Coworking Values Podcast

Bernie J Mitchell

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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

20 HR. AGO

Where Work is Heading: The Science of Flexibility with Denise Brouder

Episode Summary What if everything you thought you knew about work was wrong? In this episode, Bernie sits down with Denise Brouder, the instigator of The Science of Flexibility report—a project shaking up how we think about coworking, enterprise, and the spaces in between. Denise shares the story of this groundbreaking work, created in collaboration with Ashley Proctor and Sam Rosen and designed to bridge the gap between corporate giants and independent coworking spaces. Denise challenges the assumptions that hold us back, arguing that real change starts with rethinking how and where we work. From building a common language to exploring how coworking can break down barriers for marginalised groups, this episode dives into the questions most of us are too afraid to ask about the future of work. Whether you’re a coworking space owner, a corporate leader, or just someone tired of staring at your kitchen table pretending it’s an office, this conversation will open your eyes to the power of flexible workspaces and why they matter now more than ever. Don’t just take our word for it—dive in and see how Denise’s insights can reshape your perspective on work, community, and connection. But the Science of Flexibility isn't just a report. It's the gateway to meaningful conversations with practical application that rises above the endless noise of: * “Should we go back to the office?” * “What is the future of work?” * “Will the robots take our jobs?” Emily and I will bring you more podcasts with Denise, Ashley, and Sam over the next few months to help you consider how this work can help you. If you’re a fan of classic sports analogies, The Science of Flexibility is like Wayne Gretzky’s iconic approach: skating to where the puck is going, not where it’s been. Timeline Highlights [0:39] – Denise on helping people think differently about work and life. [1:54] – How The Science of Flexibility report came together with Ashley and Sam. [3:38] – What makes coworking spaces feel different from corporate offices? [6:05] – Teaching knowledge workers about third spaces and flexible strategies. [10:10] – How coworking education begins with understanding your value. [14:07] – The role of flexibility in supporting marginalised groups. [20:50] – Denise’s take on how variety in work environments drives innovation. [25:23] – Are we losing our edge in the conversation about the future of work? [29:48] – Change happens on the fringe: what coworking can teach us. Detailed Episode Breakdown Rethinking Work: Why Thinking Differently MattersDenise Brouder shares her core belief: to work differently, we must think differently. This philosophy drives her collaboration on The Science of Flexibility report, which aims to challenge assumptions about work and create a shared language between coworking and enterprise communities. Coworking vs. Cubicle Farms: Finding the “Third Place”Denise explains how coworking spaces stand apart from corporate offices. She highlights the warmth, community, and creativity of independent spaces compared to the sterile feel of traditional office setups, offering practical strategies for coworking spaces to differentiate themselves. Flexibility and Marginalised Groups: Unlocking New OpportunitiesFrom reducing barriers for working parents to creating equitable career paths, Denise illustrates how flexible work can empower marginalised groups. She contrasts the potential of flexibility with the harm caused when it’s taken away, making a strong case for coworking as a cornerstone of future work strategies. Educating the Market: Bridging the Knowledge GapBernie and Denise discuss the importance of educating coworking space owners and potential users about the value of coworking. Denise emphasises the need for coworking spaces to articulate their unique benefits, aligning with workers’ intrinsic motivations to leave their home offices. Change on the Fringe: Innovating the Future of WorkDenise reminds us that innovation starts at the edges of conversations. She highlights how smaller, independent coworking spaces often lead the way in redefining how we work, with larger organisations only catching up later. * Download your own The Science of Flexibility report. * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Denise on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you.If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

