In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, we chat with Jerome Chang, a veteran and skilled architect in the coworking community. We explore Jerome's journey from architecture to launching his coworking spaces in 2008. Jerome reflects on the early days of coworking, the role of design in creating functional coworking environments, and his efforts to foster inclusive communities. We delve into his initiative, People of Coworking, which aims to improve diversity and representation within the coworking industry.

This episode offers deep insights into building welcoming spaces and the ongoing challenges and opportunities in making coworking more inclusive.

Timeline Summary

- [00:00] - Introduction to the episode and guest Jerome Chang.

- [00:11] - Jerome talks about his background in coworking and architecture.

- [00:27] - Jerome shares his first memory of coworking and how he got into it.

- [02:09] - Building communities beyond coworking spaces.

- [03:42] - Launch of People of Coworking and its goals.

- [05:05] - Discussion on diversity in coworking and representation at events.

- [08:30] - The importance of inclusive marketing and role models.

- [11:50] - Challenges and efforts in addressing diversity in coworking.

- [13:36] - The role of visible diversity in creating relatable communities.

- [16:07] - Why representation at events is crucial.

- [18:12] - Strategies for event organizers to ensure diverse representation.

- [22:40] - Jerome's call to action for supporting People of Coworking.

Links & Resources

* People of Coworking

* Catherine Park of Color in tech - Our podcast with Catherine.

* Sonia Thompson is an expert on diversity and inclusivity in marketing.

* 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 next Community Builder Cohort

* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group

* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn

* Connect with Jerome on LinkedIn

* Contact Jerome via Email

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 wider 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.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

In this video, Lucy McInally shares her transformative journey with coworking, emphasizing the profound impact of community. While it's her story, I can recognise so much of my path as a freelancer and finding a home 'in coworking' and 'in coworking spaces' since I first read the word 'coworking' in Tony Bacigalupo's group on Meetup in August 2008. I also want to add that the 'magic' Lucy talks about is not unique to the London Coworking Assembly.I've had the same experience with many coworking events, meet-ups, and things like Marko Orel's Coworking Symposium - as cheesy as it sounds, it is the power of community.Lucy explains that to her, the essence of coworking is not just about shared spaces but the vibrant spirit that comes alive when people connect. She believes the core of coworking lies in community, connection, and collaboration—elements that bring people together to exchange ideas, share challenges, and inspire each other.Lucy reflects on her experiences since coming to London Coworking Assembly events after moving from Scotland. Starting as a freelancer, she quickly felt at home, thanks to the community's welcoming atmosphere, many of whom have become her friends and clients. She notes that this community goes beyond typical organisational boundaries, discussing relevant topics like inclusion, diversity, accessibility, equity, and personal and professional growth.For Lucy, the London Coworking Assembly is more than just a coworking space; it's a community that listens, supports, and grows together.🎙️Shout out to Lucy's ongoing collaboration on the Coworking Values Podcast with Christian Schmitz and me. 🎙️Our next 'Community is the key' episode will be recorded in person at our next London Coworking Assembly event at Urban MBA, with (THE) Caleb Parker, the head waiter at Brave Corporation Ltd. 🤣Join us and the rest of our community next Thursday as we continue to explore and discuss coworking community building and local economic development.It's a whole day of conversations and connections with Ashley Proctor, Anna Chuicharoen, Kofi Oppong, and Stephen Carrick-Davies at our London Coworking Assembly Forum and Bar Camp: ➡️ RSVP here: https://lu.ma/LCAJunep.s. Love and Thanks to Blake from Urban MBA for the video, Sam at Silent Gliss International Ltd. and Workspace Design Show London for the location.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

In this episode of the Coworking Values podcast, we’re thrilled to sit down with Chris Marr, who works with people to become authoritative coaches, stop people-pleasing, challenge their clients, and be indispensable. 

Chris shares his insights on how peer mentorship and accountability can transform personal and professional growth. 

We explore the concept of the zone of proximal development, the difference between training and coaching, and how creating the right company culture starts with individual responsibility. 

Chris's wisdom on the impact of timely feedback, fostering vulnerability, and the importance of taking action provides valuable takeaways for anyone looking to elevate their leadership and teamwork.

Join us as we discuss practical strategies for building a supportive environment where everyone thrives, the critical role of accountability, and how to ask for help effectively. 

