Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

What does it take to scale a coworking company without losing focus? According to John Wallace, Founder & CEO of Workbox, it starts by knowing exactly who you're building for—and resisting the temptation to be everything to everyone. In this episode, John shares how Workbox has grown to 13 locations across seven cities while staying focused on serving small and midsize businesses. We also dive into the company's new strategic alliance with Serendipity Labs and why partnerships may become an increasingly important growth strategy for coworking operators. In this episode, we talk about: Why Workbox partnered with Serendipity Labs and what the alliance means for members How strategic partnerships can expand a coworking network without opening new locations Why Workbox prioritizes small and midsize businesses over enterprise clients How AI is helping operators improve pricing, sales, workflows, and decision-making Why hospitality remains the biggest competitive advantage in coworking The role of flexible workspace in supporting the next generation of AI startups How revenue-share and profit-share agreements create better alignment with building owners One insight that really stuck with me was John's reminder that AI shouldn't replace hospitality—it should eliminate the busy work so your team can spend more time creating meaningful member experiences. As our industry continues to evolve, the operators who combine great hospitality with smart technology and strategic growth will be the ones who stand out. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: John Wallace Workbox website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a former chef helps build one of the fastest-growing cowarehousing companies in the country? You get a fascinating perspective on where flexible workspace is headed next. In this episode, Andrew Runnette shares how his career took him from restaurant kitchens to Whole Foods, then into food tech, and eventually to helping scale Portal Warehousing across the U.S. What stood out most to me is how closely the evolution of cowarehousing mirrors the early days of coworking. At its core, it isn't just about warehouse space. It's about giving businesses the flexibility to grow without committing to traditional industrial leases—and creating space that adapts as those businesses evolve. In this episode, we talk about: Andrew's journey from chef to Whole Foods executive to scaling Portal Warehousing How Portal expanded from one location to multiple markets across the U.S. Why flexibility is becoming just as important in industrial real estate as it is in coworking The KPIs operators should be tracking before expanding to new locations Common layout and operational mistakes that limit growth How AI is helping operators connect systems, benchmark performance, and make smarter decisions Why Andrew believes "space as a service" is the future of both coworking and cowarehousing One insight that really stuck with me was Andrew's view that the future isn't about selling office space or warehouse space—it's about creating flexible solutions that help businesses grow. Whether you're already exploring industrial flex space or simply curious about where the flexible workspace industry is heading, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what's next. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Andrew Runnette Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

This week, we're revisiting one of our favorite episodes because the conversation is just as relevant today as when it first aired. Design matters—but not in the way most coworking operators think. After helping design more than 2 million square feet of flexible workspace around the world, Dean Connell has a unique perspective on what makes a coworking space successful. It's not about following trends or choosing the right furniture. It's about creating spaces with personality, purpose, and a culture people genuinely want to be part of. In this conversation, Dean shares how he went from designing luxury bars and boutique hotels to becoming Creative Director at WeWork, the lessons he learned along the way, and why he believes too many coworking spaces have become predictable. If you're designing, renovating, or rethinking your coworking space, this episode will challenge the way you think about design, community, and member experience. In this episode, we cover: Dean's journey from hospitality design to leading creative projects at WeWork Why so many coworking spaces look and feel the same—and what operators can do differently The balance between scalable design and authentic community How thoughtful design influences culture, member experience, and brand perception Why operators should stop playing it safe and build spaces people remember Whether you're opening your first coworking space or planning your next renovation, this conversation is full of ideas to help you create a space that stands out—for all the right reasons. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Dean on LinkedIn I-AM.D.C website Wesley Edmonds on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when someone leaves a career at the United Nations to open a coworking space in a small town? That's exactly what Alanna Imbach, Founder and CEO of Vibe Coworks, did. Alanna spent 17 years working around the world, including with the UN World Food Programme and WaterAid, before returning to her hometown of Poulsbo, Washington. What started as a search for a place where she and her husband could continue working remotely became Vibe Coworks. In this episode, we talk about: How Alanna's first experience with coworking happened at Grind in New York City Why she originally thought coworking was a terrible idea and what changed her mind The decision to leave a global career and return home to build something locally Designing a coworking space from the ground up after visiting dozens of spaces around the world How Vibe Coworks became part of a unique mixed-use building that includes a restaurant, chocolate shop, liquor store, and speakeasy The creation of Matchstick Lab and its work supporting entrepreneurship in the community Building a culture where people get to know each other as people first, not just by what they do for work Why Alanna believes people should be able to do the work they love from the place they love. This conversation is a great reminder that coworking can be about much more than workspace. It can be about creating connections, supporting entrepreneurs, and helping people build meaningful careers without leaving the communities they care about. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Alanna on LinkedIn Vibe Coworks website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

If your goal is to create a coworking space that's profitable, purposeful, and packed with community-driven energy, this episode is required listening. This week, we're revisiting one of our favorite episodes of Flex Uncensored: our conversation with Gina Schreck, founder of The Village Work, Wellness & Event Center in the Denver suburbs. The lessons in this episode are just as relevant today as when it first aired. Sometimes the best ideas aren't new ones—they're the ones worth hearing again. In this episode, we cover: How Gina expanded from 10K to 50K square feet—and why she nearly walked away from the opportunity The surprising role her daughter played in managing the expansion project What makes her podcast studio actually get used (and how it supports her community) How events became a major revenue driver, from business gatherings to weddings and church services Why hospitality is at the center of everything she does—and how that philosophy impacts retention and culture How her space became a true community hub, complete with nonprofit partnerships and a waitlist for offices The creative ways she's using AI and thinking about operational efficiency Why DIY coworking isn't for divas—and how she embraces a high-touch, high-hospitality model This episode is packed with practical insights, big energy, and creative ideas for operators looking to build something people genuinely want to be part of. Whether you're hearing it for the first time or giving it another listen, there's a good chance you'll walk away with a few ideas worth putting into action. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Gina on LinkedIn The Village Workspace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