32 min
5 DAYS AGO

Practical Email Marketing: Demystifying Newsletters with Helen Lindop

Episode Summary Far too many email tips fall flat, leaving coworking spaces and micro businesses with newsletters that go unread or fail to connect. But Helen Lindop sees email differently. She offers practical, real-world advice for making email communication feel human again. This isn’t about flashy tools or overwhelming schedules—it’s about getting the basics right and keeping things manageable. In this episode, Bernie and Helen tackle the realities of email marketing for small teams. They talk about why consistency matters more than perfection, how to avoid the last-minute "Friday email scramble," and why every coworking space should treat its email list like a conversation, not a broadcast. Helen’s insights strip away the fluff and focus on what works, including where to start if email feels overwhelming and how to create a simple strategy that fits your goals. This isn’t cookie-cutter advice. It’s a relatable, no-nonsense guide to making email work for real people with busy lives and big ideas. Whether you run a coworking space, a community, a small business, or are just trying to communicate better, this episode has something for you. And yes, Helen’s guide is exactly the resource you’ll wish you had years ago. Timeline Highlights [0:04] – Emily and Bernie introduce Third Place Works support [0:25] – Bernie reveals why email is today’s focus [0:45] – Helen describes her mentoring work and writing projects [1:05] – Balancing quick setup with quality content [3:49] – Shifting from “email blasts” to honest conversations [5:06] – Strategy before software—knowing your goals first [8:29] – Email as part of a well-rounded marketing plan [10:01] – Consistency builds trust and recognition [13:15] – Finding a frequency that fits your community [17:25] – The ups and downs of emailing daily vs. monthly [22:32] – Simple steps to grow your list without feeling pushy [24:18] – Getting creative with QR codes and sign-in sheets [25:28] – Permission-based sign-ups and respect for people’s inboxes [26:04] – Repurposing your best material for a smoother workflow [29:23] – Helen’s eBook—a practical guide at your fingertips Detailed Episode Breakdown Why Email Still MattersHelen points out that plenty of folks send emails without a plan. She shows how scattered efforts can be turned into something more genuine and inviting. The real power of email, especially for small coworking communities, lies in building relationships instead of just broadcasting news. A Strategy that Works for YouHelen’s advice goes beyond picking a flashy platform. She urges listeners to figure out specific objectives first—maybe they’re filling desks or encouraging people to see the human side of their space. When you know your aim, you can choose tools and content that always hit the mark. Quality Over FrequencyHelen and Bernie share their favourite tips on how often to email and what keeps your audience engaged. * If daily messages sound overwhelming, that’s okay. * Pick a schedule you’ll stick * Then, fine-tune as you learn what your community likes. Building a Community, One Signup at a TimeHelen stresses practical steps for attracting new subscribers. From inviting existing contacts to placing a QR code by your entrance, these ideas fit small spaces on tight budgets. The main takeaway? Treat your list members like real people—because they are. Helen’s eBook—A Resource with Real SubstanceHelen wrote her guide to help businesses at every stage, including those who’ve tried emailing and given up. ▶️ Email Marketing for Indie Businesses With code at the end of the podcast, you can grab it for free before the end of February. Email marketing for indie businesses is 34 pages long, which means it has enough depth to make a real difference to your business, but it’s short enough to read in under 40 minutes. Think of it as a choose-your-own-path manual, so you skip what you already know and dive into what you need. Links & Resources: * ▶️ Helen’s ebook - Email Marketing for Indie Businesses (Get the code in the podcast) * Helen’s Website * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Helen on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you.If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

