Coworking Values Podcast

Bernie J Mitchell
Coworking Values Podcast

Welcome to Coworking Values the podcast of the European Coworking Assembly. Each week we deep dive into one of the values of accessibility, community, openness, collaboration and sustainability. Listen in to learn how these values can make or break Coworking culture. coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

  1. Coworking Jobs: Building Careers with Gareth Jones

    2 DAYS AGO

    Coworking Jobs: Building Careers with Gareth Jones

    Episode Summary In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, Bernie welcomes back Gareth Jones, the founder of Town Square, for what feels like his five-hundredth appearance (and we’re glad to have him back!). Gareth gets honest about the surge in applications they’ve been seeing—over 500 people have applied for roles at their London locations in the last few months alone. This sudden wave of interest got him thinking, so they’re holding workshops at their Islington space to give people a proper look at what a career in coworking actually means. We dig into why so many people are eyeing coworking jobs now, what it takes to stand out when applying, and why Gareth insists on hiring local talent who know their communities. We also explore how coworking spaces, like the best restaurants, create a buzz of connection and belonging—skills Gareth says come naturally to those who’ve worked in hospitality. Whether you’re curious about the ins and outs of building a career in coworking or you’re just here for a fresh perspective on how these spaces are becoming modern-day community hubs, Gareth’s stories and insights paint a vivid picture of what’s possible when coworking spaces focus on people first. Detailed Episode Breakdown [00:27] - Bernie Welcomes Gareth Jones, Founder of Town SquareBernie introduces Gareth and mentions his long-standing connection with the show. Gareth begins by discussing his experience developing coworking spaces across the UK and the importance of partnering with local communities to establish and grow these spaces. [01:02] - The Surge in Job Applications for Coworking RolesGareth reveals that over 500 people applied for jobs in Town Square’s London locations this summer—a surge they had never seen before. In response, Town Square has initiated free workshops to educate job seekers about career opportunities in the coworking sector, broadening awareness and access to these roles. [03:12] - Coworking and Hospitality: Drawing ParallelsBernie and Gareth chat about how working in coworking spaces mirrors the hospitality industry, especially regarding service and community interaction. Gareth explains how they often seek candidates with hospitality backgrounds due to their transferable skills, which are valuable in managing the dynamic environment of coworking spaces. [05:12] - Who’s Applying for Coworking Jobs?Gareth examines the diverse backgrounds of the applicants, ranging from hospitality managers to entrepreneurs and even salespeople. He notes that many are drawn to coworking for its community focus and potential for career growth as they seek more stable and meaningful roles. [06:41] - Overqualified Candidates Seeking StabilityGareth highlights a trend of overqualified candidates applying for entry-level positions, such as community coordinators. He attributes this to the current economic climate, where stability and values-based roles are becoming increasingly important for professionals, regardless of their previous seniority or salary levels. [10:18] - Local Hiring: The Key to Authentic Community ManagementGareth emphasises the importance of hiring locally and integrating proximity as a crucial factor in their recruitment process. Understanding the local community, he argues, significantly boosts the credibility and effectiveness of community managers in engaging members and developing a sense of belonging. [12:11] - Strategies for Effective Recruitment in CoworkingResponding to Bernie’s question, Gareth discusses finding the right talent. He shares his strategy of avoiding traditional job platforms, which often attract candidates lacking genuine interest. Instead, he focuses on leveraging local networks and encouraging team referrals to find the right fit. [17:02] - Scaling Town Square Without Compromising AuthenticityGareth speaks about the complexities of expanding Town Square while staying true to its community-first ethos. He shares their decision to avoid s

