Unveiling the Soul of Coworking with Iris Kavanaugh

Our co-creator for this episode is Rayon Design [https://www.rayon.design/?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=collab_bernim&utm_source=blog&utm_content=blog_020124], an online space planning tool where you can draw ideas. You can get started for free here [https://www.rayon.design/?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=collab_bernim&utm_source=blog&utm_content=blog_020124]. https://www.rayon.design/?utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=collab_bernim&utm_source=blog&utm_content=blog_020124

Welcome to a heartwarming journey into the essence of coworking, where we transcend beyond desks and Wi-Fi to uncover the profound impact coworking spaces have on community, creativity, and economic development. 

In this episode, the inspiring Iris Kavanaugh, an experienced community builder, leadership coach, trainer and facilitator, shares her transformative insights into community and our fundamental human need for connection. 

Join our conversation to explore how coworking spaces are not just places of work but catalysts for personal growth, community development, and a deeper understanding of ourselves.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

00:14 - Discover Iris Kavanaugh's journey from NextSpace to becoming a beacon of inspiration for coworking space leaders.

02:02 - Iris illuminates the overlooked role of coworking spaces as pivotal community hubs and economic drivers.

03:50 - We ponder the existential question: Why do we pursue coworking, and how does it fulfil our intrinsic need for togetherness?

05:27 - Iris delves into coworking spaces' biological and emotional benefits, highlighting their ability to heal societal fractures and promote unity.

07:13 - Challenging the hustle culture, we discuss the importance of nurturing environments over a grind mentality in coworking spaces.

08:44 - Iris shares her insights on co-working as a grassroots economic development engine, emphasizing its local and individual growth potential.

11:49 - Unpacking the secrets to fostering genuine connections and a thriving community within coworking spaces.

13:33 —This is a deep dive into creating psychologically safe spaces that unlock creativity and foster genuine collaboration.

19:13 - The delicate balance between hospitality and community ownership in coworking spaces and how to encourage member engagement without fostering entitlement.

21:29 - Iris touches on the profound journey of self-discovery for coworking leaders and how understanding oneself enhances leadership and community building.

Links & Resources:

- NextSpace [https://pacificworkplaces.com/nextspace-coworking/] 

- Women Who Cowork [https://womenwhocowork.com/]  

- Coworking Alliance Summit [https://coworkingalliancesummit.com/] 

- Fento Coworking [https://fentocoworking.com/] 

- Leading Well from Within by Dr. Daniel Friedland [https://amzn.to/3wZ3snS] 

- European Coworking Assembly  [https://coworkingassembly.eu/] 

- London Coworking Assembly [https://londoncoworkingassembly.com/] 

- Iris on Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/slickiris/]