If coworking is just about filling offices, you’re doing it wrong. John Egan (Lucid Private Offices) and John Herring (Fuse Workspace) know that thriving flex brands are built on hospitality, experience, and genuine community.

In this episode, we dig into how these two regional operators create spaces where members feel truly at home—and why that’s the key to long-term success.

We cover:

• The strategy behind scaling a hospitality-first coworking brand.

• Why design and first impressions matter—but why people matter more.

• The role of culture, service, and even faith in coworking leadership.

• How regional flex brands can go head-to-head with the big players.

• What coworking operators can learn from hotels, restaurants, and even summer camps.

If you’re serious about running a coworking space that actually builds loyalty, retention, and impact—this one’s a must-listen! 

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

John Egan on LinkedIn

John Herring on LinkedIn

Lucid Private Offices website

Fuse Workspace website

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We finally got Caleb Parker in the hot seat! If you know Caleb, you know—he’s a flex space industry leader, a branding expert, and the voice behind the Brave Ideas podcast. Caleb joins us to talk about his journey from IWG to launching multiple companies, the critical role of brand and hospitality in the future of flex, and how he’s building a business that he actually wants to work in.

In this episode, we cover:

• How Caleb got into the flex industry and what led him to London

• The power of branding and why it’s more important than ever

• Why office space needs to focus on human experiences, not just desks

• The future of flex partnerships and why collaboration beats competition

• How to build a company culture that keeps people coming back

Caleb is one of the sharpest minds in the industry, and this conversation is packed with insights. Don’t miss it!

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

Caleb on LinkedIn

Brave Corp website

Brave Ideas podcast

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Anne Olsen, Director of Coworking at The Shop, joins us to share how she went from community building to leading a multi-city coworking brand under The Domain Companies. With locations in Salt Lake City, New Orleans, and soon Brooklyn, The Shop is growing, and Anne is at the center of it all—scouting new locations, refining operations, and making sure each space fosters connection.

In this episode, we cover:

• How The Domain Companies integrates coworking with mixed-use developments.

• Why The Shop is expanding into new cities and how they select locations.

• The balance between community-building and financial sustainability in coworking.

• Anne’s career path from community manager to director and her advice for growth-minded coworking pros.

• The role of management agreements in The Shop’s expansion strategy.

Whether you're looking for inspiration on growing your coworking brand or just love a good community-building success story, this one’s for you!

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

Anne on LinkedIn

The Domain Companies website

The Shop Coworking Spaces website

LExC

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Most executives are still debating "how many days in the office"—but Brian Elliott is here to tell them they’re asking the wrong questions. A former Google and Slack exec, Future of Work 50 Thought Leader, and leadership advisor, Brian has spent years helping companies navigate the future of work, AI, and leadership.

In this episode, we dive into:

• Why the debate over office days is outdated—and what leaders should be focusing on instead.

• The biggest mistakes companies make when implementing hybrid and remote work policies.

• How leadership styles need to evolve for a world of distributed teams and generative AI.

• Why traditional “hustle culture” is failing—and what today’s workforce actually values.

• The data-driven case for flexibility: how companies can attract and retain top talent.

If you’re a leader, workplace strategist, or just obsessed with the future of work, you won’t want to miss this one.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

Brian on LinkedIn

Future Forum website

How the Future Works

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In this episode of Flex Uncensored, Jamie and Gio catch up on Gio’s new role with the Global Workspace Association (GWA), upcoming immersive events, and his personal adventures that always tie back to Flex. They dive into the state of the industry, the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how they’re both focused on helping operators level up in 2025.

• Gio’s new role at GWA and how it’s shaping the future of flex industry events, including the first international immersive event in Mexico City.

• Why Gio believes San Antonio is the sleeper market to watch and how Texas, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City are Flex powerhouses in the making.

• The three mistakes you can’t recover from when launching a coworking space (hint: bad real estate deals top the list).

• How Jamie’s Virtual Mail Challenge became a surprise hit—and why it’s a game-changer for existing operators.

• The importance of getting out of your “operator silo” to build relationships, scout competitors, and avoid costly mistakes.

If you’re an operator, investor, or flex enthusiast looking to grow smarter in 2025, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and a healthy dose of Gio’s signature storytelling.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

Google Reviews to Revenue Challenge

GWA Immersive

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How do you reshape an industry steeped in tradition? David Cairns, a commercial real estate veteran turned flex space advocate, shares his journey from the brokerage world to building a life centered on flexibility and purpose. With sharp insights into the CBRE-Industrious deal, the hurdles to flex adoption, and why companies need to "earn the commute," this episode is packed with bold predictions and actionable advice for operators and business leaders alike. Known for his bold takes and LinkedIn presence, David doesn’t hold back in this conversation.