AI is making it easier than ever to do more. The question is: should we? In this episode, Giovanni Palavicini and I ended up having one of those conversations that started with AI and somehow turned into business growth, health data, sleep, travel, expansion, productivity, and the challenge of keeping up with everything. What struck me most is that we're all having the same experience right now. AI is helping operators build dashboards, monitor sales performance, analyze CRM activity, automate reporting, and even build websites in a fraction of the time it used to take. But instead of creating more free time, many of us are using that efficiency to pile on even more work. A few moments that stood out: We talked about how AI is giving operators visibility into their businesses that would have been incredibly difficult just a year ago Gio shared how health tracking and bloodwork data forced him to confront the reality that he can't operate at 47 the same way he did at 27 We discussed why so many operators are desperate for practical AI use cases instead of theoretical discussions We explored how business owners often discover their biggest challenges aren't revenue problems, they're operational and expense problems We talked about the tension between growth ambitions and the personal capacity required to sustain them One of my favorite themes from the conversation was that data doesn't lie. This was a real conversation about what it looks like to build businesses, embrace new technology, and navigate the reality that our time and energy are finite. Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Most coworking operators are still using AI to write social posts. Shift Workspaces is using it to rethink operations, hospitality, renewals, sales strategy, dashboards, and member experience. This conversation with Travis Low completely changed the way I think about what's possible for coworking operators willing to go deeper with AI. A few things that stood out for me: Shift built AI systems that monitor everything from call volume and SEO to renewals and member engagement Travis created an "AI board of directors" with different personalities designed to critique the business and surface blind spots They're using automation to create more personalized hospitality, not less Their focus isn't cutting staff. It's helping their team spend less time on admin work and more time with members One of the biggest lessons: AI is only as good as your systems and your data cleanliness And one of my favorite quotes from Travis: "The currency in AI is creativity." This episode is both exciting and slightly overwhelming in the best possible way. If you've been curious about what AI could actually look like inside a coworking business beyond basic ChatGPT prompts, this episode is worth your time. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Travis Low on LinkedIn Shift Workspaces Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a coworking operator stops thinking like a coworking operator… and starts thinking like a hospitality brand? That's exactly what Uri Isken and Gabriel Isken are building at HIT. And honestly, this conversation completely expanded my perspective on what enterprise flex space can become. HIT now operates 13 locations across Argentina, Chile, and Brazil with 94% occupancy, serving major enterprise clients like Google, Accenture, TikTok, and L'Oréal. But what really stood out to me is that coworking is only part of the story. In this episode, we talk about: How HIT generates 30% of its revenue from wellness, events, and food & beverage Why enterprise clients increasingly want one trusted operator to handle everything How they turned rooftops and common areas into profitable event venues Why Argentina's changing business climate is fueling demand for premium flex space What it takes to serve large enterprise clients across multiple countries How they transformed a historic horse carriage garage into one of the coolest flex spaces I've seen One of my favorite moments in the episode was hearing how Gabriel joined HIT at 19 years old as the company's very first employee working the front desk… and eventually became partner as the company scaled across LATAM. If you're thinking about the future of enterprise flex space, hospitality-driven operations, or how coworking operators can create entirely new revenue streams… this episode is packed with ideas. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Uri Iskin on LinkedIn Gabriel Bucher on LinkedIn HIT Cowork Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What if the future of housing looks a lot more like coworking? We had the chance to sit down with Chris Moeller, founder of Pathway Communities, right after his GCUC keynote… and this conversation really stuck with me. Chris spent 20 years in commercial real estate before stepping away to build something entirely new. And what he's working on now feels like a natural extension of where our industry is headed. He calls it "stable living." It's not just housing. It's a rethink of the system behind it. In this episode, we talk about: Why "we didn't break housing… the system did" How coworking principles can translate directly into residential living What happens when you design for connection instead of isolation Why ownership models need to evolve so people can actually build equity How a real-life disaster reshaped his entire perspective on community and infrastructure What I love about this conversation is that it pushes us to zoom out. We spend so much time in coworking talking about desks, pricing, and occupancy… But Chris is thinking about something bigger. How do we create places where people actually want to live and work? And what can our industry learn from that? If you're thinking about where coworking goes next… this one will expand your perspective. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Chris Moeller on LinkedIn Pathway Communities Website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What percentage of your market is actually flexible office space… and does that number even matter? I loved this conversation with Jim Groves, founder of Rubberdesk, because he completely reframed how we think about supply, demand, and what tenants actually see when they're searching for space. Jim built Rubberdesk around one core idea: transparency. Not just more data, but better, usable data that helps tenants actually make decisions and helps operators understand what's really happening in the market. We also dig into: Why lack of transparency leads to poor pricing and bad customer experiences How AI is transforming brokerage, from instant shortlists to real-time market insights The massive diversity in today's coworking product… from bare-bones offices to spaces with saunas, ice baths, and golf simulators Why brokers need better tools (and how Rubberdesk is building them) What the future of flex looks like in an uncertain economic environment If you're trying to understand where flex is really headed… or how to position your space in an increasingly competitive and diverse market… this one is worth your time. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Jim Groves on LinkedIn Rubberdesk website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What does it look like when someone builds a coworking space entirely around people? I sat down with Rob Archer, CEO of Codebase Coworking, and this one stuck with me. Rob spent 8 years bringing this project to life. Not to maximize density. Not to cram in more offices. But to create a space that actually feels good to work in. And it shows. They have a waitlist for offices… and members joking about how to become "presidential diamond elite" just to get one. But here's the moment I can't stop thinking about… Rob asked a member to give up their office. Not because they couldn't pay. Because they weren't using it… and someone else could. That tells you everything about how he leads. I've had the chance to work with Rob, and he's exactly who he shows up as. Thoughtful, community-first, and deeply committed to creating something meaningful in Charlottesville. In this episode, we talk about: Why relationships are the real engine behind coworking How to design space for experience, not just revenue Supporting early-stage founders inside your space Leading with service (and why it actually works) If you're building a coworking space… or any kind of community… this one is worth your time. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Rob Archer on LinkedIn Codebase Coworking website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What if the future of work isn't about better offices… but no offices at all? We had the chance to sit down with Amina Moreau, CEO and co-founder of Radious, and I'm still thinking about this conversation. Amina's journey is anything but linear. From a psych degree and a passion for photography… to building a storytelling company that won five Emmys… to now reimagining how and where work happens. And what she's building with Radious is one of the most interesting shifts I've seen in our industry. Instead of asking people to commute into a central office, Radious flips the model. It brings work closer to where people actually live. Think homes, neighborhoods, unique spaces that make you feel something… not just another white box conference room. But what really stuck with me wasn't just the model. It was how deeply Amina understands people. In this episode, we talk about: Why the commute is still the biggest barrier to returning to the office How unique spaces create memorable team experiences that last for years The surprising shift in what people actually want from a workspace How Radious is tapping into residential areas to rethink access to work What it really takes to deliver a hospitality-level experience outside of traditional offices The role of storytelling in building and scaling a disruptive company Amina is building something bold. But she's also grounded in what matters most. People, relationships, and creating experiences that actually improve how we live and work. If you're thinking about the future of flex, commuting, or what "the office" even means anymore… this one will get you thinking. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Amina Moreau on LinkedIn Radious Website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What do you do when you find a 60,000 square foot "mess" of a building… and see nothing but potential? That's exactly what Steve Kinder did. When Gio and John toured Good Coworking, I kept thinking about how rare it is to meet an operator who truly sees a space not just for what it is—but for what it could become. Steve didn't just open a coworking space. He reimagined an entire building, and honestly, an entire business model. From owning the real estate… to layering in coworking, traditional office, artist studios, a gym, and even live/work lofts… this is one of the most thoughtful mixed-use coworking concepts I've seen. But what really stayed with me from this conversation was Steve's mindset: He didn't have a perfectly mapped-out plan; he followed curiosity. And over time, those decisions turned into a space that reflects exactly who he is—creative, community-driven, and deeply intentional. We also get into: How he turned a dilapidated building into a thriving coworking hub Why nonprofits became one of his strongest tenant bases (and why that might surprise you) How his furniture company became a "living lab" inside the space What flexible workspace operators can learn about adaptability and long-term thinking Steve Kinder is building something really special with Good Coworking, and this conversation is a great reminder that there's no single path to success in this industry. Sometimes the best thing you can do is start… and figure it out along the way. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Steve Kinder on LinkedIn Good Coworking Website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What if the real KPI for your coworking space isn't occupancy… but connection? I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Brandon Houston, and this conversation stuck with me long after we hit stop. Brandon is quietly building something really special in a small town in Ontario. His space, The Foundry, is 7,000 square feet in a community of just 26,000 people… and it's thriving. Not because of private offices or fancy amenities, but because of something most operators still undervalue: community. He's built a system that tracks how members interact, who they're building relationships with, and how connected they are to the community. Every member even has a "pulse score" based on their engagement. Brandon also shares: Why small, rural coworking spaces can absolutely thrive How automation and AI can support operators without replacing the human touch The surprising demand for social events over traditional programming Why open space and "collisions" matter more than maximizing office count And maybe my favorite part… hearing how deeply personal this work is for him. From friendships to business partnerships to even meeting his partner, so much of his life has come from the community he's built. This is one of those conversations that reminds you why coworking matters. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Brandon Houston Huwart on LinkedIn Collingwood Foundry website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

