Coworking Values Podcast

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...

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. 

Episode Summary:

Join Emily's conversation with Loubna Messaoudi, a social entrepreneur and founder of BIWOC* Rising, a Berlin-based coworking space dedicated to intersectional justice for marginalised communities. 

Loubna shares her insights on building inclusive and diverse work environments, particularly for women, trans, inter, and non-binary people of colour. 

We explore the challenges and learning curves of creating spaces that claim to be inclusive and genuinely feel safe for everyone. 

Loubna also discusses the critical importance of unlearning biases, the complexities of evolving a community's structure, and the power dynamics involved in truly sharing decision-making.

Timeline Summary:

* [00:01] - Introduction to the upcoming Community Builders cohort and how it supports independent creators and community builders.

* [01:03] - Loubna Messaoudi shares her passion for inclusion and her role in the European Coworking Assembly's IDEA Handbook project.

* [03:28] - Discussing the essential elements needed to create a safe work environment for marginalised communities.

* [05:15] - Loubna explains the importance of authenticity in creating safe spaces and the pitfalls of superficial inclusivity.

* [08:03] - Transitioning from focusing on one marginalised group to broader inclusivity presents challenges in meeting all groups' needs.

* [10:28] - Dealing with tough conversations when people doubt your intentions is hard. It's essential to keep learning and adapting.

* [13:14] - Understanding the "elbow mentality" and how power-sharing can transform the workplace dynamics in coworking spaces.

* [17:26] - Loubna reflects on the inspiration behind Biwalk Rising and the need for spaces that genuinely cater to marginalised communities.

Detailed Episode Breakdown:

Loubna Messaoudi delves into the nuanced challenges of creating truly inclusive coworking spaces in this incredible episode.

We explore the following key topics:

* The IDEA Handbook: Loubna aims to help coworking spaces focus on genuine inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility.

* Intersectionality in Practice: How BIWOC* Rising uses intersectionality to dismantle exclusive structures and the practical steps they take to ensure everyone feels safe and included.

* Authenticity in Inclusion: The critical difference between superficial inclusivity efforts and genuine, impactful change. Loubna emphasizes the need for spaces beyond token gestures and genuinely engages with the communities they serve.

* Evolving a Community’s Structure: The journey of BIWOC* Rising as it transitioned from focusing on women of colour to a more inclusive space that also welcomes trans, inter, and non-binary individuals. Loubna discusses the internal debates and the learning process that accompanied this shift.

* Power Dynamics in Coworking Spaces: Loubna illuminates some people's reluctance toward sharing power and the importance of understanding that inclusivity does not diminish one's influence but rather enhances the collective power of the community.

* Practical Tips for Creating Safer Spaces: Loubna offers actionable advice on how coworking spaces can make marginalized individuals feel welcome, from non-gendered bathrooms to sensitivity training for all members.

Links & Resources

* BIWOC* Rising website

* BIWOC* Rising on Instagram

* Nook Wellness Pods

* Coworking I.D.E.A. Project

* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp 17th September 2024

* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn

* Join the next Community Builder Cohort

* Workspace Design Show London

* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group

* Connect with Emily on LinkedIn

* Connect with Loubna Messaoudi 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 talks with Michelle Kok, a workspace design expert known for her unique approach to integrating creativity with analytical insights.

Together, they delve into the evolving concept of "hotelification" in workspaces, exploring how blending hospitality elements into office design can foster comfort and productivity.

Michelle shares her thoughts on what makes a workspace "commute-worthy," the impact of remote work on gender roles, and the importance of aligning workplace design with the needs and culture of the business.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how the future of workspaces is shaping up, with discussions ranging from the role of management in workspace design to the potential for mega-chain cafés to become coworking hubs.

If you're curious about the future of coworking and office spaces and how these trends might affect you and your community, this episode is a must-listen.

Timeline Summary:

* [01:11] - Michelle discusses the intersection of creativity and analytical thinking in workspace design.

* [02:25] - Michelle explains her enthusiasm for the concept of hotelification and how it brings comfort and vibrancy into traditionally bland office spaces.

* [05:21] - The discussion on how workplace design should align with the business's operational goals and management style.

* [08:29] - Michelle elaborates on the concept of "commute-worthy" workspaces and why businesses need to make the office worth the travel time for employees.

* [11:24] - Exploring the impact of remote work on gender roles and social capital in the workplace.

* [20:09] - How external societal changes influence workplace design, from multiculturalism to diversity and inclusion.