    26 min
  2. Making Social Media Truly Inclusive with Jodie Greer

    18 OCT

    Making Social Media Truly Inclusive with Jodie Greer

    Episode Summary In this episode, Emily sits down with Jodie Greer, the founder of Be #PeopleSmart Consulting, to unpack why disability inclusion and accessibility matter in business and social media. Jodie’s insights offer a practical guide on how making social media inclusive doesn’t just widen your audience; it builds a genuine culture of belonging. From straightforward language tips to optimising visual elements, Jodie lays out accessible strategies that ensure everyone can connect with your content regardless of ability. Jodie’s advice? It’s about making small, thoughtful changes that have a significant impact. We talk about the realities of accessibility, from the importance of image descriptions to practical steps both small businesses and large corporations can take to adapt. Whether you’re running a small operation or part of a big organisation, this episode is loaded with tips that can help you up your game in digital communication. Timeline Summary[00:46] - Jodie introduces Be People Smart Consulting and its mission to promote disability inclusion and accessibility in business. [01:24] - You could miss out on the vast audience by not making social media content inclusive. [02:47] - Captions: why they’re vital not only for the deaf community but for anyone who prefers consuming content differently. [03:40] - Tips for making social media posts accessible—keeping language clear and using emojis smartly. [07:55] - Common mistakes businesses make, like relying on acronyms and neglecting proper colour contrast. [11:42] - Understanding what "good enough" accessibility means—why it’s more about progress than perfection. [18:45] - Jodie’s top five tips for making everyday social media communications more accessible. Detailed Episode Breakdown Introduction and Jodie’s Work at Be People SmartJodie Greer, founder of Be People Smart Consulting, shares the mission behind her organisation: supporting businesses in attracting, retaining, and developing talent through disability inclusion and accessibility initiatives. Her focus is on fostering a culture where everyone feels included and valued. The Case for Inclusive Social MediaWe explore how inclusive social media practices aren’t just about doing the right thing—they can also significantly expand an audience. With one in five adults identifying as disabled, excluding accessibility features means losing a sizeable chunk of potential followers. And it’s not just about disabilities; people have diverse ways of engaging with content, and inclusive practices can accommodate these preferences. Tactics for Accessible Social Media PostsJodie explains the importance of using clear, simple language, short paragraphs, and being careful with emojis. She shares why avoiding emojis as bullet points is critical for screen readers and visually impaired users. Jodie also emphasises the value of image descriptions and captions for making visual content accessible. Overcoming Common Accessibility MistakesJodie highlights frequent mistakes, such as using acronyms and ignoring colour contrast. She offers practical advice on tools and techniques to improve accessibility quickly, ensuring your message reaches more people. Achieving ‘Good Enough’ AccessibilityPerfection in ‘accessibility’ is a myth. Jodie discusses what "good enough" looks like and stresses the importance of continuous improvement. She also shares how small businesses, even without the resources of big corporations, can make significant strides with simple, effective measures. Quick Tips for Accessible Social MediaJodie shares daily actions you can take: keep language simple, use high-contrast colours, and ensure image descriptions are meaningful. These minor adjustments help make your content more inclusive and engaging without sacrificing appeal. Balancing Reach and AccessibilityEmily and Jodie discuss the fine line between maximising reach and ensuring accessibility. They delve int

    28 min
  3. Building Coworking Communities in Hungary with Szilvia Filip

    15 OCT

    Building Coworking Communities in Hungary with Szilvia Filip

    In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie Mitchell is joined by Szilvia Filip, founder of Coworking Hungary and owner of a coworking space in Vesprém. Szilvia shares her journey from corporate marketing to becoming a central figure in Hungary’s coworking scene. She discusses building a freelance ecosystem, fostering collaboration among coworking spaces, and how the Coworking Hungary Association supports the local movement. We discuss the balance between coworking and freelancing, the challenges of launching an association, and the power of community initiatives like Open Coworking Week. Szilvia also gives us an exclusive look at the upcoming European Coworking Day and why it matters for coworking in Hungary. This episode offers invaluable insights if you’re interested in growing a coworking community or learning how collaboration can lead to success. Stay tuned for Szilvia’s advice on turning coworking spaces into innovation hubs and how you can contribute to the European coworking movement. Timeline Summary: [00:00] – Bernie introduces Szilvia Filip, founder of Coworking Hungary, and discusses her role in the Hungarian coworking scene.[01:24] – Szilvia shares her first experience in a coworking space and how it inspired her to move from corporate life to community building.[03:48] – The allure of coworking for freelancers: Szilvia explains what attracted her to coworking and why freelancers find these spaces so valuable.[05:09] – Slow and steady: Szilvia recounts how she transitioned from her corporate job to freelancing, balancing both for years before leaping.[08:37] – Building an ecosystem: Szilvia discusses how she created a supportive network for freelancers and coworking space owners across Hungary.[14:53] – The rise of coworking in Hungary: Insights into the state of coworking in Hungary and how the movement has grown.[15:28] – Founding the Coworking Hungary Association: Szilvia faced challenges in setting up the association and the value it now brings to members.[18:43] – Open Coworking Week: Szilvia shares how this national initiative allows freelancers to experience coworking spaces across Hungary and the power of collective promotion.[21:37] – The community advantage: Szilvia reflects on the importance of community among coworking space owners and the benefits of collaborating on national campaigns. Detailed Episode Breakdown: Szilvia’s First Experience with Coworking:Szilvia vividly recalls stepping into her first coworking space in Budapest over a decade ago. The space's flexibility, creativity, and freedom instantly appealed to her, marking the start of her coworking journey. From Corporate Life to Freelance Freedom:Shifting from corporate marketing to freelancing was a gradual process for Szilvia. She explains how she juggled both worlds for years, slowly building her freelance career alongside her corporate job. Creating an Ecosystem for Coworking and Freelancers:Szilvia talks about how she brought together coworking space owners and freelancers to form a supportive ecosystem. By creating events and meetups, she helped foster a thriving community that led to the founding of the Coworking Hungary Association. The Birth of Coworking Hungary Association:Starting a national association wasn’t easy. Szilvia shares her hurdles and how she and other coworking space owners worked together to create something that truly serves its members without becoming a burden. The Power of Collaboration:One of the main benefits of the Coworking Hungary group is the sense of community. Szilvia explains how initiatives like Open Coworking Week help small spaces unite and offer more value to freelancers and remote workers nationwide. Why Community Matters in Coworking:Collaboration is at the heart of Szilvia's coworking. She shares how building a community of space owners, and freelancers help people feel less isolated and more motivated to grow their businesses together. Links & Resources:

    26 min
  4. Community is the Key: Working Smarter with Ann Hawkins

    10 OCT

    Community is the Key: Working Smarter with Ann Hawkins

    In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise of running a micro or small business. Ann Hawkins, founder of Drive, the Collaborative Network, joins us to share advice on simplifying the chaos and finding success by working together. Ann believes running a business doesn’t have to be a lonely grind—collaborating with the right people can be clear, focused, and rewarding. We cover everything from nailing down your personal 'why' to setting practical goals and how the right resources and skills can further your business without burning you out. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by running your own business, Ann’s insights will remind you that it doesn’t have to be complicated. More importantly, collaboration—even with competitors—might be the best-kept secret to thriving in the coworking world. Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' Checklist gets a spotlight here. It offers sharp, actionable steps for anyone who wants to run a business without losing their mind. Plus, we explore how partnerships within the coworking community can propel your business forward in unexpected and powerful ways. Timeline Summary: * [00:33] – Meet Ann Hawkins, small business success and collaboration champion. * [01:45] – Why teaming up with your competitors can be a game-changer. * [03:03] – The importance of learning from others to avoid isolation in business. * [05:36] – Ann’s 'Work Smart, Not Hard' checklist kicks off with understanding your personal 'why'—the core reason that keeps you motivated in business, especially on tough days. "So the first one is to have a very clear vision of why you're doing it, and this isn't the Simon Sinek thinking everybody needs to understand my whyThey really don't care, but what you need to do is you need to understand your why..." * [07:00] – No need for a grand business vision—sometimes, simple goals are what you need to stay grounded. * [10:52] – How a strong driving need keeps you focused and steers you clear of distractions. * [12:56] – Why outsourcing and collaboration are the antidotes to skill gaps and overwhelm. * [19:02] – How time and money are the real game-changers for sustaining your business. * [26:12] – The role of a flexible plan and how consistent action leads to long-term success. * [33:50] – How building a supportive community and collaborating with others keeps you accountable. * [40:38] – Creative community-building with Ann’s Drive network and groups like The Neotists. Episode Breakdown: Ann Hawkins cuts through the fluff with her six steps to small business success, starting with understanding your personal ‘why.’ It’s not about selling your purpose to the world but knowing precisely what drives you, especially when it gets tricky. It could be as simple as wanting more control over your life, financial security, or finding work that truly matters to you. From there, Ann makes it clear: you’ve got to have a genuine need driving your business. Whether making enough to live well or doing work that aligns with your values, this need keeps you going. We explore how outsourcing and working alongside others can fill skill gaps that otherwise leave people feeling stuck. Ann is about strategic simplicity—handling time, money, and resources without overcomplicating things. She advocates starting small, ideally alongside another job, to build financial stability before taking the full plunge. Her advice on pricing confidently is a sharp reminder to never undervalue your work, even when you’re just starting. One of the most potent takeaways is Ann’s emphasis on collaboration. In coworking, competition is often overrated. Seeing each other as collaborators rather than competitors opens up growth opportunities you didn’t see coming. It’s the core philosophy behind her Drive network, which is why it’s been such a game-changer for small business owners. Finally, Ann reinforces the power of consistency. Keep showing up and sharing

    52 min
  5. Boosting Coworking Impact through Grants with Jamila Daley founder of "Get That Money!"

    8 OCT

    Boosting Coworking Impact through Grants with Jamila Daley founder of "Get That Money!"

    In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie jams with Jamila Daly, founder of Get That Money Fundraising and a consultant for Urban MBA in London. Jamila shares how she got into fundraising and offers practical advice on how coworking spaces and small businesses can secure grant funding. We talk through leveraging existing assets, crafting more robust grant applications, and partnering with others for mutual benefit. Jamila also explains how organisations can escape the endless cycle of grant applications and shift towards being more self-sustaining. If you're looking to improve your projects with external funding, this episode offers actionable insights. Stay tuned to learn how your coworking space can tap into local authority grants while becoming a stronger candidate for funding by knowing your numbers, engaging your community, and maximising what you already have. This conversation is full of tips you can start using today. Timeline Summary * [00:50] – Jamila breaks down what she does at Get That Money and how she helps organisations with funding, asset use, and income generation. * [02:05] – Jamila shares how she stumbled into fundraising and turned it into a successful career. * [04:44] – Bernie and Jamila discuss the challenges of finding grants and offer practical advice on researching and identifying the right opportunities. * [06:47] – Jamila discusses her approach to competitor research and using free resources like the Charity Commission to find funding leads. * [11:38] – How to make your coworking space an attractive candidate for funding by aligning your metrics and community impact with grant criteria. * [14:06] – Collaborating for funding: Tips on evaluating potential partners and ensuring that partnerships are beneficial and aligned with your goals. * [19:11] – Breaking free from the endless grant cycle: Why sustainable income models are crucial for coworking spaces. * [24:06] – How to measure impact effectively and create engaging, concise reports for grant applications. Detailed Episode Breakdown How Jamila Discovered Her Passion for Fundraising: Jamila recounts her shift from corporate life into fundraising. Hired as an office manager at a charity, she quickly noticed a lack of focus on where the money came from. After pitching a plan for fundraising training, she dove into the world of grant funding and hasn’t looked back since. Finding Grants for Coworking Spaces: Bernie and Jamila explore the challenges coworking spaces face when searching for grants. Jamila shares her process, which includes starting with competitor research, using free databases like Charity Excellence, and signing up for local authority mailing lists. Her advice? Build a clear roadmap before diving into the grant world. Positioning Your Space for Funding Success: Jamila stresses the importance of knowing your numbers—who uses your space, their demographics, and the outcomes of your activities. By repackaging services, like offering programmes for women-led businesses, you can make your space more appealing to specific funds. It’s about highlighting what you already do well rather than reinventing the wheel. Collaborating for Funding: Jamila gives practical tips on evaluating potential partners for joint funding applications. Open discussions about roles, financial splits, and shared goals are crucial to ensuring collaborations benefit all parties involved. Escaping the Grant Cycle: Jamila talks about the pressure many organisations feel to apply for grants constantly. While grants are helpful, she encourages coworking spaces to explore sustainable income streams, such as desk rentals and hosting workshops. Diversifying revenue can prevent over-reliance on external funding. Measuring and Reporting Impact: Jamila highlights the importance of keeping impact reports short, sharp, and visually engaging. A well-designed five-page report with infographics and photos will resonate much more than a 40-page

    29 min
  6. No Bullsh*t: Vision, Mission, and Values That Keep You on Track

    3 OCT

    No Bullsh*t: Vision, Mission, and Values That Keep You on Track

    In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie and Emily cut through the fluff to discuss why vision, mission, and values are more than just corporate jargon. They keep you from falling off the map, whether running a coworking space, a business or just trying to get through the day. Through personal stories and honesty, they show how these principles drive everything, especially when things get tough. You'll hear why so many businesses get this wrong and how you can avoid that trap, plus tips on cutting through the noise and keeping it simple. If you've ever felt lost or unsure about what you're doing, this conversation will help you get your head straight. Episode Timeline: * [00:00] Bernie introduces the Community Builders cohort, a peer-to-peer learning programme for those who want to transform their community from invisible to unstoppable. * [01:01] Emily checks in from Ohio. They dive into how vision, mission, and values should guide every team meeting and not be a dusty artefact. * [02:39] Bernie shares a personal story of how a startup he worked with treated vision and values like a marketing task and why that’s a big mistake. * [03:09] Emily breaks down why the whole team needs to be in on shaping a company’s principles, not just the leadership. * [06:15] Bernie asks what happens when someone loses their way. Emily describes vision and values as the “lighthouse in the storm” when you're adrift. * [09:25] Bernie and Emily talk about how outsourcing your vision to AI strips away authenticity—and why you can spot it a mile away. * [12:15] Bernie dives into the emotional drive behind staying aligned with your mission, especially when times get tough. * [16:03] Emily talks about how founders can confuse community-building with day-to-day tasks and how that stalls progress. * [18:59] Bernie and Emily discuss the importance of discussing money and balancing financial goals with the bigger picture. * [20:30] Bernie shares how a lack of clear vision can fragment a team and drain the life out of a project based on his own experiences. No BS Breakdown: This episode is about vision, mission, and values—whether you’re running a business, building a community, or figuring out your next move. Bernie and Emily tear down the idea that these are just corporate buzzwords, showing how they’re practical tools for staying on track when the going gets rough. Bernie shares how some founders get so caught up in startup chaos that they pawn off the important stuff, like defining their vision, to marketing teams. This is a big mistake. Vision and values need to come from the top, and Emily backs that up, explaining that the whole team needs to understand why certain values matter and how they manifest in daily work. Revisiting these values regularly is vital. It’s not a one-and-done thing—it’s your lighthouse when everything’s going sideways. Emily digs into why personal alignment with a company’s mission fuels the team, especially during hard times. They also discuss how money can’t be ignored—yes, the mission matters, but if the bills aren’t getting paid, there is no mission. Bernie shares his frustration with businesses that outsource their vision and values to AI or marketing consultants.It’s hollow, and everyone in the company feels that disconnect. Real vision has to come from within, or it will fall flat. Emily finishes by offering a challenge to listeners—define your vision, mission, and values. These aren’t just tools for business; they’re for life. They’ll help you figure out where to go when things go off the rails. Links & Resources: * Hero On A Mission - An online morning ritual and vision planner * OuiShare Community & Festival * Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join the next Community Builder Cohort * Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day * Connect with Bernie on

    26 min
  7. 30 SEPT

    Breaking Down the London Flex Brand Index: Insights and Trends with Zoe Ellis-Moore

    Episode Show Notes: London Flex Brand Index Report: Inside the Numbers with Zoe Ellis-Moore In this episode, we dive into the first-ever London Flex Brand Index Report with Zoe Ellis-Moore, founder of Spaces to Places. Zoe uses her passion for placemaking and expertise in the flex office market to analyze the report's findings about London’s coworking and flexible office scene. This episode unpacks the categories, tiers, and trends highlighted in the report, offering a clearer view of where the market is heading and why branding matters more than ever. Zoe explains the confusion surrounding coworking vs flex, clarifies how different segments are emerging, and explains how brands like Regus, WeWork, and neighbourhood spaces shape the market. If you manage a space or are just curious about how flex spaces are transforming post-COVID, this episode is packed with real data and actionable insights straight from the London Flex Brand Index. Timeline Summary: [00:27] - Zoe Ellis-Moore introduces herself and her passion for placemaking [02:25] - Defining the difference between coworking and flex office spaces [04:55] - Unpacking the London Flex Brand Index and why categorising the market matters [07:51] - Breaking down flex office brands: from niche players to mainstream giants [12:17] - Why Regus’ Net Promoter Score is so low and what it means for the market [18:24] - The rise of neighbourhood workspaces and how they’re changing local economies [23:24] - Post-COVID shifts in workspace demand and the role of local authorities in boosting neighbourhood coworking Detailed Episode Breakdown: * Placemaking and the Flex Office RevolutionZoe explains her passion for turning empty, soulless spaces into thriving places people want to be. This philosophy sets the stage for understanding how placemaking influences the way we work and live, especially in the evolving landscape of coworking and flex offices. * What is Flex and Why Does It Matter?Zoe provides a straightforward breakdown of the differences between coworking and flex spaces, focusing on the contract terms that distinguish them. Flex offices cater to businesses that need professional spaces but want the flexibility of shorter leases—under three years, to be exact. On the other hand, coworking often feels more like 'pay-as-you-go,' serving individuals and freelancers who need communal, adaptable environments. * The London Flex Brand Index: Cutting Through the ClutterZoe introduces the report and its methodology. With over 60 brands and 686 locations across London, the flex market is dynamic but fragmented. The London Flex Brand Index categorises providers based on their market presence, breaking them down into mainstream, niche, premium, and value categories to help operators understand their position. * Regus, WeWork, and the NPS DilemmaWhile brands like WeWork and Regus are household names in the flex market, their Net Promoter Scores tell a different story. Zoe highlights why Regus, despite being a giant, scores a shocking -82 on the NPS scale. She dives into the customer frustrations and friction points that lead many users to start with Regus but then transition to higher-quality spaces once they understand the market. * Neighbourhood Coworking: The Post-COVID BoomThe conversation shifts to the rise of neighbourhood coworking spaces. Post-COVID, local authorities have recognised the value of keeping people working closer to home. Zoe explains how this shift has led to a boom in local, multifunctional spaces that blend work, lifestyle, and community. These spaces aren’t just about desks—they’re about creating local hubs where people live, work, and interact. * Educating the Public: The Big ChallengeBernie and Zoe discuss the ongoing challenge of educating the public about the value of flexible workspaces. Many people don’t realise these options exist in their neighbourhoods. Zoe stresses the need for the industry to step up and bridge this awareness gap by sh

    30 min
  8. 26 SEPT

    Building Coworking Communities from transforma bcn to Kalima with Vanessa Sans

    In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, Bernie sits down with Vanessa Sans, a leader and quiet storm who’s been rewriting coworking rules across Europe, Africa, and beyond for over fifteen years.From the gritty streets of Barcelona’s transforma bcn to the sun-drenched calm of Kalima Coliving, Coworking & Cafè, Vanessa’s work isn’t just about creating workspaces but connecting people in ways that matter. Her influence stretches across continents like a thread between the wild, untethered lives of digital nomads and the locals who shape these communities from the ground up. But this isn’t your typical coworking success story. It’s about sweat, failure, and the hard lessons learned in the trenches. Kalima—a place born from vision and struggle—is more than just a coworking space by the sea. It’s a personal victory for Vanessa, a testament to the power of community-led neighbourhood coworking. Here, the lines blur between work and life as Kalima - Coliving | Work Café breathes new life into the local economy, revitalising the neighbourhood and building a culture far beyond desks and Wi-Fi and just 7 seconds from the beach. This is where Vanessa’s journey and the coworking community’s future collide in something raw, natural, and undeniably triumphant. Timeline Summary: * [00:26] – Bernie introduces Vanessa Sans as a coworking leader and a community architect whose projects span continents. Her work has brought people together in coworking spaces beyond the physical—spaces that breathe life into cities and create lasting bonds. * [02:51] – Vanessa reminisces about her first encounter with coworking at Utopicus - it wasn’t just a moment of inspiration but a revelation. It was a place that wasn’t just about working but connecting and building something bigger than yourself. * [04:48] – The birth of transforma bcn. Vanessa doesn’t just talk about founding this space; she explains her vision of coworking as a tool for transformation. * She didn't just want to build a business—she wanted to create a movement that brings culture, creativity, and collaboration together. * [06:04] – Coworking in Europe back in 2012. This was the beginning of something much more significant. Vanessa reflects on how she helped shape coworking into more than an office space—it became a cultural hub, a place for ideas to meet and grow. * [09:55] – The 2014 Coworking Europe Conference in Lisbon. This wasn’t just a conference; it was a reunion of sorts—a meeting of minds that were shaping the coworking world. For Vanessa, this was a pivotal moment when coworking became more than just an idea; it became a movement that connected people across borders.The video below was made at the Copass Camp at Coworking Europe Lisbon in 2014.Watch out for Vanessa and Bernie in this video below.(And the goodbye hugs with our late great coworking friend Matija Raos in the final scene.) * [15:41] – The serendipity of Kalima. Vanessa describes when she stumbled upon a beachside hotel in Catalonia that would soon become her latest venture. Kalima - Coliving | Work Café isn’t just a coworking space—it’s a community by the sea where remote workers and locals come together to create something unique. * [20:19] – The magic of co-creation. Vanessa didn’t build Kalima - Coliving | Work Café alone—she invited local and international remote workers to help shape its branding and philosophy. The result? It is a thriving, organic community that has always been there. * [29:17] – Digital nomads vs. remote workers: Vanessa breaks down the differences and how Kalima has become a unique space that caters to both, creating a blend of work and life that few places can offer. * [32:28] – How coworking spaces like Kalima will transform neighbourhoods. It’s not just about business; it’s about people. Vanessa shows us how coworking spaces can activate local economies, support nearby businesses, and foster a sense

    34 min

About

Welcome to Coworking Values the podcast of the European Coworking Assembly. Each week we deep dive into one of the values of accessibility, community, openness, collaboration and sustainability. Listen in to learn how these values can make or break Coworking culture. coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

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