The coworking industry didn't become global overnight.
 People like Jean-Yves Huwart helped make it that way.
 Jean-Yves is the founder of Coworking Europe and one of the few people who has had a front-row seat to how flex workspace has evolved across dozens of countries over the last 15+ years.
 In this episode of Flex Uncensored, Liz Elam and I sit down with Jean-Yves to talk about what's happening across the European coworking market right now… and why the industry is hitting a new level of maturity.
 We get into:
 Why office buildings are starting to see flex workspace as a necessity, not a "nice to have" How asset owners across Europe are building their own coworking brands The growing role of brokers and intermediaries in helping companies find the right workspace Which European markets are booming right now (Netherlands, France, Spain) and which ones are moving more slowly Why the evolution of flex workspace is tied so closely to how cities themselves are changing
 If you're curious about where the flex workspace industry is headed globally, this conversation is a great one to listen to. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Jean-Yves Huwart on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Most commercial real estate brokers don't start their careers playing 200 shows a year in dive bars. But that's exactly how Ward Richmond's career began. Before becoming Vice Chairman at Colliers and building a high-performing industrial brokerage team, Ward was a touring musician. When that chapter ended, he stepped into commercial real estate… and eventually built a business very intentionally around people, culture, and personal growth. We get into: How a financial scare and a baby on the way forced Ward to rethink how he was working The moment he realized the difference between being a business operator and a true business owner Why he invested heavily in coaching and personal development (including Tony Robbins and Grant Cardone) The core values he uses to build and manage his team And why gratitude, humility, and discipline matter just as much as market expertise If you're thinking about leadership, team building, or what it actually looks like to build a career that aligns with your values, you'll enjoy this one. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Ward Richmond on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What if the real flex opportunity isn't about chasing every deal… but knowing exactly which ones to walk away from? I always love having Mark Burge, CEO and co-founder of Flex Workspace Solutions, back on the podcast. He's thoughtful, candid, and one of the few operators who will openly say, "Actually… this project doesn't make sense." And he means it. In this episode, Mark shares how 2025 was one of their slowest years for new client acquisition… and also their best year ever. Why? Because they got crystal clear on who they are, who they serve, and who they don't. We talk about: The real shift happening in landlord mindset around management agreements Why some owners are finally seeing flex as a building amenity, not just a revenue play The discipline it takes to say no to the wrong project
 How trust built through honesty leads to better long-term partnerships The sweet spot in square footage and why bigger isn't always better And yes… whether AI should be booking your tours If you're working with landlords, considering a management model, or trying to figure out where AI fits in a hospitality-driven industry, this conversation will make you think. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Mark Burge on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when the Queen of Coworking returns to share her vision for the industry's future—and announces a mission that could save lives? This week, Jamie and Gio sit down with Liz Elam, founder of GCUC and Link Coworking, for a conversation that spans everything from neurodiversity and AI to hospitality standards and why coworking should be the first industry to offer free mental health services. Liz just returned from Australia where she toured The Commons' 19 locations and experienced hospitality so exceptional it left her stunned. She shares what made every unannounced walk-in feel like visiting a new friend, why Cliff Ho's spaces are profitable when so many aren't, and the one thing American operators can learn from how The Commons hires and trains their teams. We talk about: What makes The Commons' hospitality so extraordinary (and why 90% of coworking spaces fail the walk-in test) Why GCUC's 50th event in New York will feature coworking-adjacent content, not just operators talking to operators Liz's mission to make free mental health services standard in every coworking space The mega trends shaping 2026: AI as invisible concierge, wellness integration, neurodiversity, and the Great Reconnection Why younger generations take calls on speakerphone (and why we need better acoustics) How The Commons uses different local designers for each location and why it works Why design innovation in coworking has stalled—and what needs to change The rise of insiders buying existing coworking brands (Second Home, Kahoots, Bond, The Yard) Why bringing your team to conferences makes them more likely to stay How Judah Space became GCUC's New York venue and why the conference business is actually working for coworking operators If you care about the future of coworking, mental health advocacy, or just want to hear from someone who's been shaping this industry for 14 years—this episode is essential listening. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Liza on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a passionate connector who's generated $2 million in new revenue decides to leave corporate life, launch his own consulting business, and move his family to Italy? This week, we sit down with Luke Wills for a conversation that spans AI-powered outbound sales, the importance of human connection, and a calling that's taking him across the Atlantic. Luke shares how he went from selling basketball tickets to becoming Lucid's outbound sales powerhouse—and why he's now teaching single and multi-location operators how to build grassroots, multi-channel outbound strategies that actually work. He breaks down his LinkedIn messaging sequences, explains why 25-40% of people accept his connection requests, and reveals how AI can handle the tedious prospecting work while keeping the human touch intact. We talk about: Why outbound sales is the next frontier for coworking operators ready to scale How to use LinkedIn automation without sounding like a robot (and why offering a free day office works better than free coworking Fridays) The AI tools Luke uses to get 30% reply rates on personalized outreach Why fixing your inbound process has to come before launching outbound campaigns How the coworking industry's collaborative culture makes it different from other sectors Luke's advice on implementing AI: start with your pain points, not the solution Why vulnerability and human connection will become even more valuable as AI rises If you're curious about building an outbound sales engine, want to understand how AI fits into real sales workflows, or just need a reminder that it's okay to be human in business—this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Luke Wills on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