* [24:20] - The potential future of workspace design, including the rise of mega-chain cafés like Starbucks integrating coworking elements.

Detailed Episode Breakdown:

In this episode, Michelle Kok provides a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of workspace design.

She begins by explaining how her approach uniquely blends analytical rigor with creative flair, ensuring that each design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally aligned with the business's needs.

The conversation then shifts to the trend of "hotelification"—the infusion of hospitality elements into workspaces.

Michelle strongly advocates this approach, believing it transforms bland, siloed offices into vibrant, welcoming environments that boost employee well-being and productivity.

However, she also warns against gimmicky designs, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of the business's operational goals.

Michelle and Bernie then tackle the concept of "commute-worthy" workspaces.

With remote work rising, businesses must make the office experience valuable enough to justify the commute.

Michelle highlights how design can play a crucial role by fostering environments that encourage collaboration and spontaneous interactions—elements often missing in remote work setups.

The discussion also touches on the impact of remote work on gender roles, particularly how flexible work arrangements can promote gender equality by allowing both men and women to balance work and family responsibilities more effectively.

Finally, Michelle shares her vision for the future of workspace design, which she believes will continue to evolve as societal values shift.

From incorporating elements of global cultures into office design to predicting and meeting employees' unspoken needs, Michelle's insights provide a thought-provoking look at what lies ahead for workspaces.

Links & Resources

* Michelle Kok Design

* The Seduction of ‘Hotelification’ in the Workplace

* Follow Michelle on Instgram

* 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 Michelle on LinkedIn

* Join the Virtual Headquarters Network here.

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 we welcome back Hector Kolonas, the mastermind behind This Week in Coworking, a newsletter that has become an indispensable resource for the coworking community. We dive into Hector's journey, from his first encounter with coworking in Manchester to building a sustainable and impactful newsletter that connects coworking spaces and communities globally. Hector shares his insights on how coworking has evolved from niche spaces to essential parts of local economies and offers valuable advice for anyone looking to start and sustain a successful newsletter. This conversation is a must for coworking enthusiasts, community builders, and anyone interested in the future of workspaces.

Timeline Summary

* [00:00] - Emily introduces the podcast and shares details about a new cohort for community managers.

* [00:30] - Francesca from Virtual Headquarters discusses how they support coworking spaces across the UK and Europe.

* [01:00] - Bernie welcomes listeners and introduces Hector, the guest for this episode.

* [01:11] - Hector shares what he's known for and his goals, including his involvement with This Week in Coworkingand removing the hyphen in "coworking."

* [01:48] - Hector recounts his first experience with coworking in Manchester and how it led to his current work in the coworking industry.

* [04:27] - Discussion on the origins of This Week in Coworking, its growth, and the sustainability challenges faced along the way.

* [07:04] - Hector talks about different business models for newsletters and why he opted for a patron-based model rather than traditional sponsorships.

* [12:17] - Bernie and Hector discuss the importance of co-creating with brands and the benefits of a collaborative model in the coworking community.

* [16:59] - Hector shares advice for creating newsletters, focusing on sustainability, consistency, and writing for the reader's worst day.

* [23:28] - The debate over the hyphen in "coworking" and its implications for SEO and industry visibility.

* [28:13] - Hector discusses the role of coworking spaces in hyperlocal economies and their evolution into community hubs.

Detailed Episode Breakdown

* Introduction and Special Offers:Emily opens the podcast with details about a new cohort for community builders, followed by Francesca explaining how Virtual Headquarters supports coworking spaces.

* Hector’s Introduction and Early Days in Coworking:Hector shares his experience with coworking, starting from his time in Manchester and the significant role that economic crises played in shaping his involvement with coworking spaces.

* The Birth and Growth of This Week in Coworking:Hector explains how his passion for coworking and storytelling led to the creation of This Week in Coworking, a newsletter that began with just six subscribers and has since become a key resource in the industry.

* Challenges of Monetizing Newsletters:Hector and Bernie discuss the sustainability of newsletters, different business models, and why Hector chose a patron-based model over traditional sponsorships.

* Tips for Aspiring Newsletter Creators:Hector offers practical advice for anyone looking to start a newsletter, emphasizing the importance of consistency, writing with empathy, and focusing on sustainability.

* SEO and the Coworking Hyphen Debate:The conversation turns to the ongoing debate about the use of a hyphen in "coworking" and its impact on SEO. Hector provides data-driven insights into why removing the hyphen can improve discoverability - see the image below.

* The Role of Coworking in Local Economies:The episode concludes with a discussion on how coworking spaces have become integral to local communities, especially in the post-COVID era.

Why don’t you a hypen in the word coworking?

Google trends shows how "coworking" search volume is exponentially higher than for "co-working" so you stand more chance of being found in search without the hypen.

Links & Resources

* Subscribe to Hector’s This Week in Coworking Newsletter

* Hector’s Syncaroo saved Freddie’s Patch a ton of time and money.

* Coworking or Co-working How Do You Spell It?

* Jon Alexander’s Citizens

* 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 Hector on LinkedIn

* Join the Virtual Headquarters Network here.

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 of the Coworking Values Podcast, Emily Breeder and Bernie Mitchell explore the challenges of adopting new systems and overcoming the inertia that often keeps us clinging to ineffective methods.

Emily shares valuable insights from their current community builder cohort, touching on the hesitation many feel when faced with change and the importance of finding the simplest tools that actually work.

Bernie adds a personal story about his resistance to shifting his video content format despite knowing it would yield better results—an experience many of us can relate to.

The conversation then dives into the significance of having a reliable "system of capture" for organizing tasks, the emotional barriers that prevent us from completing essential yet daunting tasks, and how maintaining consistent “staying speed” can keep us moving forward without burnout.

Whether you’re a community manager, freelancer, or someone simply looking to improve your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you streamline your processes and tackle challenges head-on.

Timeline Summary:

* [00:00] - Emily introduces a next three-month cohort for community builders, designed to help build and strengthen your workflow and community skills.

* [00:35] - Discussion about resistance to change, with Bernie sharing his experience of finally switching his video format from landscape to vertical.

* [02:37] - Bernie reflects on overcoming perfectionism and the importance of doing rather than over-preparing.

* [04:42] - Emily discusses the impact of perfectionism on participation and how rationalizing excuses can hold people back.

* [09:12] - A deep dive into finding the right tools for task management, with Emily emphasizing simplicity and practicality.

* [14:24] - Emily outlines a method for dealing with overwhelm by dumping all tasks into a backlog and then prioritizing them using the urgent/important matrix.

* [17:33] - Strategies for managing emotions when faced with difficult tasks, and the benefits of collaborative work.

* [21:02] - The importance of documenting processes for regular tasks to save time and mental energy, especially on challenging days.

Detailed Episode Breakdown:

* Introduction to the New Cohort [00:00 - 00:26]:Emily kicks off the episode by introducing a new offering for community builders—a three-month cohort designed to provide personalized guidance, practical strategies, and motivation to help participants build and manage their communities effectively.

* The Challenge of Changing Habits [00:26 - 02:32]:Bernie and Emily discuss how difficult it is to let go of old habits and embrace new systems, even when we know the change will be beneficial.

Bernie shares his struggle with switching from landscape to vertical video format and how making the change drastically improved his engagement.

* Perfectionism and Its Pitfalls [02:32 - 04:42]:The conversation shifts to the common trap of perfectionism, where Bernie and Emily explore how our desire for everything to be "just right" can often prevent us from taking action.

Emily points out how perfectionism can manifest in various forms, from delaying projects to avoiding participation in events due to trivial concerns.

* The Role of Simple Tools [09:12 - 11:05]:Emily emphasizes the importance of using simple tools that you and your clients can easily adopt.

She argues against the need for feature-rich, complex systems, advocating instead for tools that are straightforward and effective.

* Managing Overwhelm with a System of Capture [14:24 - 15:35]:Emily introduces the concept of a "system of capture" as a way to manage overwhelm.

By dumping all tasks into a backlog and prioritizing them based on urgency and importance, she explains how this method can help clarify what needs to be done without feeling overloaded.

* Collaborative Work as a Solution [17:33 - 19:23]:Bernie and Emily discuss the value of collaboration, especially for those working alone or in small teams.

Sharing ideas and tasks with others can help alleviate the burden of decision-making and increase productivity.

Documenting Processes for Efficiency [21:02 - 22:02]:The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of documenting processes for routine tasks.

Bernie shares his own experience of how creating a checklist for publishing podcast episodes has streamlined his workflow, making the process faster and more efficient.

Links & Resources

* Thich Nhat Hanh - Foundation Website

* European Coworking Day

* Martin Huntbach - Jammy Digital

* AppSumo - lifetime software deals.

* Creator Write Club

* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp

* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn

* Virtual Headquarters - join the independent virtual office network for your coworking business.

* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group

* Join the next Community Builder Cohort

* 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.