33 min
JAN 7

Job-Seeking to Job-Making: Stories to Shape Coworking in 2025

Episode Summary In this episode, Bernie and Emily open up about turning resolutions into intentions that stick, focusing on personal pacing rather than quick-fix willpower. They share why annual predictions can feel like guessing games, and how coworking communities can shape a more grounded approach to work and life. From redefining what a “safe space” means in a coworking setting to exploring rural coworking’s potential, they address real-world ways to stay connected. They also spotlight the shift toward creating your own opportunities—trading soul-crushing job hunts for the freedom of job-making. Throughout it all, they remind listeners that being in tune with community needs leads to more authentic and supportive spaces. Timeline Highlights * [00:00] – Bernie outlines the Community Builders Cohort. * [01:18] – Emily explains intentions over resolutions. * [03:56] – Bernie highlights “Hopes and Enthusiasms for Coworking in 2025.” * [05:50] – Reflecting on the anxiety of traditional office life. * [10:51] – Exploring the IDEA Handbook and equity in coworking. * [18:04] – Why rural coworking spaces matter now more than ever. Detailed Episode Breakdown Intentions, Not ResolutionsBernie and Emily talk about moving away from rigid New Year’s resolutions toward honest, long-term intentions, they referance Ann Hawkins email newletter. They emphasize how this approach helps folks stay grounded and connected, offering more room for setbacks without losing momentum. Job Making Over Job SeekingThey explore the pressure of traditional job hunting and highlight the power of building your own opportunities. Coworking becomes a launchpad where individuals share resources, spark collaborations, and sidestep outdated application processes that don’t serve everyone’s talents. Equity, Accessibility, and the IDEA MovementEmily dives into the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) framework and why it matters. They discuss how invisible challenges—like neurodivergence—often require supportive, flexible environments that typical work settings can’t provide. Hospitality in CoworkingBernie explains “hospitality” beyond free coffee and comfy chairs. Instead, it’s about truly seeing people, anticipating unspoken needs, and cultivating a safe atmosphere where folks can be themselves and do their best work. Rural Coworking’s Rising TideThey spotlight the growing demand for rural coworking spaces, linking it to local revitalization. With more people choosing to work outside major cities, small towns and remote areas are evolving into work-live communities that share resources, reduce commutes, and foster closer connections. Community Builders CohortBernie and Emily wrap up with their online peer learning program Coworking Community Builder Cohort designed to help new or growing coworking operators. It’s priced the same as a monthly coworking desk, making it easier for owners to jump in, swap ideas, and avoid isolation on their coworking journey. Links & Resources: * Hopes and Enthusiasms for Coworking in 2025 (Blog Post) * 🎙️Revitalising Local Economies through Coworking with Julianne Becker * 🎥 David Brooks - Making People Feel Seen: How to Do it Right * Ann Hawkins Drive Newsletter - What does it feel like to really be seen? * European Coworking Assembly IDEA Handbook * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Emily on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you.If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

26 min
12/26/2024

In the Deep End: How to Turn Risks into Unstoppable Connections with Mark Masters

Episode Summary Picture an icy, pre-dawn seaside where a ragtag bunch plunges into freezing water, bonds over silly world-record attempts, and turns a regular newsletter into a launchpad for an unbreakable community. That’s the spirit Mark Masters brings to the mic. In this episode, Bernie teams up with Mark, the force behind You Are The Media (YATM), to uncover how ridiculous challenges and genuine moments create lasting connections. They explore how smaller coworking spaces can shine by sticking to their values, why newsletters are the secret weapon for building communities, and how real connections thrive when we let our guard down—like tossing Ferrero Rocher at breakneck speed. Along the way, Mark and Bernie discuss YATM Creator Day 2025 plans, which will feature early morning sea swims, collaborative workshops, and European Coworking Day’s potential to unite coworking spaces to celebrate local connections and community spirit. Because if life’s too short for tedious coffee hours and ‘don’t forget to bring plenty of business cards!’ It’s too short to keep quiet about what brings us together. Timeline Highlights [0:05] Emily shares how Third Place Works helps coworking professionals thrive. [0:29] Mark Masters drops by to share his journey with You Are The Media. [1:36] The wild story of Mark’s Friday cold swims and why they’re a metaphor for life. [5:03] Why selling values (not discounts) creates lasting loyalty. [9:38] The hidden trap of Black Friday deals for coworking spaces. [12:26] Mark’s big 2024 lesson: trust others to lead and watch magic happen. [17:43] How to uncover the secret talents of quiet community members. [23:31] Why pizza and casual chats beat speed-dating-style networking every time. [37:07] Mark’s unapologetic love for newsletters and why consistency wins. [41:13] Creator Day 2025: collaboration, creativity, and early morning sea swims. Detailed Episode Breakdown Freezing for Friendship: The Cold Swim EffectWhen Mark invited his community to a cold swim during the pandemic, he wasn’t just starting a tradition—he was proving that doing something tough (and slightly nuts) together builds trust and camaraderie like nothing else. Values Over Discounts: The Long GameMark and Bernie discuss why slashing prices can backfire and how adhering to one's values creates a deeper, more sustainable connection with one's community. Passing the Torch: Letting Others LeadMark shares how stepping back and letting others take the reins—whether for events or projects—boosts creativity, confidence, and collective ownership. Spotlighting the UnderestimatedWith Gordon Fong’s story, Mark reminds us that the quieter voices often have the most impactful contributions. All they need is the right platform to shine. Flipping the Script on NetworkingForget awkward elevator pitches. Mark’s events encourage meaningful conversations over shared meals and collaborative projects, making connections feel effortless. Why Newsletters Still RockMark’s You Are The Media newsletter has been his community’s heartbeat for over a decade. He explains how showing up consistently (without spamming) builds loyalty and keeps conversations alive. Creator Day 2025: Come for the Ideas, Stay for the SwimMark gives a sneak peek of Creator Day 2025, where attendees will workshop, collaborate, and celebrate—all capped off with an early morning sea swim. Bernie also hints at exciting plans for European Coworking Day on 14 May. Links & Resources * You Are The Media (YATM) Website * YATM on Instagram * YATM Blog * YATM Creator Day is 15th May 2025; get your ticket here * Get Mark’s YATM newsletter every Thursday here. * From First Ten to Forever: Building an Audience That Stays * Mark Williams, ‘the rugby guy’ 🏉 * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Mark on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices. Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you. If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

44 min
12/18/2024

No One Shows Up? Why Events Fail and What to Do About It with Chauntelle Lewis

Episode Summary: What’s the point of coworking if no one feels like they belong? In this episode, Bernie strips away the fluff with Chauntelle from Town Square Islington to talk about what matters: creating coworking spaces that don’t just look good on Instagram but bring people together. Chauntelle doesn’t hold back—sharing her guerrilla marketing plans (dog-walking meetups, anyone?), honest struggles with no-shows at free events, and how to make a space feel like it’s for everyone, not just the usual suspects. They cover practical stuff, like blending personal passions (gardening!) into your coworking projects and explaining why being visible in your community matters more than ever. This isn’t a “how-to”—it’s a wake-up call for anyone trying to make coworking more human, accessible, and connected. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to rethink how you show up for your community. Timeline Highlights [00:05] – Emily introduces Third Place Works and their tailored coworking cohorts. [00:27] – Bernie and Chauntelle discuss her role at Townsquare Islington and her passion for gardening. [02:24] – December struggles: Why coworking events face challenges during the festive season. [03:25] – Adapting to post-pandemic event habits and returning to in-person gatherings. [06:23] – Collaborating with local partners to create accessible events for nearby residents. [10:02] – Breaking stereotypes: How coworking spaces can become more welcoming and diverse. [15:36] – The power of creative ideas like dog-walking meetups to foster local connections. [19:13] – Bringing gardening into coworking: How tactile activities build community bonds. [24:08] – January planning: Tips for coworking event success in the new year. Detailed Episode Breakdown Rethinking Event Planning: Timing, Outreach, and AccessibilityChauntelle reflects on the unpredictable nature of event planning, especially during transitional times like December. She shares her strategies for balancing free and paid events while staying mindful of local challenges like transportation and budget constraints. Making Coworking Spaces Feel WelcomingBernie and Chauntelle talk about how coworking spaces often unintentionally exclude people who don’t see themselves represented inside. They discuss ideas like bursary programs and affordable workspace initiatives to help bridge the gap and invite more diverse users through the door. Grassroots Outreach: Stepping Outside Comfort ZonesOne of the big themes is the importance of getting out into the local community—literally. Chauntelle plans a dog-walking meetup in the area, which would be a fun way to connect with remote workers and freelancers. Bernie adds a humorous touch with his story about meeting more people walking a friend’s dog than through any other activity. Blending Passions with Professional RolesChauntelle shares how she merges her gardening business, Barefoot Planter, with her role at Town Square Islington. From quick planting workshops to long-term collaborations with local parks, she’s proof that personal interests can meaningfully enhance coworking spaces. January Events: Setting the Right PacePlanning events in the new year requires a thoughtful approach, and Chauntelle emphasizes giving people time to get back into the swing of things. Her advice: start small, stay flexible, and focus on activities that bring people together in low-pressure ways. Links & Resources * Barefoot Planter Website * Barefoot Planter on Instagram * Town Square Islington * What If There Were No Freelancers? Report by Town Square * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Chauntelle on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices. Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you. If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

26 min
12/10/2024

Who Gets Funded? The Ugly Truth About Money and Mental Health with Jaskiran Mangat

Episode Summary In this episode, Bernie welcomes back Jaskiran Mangat, the creator of Finance Therapy, to untangle the complex web of money, mental health, and how they shape our lives. Jaskiran doesn’t just talk about money; she’s on a mission to help people heal their financial relationships while navigating the everyday stress of keeping a business afloat in tough times. From the struggles of underrepresented founders to the stark realities of the UK’s cost-of-living crisis, this conversation gets straight to the heart of what’s holding people back—and how to move forward. Timeline Highlights * [0:01] – Why money and mental health are the conversations no one wants to have but everyone needs. * [1:24] – How Jaskiran is building trust and community through Finance Therapy. * [4:35] – The cost-of-living crisis: what it’s doing to businesses and the people behind them. * [7:49] – Why funding still favors the privileged—and what needs to change. * [13:25] – Tackling bias in funding with Fearless Funding School. * [21:02] – Finance Therapy Circles: where money meets healing. * [24:41] – The power of diversity: creating spaces that welcome everyone. Detailed Episode Breakdown Money and Mental Health: Breaking the SilenceTalking about money is uncomfortable. Jaskiran knows this better than most. She’s spent years helping people unpack the fear, shame, and guilt that come with financial struggles. In this segment, she explains why it’s so hard to address these issues—and why showing up consistently matters more than quick fixes. The Reality Check: Cost of Living and Its Ripple EffectsFrom startups struggling to stay afloat to people moving back in with their parents to make ends meet, Jaskiran paints a vivid picture of what’s happening in the UK right now. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the emotional toll and tough decisions that define everyday life in uncertain times. Funding Inequality: Who Gets a Seat at the Table?Jaskiran doesn’t hold back when it comes to calling out systemic bias in funding. She breaks down the statistics (spoiler: they’re bleak) and offers actionable ideas for creating more inclusive opportunities. Through her Fearless Funding School, she’s challenging the norms and helping funders rethink how they approach their investments. Creating Safe Spaces: The Finance Therapy CircleWhat if talking about money didn’t have to feel so heavy? Jaskiran’s Finance Therapy Circles blend somatic practices with open, judgment-free conversations to create a unique healing space. Whether you’re grappling with debt or trying to overcome generational financial trauma, these circles provide a rare opportunity to reflect and grow. Authenticity Over Optics: Building Real ConnectionsToken diversity isn’t the answer, and Jaskiran is crystal clear about that. In this part of the episode, she emphasizes the importance of using inclusive language, showcasing real impact, and building spaces where people truly feel seen and heard. Links & Resources: * Fearless Funding School * Jaskiran Mangat on Substack * Jaskiran’s Finance Therapy publication on Substack. * Follow Jaskiran on Instagram (@MoneyWithJas) * Atomic Report on Diversity in Venture Capital * Join the Monthly Finance Therapy Circles on Luma * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Jaskiran on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices. Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you. If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

28 min
12/05/2024

Ending the Year Strong: Self-Care Systems for Community Builders with Emily & Bernie

Episode Summary: The holidays: a time for joy, stress, and the kind of existential overhead that keeps coworking community builders awake at night. In this no-nonsense holiday episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, co-hosts Emily and Bernie strip away the fluff to talk about what matters—finding your footing when the season feels overwhelming. Whether ditching toxic perfectionism, staying sane with lightweight rituals, or using coworking spaces as quiet sanctuaries, Bernie and Emily offer sharp insights and real talk to help you reset, recharge, and show up strong in the new year. This isn’t just a holiday survival guide—it’s a blueprint for thriving as a coworking community builder, no matter the season. Timeline Highlights: * [0:00] – A swashbuckling intro with Bernie and Emily. * [0:39] – Holiday stress: why we dread it and how to shift your mindset. * [2:04] – Meditation, walking, and grounding rituals that actually work. * [3:25] – Why toxic perfectionism ruins self-care—and how to break the cycle. * [4:01] – “Staying speed”: Emily’s guide to avoiding holiday burnout. * [6:02] – The loneliness paradox for coworking community managers. * [8:39] – Lightweight rituals to keep you grounded without piling on stress. * [11:20] – Brain dumps, morning pages, and the magic of clearing mental clutter. * [12:17] – Why coworking spaces shine during the quiet holiday season. * [14:00] – Letting workflows ebb and flow without panicking about momentum. * [18:34] – Existential overhead and how to escape its grip. * [22:34] – The 2-minute rule: stop overthinking small tasks and get them done. * [27:30] – Emily’s final thoughts on why real relaxation matters. Detailed Episode Breakdown: Surviving the Holiday HustleEmily calls out the stress cocktail of the holiday season: equal parts dread, guilt, and too many unspoken expectations. Her antidote? A mix of sunlight, mindfulness, and movement—because sometimes a walk in the cold is all it takes to clear the mental fog. Toxic Perfectionism: Why It’s Killing Your VibeBernie and Emily dive into the perfectionism trap—how it masquerades as self-care but drains you. Emily doesn’t pull punches: “All perfectionism is toxic; let’s be real.” The antidote? Acceptance, small wins, and learning to stop fighting battles you’ve already won. How to Stop Your Brain from Running Its TabEmily takes on existential overhead—the mental junk drawer where you store half-finished thoughts, to-dos, and that email you keep forgetting to send. Bernie’s solution? Please write it down, sort it out, and stop letting your brain play personal assistant. Bonus: learn why sticky notes and digital tools can make or break your sanity. The Loneliness Paradox of Community ManagersHave you ever felt weirdly lost during the holidays? Bernie shares his experience of going from helping everyone in the coworking space to suddenly being alone. Emily reframes this “essential wound” as a chance to sit with yourself, accept your imperfections, and recharge for the new year. Lightweight Rituals for Heavy SeasonsForget overhauling your life during the holidays. Emily’s take: pick three small things—drink water, take a walk, clear your inbox—and let those wins stack up. Bernie shares his plan to ease back into running after months off, focusing on steady progress instead of chasing past glory. Why Quiet Coworking Spaces Are a Hidden GemEmily reminds listeners that coworking spaces are perfect for quiet reflection and side projects during the holidays. Whether travelling or staying put, grab a coworking day pass and enjoy the calm while everyone else is in holiday chaos. Using Reflection to Jumpstart JanuaryBernie shares how the 12-week Year framework helps him reflect on past goals and plan for the future during the holiday slowdown. Emily adds her tip: use the downtime to clear existential clutter, set task reminders, and schedule your jumpstart day for January. Links & Resources: * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Emily on LinkedIn One more thing Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability. These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow. We hope this resonates with you.If it does, please rate, follow, and share the podcast.Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities. Community is the key 🔑 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

28 min
12/04/2024

Inclusive Coworking and the European Accessibility Act with Kristina Schneider

In this episode of the Coworking Values Podcast, Emily speaks with Kristina Schneider, co-founder of Cobot and a dedicated advocate for inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. Together, they explore how the forthcoming European Accessibility Act (EAA) will shape the future of coworking spaces and the tools they rely on, ensuring they are welcoming and accessible to all. Kristina offers practical points on how the EAA, set to be enforced in June 2025, will reshape coworking spaces. She highlights why accessibility isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s about creating communities where everyone has a fair shot at belonging, whether walking into a coworking space or navigating a website. Drawing from her decade of experience in coworking, software development, and event design, Kristina argues why this matters now more than ever. This episode serves as both a practical guide and a rallying cry for coworking community builders and operators to build physical and digital spaces that genuinely include everyone. Timeline Highlights * [0:01] – Introduction to the episode and today’s guest, Kristina Schneider of Cobot. * [0:45] – What is Cobot? A coworking management software born out of necessity in Berlin’s coworking scene. * [1:30] – Embedding accessibility, diversity, and inclusion into Cobot’s product and team culture. * [2:59] – Kristina’s personal experiences that shaped her commitment to accessibility. * [4:27] – Translating physical space accessibility into digital design principles. * [7:23] – Preparing for the European Accessibility Act: What coworking spaces need to know. * [10:36] – Why accessibility isn’t just ethical—it’s a wise business decision. * [16:39] – Cobot’s plans for improving accessibility in coworking spaces. * [19:15] – Where to connect with Kristina online for more insights. Episode Breakdown Cobot: A Solution Born from CoworkingKristina explains how Cobot evolved from a tool for their own coworking space to software serving over 80 countries. With a background in design and development, Kristina and her team deeply understand the challenges coworking operators face and how technology can help solve them. The Human Side of AccessibilitySharing personal stories and professional experiences, Kristina discusses why accessibility matters. From family members navigating disabilities to lessons learned as an event organiser, she emphasizes how small design choices can make a big difference in participation and inclusion. Digital Accessibility: Designing Beyond the ScreenKristina connects the dots between physical and digital accessibility. Whether ensuring contrast ratios for visually impaired users or optimizing apps for screen readers, she explains how coworking operators can make their digital tools work for everyone. Navigating the European Accessibility ActWith enforcement starting June 2025, Kristina highlights the urgency for coworking spaces to audit their tech stacks. She explains the basics of the European Accessibility Act and shares practical compliance tips, underscoring its benefits for business and the community. Empathy in Product DesignCobot’s team-wide accessibility training, from screen reader usage to inclusive branding, showcases how empathy can drive better design. Kristina outlines their proactive steps, including updates to customization features, to ensure accessibility remains a core focus. Resources for Building Accessible Coworking SpacesKristina shares practical advice: Start by talking to your tech providers and explore the implementation of the European Accessibility Act in your country. She also highlights Cobot’s blog as a go-to resource for coworking spaces looking to enhance their accessibility efforts. Links & Resources: * Making Coworking More Inclusive: A Guide to Meeting the WCAG 2.1 AA Standard for Online Accessibility * Cobot.me * Coworking I.D.E.A. Project * Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Handbook * Coworking Values Podcast on LinkedIn * Join The Coworking Community Builder Cohort Waitlist * Register for European Coworking Day, May 2025 * Get Your Pass for the Workspace Design Show London 2025 * Join the 8k Members in the LinkedIn Coworking Group * Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn * Connect with Kristina on LinkedIn This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com

20 min

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

Creator

Bernie J Mitchell
Years Active

2019 - 2025
Episodes

155
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Bernie J Mitchell
Show Website

Coworking Values Podcast