy. The result? It is a thriving, organic community that has always been there.
* [29:17] – Digital nomads vs. remote workers: Vanessa breaks down the differences and how Kalima has become a unique space that caters to both, creating a blend of work and life that few places can offer.
* [32:28] – How coworking spaces like Kalima will transform neighbourhoods. It’s not just about business; it’s about people. Vanessa shows us how coworking spaces can activate local economies, support nearby businesses, and foster a sense of belonging that’s hard to find in today’s fragmented world.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Vanessa Sans isn’t just another coworking consultant. Vanessa has seen firsthand how these spaces can change the fabric of a city, the rhythm of a street, and the lives of the people inside them.
In this episode, we follow her journey from the streets of Barcelona, where she founded transforma bcn, to the sunlit shores of Kalima - Coliving | Work Café.
This conversation is about more than workspaces—building lasting communities.
Vanessa talks about how she built Kalima - Coliving | Work Café from the ground up, involving local and international workers in every process step.
It’s a rare and beautiful example of what can happen when a space is created with the people in mind rather than just profit.
We explore how coworking can revitalize a neighbourhood by creating collaboration, friendship, and economic growth opportunities.
For Vanessa, coworking spaces aren’t just places to work—they’re hubs of creativity, culture, and connection. Kalima is the embodiment of that vision.
Links & Resources:
* Kalima Instagram – Kalima Beach Life
* Kalima Coliving, Coworking & Cafè
* Happy Working Lab - Vanessa’s consulting firm.
* transforma bcn coworking space.
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Vanessa on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
In this episode, we explore a topic that often feels difficult: money and trauma.
Our guest, Jaskiran Mangat, a specialist in trauma-sensitive financial resilience and well-being, offers her perspective on how upbringing, culture, and society shape our relationship with money.
Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or anyone who's felt the emotional strain of money, this conversation will be insightful.
We discuss the connection between money, mental health, and trauma and reveal why many, especially from underrepresented groups, find it hard to address financial struggles.
Jaskiran shares how her experiences as a woman of colour and a former fintech founder shaped her understanding of financial resilience.
We also explore the pressure to 'keep up appearances', how early experiences with money affect adult financial habits, and what practical steps we can take to build healthier financial relationships.
Whether you're keen to understand money habits and the emotional toll of startup culture or want tips on discussing finances more easily, this episode offers valuable guidance.
Finance Therapy Circles – Join Jaskiran’s free monthly virtual event to explore your relationship with money in a safe, supportive environment. More here.
Timeline Summary:
[00:00] – Emily introduces the next three-month cohort to help community builders develop their audience and management skills.
[00:29] – Bernie opens the conversation, outlining the episode’s focus on money and trauma, setting up an insightful discussion with Jaskiran Manga.
[01:36] – Jaskiran describes her work as a trauma-sensitive financial resilience expert and explains how identity and life experiences shape economic behaviour.
[02:46] – Jaskiran explains how our money habits form by age seven, setting the tone for the discussion.
[05:37] – The concept of "money scripts" is introduced, explaining how they influence spending habits and career choices.
[12:02] – Jaskiran shares her experience as a fintech founder and the difficulties marginalised communities face in accessing venture capital.
[17:29] – Bernie and Jaskiran discuss the advantages of bootstrapping and why it may be a more sustainable option for some entrepreneurs.
[21:41] – The emotional ties to money are examined, with Jaskiran offering freelancers and small business owners advice on how to address them.
[34:40] – The discussion critiques the link between freelancing, financial pressure, and the ongoing pursuit of stability.
[37:51] – Jaskiran highlights the importance of talking openly about money and mental health, stressing that those who discuss it often cope better.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Money: More Than Just NumbersBernie and Jaskiran start by exploring how money is not just about figures.
For many, it is tied to emotions such as fear, shame, and anxiety, often linked to early experiences.
Jaskiran explains that by age seven, our attitudes towards money are already forming, shaping how we handle it for the rest of our lives.
Understanding Money ScriptsJaskiran introduces the concept of money scripts, which are core beliefs about money, such as "money avoidance," "money worship," "money status," and "money vigilance."
These scripts influence spending, saving, and thinking about financial success. She provides insights on becoming more aware of these patterns.
Societal Pressure and Financial TraumaThe conversation touches on how societal expectations and comparisons, often driven by social media, can cause financial trauma.
Jaskiran discusses how venture capital funding impacts founders from marginalised groups and advises on building financial resilience without falling into the funding trap.
Freelancers and Financial PressuresBernie and Jaskiran examine freelancers' challenges, such as delayed payments and underpayment from larger companies, which lead to financial stress.
They offer freelancers helpful tips on advocating for themselves and setting healthier financial boundaries.
Money, Mental Health, and Suicidal ThoughtsAs the discussion continues, the focus shifts to the link between financial stress and mental health.
Jaskiran talks about how financial insecurity, particularly among freelancers and small business owners, can lead to anxiety, isolation, and even suicidal thoughts.
This part of the conversation encourages openness around financial challenges and mental health.
Managing Stress Through Nervous System RegulationJaskiran shares techniques for managing the emotional triggers related to money, such as mindfulness and breathing exercises.
She explains how understanding the physical signs of financial stress can lead to more thoughtful conversations and decisions about money.
Links & Resources:
* Jaskiran Mangat on Substack
* Jaskiran’s Finance Therapy publication on Substack.
* Article: Broke, not broken - World Suicide Prevention Day Edition
* Join the Monthly Finance Therapy Circles on Luma
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Jaskiran on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
Hello, Emily here! In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, I sit down with Suzanne Murdock, co-founder of The Hub Newry and an experienced coach and mentor for micro and SME coworking space operators.
Suzanne shares her journey from corporate to building a thriving coworking space in Northern Ireland.
Together, we explore how coworking has evolved in rural communities, the importance of creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging, and the challenges of balancing family life and entrepreneurship.
Suzanne also delves into the power of small, community-based workspaces and how they can transform the lives of freelancers, solopreneurs, and remote workers.
We discuss the key factors that led to her success, including understanding diverse personalities, creating flexible spaces, and learning to "keep it agile" in business and personal life.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
[00:34] – Introducing the Community Builders Cohort and the episode’s sponsor, Nook Wellness Pods.
[01:01] – Suzanne Murdock explains her coaching and mentoring focus for micro and SME flexible workspace operators.
[03:22] – The challenges of starting a coworking space in Northern Ireland and the family-like community that developed.
[06:19] – The personal motivations behind transitioning from the corporate world to launching a coworking space.
[09:19] – How coworking offers a solution to burnout and a more fulfilling work-life balance.
[13:00] – Growing organically with the coworking community and adapting to the needs of solopreneurs and remote workers.
[19:29] – Leveraging the coworking space ecosystem: collaborating with accountants, digital agencies, and other experts.
[24:04] – Suzanne’s involvement in ResMove, a European project focused on supporting migrants, small entrepreneurs, and diaspora members through coworking spaces.
Links & Resources
* The Hub Newry
* Suzanne’s Powering Productivity Podcast
* Nook Wellness Pods
* Coworking I.D.E.A. Project
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Register your space for European Coworking Day, May 2025
* Get your pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
* Connect with Suzanne on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
Summary:
In this episode, Emily and Bernie are joined by Adrian Segar, a meeting designer, facilitator, and author of Conferences That Work. Adrian shares his unique journey from particle physics to revolutionizing the way conferences are run. He explains how he pioneered an entirely new format for meetings, focusing on peer-driven content and fostering genuine human connections.
We discuss the evolving role of in-person events, why they still matter in 2024, and how coworking spaces can elevate community and collaboration through well-designed gatherings.
Adrian also dives into actionable strategies for coworking space managers to enhance events, ensuring they bring out the best in their communities. Whether you're planning a conference, managing a coworking space, or just curious about the future of meetings, this conversation is packed with insights on designing events that foster meaningful connections and practical takeaways.
Timeline Summary:
* [00:57] – Adrian shares his journey from academic physics to becoming a leader in meeting design.
* [02:24] – How Adrian’s impromptu meeting structure changed the conference world in 1992.
* [04:27] – The shifting reasons people attend events in 2024 and why connection is more important than ever.
* [08:29] – How coworking spaces can improve community collaboration through well-thought-out events.
* [11:15] – Adrian’s 3-question approach to uncovering hidden resources and needs in coworking events.
* [15:30] – Why the term “unconference” doesn’t fully capture the essence of peer-led conferences.
* [19:55] – Strategies for encouraging attendees to take action post-event and maintain momentum.
* [23:27] – How to collect feedback effectively and adapt future events to community needs.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Adrian Segar, a veteran in the meeting design space, talks us through his revolutionary approach to creating events where the attendees shape the content and connections matter more than presentations.
Drawing on decades of experience, Adrian explains how he designed his first peer conference by necessity, sparking a new way of thinking about how we gather.
Instead of passive learning, he encourages event planners to foster collaboration, build networks, and allow participants to dictate the agenda.
Adrian emphasises that people no longer attend events just for content — they come to connect.
With the rise of the internet, accessing knowledge is easier than ever, but meeting like-minded individuals in person still holds unmatched value.
This philosophy is crucial in 2024, as event attendees seek real human connections, the opportunity to network, and a way to integrate what they learn into their daily lives.
He also shares his advice for coworking space managers: enhancing events to build genuine community bonds.
By asking the right questions — "What do you need?" and "What can you offer?" — coworking events can reveal valuable skills and experiences within the room and enable collaboration that extends far beyond the event itself.
Adrian's method of peer-driven conferences and meetings makes coworking spaces more than just office rentals; they become hubs of opportunity, connection, and innovation.
* Adrian's Website Conferences That Work
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp 17th September 2024
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
* Connect with Adrian on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greaterimpact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
In this episode, Bernie gets to pick the brains of Amy who is part of the team at 360 Workplace Consultancy about an often overlooked topic: how to design coworking spaces that truly work for neurodiverse people.
Most coworking spaces seem set up for the so-called "average" worker—a middle-aged guy who likes the room at just the right temperature.
But what about everyone else? Amy explains how space owners can rethink their setups to be more welcoming to people, especially those who don't fit the typical mould.
They discuss how small changes, like offering a welcome guide or paying attention to lighting and noise, can make a huge difference—not just for neurodiverse folks but for everyone.
And there's more than just a feel-good reason to do this: it can significantly boost your community and bottom line, opening up new opportunities and growth potential.
If you run a coworking space or even just use one, you'll walk away with plenty of ideas on how to make these spaces better for everyone.
Plus, stay tuned for information on our upcoming London event, where you can learn hands-on how to make these changes in your own space.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
* [00:00] Introduction from Emily – Announcing a 3-month cohort program designed for community builders to strengthen their skills.
* [00:29] Bernie introduces Amy, who discusses her expertise in workplace consultancy and her goals for making coworking spaces more inclusive.
* [02:18] Why coworking spaces need to move beyond the traditional design, which caters primarily to neurotypical individuals.
* [04:09] Amy explores the economic and community impact of failing to include neurodiverse individuals in coworking spaces.
* [07:18] The hidden biases in design and how they affect diversity and inclusion in coworking.
* [11:02] How simple solutions, like a welcome guide or arrival pack, can dramatically improve the coworking experience for neurodiverse members.
* [13:04] Technology and apps that can assist in creating a more inclusive coworking environment.
* [15:48] How hospitality plays a crucial role in coworking, and what we can learn from other service industries about anticipating members' needs.
* [18:03] Amy addresses the misconception that making coworking spaces inclusive requires a substantial financial investment.
* [20:20] The importance of intersectionality in coworking spaces, ensuring inclusivity for all demographics and neurodiverse individuals.
* [22:15] Bernie and Amy preview their upcoming event in London, focusing on designing inclusive coworking spaces through interactive workshops.
Links & Resources:
* 360 Workplace Website
* 360 Workplace Case Studies
* 360 Workplace Podcast with Guenaelle Watson
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp 17th September 2024
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Amy on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greaterimpact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
In this episode, Bernie talks with marketing expert, author, and educator Mark Schaefer, someone he's been learning from for over 15 years.
Mark shares practical insights from his latest book, Belonging to the Brand: Why Community is the Last Great Marketing Strategy.
He discusses how micro and small businesses, including coworking spaces, can harness the power of community to be seen, build trust, and create lasting connections.
Mark's mix of real-world marketing experience and academic expertise makes this conversation particularly useful for anyone looking to grow a business through authentic human connections.
Throughout this episode, Mark emphasises that the future of marketing isn't in traditional advertising or digital tactics but in building genuine human connections.
This is a can't-miss episode for anyone passionate about coworking, community management, and independent business success.
Key Questions Covered:
* How have online communities evolved since the early days of the internet?
* What key mistakes did companies make when building online communities in the past?
* Why is a community the next big marketing strategy, especially for small businesses?
* What are the most effective ways to grow a community organically?
* How can coworking spaces and small businesses maintain community values despite larger competitors?
Timeline Summary
* [01:52] - Mark shares his journey of being a "teacher" through various mediums like blogging, speaking, and consulting.
* [04:29] - Mark recounts the rise and fall of early internet communities and how technological improvements reignited the community conversation.
* [06:18] - The COVID pandemic has accelerated the need for genuine, human-centred marketing and community-based business models.
* [09:29] - Exploring the misconception that community success depends on large numbers, with insights on smaller, more engaged groups.
* [15:47] - Bernie and Mark discuss the importance of organic advocacy over digital advertising for coworking spaces.
* [20:17] - Who owns your brand: the business, the community, or the people who experience it? Mark answers this age-old question.
* [28:38] - Mark shares a case study of a local jewellery store using community engagement to compete with larger chain stores.
* [33:05] - How building a personal brand helps launch and sustain community efforts for small businesses.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
Building a Sustainable Community in the Digital Age Mark highlights how early attempts at building online communities failed due to limited technology and the isolated platforms brands created.
With the evolution of social platforms like Slack and Discord, community building has become more fluid and integrated into modern life.
Community as the Future of Marketing Mark explains how he foresaw community becoming a critical component of future marketing strategies, especially in his book Marketing Rebellion.
This insight led him to expand on the idea, culminating in his latest book.
He emphasizes that customers today seek more authentic human connections, not traditional advertising.
The Myth of Large Communities A common misconception is that successful communities must be huge to thrive.
Mark debunks this myth, sharing that smaller, highly engaged groups—often under 500 people—offer the best opportunities for meaningful interaction and growth. This revelation can change how you approach community building for your coworking space or business.
Organic Growth Through Shared Value Mark explains that the most influential communities grow through advocacy rather than advertising.
By providing members with value, like expert guest speakers, they are motivated to share their experiences, which organically brings in new members.
Word of Mouth vs. SEO for Coworking Spaces While SEO and advertising play their roles, Mark reinforces the power of word-of-mouth advocacy, particularly for small, community-driven businesses like coworking spaces.
Authentic, human-led growth creates more potent, more sustainable communities.
Who Owns Your Brand? In a discussion about brand ownership, Mark suggests that while businesses can guide their brand's image, a brand is ultimately shaped by what others say about it.
Consistent, value-driven engagement is crucial in shaping this narrative positively.
The Role of Personal Branding For small businesses, Mark emphasizes that building a personal brand is crucial to starting a community.
A personal brand based on trust allows people to connect with the leader, becoming the foundation for the wider community.
Links & Resources
* Mark's long-running blog and website
* Mark's articles on LinkedIn
* Mark's Uprising Community Retreat October 2024
* All of Mark's books are on one page
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Workspace Design Show London 2025
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Mark on LinkedIn
* Connect with Christian from SALTO on LinkedIn
* SALTO Systems Website
Closing Remarks
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
The podcast currently has 278 episodes available.