This episode is packed with actionable advice that will inspire you to rethink how you approach growth and collaboration.

Episode Highlights

- [00:25] Chris Marr introduces himself and his mission to help people communicate at their highest potential.

- [02:17] The importance of learning from peers just ahead in the journey.

- [03:45] The difference between training and coaching and how they impact professional development.

- [06:48] How to effectively communicate about accountability within a team.

- [08:34] Handling critical feedback constructively and promoting a growth culture.

- [11:21] The relationship between vulnerability and creativity.

- [15:24] Building a company culture that supports high performance and individual responsibility.

- [19:28] The value of asking for help and surrounding yourself with supportive peers.

- [22:04] Different types of help you can seek to grow your business and overcome challenges.

- [26:27] The power of taking action and market validation in fueling personal and professional growth.

Links & Resources

* - Chris Marr's Book: Become an Authoritative Coach

* - Kim Scott's Book: Radical Candor

* - Oren Klaff's Book: Pitch Anything

* - Edith Edgar The Gift: 12 Lessons to Save Your Life

* - Brene Brown Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

* Ann Hawkins Business Mentor and advisor

* 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 next Community Builder Cohort

* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group

* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn

* Connect with Chris 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 wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

In this episode of the Coworking Values podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Alex Young, Director of Projects in Brighton. We discuss the significance of accessibility in shared workspaces and how Projects is leading the way in creating inclusive environments. 

Alex shares practical advice on advocating for accessibility needs, designing spaces to be universally accessible, and listening to those who face accessibility challenges.

Tune in to learn how inclusive design can make a difference in the workplace and the wider community.

Highlights

[0:02] - Introduction to the Accessibility Edition with guest Alex Young.

[0:26] - Alex talks about her role and the mission of Projects as a workspace provider.

[1:26] - Importance of supporting employees with diverse needs.

[3:09] - Emily shares a personal example of body doubling for productivity.

[4:04] - Key considerations for making coworking spaces accessible.

[5:55] - Common mistakes in accessibility efforts.

[7:18] - Tips for advocating for accessibility needs at work.

[8:42] - Low-hanging fruits for improving accessibility.

[10:52] - Story of successful advocacy and mentorship in a Berlin coworking space.

[12:17] - Future trends in accessibility for coworking spaces.

[14:09] - Alex's journey into coworking and accessibility.

[17:27] - Advice for new co-working spaces on building accessibility from the ground up.

[19:13] - How listeners can connect with Alex.

Alex on LinkedIn

Projects - Brighton

Listen to Alex's Favourite Positions Podcast

Emily on LinkedIn

Coworking Values Podcast on Substack

Co-created by Nook Wellness Pods

Links & Resources

Centre of Excellence in Universal Design: Universal Design

Access to Work (UK Government Fund): Access to Work

Exceptional Individuals (UK Gateway Provider): Exceptional Individuals

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 wherever you listen.

Your support helps our show have an even greater impact.

It also helps people in the wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

This episode's conversation is with Dina, a key figure in the German coworking community, straight from her greenhouse in Hamburg. Dina shares her journey of integrating coworking values into corporate settings, where she works as an Agile Coach and Scrum Master. We also explore the relationship between agile methodologies and coworking principles.

Episode Highlights:

[0:17] Dina's Coworking Vision: Dina's aspirations to reshape the German work landscape through coworking.

[1:39] Coworking in Corporate Settings: How coworking values influence traditional corporate environments.

[4:19] Community Over Competition: Bernie discusses the impact of sharing and collaboration in coworking.

[6:29] CoWork 2024 Insights: Highlights from the recent coworking conference focusing on sustainability.

[10:08] Holistic Sustainability: Exploring sustainability beyond environmental aspects within coworking.

[17:14] Future Plans: Upcoming initiatives by the German Coworking Federation to promote sustainable practices.

Links & Resources:

German Coworking Federation

Cowork 2024 Conference

Coworking Climate Coalition

Connect with Dina on LinkedIn

Follow Dina’s gardening journey on Instagram

Lego Serious Play Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn

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 wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

In this episode of the CoWorking Values podcast, we have the pleasure of speaking with Alex Young, Director of Projects in Brighton.

We discuss the significance of accessibility in shared workspaces and how Projects is leading the way in creating inclusive environments. 

Alex shares practical advice on advocating for accessibility needs, designing spaces to be universally accessible, and listening to those who face accessibility challenges. Tune in to learn how inclusive design can make a difference in the workplace and the wider community.

Highlights

[0:02] - Introduction to the Accessibility Edition with guest Alex Young.

[0:26] - Alex talks about her role and the mission of Projects as a workspace provider.

[1:26] - Importance of supporting employees with diverse needs.

[3:09] - Emily shares a personal example of body doubling for productivity.

[4:04] - Key considerations for making coworking spaces accessible.

[5:55] - Common mistakes in accessibility efforts.

[7:18] - Tips for advocating for accessibility needs at work.

[8:42] - Low-hanging fruits for improving accessibility.

[10:52] - Story of successful advocacy and mentorship in a Berlin coworking space.

[12:17] - Future trends in accessibility for coworking spaces.

[14:09] - Alex's journey into the field of coworking and accessibility.

[17:27] - Advice for new co-working spaces on building accessibility from the ground up.

[19:13] - How listeners can connect with Alex.

Alex on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-young-74431a135/] 

Projects - Brighton [https://www.projectsclub.co.uk] 

Listen to Alex her Favourite Positions Podcast [https://www.favouritepositions.com] 

Emily on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilygbreder/] 

Coworking Values Podcast on Substack [https://coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com] 

Links & Resources

Centre of Excellence in Universal Design: Universal Design [https://universaldesign.ie] 

Access to Work (UK Government Fund): Access to Work [https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work] 

Exceptional Individuals (UK Gateway Provider): Exceptional Individuals [https://exceptionalindividuals.com]

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 [https://coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com] ; it helps our show have an even greater impact.

It also helps people in the wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Subscribe to Coworking Values Podcast [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1586605780737s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1586605780737s]

In this episode's conversation is with Dina, a key figure in the German coworking community, straight from her greenhouse in Hamburg.

Dina shares her journey of integrating coworking values into corporate settings where she works as an Agile Coach and Scrum Master.

We also explore the relationship between agile methodologies and coworking principles.

Episode Highlights:

[0:17] Dina's Coworking Vision: Dina's aspirations to reshape the German work landscape through coworking.

[1:39] Coworking in Corporate Settings: How coworking values are influencing traditional corporate environments.

[4:19] Community Over Competition: Bernie discusses the impact of sharing and collaboration in coworking.

[6:29] CoWork 2024 Insights: Highlights from the recent coworking conference focusing on sustainability.

[10:08] Holistic Sustainability: Exploring sustainability beyond environmental aspects within coworking.

[17:14] Future Plans: Upcoming initiatives by the German Coworking Federation to promote sustainable practices.

Links & Resources:

German Coworking Federation [https://www.coworking-germany.org/] 

Cowork 2024 Conference [https://www.cowork2024.de/] 

Coworking Climate Coalition [https://www.coworking-germany.org/coworking-climate-coalition-cocc/] 

Connect with Dina on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dina-sierralta/] 

Follow Dina's gardening journey on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/dinasierralta/] 

Lego Serious Play [https://www.serious.global]

Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/coworking-values-podcas]  

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 wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Subscribe to Coworking Values Podcast [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1586605780737s] on Soundwise [https://mysoundwise.com/soundcasts/1586605780737s]

In this episode, we hear from Eva Sanz of Locus Workspace in Prague, who shares how to create a lively community where work and relationships flourish. Eva talks about the unique blend of work and social life at Locus Workspace.

She explains how their unique approach to community management transforms a typical coworking day into an opportunity for creating lasting friendships and professional networks. 

Whether you're a freelancer seeking a collaborative space or a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next creative spark, this conversation reveals how community-driven spaces can elevate your work experience.

Episode Highlights:

0:20 Introduction to Eva Sanz and Locus Workspace - discover the unique coworking environment that balances productivity and networking.

1:07 The Role of a Community Manager - Eva discusses her day-to-day activities and the integral role of community managers in fostering a welcoming and connected workspace.

3:03 Defining community management - clarification on community managers’ distinct roles and impacts versus traditional receptionists.

4:10 You’ll hear Eva’s journey from a newcomer to a pivotal community influencer in Prague's coworking scene.