In this episode, we cover:

• The CBRE-Industrious deal: its implications and what it means for the coworking industry.

• Why the shift to flexible workspaces hasn’t grown as fast as anticipated and the barriers in commercial real estate.

• How remote work and changing employee preferences are reshaping office space strategies.

• David’s personal journey to Cadence and how living on an island transformed his perspective on work-life balance.

• Why companies need to rethink their cultural strategies to "earn the commute."

Get ready for a thought-provoking conversation that dives deep into the coworking landscape, employee dynamics, and the balance of life, work, and community.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

Dave's LinkedIn profile

Kadence website

Kane's LinkedIn profile

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What does the future of coworking and flex spaces look like? According to Will Sandford, Director of Coworking at Yardi, it's all about building connections—between spaces, technologies, and people. In this episode, Will shares exclusive insights into Yardi's recent acquisitions of DeskPass and Hubble HQ and what these moves mean for the industry.

Will also dives into Yardi’s vision of creating a universal marketplace that seamlessly connects operators, landlords, and end users, setting the stage for the next era of coworking.

In this episode, we cover:

• Yardi’s acquisitions of DeskPass and Hubble HQ and the strategic goals behind them.

• Why building a unified technology backbone is crucial for the growth of flex spaces.

• The importance of cross-pollination between coworking operators and corporate real estate.

• Will’s personal journey from real estate investment banking to shaping the future of coworking.

• Predictions for the future of coworking, including increased involvement from traditional office players.

This episode is packed with insider knowledge and actionable takeaways for anyone invested in the coworking and flex industries.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

William on LinkedIn

Yardi website

GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/

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How does one go from brokering corporate jets to building a thriving co-warehousing business? David Fisher, Managing Director of Fisher Global Development and Founder of Kefi Spaces and Business E Suites, shares his fascinating journey of innovation, persistence, and vision. With a background in aviation and a knack for seeing potential where others don’t, David has created a unique model combining coworking and co-warehousing in Sugar Land, Texas. Tune in to hear how he’s navigating uncharted territory in the coworking industry, building a business model that supports small and mid-sized businesses, and why sometimes being the first to try something new is worth the challenge. In this episode, we cover:

• How David transitioned from corporate aviation to real estate development and coworking.
• The unique concept of co-warehousing and its benefits for small businesses.
• Insights on overcoming challenges as an entrepreneur, including securing funding for innovative ideas.
• Why community and collaboration are key to the coworking and co-warehousing model.
• David’s plans for the future, including scaling Kefi Spaces and supporting entrepreneurs through innovative spaces.

This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable insights for anyone in the coworking or coworking-adjacent industries. Don't miss it!

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

**GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off >> https://na.gcuc.co/

David on LinkedIn

Fisher Global Development website

Kefi Spaces

Business esuites

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In this episode of Flex Uncensored, we dive deep into the flex workspace world with Michael Kloppenburg of Avison Young. A seasoned expert in the field, Michael brings unparalleled insights from his journey as an operator, broker, and trusted industry advisor. Gio and Michael unpack the challenges, growth, and untapped opportunities in the flex and coworking sector.

We talked about:

• Michael’s transition from coworking member to industry leader and what he learned along the way.

• How to navigate challenging landlord-operator dynamics and craft winning hybrid agreements.

• Why relationships and trust are the currency of success in the real estate world.

• The evolving role of flex spaces in the post-pandemic landscape and how operators can stay ahead.

• Michael’s candid thoughts on teamwork, mentorship, and creating a career rooted in integrity.

Tune in for a thoughtful, honest conversation about where the industry is headed and how to position your flex workspace for long-term success.

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

Michael's LinkedIn profile

Avison Young's website

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What happens when some of the brightest minds in coworking gather to share insights, tour inspiring spaces, and discuss the future of the industry? You get a jam-packed episode brimming with takeaways from the GWA Immersive event in New York City!

In this episode, we’re diving into highlights from a unique gathering that brought together operators, service providers, and industry newcomers. It’s a celebration of collaboration, creativity, and hospitality — all the elements that make coworking a dynamic and ever-evolving space.

Here’s what we covered:

• How immersive events foster deeper connections and collaboration within the coworking industry.

• Insights into the intersection of hospitality, design, and functionality in coworking spaces.

• How AI and dynamic pricing are shaping the future of space management and enhancing customer experiences.

• The role of technology and data in driving innovation and smarter business strategies for operators.

• Why small, intimate conferences create the perfect environment for learning, sharing, and building lasting relationships.

Get ready to feel inspired and take away actionable ideas for your coworking space!

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Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast