Coworking Values Podcast

Welcome back for another episode of the Coworking Values: Visionaries series, created in collaboration with andcards, coworking space management software that streamlines the management and use of flexible workspaces.

In this episode, we have Shamena Nurse-Kingsley, founder of Cowo&Crèche, a coworking space in Alexandria, Virginia that's specifically designed for parents and women. 

This coworking space is all about supporting parents and women. Shamena shares her journey into coworking, which was inspired by the challenges she faced as a working mom during the pandemic.

Drawing on her military background, Shamena talks about how her experiences in the military gave her the courage to become an entrepreneur. 

She also opens up about the struggles working moms face and the importance of setting boundaries for a healthy work-life balance.

Shamena's joy in being involved in her kids' milestones led her to create Cowo&Crèche as a solution for working parents who want to balance their careers and family lives. 

She emphasizes the importance of addressing real issues and follows her faith and intuition in her entrepreneurial journey.

This shows how coworking spaces can make a positive impact on parents and women navigating work and family.

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In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast with our co-creator Rayon Design - unveiling tools for ordinary architecture, embracing collaboration, speed, and openness for a new design culture.

We have Peter Block the founder of Designed Learning. Peter talks about importance of creating meaningful conversations among coworkers and how rearranging physical spaces can promote social interactions. 

He also delves on how he sees coworking spaces as more than just places to work, but as platforms for connecting with others. They're like hubs for bringing people together. They talk about the challenges of getting people to talk to each other and how rearranging the space can help. 

They also shares some stories about events that brought people together and how language can make a big difference. Coworking spaces can make a big impact on rural areas and local communities, according to him. 

Peter believes that asking meaningful questions, using the right words can really change things and language plays a role in creating a positive and collaborative environment in coworking spaces.

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Welcome to the first episode of Coworking Values Podcast: Accessibility Track. This series is in partnership with Nook Wellness Pods - which provides distraction-free environments in coworking spaces, perfect for neurodiverse individuals who need a focused and comfortable workspace.

We'll be exploring the special challenges and opportunities of making coworking spaces inclusive and empowering for people with disabilities, whether they have physical limitations or are neurodiverse.

In this episode with our host Emily Breder featuring Rosie Sherry from the Ministry of Testing in the UK. She talks about the connection between neurodiversity and coworking. 

Rosie discusses her sensory sensitivities and her preference for quieter work environments. Rosie is committed to fostering understanding and meeting the diverse needs of professionals.

Rosie shares her experience in coworking spaces in Brighton in 2010. She managed a space and got involved in local meetups, forming connections and friendships.

Then they dive into neurodiversity. Rosie talks about her journey, especially with her child who was diagnosed last year. She discusses how women are speaking up more about neurodiversity and the challenges neurodiverse people face in society.

One important topic they cover is Rosie's sensory sensitivities, especially to noise, and how it impacts her coworking preferences. She believes there should be more spaces that cater to different needs, especially quieter and more focused work settings.

Rosie shares her own work preferences, leaning towards self-employment for creative freedom and to meet her specific needs. She talks about the stress of working for others and the significance of effectively managing her calendar.

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Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Coworking Values: Visionaries series! We're thrilled to have you join us once more as we dive into the world of collaborative workspaces. This series is proudly brought to you in partnership with andcards, the cutting-edge coworking space management software that revolutionizes operations in flexible workspaces.

In this episode, join Erika Gifford and Sean Comeaux from Hatchworks coworking space here in Asheville about their journey, community-building tips, and why it’s so important to make real connections in coworking.

Erika and Sean are partners in life and business. They unexpectedly started a coworking space called Hatchworks during the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It all started when they needed separate office spaces. 

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, they found ways to create a strong community through networking events and involvement in the local arts scene. They also prioritized personal branding and used technology to make their coworking space more accessible. Despite the pandemic, they remained committed to building connections and bringing people together.

Links:

Hatchworks Coworking Instagram 

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In this episode we welcome back, Maria do Ceu Bastos, Co-Founder, and Manager of Nowhere Desk to talk about integrating local culture and her vision for a unique coworking experience. 

Maria, who has been a remote worker for over thirty years, shares her story of embracing remote work even before the internet was a thing. She talks about the challenges and rewards of early remote work and how important it is to find a balance between work and family life.

Remote work has gained recognition and value over time. It has benefits for individuals, communities, and businesses. It's important to involve the community in creating coworking spaces in rural areas and collaborate with them.

Maria also talks about her upcoming project called "Nowhere Desk," a coworking and co-living space in Portugal. She shares the challenges she's faced in finding the right facilities and the importance of networking with other coworking spaces.

Maria believes that by celebrating the uniqueness of the local area, they can create a great experience for remote workers and digital nomads.

Overall, Maria offers valuable insights for anyone considering remote work or coworking. It shows the importance of community involvement and collaboration in creating successful coworking spaces in rural areas.

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In this episode of the Community is Key series co-created with Salto, Join Stefanie as she talks and explores the blend of community, tech, and hospitality with Urban Garden as it helps organic connections that shape collaborative coworking environments.

We have Stefanie Mayr, a Leasing Manager from Immofinanz, who wants to be known as an open-minded, strong woman in the real estate industry. 

She's here to talk about the Urban Garden Project and how it transformed into a vibrant coworking space that embraces hospitality. The place is lush and welcoming, creating connections among their tenants. 

Stefanie believes that community in coworking spaces should happen naturally, not through forced networking events. She explains how onboarding and community managers play a role in integrating new members seamlessly. 

Technology also plays a part, with an app for building access and community engagement. Stefanie shares strategies to encourage its usage and the perks that come with it. 

The buzz and collaborative atmosphere in coworking spaces are similar to restaurants or cafes, fostering connections among occupants. 

Stefanie shares that she finds working in coworking spaces rewarding and encourages a more open approach to this concept in Austria. She envisions a future with increased flexibility and adaptability in workspace design.

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In this Coworking Values podcast episode, we have Martyn Sibley as he talks about how Inclusion in businesses can help empower people with disabilities and how it can impact a global market.

Martyn is the Co-Founder and CEO of Disability Horizons and Purple Goat Agency, he is an expert in disability, inclusion, and social media in business. 

Martyn shares his extensive travel experiences as a wheelchair user in over 25 countries.

Martin also shares about 'Accomable,' one of his projects that aims to make travel more accessible for disabled individuals. 

He emphasizes the importance of not only physically accessible places but also ones that are supportive and informative.

The discussion focuses on the importance of disability inclusion in society and business. 

Martyn explains how businesses can benefit financially by becoming more accessible, moving away from solely charitable efforts, and recognizing the profitability of inclusivity.

He also includes both the consumer and citizen perspectives of the disability rights movement. 

Martyn emphasizes the importance of businesses understanding diverse needs, not just visible disabilities, and engaging in conversation with customers to provide appropriate support.

Martyn also delves in his experience searching for an accessible coworking space and the challenges he has faced due to physical obstacles.

Links:

Workspace Show 

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We're happy to have you back for another episode of the Coworking Values: Visionaries series, created in collaboration with andcards, coworking space management software that streamlines the management and use of flexible workspaces.

Today, we have the pleasure of chatting with Ilia Kenigshtein, the founder and CEO of Creative States, a network of coworking spaces in Ukraine. 

We'll be exploring their mission and accomplishments.

Let's shine a spotlight on Ilia, the driving force behind Creative States. They're making waves with their unique coworking spaces in Ukraine. 

Creative States goes beyond the traditional workspace. They create a strong sense of community, comfort, and social impact. Managing coworking spaces in a country dealing with a pandemic and war is challenging, but Creative States maintains a high occupancy rate.

In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, we examine how Creative States' "fantasy land" concept serves as a powerful form of resistance and community-building during the Russian invasion. 

These coworking spaces provide more than just shelter; they stand as a symbol of unyielding courage and unity, aiming to preserve a sense of normalcy and the continuous drive for creative expression even in the midst of war.

They even have child-friendly coworking spaces where parents can bring their kids and access educational support.

Starting a business in a region with fewer regulations may have its challenges, but there are also opportunities. We'll dive into that.

Looking ahead, Ilia envisions expanding Creative States into Europe and beyond. Our conversation with Ilia reveals Creative States' mission to create a haven within co-working. It's a place where normalcy and freedom shine, even in the face of adversity.

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This podcast is a must-listen for anyone into coworking or community development. We welcome back Ashley Proctor of Coworking Canada as shares her journey and how coworking spaces have evolved over the past 20 years. In 2004, she designed her first coworking community with students at OCAD. It was more of a collaborative space back then since coworking wasn't even a term yet. 

They'll also discuss the big changes of the last decade, like the pandemic and the death of George Floyd, and how they've highlighted the importance of connecting and building communities. They'll also touch on remote working, social justice, and environmental issues that have pushed us to take action together. 

Ashley views coworking as more than just renting space – it's about building inclusive communities and taking care of everyone. She emphasizes the importance of being part of the conversation, especially during this socially charged time. 

She also highlights how coworking can have a significant impact on the economy and make a real difference. Lastly, she mentions the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and the need for coworking spaces to contribute to the transition away from fossil fuels. 

Ultimately, coworking is a powerful force for change, and Ashley believes it can truly make a difference in the world.

Links:

andcards with Coworking Canada Uncoference 2023 

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In this episode of the podcast, we have Samantha Francis, Founder of Find A Balance talk about mental health, wellness, and the struggles black people face. 

She shares personal stories and advice on tackling mental health issues early on and helping those in need. The rising rate of suicide is highlighted, emphasizing the urgent need to address the mental health crisis. 

Sam also touches on the importance of schools in promoting mental well-being but also highlights the lack of understanding and support for students with mental health issues. 

Pupil referral units (PRUs) are alternative educational institutions used to place students who have been kicked out of mainstream schools for behavioral issues. 

Sam emphasizes the importance of addressing trauma early on to prevent more serious issues later in life. This conversation provides a better understanding of mental health issues and the need for better support and education, especially for people from different backgrounds.

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