Coworking Values Podcast Bernie J Mitchell

In this episode, we interview Miguel Lucea, the visionary behind Sojuela Joven, the first rural co-living space in La Rioja, Spain. Miguel shares his journey and the transformative impact of rural co-living on local economies and cultural landscapes. Discover how digital nomads and entrepreneurs revitalise small towns, create meaningful connections, and contribute to community growth. This conversation illuminates rural areas' potential to offer a high-quality, fulfilling lifestyle beyond big cities' allure.
Timeline Summary
* [01:20] - Miguel Lucea introduces Sojuela Joven, the first rural co-living in La Rioja, Spain.
* [02:12] - Discussion on the rapid impact of co-living on local economies and cultural dynamics.
* [04:17] - Average stay duration and the goal of fostering long-term community engagement.
* [05:23] - The role of regional government support and public funding in the project.
* [06:55] - The longstanding issue of rural depopulation and its historical context.
* [09:20] - Miguel’s connection to rural life through his grandparents' agricultural background.
* [10:01] - The shift from rural to urban life across generations and the decision to return.
* [12:02] - The appeal of rural living post-COVID and the advantages of remote work.
* [13:22] - Quality of life in rural areas versus the perceived benefits of urban living.
* [17:12] - Miguel’s career path from academia to founding Sojuela Joven.
* [22:09] - The importance of genuine human connections in the digital age.
* [24:47] - The future of rural co-living and its potential to drive regional development.
* [28:43] - Ideal candidates for Sojuela Joven and the community-oriented lifestyle offered.
Links & Resources
* Sojuela Joven Co-living: Sojuela Joven Website
* Connect with Miguel Lucea on LinkedIn
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Rural Coworking Project by European Coworking Assembly 
* Maria do Ceu Bastos, co-founder of Nowheredesk
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Virtual Headquarters - join the independent virtual office network for your coworking business.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
Introduction to Sojuela JovenMiguel Lucea introduces Sojuela Joven, emphasizing its unique position as the first rural co-living space in La Rioja. Located in the village of Sojuela, this initiative aims to revitalize the local community by attracting digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
Impact on Local EconomiesMiguel explains how the introduction of Sojuela Joven has rapidly influenced the local economy and social dynamics. With a small permanent population, the arrival of new residents has increased the village's population by 20%, bringing new energy and interactions.
Government Support and Public FundingThe success of Sojuela Joven has been bolstered by support from the regional government through the Emblematic Initiatives to Fight Rural Depopulation program. This funding and support have facilitated engagement with local authorities and other regional initiatives.
Historical Context of Rural DepopulationMiguel discusses the historical and economic reasons behind rural depopulation in La Rioja and similar regions. He highlights the migration trends that have led to the current situation and the need for innovative solutions to reverse this trend.
Personal Connection to Rural LifeDrawing from his family history, Miguel shares the generational shift from rural to urban living and the desire among younger generations to reconnect with their roots and create sustainable rural communities.
Advantages of Rural Living Post-COVIDThe pandemic has highlighted the benefits of rural living, such as lower costs, better quality of life, and the feasibility of remote work. Miguel emphasizes the unique opportunities rural areas offer for personal and professional growth.
The Future of Rural Co-LivingLooking ahead, Miguel envisions r

Episode Summary
In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, we chat with Jenny, the dynamic force behind Coworking Corner in Matlock, Derbyshire. Jenny shares her journey from running a small coworking space to juggling multiple roles as a charity agile strategy consultant, travel blogger, and nature connection facilitator. We explore how she seamlessly integrates her diverse interests and balances her professional and personal life. Tune in to hear about her planning techniques, the evolution of Coworking Corner, and the unique challenges and joys of building a coworking community in a rural area.
Timeline Summary
00:02 Introduction to the episode and guest, Jenny.
00:49 Jenny discusses what she is known for and her future aspirations.
02:06 Balancing different aspects of her life and how they support each other.
03:26 The impact of COVID-19 on her consultancy work and the motivation to start Coworking Corner.
04:39 The joys and challenges of managing multiple roles and interests.
05:01 Planning her week and balancing priorities.
07:49 Using agile methodology to achieve bigger life goals.
10:18 The importance of detailed planning for personal and professional success.
12:09 Reflecting on the early days of Coworking Corner and building a community.
17:58 How Matlock’s location attracts returning visitors and remote workers.
20:26 Marketing strategies and the flexibility of Coworking Corner.
21:59 Hopes for the future of coworking and the importance of small, community-driven spaces.
23:19 The widespread benefits of coworking and overcoming public awareness challenges.
24:10 Personal experiences with the advantages of coworking and community support.
26:19 Jenny’s multiple projects and where to find her online.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
Introduction and Getting to Know Jenny (00:02 - 01:36)
- Jenny, known for her vibrant and multifaceted career, owns Coworking Corner, a charity agile strategy consultant, and is a travel blogger. She aspires to become a nature connection facilitator.
Balancing Multiple Roles (01:36 - 04:39)
- Jenny explains how she balances her various roles, the flexibility required, and how each aspect of her life supports the others.
Impact of COVID-19 and Starting Coworking Corner (03:26 - 04:39)
- The pandemic's impact on her consultancy work led to the creation of Coworking Corner, fulfilling her need for community and interaction.
Planning and Agile Methodology (05:01 - 10:18)
- Jenny's approach to weekly planning and agile methodologies helps her manage her diverse projects and maintain productivity.
Building Coworking Corner and Community (12:09 - 17:11)
- Jenny shares her journey of establishing Coworking Corner, the importance of community building, and how she transitioned from being solely a consultant to running a coworking space.
Attracting Visitors and Marketing Strategies (17:58 - 21:32)
- The unique appeal of Matlock and how Jenny's flexible, easy-going approach attracts repeat visitors and remote teams.
Future of Coworking (21:59 - 25:04)
- Jenny's vision for the future of coworking involves more small, community-driven spaces and increased public awareness of coworking benefits.
Personal Insights and Experiences (25:04 - 26:19)
- The personal benefits of coworking, including increased productivity and community support, are highlighted through Jenny’s experiences.
Links & Resources
* Follow Jenny on Instagram
* Coworking Corner on Instagram
* Jenny's Travel Blog: She Gets Around
* Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
One More Thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values. Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact. It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand cowo

Episode Summary
In this episode of Renegades of Flow, Bernie and Emily explore the concept of breakthroughs, drawing insights from their recent "Creator Write Club Goal Setting", an online workshop they run as part of Creator Write Club.They discuss how creating space and embracing chaos can lead to personal and creative breakthroughs. Emily shares a Zen story about emptying one's cup to make room for new knowledge, and Bernie reflects on his journey of reading and gaining clarity. They deconstruct the challenges of overcoming mental blocks, the importance of routine, and the role of meditation in nurturing our creativity.
Listen out for simple and practical strategies for achieving your micro breakthroughs in your workflow.
Timeline Summary
00:37 Introduction: Bernie and Emily catch up and share recent experiences.
02:05 Workshop Recap of the "Creator Write Club Goal Setting" online workshop.
03:47 Zen Story: Emily shares a Zen story about emptying one's cup.
04:58 Reading Habits: Bernie reflects on his reading journey and gaining clarity.
07:12 Mindless Activities: Emily discusses how physical activities can spark creativity.
10:13 Meditation Practices: Bernie and Emily share their meditation techniques.
13:57 Writing Routine: Bernie talks about his daily writing habit and its impact.
17:56 System Design: Emily explains her approach to designing and maintaining systems.
22:13 Collaborative Ideas: Bernie and Emily discuss the importance of collaboration and idea sharing.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
Introduction and Recent Events 00:37
Bernie and Emily start with a light-hearted catch-up, discussing the recent eclipse and its effects.
Insights from the Workshop 02:05
They delve into the "Create a Write" workshop, highlighting key takeaways about writing processes and overcoming creative blocks.
Zen Philosophy 03:47
Emily shares a Zen story that emphasizes the importance of making space for new knowledge, setting the stage for a discussion on mental clarity.
Bernie’s Reading Journey 04:58
Bernie recounts his shift from consuming numerous books to focusing deeply on a few, which has helped him achieve greater clarity and insights.
Physical Activities and Creativity 07:12
Emily suggests engaging in physical activities can help clear the mind and nurture creative breakthroughs.
Meditation Techniques 10:13
Both hosts discuss their meditation practices and share tips to clear mental clutter and enhance focus.
Daily Writing Habits 13:57
Bernie emphasizes the power of daily writing routines in maintaining mental clarity and generating new ideas.
System Design and Adaptation 17:56
Emily explains her approach to constantly reinventing organizational systems to keep them effective and engaging.
Collaborative Idea Generation 22:13
The conversation wraps up with Bernie and Emily reflecting on the collaborative process of idea generation and how it leads to breakthroughs.
Links & Resources
* Creator Write Club
* Insight Timer Meditation App
* 750 Words
* Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon
* Why Jonathan Stark writes every day
* Urban MBA 
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Virtual Headquarters - join the independent virtual office network for your coworking business.
* Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
* Join the next Community Builder Cohort
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
One More Thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.