This week, Jamie Russo and Giovanni Palavicini sit down with Derek and Broyny Vitatoe, co-founders of Work at Wheel in Rock Hill, South Carolina, just days before their official opening. Derek and Broyny left Harlem, New York with no idea where they'd open their coworking space. They just knew they wanted to blend corporate wellness, HR leadership, and their passion for movement into a space where people could work, move, and thrive. This conversation is pure joy. Derek's the visionary who wanted bikes in every office. Broyny's the integrator who reins him in (lovingly). Together, they've built something special—and their journey to get here is a masterclass in perseverance, partnership, and trusting the process. We talk about: How Shark Tank during the pandemic led to the Work at Wheel concept The moment they realized 5,000 square feet wouldn't cut it—and how they got to 16,000 How Gio drove them around Houston looking at spaces (and why they walked away) The Rock Hill deal—and the negotiation that almost fell apart over occupancy limits Why community buy-in matters more in Rock Hill than hustle ever did in New York Derek's background as a spin instructor, HR executive, film director, and author (yes, really) How Broyny went from introvert to confidently leading tours and closing deals Their creative process for TikTok and Instagram content (and why they're both so good at it) The three things Broyny loves most about Derek (spoiler: generosity and energy top the list) How Derek proposed in Jamaica (and why Broyny says the ring was cubic zirconia) This conversation is proof that coworking isn't just about desks and offices—it's about people, passion, and building something that reflects who you are. If you're thinking about opening a space, wondering how long it really takes, or just need a dose of inspiration from two people who are all in, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Work at Wheel website Derek and Broyny on TikTok Derek on LinkedIn Broyny on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

IWG doesn't give away free beer. And that's exactly why they're profitable. This week, Giovanni Palavicini and Kurt Patrick sit down with David Steyn, Senior Commercial Director at Anytime Mailbox and Anytime Postage, for a conversation about virtual offices, international coworking markets, and why adding revenue streams matters more than free perks. David spent years at IWG running their global virtual office business before joining Anytime Mailbox. And he's got perspective on what actually drives profit in coworking—from London's dense, prestige-address market to rural Scotland where a coworking space might also be the village bank, post office, and doctor's surgery. We talk about: Why IWG passed on free beer while WeWork gave everything away—and what that teaches operators about profit How virtual offices underwrite coworking businesses (especially in markets like London where privacy + prestige = demand) The three pricing tiers for virtual mail services—from $9.99 privacy addresses to $69+ premium bundles Why coworking works differently in the UK vs North America (density, leasehold history, GDPR compliance) How rural Scotland is deploying flexible hubs that serve as banks, post offices, and coworking spaces The postage kiosk play—1,500 deployed at IWG locations to turn mail into self-service revenue Why operators should focus on product mix and revenue streams, not just competing on space This conversation is proof that the best operators don't just lease space—they think strategically about every revenue stream, every compliance risk, and every service their members actually need. If you're wondering how to add revenue without adding staff, or how virtual offices fit into your business model, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: David Steyn on LinkedIn Kurt Patrick on LinkedIn Anytime Mailbox's website Anytime Postage's website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a COO, a Director of Brand and Culture, and a Director of Sales sit down together—and you realize they're not just colleagues, but people who genuinely love working together? This week, Giovanni Palavicini sits down with three members of the 25N leadership team—Meagan Slavin (COO), Sari Lash (Director of Brand and Culture), and Mecca Shannon (Director of Sales and Launch)—for one of the most heartfelt conversations about culture, leadership, and building a team that actually sticks around. They're in Dallas announcing 25N's third Texas location, and between the excitement of expansion, they open up about what makes their culture work: trust, grace, radical ownership, and the willingness to let people mess up without hiding it. We talk about: Why culture isn't HR fluff—it's a strategic advantage that impacts your bottom line The "people first" value and why it means hiring overachievers, then giving them grace How trust shows up when someone calls to say "I really screwed up—help me fix this" Why 25N has never described themselves as a "family" (and why boundaries matter) How Meagan's dad taught her she could conquer the world—and how she's passing that on Why pouring equally into every employee creates long-term wins The power of supportive partners who show up and hold down the fort This conversation is proof that great culture isn't about perks or buzzwords—it's about seeing people as humans, creating clear boundaries, and giving your team freedom to bring their best. If you're building a team or wondering how to scale culture as you grow, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Meagan Slavin on LinkedIn Sari Lash on LinkedIn Mecca Shannon on LinkedIn 25N Coworking website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when someone who lived through the internet boom of the '90s starts seeing the same patterns with AI—and decides to map out exactly what it means for your coworking business? This week, we chat with Ben Wright, who's spent eight years in flexible workspace—first at Square Foot, then leading office space.com at Instant Group, and now helping operators understand how AI will actually impact their P&L. Ben just launched a seven-part series breaking down AI's real applications in coworking. His bottom line: this is more about growing revenue than cutting costs. When 50% of your expenses are real estate, a chatbot isn't saving you money on rent. We talk about: Why AI feels eerily similar to the internet boom (and why that matters) The "wrong goes wrong, right goes right" principle—and why clean data wins How Unity AI is helping operators turn 70% of their leads into revenue Why 75% of AI agents built for Yardi do one thing: data cleaning Why human hospitality will never be replaced by a bot This conversation is proof that AI isn't about replacing humans—it's about freeing operators to do what they do best while automation handles the repetitive work. If you're wondering whether AI is hype or reality, this episode gives you a clear roadmap for what to implement now. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Ben Wright on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a VP of Operations becomes the translator between a founder's 3 a.m. ideas and the team that has to make them reality? Five years later, she's running the show. This week, we sit down with Carly Bedini, VP of Operations at iQ Offices, and her boss Kane Willmott for one of the most honest, hilarious, and heartfelt conversations we've had on this podcast. Carly came from nonprofits and events. She had no idea what coworking was. But she knew how to lead teams, manage chaos, and translate a founder's vision into operational reality. And that's exactly what she's been doing for Kane and his co-founder Alex ever since. In this episode, we talk about: How Carly went from running We Day events in Canada to becoming Kane's operational translator Why Kane now trusts Carly to speak at industry events more than he speaks himself The GWA Atlanta Immersive—and why smaller conferences force everyone to show up and be present How iQ is focusing on enterprise clients and broker relationships heading into 2026 Carly's 2026 goal: embrace AI and stop resisting Kane's ideas quite so hard This conversation is proof that the best hires aren't always the ones with industry experience—they're the ones who show up authentically, lead with humor, and aren't afraid to challenge their CEO while making magic happen behind the scenes. If you're a founder wondering how to let go and trust your team, or if you're an operator building a culture where people actually love coming to work, this episode is for you. _*]:min-w-0"> Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: _*]:min-w-0"> Carly Bedini on LinkedIn Kane Willmott on LinkedIn iQ Offices website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