10:06 Dynamic workspace culture - explore Locus Workspace’s flexible desk policy that encourages new connections daily.

14:11 The power of reviews and recommendations - Learn how positive feedback and word-of-mouth propel Locus Workspace to a leading position in Prague.

Links & Resources:

- Visit Locus Workspace: LocusWorkspace.com

- Follow on Instagram: @locusworkspace 

- Eva Sanz on LinkedIn 

- Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn 

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 wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Subscribe to Coworking Values Podcast on Soundwise

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

Planting Ideas and Growing Communities with Chauntelle Lewis: A Dive into Sustainable Living and Coworking Values

Summary:

In this Belongfulness Project episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, host Tony Bacigalupo chats with Chauntelle Lewis, also known as the Bearfoot Planter.

Chauntelle shares her inspiring journey from conceptualising sustainable garden workshops to creating community-centric dining experiences.

In this episode, you'll see how personal passions can evolve into impactful enterprises while aligning with coworking's core values—community, openness, collaboration, accessibility, and sustainability.

Episode Highlights:

- Tony introduces the five core values of coworking and welcomes Chauntelle Lewis, the Bearfoot Planter.

- Chauntelle describes the origin of the Bearfoot Planter and how an offhand comment led to a sustainable business idea.

- The brand name’s significance and the shift from a casual hobby to a community-focused enterprise.

Chauntelle discusses her background in ADEI and community management and how a pivot in her career led to her full-time pursuit of her passion.

- Launching the Bearfoot Planter during a financial struggle and the role of a supportive network in bringing the idea to life.

- Details of Chauntelle’s first workshop at a coworking space, showcasing the alignment of coworking values with personal initiatives.

- Financial challenges and strategic decisions in growing a community-focused business.

- The expansion into sustainable dining experiences and partnerships with local chefs and businesses.

- Chauntelle’s vision for the Bearfoot Planter as a full-time endeavor and her role as an Impact Entrepreneur.

- How networking and community support have been pivotal in scaling her initiatives and creating more inclusive events.

Links & Resources:

- Visit the Bearfoot Planter website

- Follow Chauntelle on Instagram

- Connect with Chauntelle on Twitter/X

- Chauntelle Lewis LinkedIn

- Tony Bacigalupo on LinkedIn

- The Belongfulness Project

- Coworking LinkedIn Group

🙏One more thing

Please follow and share the Coworking Values Podcast. It helps our show's impact in unimaginable ways.

It also helps people in the wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Subscribe to Coworking Values Podcast on Soundwise

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Sarah, a pioneer in community building from Founders and Coders, to explore the nuanced distinctions between decentralized and centralized communities.

You will hear the transformative power of shared decision-making and equitable power distribution in fostering vibrant, sustainable communities.

Sarah shares her invaluable insights on crafting inclusive spaces that accommodate and celebrate diversity, ensuring that every voice is heard and influential.

This episode is helpful if you’re passionate about intentional community building and the delicate balance between equality and equity.

We also discuss the practicalities of launching and nurturing communities that thrive on collaboration, inclusivity, and co-creation in community spaces!

Episode Highlights to listen for:

- Introduction and overview of the episode’s focus on community building and power distribution.

- Sarah introduces herself and her role at Founders and Coders, highlighting her journey into decentralized community building.

- Deep dive into what decentralized communities mean and the importance of shared power.

- The challenges and strategies of starting community-centric initiatives like coworking spaces.

- Sarah’s approach to creating inclusive environments and the importance of selecting the right participants.

- Explaining the critical difference between equity and equality in community settings.

- Conducting effective user research to ensure community initiatives meet the needs of their members.

- The economic aspects of communities and how genuine community support differs from superficial engagement.

- Where to find Sarah online and information about Founders and Coders.

Links & Resources:

- Founders and Coders Website 

- Connect with Sarah Adefehinti on LinkedIn  

- Space4 Co-opreative Coworking Finsbury Park

- The Mom Test Book 

- Priya Parker The Art of Gathering 

- Marketing for Hippies 

- Rayon.Desgin tool 

🙏One more thing

Please follow and share the Coworking Values Podcast. It helps our show's impact in unimaginable ways.

It also helps people in the wider general public and your neighbourhood understand what coworking is, how it can help their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects and work.

Subscribe to Coworking Values Podcast on Soundwise

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com