Get full access to 🎙️Coworking Values Podcast at coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com/subscribe

Today, Tony Bacigalupo is joined by Alycia Levels Moore, founder of Polaris BHM in Birmingham, Alabama, for her second appearance on the Coworking Values Podcast.
Alycia shares her journey from New York to East Atlanta and finally to Birmingham, where she has become a vibrant community advocate.
Discover how Alycia's passion for her Woodlawn neighbourhood led her to create a thriving coworking space that nurtures local entrepreneurs.
We delve into the importance of community engagement, the role of coworking spaces as educational hubs, and the impact of fostering a supportive environment for dreamers and doers alike.
Timeline Summary:
00:54 - Meet Alycia Levels Moore, founder of Polaris BHM.
01:26 - Woodlawn: A vibrant community in East Birmingham.
02:33 - Alycia's journey from New York to Birmingham.
03:36 - The Urban Main program and nurturing community talents.
05:27 - The inception of Polaris BHM: A coworking space dream.
08:37 - Integrating coworking with neighborhood businesses.
12:05 - Providing safety and support for entrepreneurs.
15:33 - The standards and culture at Polaris BHM.
17:33 - Messaging and mutual support within the coworking community.
19:54 - Educating and welcoming new visitors to the coworking space.
23:11 - Strategies for revitalizing and engaging a coworking space.
28:01 - Building a sense of community in new neighbourhoods.
33:25 - The role of patriotism and active participation in community building.
Detailed Episode Breakdown:
Introduction and Background
Woodlawn Community
- Alycia highlights the vibrancy and revitalization efforts in the Woodlawn neighbourhood.
- The "Woodlawn is significant for lovers" movement and community shirts.
Journey to Birmingham
- The backstory of Alycia's move to Birmingham and her involvement in the Urban Main program.
- Her husband’s influence and their commitment to the Woodlawn neighbourhood.
The Birth of Polaris BHM
- Inspiration behind starting Polaris BHM during the pandemic.
- Overcoming challenges to create a coworking space and gathering community support.
Integrating with the Neighborhood
- How does Polaris BHM collaborate with local businesses and organizations?
- Examples of technical assistance and programming provided to entrepreneurs.
Fostering a Supportive Environment
- The importance of safety and support for entrepreneurs.
- Alycia’s approach nurtures dreams and provides a safe space for ideas to flourish.
Culture and Standards at Polaris BHM
- Establishing a culture of home, safety, and mutual support within the coworking space.
- Engaging with members and the broader community through clear messaging.
Community Engagement
- The significance of being actively involved in the community.
- Strategies for building and maintaining a vibrant community space.
Personal Reflections and Advice
- What advice does Alycia have for other coworking space owners on assessing and adapting to member needs?
- The importance of staying connected and actively participating in the community.
Conclusion and Future Plans
- Alycia shares ways to stay connected with Polaris BHM and her ongoing initiatives.
- Encouragement for listeners to follow her journey and engage with their communities.
Links & Resources:
* Polaris BHM Website: polarisbhm.com
* How Do I Do This Podcast with Alycia
* Polaris BHM on Instagram
* Main Street America
* ‘More Fight’ - Alycia’s 2016 Album
* Alycia’s first podcast with us!
* Connect with Alycia Levels Moore on LinkedIn
* Connect with Tony Bacigalupo on LinkedIn
* Find out more about The Belongfulness Project
* The Summer 2024 Coworking Community Builder Cohort
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and

In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, we welcome , the host of “” podcast.
Fanny shares her journey from a shy university graduate to a digital nomad and web analyst. We delve into her passion for coworking and freelancing, emphasizing the pivotal role of community in these spaces. Fanny's insights on creating a thriving coworking community and choosing the right coworking space are invaluable, whether you're a seasoned freelancer or new to coworking.
We explore the impact of coworking environments on productivity, the significance of design, and the nuances that differentiate coworking spaces from flex offices. Fanny also shares her thoughts on the future of coworking, emphasizing the importance of local communities collaborating and sharing best practices. Listen in to discover how coworking spaces can transform your work life and foster a sense of belonging, even for the most introverted.
Timeline Summary
* [1:12] - Introduction to Fanny Marcoux and her podcast, "A Very Special Coworking."
* [2:29] - Fanny's discovery of coworking and its initial impact on her life.
* [4:55] - The challenges and benefits of being an introvert in coworking spaces.
* [6:12] - How coworking space design influences productivity and concentration.
* [9:00] - The importance of community in coworking spaces.
* [11:41] - Fanny's user journey in selecting coworking spaces when travelling.
* [15:38] - Hopes for coworking's future and local communities' role.
* [18:16] - The necessity of collaboration over competition among coworking spaces.
* [21:42] - Innovative coworking concepts and the experience beyond a workspace.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
* [1:12] - Introduction and Background: Bernie introduces Fanny Marcoux, host of "A Very Special Coworking." Fanny talks about her passion for coworking and freelancing and her role as a web analyst using tools like Google Analytics and Looker Studio.
* [2:29] - Discovering Coworking: Fanny recounts her initial exposure to coworking during a digital event called Café Numerique, highlighting the importance of these hubs for innovation and creativity.
* [4:55] - Coworking for Introverts: Fanny shares her experience as an introvert in coworking spaces, discussing the balance between solitude for focus and social interaction for energy.
* [6:12] - Design and Productivity: The conversation shifts to how the design of coworking spaces can affect productivity, with Fanny emphasizing the need for quiet areas and phone booths to support focused work.
* [9:00] - Community and Flex Offices: Fanny explains the critical role of community in coworking spaces, differentiating them from flex offices and discussing how different spaces manage community interactions.
* [11:41] - Selecting Coworking Spaces: Fanny details her process for choosing coworking spaces when travelling, focusing on tools like Google Maps and social media to find spaces with good reviews and vibrant communities.
* [15:38] - Future of Coworking: Fanny shares her hopes for the future, envisioning more local, small-scale coworking spaces that collaborate and share best practices to support each other.
* [18:16] - Collaboration Over Competition: Discussing the benefits of coworking spaces collaborating, Fanny argues that coworking spaces should see each other as partners rather than competitors, enhancing the overall coworking experience.
* [21:42] - Innovative Concepts: Fanny mentions unique coworking concepts like co-dancing and multifunctional spaces that blend coworking with other activities, highlighting the evolving nature of coworking environments.
Links & Resources
* Connect with Fanny Marcoux on LinkedIn
* Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
* Fanny’s website
* Listen to "A Very Special Coworking" on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Substack.
* Simon Sinek on People come before money.
* London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar Camp
* Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn
* Virtual Headquarters - join the independent virtual off

In this episode, we interview Claire Carpenter, a pioneering figure in the European coworking movement and a passionate advocate for community and adventure.
Broadcasting from Kent, Claire shares her journey from founding one of the first coworking spaces in 2007 to her current life as a coach, traveller, and climber.
Claire discusses the evolution of coworking, the importance of creating comfortable and engaging conference experiences, and the significance of hospitality in fostering community.
This episode contains valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories from Claire's travels and professional experiences.
Timeline Summary
00:27 - Introduction to Claire Carpenter from Kent, the Garden of England.
00:36 - Claire’s background and current passions as a coach and adventurer.
01:06 - The early days of coworking and the founding of Claire's space in 2007.
02:06 - Claire's recent travels, including a visit to Morocco.
02:22 - Attending Coworking Spain and GCUC (Global Coworking Unconference Conference) in Manchester.
03:06 - The importance of accommodating different learning styles at conferences.
04:47—Hospitality and community are core values of coworking conferences, and this session will focus on the exceptional food at Coworking Spain and GCUC Manchester.
07:22 - The growth and diversification of the coworking industry.
10:10 - Understanding placemaking and its role in coworking.
17:35 - Conferences are vital for connecting with peers and sharing knowledge.
21:38 - Welcoming new entrants into the coworking community and supporting their growth.
23:58 - Claire's coaching philosophy and how she helps change-makers achieve their goals.
26:42 - The story behind Claire's van, Dignity, and her love for designing spaces.
Key Topics
1. Learning Styles and Conference Experiences:
   Claire emphasises the importance of addressing various learning styles to make attendees comfortable. She shares how Coworking Spain and GCUC Manchester were successful because they catered to different learning preferences and maintained a human-sized conference setting.

2. Hospitality and Community at Conferences:
   Highlighting the role of hospitality, Claire mentions how the food at Coworking Spain and GCUC Manchester exceeded expectations, enhancing the overall experience. Bernie and Claire discuss how good food and thoughtful event planning can significantly impact attendees' perceptions and satisfaction.

3. The Evolution and Growth of Coworking:
   Claire reflects on the coworking movement's journey from its early days to becoming a diverse and established industry. She discusses the ongoing growth and diversification, noting the increasing number of place-makers and the importance of community building within coworking spaces.

4. Placemaking and Creating Destinations:
   Claire explains the concept of placemaking, which goes beyond creating a physical space to establishing a destination within a broader ecosystem. She emphasises the importance of connecting with local businesses and support systems to enhance the coworking community.

5. The Importance of Connection at Conferences:
   Conferences serve as a platform for coworking professionals to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Claire and Bernie discuss the value of arriving at conferences already feeling connected and the efforts made by the London Coworking Assembly to foster such connections.

6. Welcoming New Entrants and Continuous Learning:
   Claire highlights the importance of welcoming new members into the coworking community and supporting their development. She stresses the value of continuous learning and the role of experienced members in mentoring newcomers.

Links & Resources
Claire Carpenter Coaching
Follow Claire’s adventures on Instagram
Listen to "Dignity" by Deacon Blue: YouTube Music
Coworking SpainGCUC Manchester
London Coworking Assembly Forum & Bar CampCoworking Values Podcast on LinkedInVirtual Headqu