_*]:min-w-0"> What happens when a single-location operator who knows her numbers inside and out decides to fill a gap in her city's small business ecosystem? _*]:min-w-0"> This week, Jamie and Gio sit down with Kim Lee, founder and CEO of Forge in Birmingham, Alabama, for a conversation about strategic growth, mental health in our industry, and why she's launching a small business accelerator in January. _*]:min-w-0"> Kim shares how she went from a master's in counseling to running one of Birmingham's most hospitality-driven coworking spaces—and why she's still passionate about coaching and creating community. She also breaks down what made the GWA Atlanta Immersive so different from other conferences she's attended and why every single panel offered immediately actionable takeaways. _*]:min-w-0"> We talk about: _*]:min-w-0"> Why Kim converted her event space into offices (and how the math made sense) The gap in Birmingham's ecosystem that led to launching a Traction-based accelerator How her counseling background shapes the way Forge serves members Why the Atlanta Immersive felt more operator-focused than any conference she's been to The Alliance panel's surprising honesty—and how three competitors who'd never met became instant fans of each other Kim's favorite interview advice: keep it short so you don't like them too much The importance of mental health, self-care, and why family dinner counts as a win _*]:min-w-0"> If you're a single-location operator trying to differentiate in a crowded market—or wondering how to build something that truly serves your community—this episode is for you. _*]:min-w-0"> Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: _*]:min-w-0"> Kim Lee on LinkedIn Forge Coworking website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when two first-time GWA Immersive attendees walk into a room of 77 people and realize there's nowhere to hide? This week, Jamie and Gio are joined by Nicole Antolino from FireWorks Coworking in Marietta, Georgia, and Brittany Alavinejad from Essential Offices in Oklahoma City for a fresh take on what made the Atlanta immersive so different from the big conferences. With 44 out of 77 attendees experiencing their first GWA event, the room was packed with new energy, honest questions, and real conversations about what's actually working in coworking right now. Nicole and Brittany share what stood out most—from AI and marketing panels to culture conversations and the surprisingly candid Alliance panel where a near-lawsuit turned into newfound respect. We talk about: Why the intimate format made it impossible to be a wallflower—and why that mattered Courtney Schwartz's AI panel debut and the power of AEO/GEO over traditional SEO How video testimonials and member stories beat flashy marketing every time The Alliance panel's real talk on managed service agreements and market saturation Why specialization is working for attorneys, creatives, and niche industries Brittany hitting 100% occupancy in Edmond and pre-leasing offices for next year Nicole's journey from two major member losses to nearly sold out by year-end If you've been wondering what the smaller GWA events feel like—or how operators are actually implementing what they learn the day they get back—this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Nicole Antolino on LinkedIn Brittany Alavinejad on LinkedIn FireWorks Coworking website Essential Offices website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

div]:bg-bg-000/50 [&_pre>div]:border-0.5 [&_pre>div]:border-border-400 [&_.ignore-pre-bg>div]:bg-transparent [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8"> _*]:min-w-0 standard-markdown"> What happens when you bring together operators and industry insiders who've just experienced the most eye-opening coworking conference in years? This week, Jamie and Gio are joined by Kane Willmott and Eyal Lasker for a deep dive into Coworking Europe— and the conversation is full of surprises, market insights, and real talk about where the flex industry is heading globally. Over 500 people gathered in Berlin for what many are calling the best coworking conference they've attended. Kane and Eyal share what made it so different from North American events, why the European market is years ahead, and what operators everywhere can learn from how the rest of the world does flex. We talk about: Why multi-location operators dominate Europe while single-location indies thrive in North America How European operators commonly own their buildings—and why 25-year UK leases drive 10% flex market penetration Kane's take on profitable consolidation versus distressed asset roll-ups How Flexspace is building an AI assistant trained only on your occupancy data If you've been curious about what the global flex industry looks like beyond North America—or why Europe is so far ahead—this episode will shift your perspective on what's possible. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Kane on LinkedIn Eyal on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when three people who spend their work lives inside the flex industry finally sit down and say the quiet parts out loud? This week I'm joined by Stormy McBride and Taylor Mason for a candid conversation about community, hybrid coworking models, wellness trends, creative studios, marketing hot takes and why so many operators underestimate the complexity of blended businesses. Stormy, who many of you know, jumps in as guest co-host. Taylor, who somehow hasn't been on the podcast until now, shares the story of how a random 6 a.m. dog-park encounter with Kevin Whelan pulled him into the coworking world eight years ago. We also get into: • Why humans still crave a "village" even though our daily lives look nothing like one • The reality behind gym + coworking, dog + coworking and other lifestyle mashups • Why creative studios inside coworking spaces rarely perform the way owners expect • How residential real estate marketing offers lessons for growing a coworking brand • Taylor's hot take on AI in content marketing and why it makes him nervous • Stormy's behind-the-scenes updates and why 2026 feels like a year of big shifts If you want a smart, honest conversation about where coworking is heading and how operators can adapt, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Taylor on LinkedIn Stormy on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast  

What does it look like when a company that's been quietly leading behind the scenes for 15 years decides it's time to step into the spotlight? We're joined this week by Caroline Hecht, Senior Director of Member Relations at Preferred Office Network, to talk about their recent rebrand and how the company has helped shape the flex industry from the very beginning. Caroline shares how Preferred Office Network started with three independent operators who saw the need for a national network built on trust and relationships—and how that same mission still drives the company today. We also talk about: The inspiration behind the new Preferred Office Network brand How their "one agreement" model simplifies life for enterprise clients and operators Why trust and community continue to set them apart from marketplaces Caroline's personal journey from Craigslist job search to flex industry leader If you've ever wondered what makes Preferred Office Network different—or what it takes to build long-term trust and connection at scale—this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Preferred Office Network's website  Global Workspace Association's website  Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a coworking operator decides to treat team development like a strategic investment, not an expense? This week, I'm joined by Meagan Slavin, COO and co-owner of 25N Coworking, for a conversation that's part post-GWA recap and part masterclass in leadership and culture-building. We talk about: Why bringing your team to industry events is a retention strategy, not just a perk How Meagan plans for conference travel and ROI in her annual budgets The intentional ways 25N debriefs, shares takeaways, and turns learning into daily action How their newest 54,000 sq. ft. Chicago-area space is redefining the meeting and event side of their business Why implementing EOS/Traction has been transformational for their leadership team. If you've ever thought, "How do I keep my team inspired and growing?", you'll want to take notes on this one. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: 25N Coworking's website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Marco didn't plan to end up leading sales for one of the most high-touch coworking brands in the world. From door-to-door charity fundraising to expanding The Great Room by Industrious across Australia, his journey shows what happens when you pair hustle with hospitality. In this episode, recorded in Sydney, Giovanni and Marco dive into what makes The Great Room stand out in a crowded market — and why enterprise clients are drawn to its five-star, service-first approach. We cover: How a hotel-inspired vision became a global coworking brand. What "hospitality" really means in the flex space world. The rise of enterprise demand in Sydney's CBD. How Australia's flex community is learning to collaborate, not compete. If you're curious about what the next evolution of premium coworking looks like, this episode offers a front-row view. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: The Great Room by Industrious  Industrious  Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Richie Parsons didn't start out planning to run multiple coworking spaces. From managing gyms to consulting in politics, he found himself leading locations across Virginia, Maryland, and Nashville—and building teams that thrive along the way. In this episode, Richie shares how he scales spaces without losing culture, leverages frameworks like Working Genius, and builds leadership practices that actually stick. We cover: Richie's unexpected path to becoming a multi-state coworking operator. How he approaches hiring, team alignment, and leadership for long-term success. The role of AI and tools in keeping operations smooth and team members engaged. Insights on creating a member-first experience without burning out staff. If you want practical strategies for growing coworking spaces while keeping your team—and yourself—happy, Richie's story is full of actionable lessons. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Richie on LinkedIn Venture X website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Get the inside scoop on next week's Global Workspace Association conference in Chicago! Jamie and Gio break down everything you need to know about this year's biggest coworking industry event. Key Topics Covered: -International expansion with speakers from Australia (Cassandra from Rethink Space, Jessie from WOTSO) -Major keynotes: John Santore (CEO of WeWork) and Anna Squires Levine (President of Industrious)  -Future conference announcements: Toronto immersive (June), Denver 2026, Puerto Rico 2027 -Hot panels including multi-site marketing, AI in coworking, KPIs, and culture building -Behind-the-scenes conference planning insights and what makes a great panel -Speed networking at Industrious and tours of Chicago's top workspaces -Why smaller conferences (250 people) create better connections and collaboration -The evolution from theoretical to practical, actionable content in industry events Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Global Workspace Association's website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Cassandra Kavanagh didn't set out to open a coworking space. After a business partnership dissolved, she suddenly found herself with 1,200 square meters of space, only six people left in the building, and a choice to make: sink, or rethink. That pivot became Rethink Your Workspace, a thriving flex space in Newcastle, Australia, built on connection, service, and an unwavering commitment to people. Cassandra shares her story of resilience, her all-inclusive business model, and why showing kindnes, even to those outside her member base, is central to her approach. We cover: How Cassandra turned a business crisis into the opportunity to launch a flex space. Why high-touch service and concierge-style support have become her differentiator. The role of connection in her community, and why it goes deeper than "coworking". How an all-inclusive pricing model simplifies operations and builds trust. Stories of how authenticity and kindness ripple through her member community. This episode is a reminder that small, independent operators often set the standard for what true hospitality and human-centered coworking look like. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Cassandra on LinkedIn Rethink Your Workspace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Tobi Skovron has lived the entrepreneurial rollercoaster, launching ventures in Los Angeles, exiting successfully, and then bringing his vision for community-driven coworking back home to Australia. Now the founder of CreativeCubes, Tobi leads with intentionality, building spaces designed to enable success for thousands of members while expanding across the country. In this conversation, Tobi shares the story behind CreativeCubes, what fuels his mission, and how his approach to leadership, partnerships, and personal discipline have shaped his path. We cover: How coworking transformed Tobi's journey as an entrepreneur and inspired him to launch CreativeCubes in Australia. Why intentionality is the core value behind his member experience, team culture, and even landlord relationships. The growth of CreativeCubes, including acquisitions, brand evolution, and how they integrate services like F&B, events, and media. The role of the Rise Network and other programs that support entrepreneurs beyond just space. How Tobi's personal routines and guiding principles fuel both his business and his life. If you're passionate about coworking as more than just space, and curious about scaling with purpose, Tobi's story will hit home. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Tobi on LinkedIn Creative Cubes website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Brad Krauskopf, Founder and CEO of Hub Australia, has been shaping the flexible workspace industry since the early days of coworking. In this episode, Gio sits down with Brad in Melbourne to talk about Hub's journey, from scrappy beginnings with beanbags to high-touch hospitality and multi-layered partnerships with landlords. Brad shares his perspective on how Hub has evolved, what hybrid work looks like in Australia, and why the future of flex depends on experiences, not just square footage. In this episode, we cover: The evolution of Hub Australia from scrappy community hubs to high-touch, hospitality-driven workspaces. How hybrid work is reshaping demand in Australia and what that means for operators and landlords. Why partnerships between operators and landlords are essential for creating whole-building experiences. The role of hospitality as a true differentiator in flexible workspace. The future of flex in Australia: evolving models, member expectations, and the importance of meaningful connections. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Brad on LinkedIn Hub Australia website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

WOTSO is Australia's largest independent flexible workspace operator — and their story is one every operator should hear. From their beginnings as a single site to building a nationwide network, WOTSO has navigated growth, shifting demand, and the evolving landlord-operator relationship while staying true to their brand and community. In this episode, we sit down with the WOTSO team to unpack how they've built a model that works at scale and what operators everywhere can learn from their journey. What we cover: WOTSO's origin story and how they grew into a national flex operator. The keys to scaling without losing community and brand identity. How they've approached landlord partnerships and real estate strategy. Lessons learned from adapting their model across diverse markets. Insights into where Australia's flex market is heading next Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Jessie on LinkedIn Paula on LinkedIn WOTSO Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

This week's episode is a little different. Gio takes the mic solo, delivering the keynote at the Flexible Workspace Australia Conference. In his talk, Gio brings his signature mix of candor and big-picture perspective to what's happening in the flex industry, in Australia, in the U.S., and globally. What Gio covers: Why operators everywhere are facing similar challenges around demand, landlords, and scaling. The critical role community plays, and why it remains flex's biggest differentiator. How landlord partnerships are evolving and what both sides need to make them work. What U.S. operators can learn from the Australian market, and vice versa. Why the future of flex is local and global at the same time. If you couldn't be in the room, this episode brings the keynote to you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Flexible Workspace Australia Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

This week, Gio and I sit down with Mike Kloppenburg, VP at Avison Young and longtime coworking insider, to pull back the curtain on what's really happening in the brokerage world, and what it means for flex operators. From the "flight to quality" and secondary market opportunities, to the messy reality of management agreements and the IWG land grab, Mike brings candid insights you won't get anywhere else. What we cover: Why the big brokerages are cautiously optimistic, and where the optimism comes from. How the "flight to quality" is reshaping both traditional office leasing and flex space demand. Secondary and tertiary markets: where the supply-demand balance tips in favor of operators. The challenges of management agreements, how IWG's aggressive expansion is affecting the industry, and why deal structure still makes or breaks success. Scaling beyond your home market: why granular, on-the-ground market knowledge is non-negotiable. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Michael on LinkedIn Avison Young website 2025 Americas Office Occupier Sentiment Survey 2025 Mid-Year Outlook Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

If the term "cowarehousing" hasn't hit your radar yet, this episode will change that. Shannon and Emiliano Lerda didn't set out to build a flex space company — they just wanted to stop tripping over shipping boxes in their living room. What they ended up creating is Elevator Co-Warehousing, a fast-growing brand built specifically for product-based businesses that need more than a desk… but less than a forklift. In this episode, Gio and guest cohost Wesley Edmonds dive into how the Lerdas turned a personal pain point into a scalable model that blends real estate, hospitality, and serious operational know-how. Here's what we cover: How their own experience running an e-commerce brand led to the first Elevator space. Why their spaces feel more like coworking than traditional warehouse environments. The intentional decision to open in overlooked markets — and why it's paying off. How community, design, and practical logistics create a retention flywheel. The financing and buildout lessons they've learned while scaling a new category. If you're exploring new flex models or thinking about how to serve a different kind of member — this conversation is full of smart, grounded inspiration. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Emiliano on LinkedIn Shannon on LinkedIn Elevator Spaces website Wesley on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

A couch, a few desks, and a Wi-Fi password won't cut it anymore. In this episode, we sit down with Wesley Edmonds, Director of Workplace at Office Furniture Solutions, and Kurt Patrick, Senior Executive at Essensys, to talk about what it really takes to create a functional, flexible space, from physical design to digital infrastructure. They've both worked behind the scenes on hundreds of flex space projects. Their perspective? Too many operators underestimate the complexity of getting a space ready, and keeping it competitive. Here's what we cover: Why tech infrastructure should be part of the earliest planning conversations — not a bolt-on. Common mistakes in space design that hurt member experience and operational efficiency. How Wesley helps landlords and operators align vision with real-world furniture, flow, and budget. What the biggest operators get right when it comes to tech, access control, and back-of-house ops. Why speed to market matters — and how the right team can help you launch faster and smarter. If you're opening a space, refreshing your layout, or scaling a flex brand, this conversation will save you time, money, and headaches. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Wesley on LinkedIn OFS website Kurt on LinkedIn essensys website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

We're bringing this one back because it's one of our most inspiring episodes. If you haven't met Chiko Abengowe, you're in for a masterclass in scaling coworking with hustle, heart, and zero VC funding. Chiko is the founder and CEO of Perfect Office Solutions, a 20+ location flex brand that's built for affordability, speed, and entrepreneurs who just need space to get to work. We talk about: How Chiko turned $1,000 and a background in staffing into a coworking company serving hundreds of small businesses. The secret behind his "Walmart of coworking" model and why members furnish their own spaces. How he gamifies sales and motivates his team with monthly bonuses and international trips. The art of negotiating leases where landlords cover 100% of the buildout. Why staying lean, scrappy, and mission-driven still wins in a competitive flex market. If you think you need fancy furniture and deep pockets to grow, this episode will challenge everything. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Chiko on LinkedIn Perfect Office Solutions website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

In this host-only episode, Jamie and Gio catch up on what's happening across the flex space landscape, and let's just say, it's anything but quiet. From emerging product types to the mystery of Peerspace algorithms, this one dives into the macro (industry mergers, the rise of co-warehousing) and the micro (why your meeting room pricing strategy might be off). If you're feeling the pull to try something new or just want a pulse check on what's working, this is the episode for you. What we cover: Why showing up to coworking events and conferences is more valuable than ever. Meeting room trends: pricing, product design, and creative inventory strategies. The (surprising) growth of co-warehousing and adjacent flex models. Big moves in the flex industry: acquisitions, brand launches, and new entrants. Why some operators are quietly selling out and what others can learn from that momentum. This one's got ideas, inspiration, and a few names you'll definitely want to keep an eye on. Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

If you think all coworking leaders have the same backstory… this episode will change your mind. Mark Goldfinger, GM and Head of North America for Mindspace, joins us for a deep (and often hilarious) dive into his journey. From running global expansion at WeWork to building boutique, hospitality-forward spaces at Mindspace. We talk about what he learned from the early days of coworking (and Adam Neumann), why operators should take events seriously, and how to scale without losing the heart of the business. Plus, Mark opens up about the personal moments that shaped his leadership style, and yes, there's a Taylor Swift karaoke moment in here too. 🎤 Here's what we cover: Mark's journey from international expansion lead at WeWork to scaling Mindspace in the U.S. The magic of Mindspace's "host" events business model, and why events are core to modern coworking His six-year ride at WeWork and the powerful, human moments that defined it Mindspace's U.S. growth strategy, and what he looks for before signing on a new location The unexpected connection between marathon training and scaling a coworking brand This episode is part ops, part origin story, and full-on inspiration for anyone building a flex space with heart. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Mark on LinkedIn Mindspace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

In this episode, Amanda shares how she co-founded Bamboo and scaled it into a multi-location flex space operator managing over 200,000 sq ft—all while staying true to her indie roots and mission-driven values. We cover: The early Bamboo story: humble beginnings, tough calls, and a few desks from Craigslist The decision to grow beyond Detroit and what scaling has meant for the team Bamboo's strategy for operating AND managing third-party spaces (and why it works) A deep dive into their 115,000 sq ft conversion of a former school Amanda's thoughts on public-private partnerships and building local ecosystems This episode is packed with practical takeaways for indie operators and inspiring insights for anyone navigating the long game in flex. Amanda doesn't just talk the talk—she's walked every inch of this path. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Amanda on LinkedIn Bamboo Website Wesley Edmonds on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast  

If your goal is to create a coworking space that's profitable, purposeful, and packed with community-driven energy, this episode is required listening. Gina Schreck didn't just open a coworking space—she built a village. What started as a 10,000-square-foot coworking concept born from her marketing agency has grown into a 50,000-square-foot hybrid of workspace, event center, and community hub. In this conversation, Gina shares how she and her team doubled down during the pandemic, leaned into events when others pulled back, and built a culture that continues to thrive—even when she's not in the building. In this episode, we cover: How Gina expanded from 10K to 50K square feet (and why she nearly walked away from it) What makes her podcast studio actually get used (and how it supports her community) The role of events in sustaining revenue and attracting foot traffic—even weddings and church services How her space became a true community center, with a waitlist for offices and thriving nonprofit partnerships Why DIY coworking isn't for divas—and how she leans into a high-touch, high-hospitality model This one is packed with personality, insights, and the kind of energy that's hard to bottle—and harder to scale. But somehow, Gina's done both. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Gina on LinkedIn The Village Workspace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

When a real estate problem turns into a business opportunity… and then scales across the West Coast. That's the CENTRL Office origin story. In this episode, we sit down with Alex Hughes, co-founder of CENTRL Office, to hear how a "no man's land" office building in Portland led to a full-on flex brand with locations in Oregon, Washington, and California. Alex shares how they've transitioned completely to true management agreements, the role of tenant experience, and why the "vibe" is more than just good coffee and nice design. We cover: How CENTRL Office grew out of a leasing challenge and scaled with a flexible model that works for landlords. Why they moved from leases to fully aligned management agreement, and what that actually looks like. The types of buildings and partnerships that set the stage for long-term success (spoiler: they're not looking for one-off deals). How enterprise demand is showing up in LA and why it's reshaping what "coworking" means. The challenge and opportunity of bringing hospitality-level service to landlord portfolios through flex operations. If you're working on creative deal structures, supporting landlords through flex, or just trying to figure out how to scale your vibe, this one's for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Alex on LinkedIn CENTRL Office website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

Ginger Dhaliwal didn't plan to end up in coworking—or in tech at all. Her journey from social work to startup founder spans continents, industries, and a through-line of solving human-centered problems. As co-founder of Upflex, she's now at the intersection of workplace experience, real estate tech, and the flex ecosystem. In this episode, we cover: Ginger's global path from social impact to launching R&D labs, tech startups, and eventually, Upflex. The core challenges of aggregating coworking inventory—and why brokers and operators have been slow to adapt. Upflex's unique strategy: white-label partnerships with brokerages, airport lounge operators, and the U.S. government. How Ginger thinks AI will reduce booking friction, improve workspace recommendations, and drive industry-wide transformation. Why coworking is evolving from access-based models to experience-driven destinations—and what that means for operators. Ginger shares her vision of a future where space is dynamically allocated, demand is driven by intelligent systems, and coworking plays a key role in restoring human connection. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Ginger on LinkedIn Upflex website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What happens when a designer trades luxury bars and boutique hotels for coworking spaces—and ends up helping shape WeWork's global footprint? You get Dean Connell: design veteran, creative provocateur, and someone who's not afraid to say what coworking needs most right now. In this episode, Dean shares his personal story of stumbling into WeWork, building over 2 million square feet of flexible workspace around the world, and why coworking still has a culture problem. We dig into what's missing from today's flex space design and how operators can bring purpose, creativity, and—yes—a little rebellion back into the process. This one's part inspiration, part challenge to the status quo, and a must-listen for anyone trying to build spaces that matter. We cover: Dean's unexpected journey from bar designer to creative director at WeWork, and how it changed the trajectory of his life. Why so many coworking spaces feel soulless—and what to do about it. The tension between creativity and repeatable models in coworking design. How to build spaces that reflect culture, not just brand palettes. Dean's call for operators to stop playing it safe and start building the future, not just repackaging the past. If you've ever looked at your space and thought "there has to be more to this," you'll want to hear what Dean has to say. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Dean on LinkedIn I-AM.D.C website Wesley Edmonds on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

What if the future of work isn't about scaling bigger offices—but building better relationships? In this episode, we dive deep with Arian Lewis, founder of Kiln and former head of global partnerships at Barclays, to unpack the evolution of flex from "startup scrappiness" to a full-on solution for enterprise clients. Arian has one foot in the VC-backed world and the other in the day-to-day of running flex spaces—and he's got thoughts. This isn't a rah-rah "flex is the future" hype fest. It's a grounded convo about what actually works—and what doesn't—when it comes to designing spaces people want to work in. We cover: Why flex isn't just about desks and square footage—it's about culture, community, and control. What it's really like raising VC money for a flex workspace brand (spoiler: it's not for everyone). The one key metric Kiln uses to track whether members are actually getting value. A behind-the-scenes look at Kiln's operating model, including how they select cities and sites. Arian's honest take on why landlords and flex operators still struggle to trust each other—and what needs to change. If you're thinking about how to scale your space, attract bigger clients, or just survive the next shift in work trends—this episode's for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Arian on LinkedIn Kiln website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast