Coworking Values Podcast

Bernie J Mitchell

0.0 (0)
MANAGEMENT
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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

DEC 18

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

26 min
DEC 10

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

28 min
DEC 5

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

28 min
DEC 4

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 (I

20 min
NOV 27

Staying Visible: Marketing Your Coworking Space Over the Holidays

Episode Summary: Holidays can feel like a weird limbo for coworking spaces. Do you lock up, take a break, and hope for the best? Or do you keep communicating, even if it feels like no one’s paying attention? In this episode, Bernie and Emily dig into the realities of running a coworking space during the festive season. They strip away assumptions and explore what works—staying open for members, scheduling clever marketing, and gearing up for the January rush without burning out. It’s not about doing everything; it’s about doing the right things. If you’re wondering how to strike that balance, this conversation will give you a fresh perspective and actionable ideas for the new year. Timeline Highlights: [0:00] – Bernie and Emily reflect on the holiday mindset for coworking spaces.[1:50] – Should you keep your space open, and what does “open” really mean?[2:25] – Why people pay attention over the holidays (even if it doesn’t feel like it).[7:33] – The January membership surge—and why December marketing matters.[10:50] – How to stay visible without exhausting your team.[12:53] – Are holiday discounts worth it, or do they undercut your value?[16:08] – The Coworking Community Builder Cohort: what it is and why it works. Detailed Episode Breakdown: Should You Stay Open During the Holidays?Bernie and Emily kick things off by addressing a classic dilemma: close the space or keep it running. They discuss how “staying open” doesn’t have to mean full-service operations. For many members, just knowing they can access the space—even if it’s “unpersoned”—is enough. It’s about creating clarity and maintaining trust with your community. Why Marketing in December Isn’t a Waste of TimeThe holidays often get written off as a dead zone for communication. Bernie calls this out as a myth. With less competition online, your posts and emails have a better chance of cutting through. Emily adds that the holidays are a time for people—especially freelancers and remote workers—to reflect on what’s next. This is your moment to show how your coworking space can be part of their 2025 story. January: The Golden Month for MembershipsThe data is clear: January is prime time for coworking sign-ups. Bernie shares why consistent, low-effort marketing in December can put your space front and center when people make their new year plans. Emily emphasizes that communication doesn’t need to be flashy—it just needs to remind people you’re there and ready to help them start strong. Staying Visible Without Burning OutKeeping your team energized during the holidays is non-negotiable. Bernie and Emily break down the essentials: automate emails, schedule posts, and use tools like Slack or WhatsApp to maintain lightweight communication with members. Keeping things simple and consistent keeps you connected without overloading yourself or your staff. Holiday Offers That Work Without Cheapening Your SpaceDiscounting memberships can backfire, making your space feel less valuable. Instead, Bernie suggests offering day passes or short-term memberships to attract people looking for a quiet, professional environment during the holidays. These small, thoughtful touches can introduce new members without sacrificing your long-term goals. Why Freelancers and Remote Workers Seek Coworking During the HolidaysWith offices often shut and home life in complete holiday chaos, professionals need a place to focus. Emily points out that suburban and neighbourhood coworking spaces are perfectly positioned to meet this demand. Bernie adds that the rising awareness of flexible workspaces means more people are searching for nearby options—and you want your space to be the one they find. The Coworking Community Builder Cohort: Real Support, No FluffThe conversation wraps with an introduction to the Coworking Community Builder Cohort. Bernie and Emily explain how this 12-week program allows owners and community managers a place to conn

19 min
NOV 21

Creating Inclusive Spaces: Rethinking Networking for Non-Parents with Lisa Kissane

Episode Summary: In this episode, Bernie chats with writer and community host Lisa Kissane about creating spaces where everyone feels seen and valued. Lisa shares her journey from freelance copywriting to writing personal essays, building a supportive community for non-parents, and embracing creativity. Together, they discuss the challenges of navigating societal expectations, fostering inclusivity in coworking spaces, and how writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and connection. If you’ve ever struggled to find your place in traditional networks or want to make coworking spaces more welcoming, this conversation is for you. Timeline Highlights: [0:23] – Bernie introduces Lisa and her journey into writing and hosting a unique networking group for non-parents. [1:44] – Why do we need networking groups for non-parents and Lisa’s personal stories? [3:05] – The social challenges of being childless in professional spaces. [6:17] – Understanding pronatalism and its impact on societal norms. [7:48] – How coworking spaces can create inclusive environments for everyone. [10:35] – Icebreakers that move beyond the “Do you have kids?” question. [13:57] – How Lisa’s group, Flow, fosters genuine connection and support. [16:30] – Embracing creativity and self-discovery after a life-changing loss. [24:39] – The Artist’s Way, 750 Words, and the importance of creative rituals. [27:06] – How to connect with Lisa and learn more about Flow. Detailed Episode Breakdown: Writing as a Tool for Healing and IdentityLisa shares her transformation from freelance copywriting to writing personal essays and memoirs. After navigating grief and societal expectations, she found writing to be a lifeline, helping her embrace her identity and purpose. Challenging Societal Norms with FlowLisa talks about founding Flow, a networking group for non-parents, to create a safe, judgment-free space. The group avoids assumptions and pressures around parenting, allowing members to focus on professional and personal growth. Making Coworking Spaces InclusiveBernie and Lisa explore how coworking spaces can foster inclusivity by avoiding assumptions and creating environments where everyone feels welcome. Lisa suggests actionable steps, like rethinking icebreaker questions and respecting personal boundaries. The Artist’s Way and Daily Creative PracticesLisa dives into her experience with The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron and the value of daily writing through platforms like 750 Words. These practices have helped her embrace creativity and build a fulfilling life centred around writing. Connecting with LisaLisa encourages non-parents and anyone interested in her work to connect through LinkedIn or Medium, where she shares her writing and ideas. Links & Resources: Mentioned in This Episode: * Really Honest Business * Flow Non-Parent Business Community * Drive Collaborative Network * Lisa Kissane here on Substack * Lisa’s Writing on Medium * 750 Words * The Artist’s Way Additional Links: * 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 Lisa 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 🔑 Get full access to 🎙️Coworking Values Podcast at coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com/subscribe

28 min
NOV 19

AI, Storytelling, and Exceptional Service: Insights with Sonya Whittam & Julie Firth

Episode Summary: In this episode, Bernie chats with Julie and Sonya, founders of STORY22, to unpack the real deal of AI, content, and customer service for running your coworking business. They share their journey from StoryBrand guides to leveraging AI tools for content creation and strategy. Together, they explore how coworking professionals can incorporate AI into marketing, streamline content creation, and adapt to ever-changing customer needs. Sonya and Julie also dive into the intersection of customer service and marketing, inspired by concepts from Unreasonable Hospitality. Timeline Highlights: [0:02] – Introduction: Helping coworking professionals with tailored cohorts. [0:23] – Bernie welcomes Sonya and Julie, co-founders of Story 22. [1:11] – Julie and Sonya's backgrounds and journey to StoryBrand. [3:36] – How AI sparks creativity and boosts marketing quality. [8:15] – Practical tips for coworking spaces to start using AI. [16:01] – The "gold and pencil" analogy for adaptable marketing. [25:15] – AI's role in enhancing StoryBrand application. [30:41] – How exceptional customer service empowers marketing. [34:47] – Where to find Sonya and Julie online. Detailed Episode Breakdown: Unlocking Creativity with AIJulie and Sonya discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity help streamline idea generation, improve content quality, and save time—once you’ve mastered the learning curve. From brainstorming to refining tone, AI has become their creative partner. However, they emphasize that AI requires human oversight to validate content and maintain authenticity. Tailoring AI for Marketing and CoworkingSonya shares her insights on using different AI tools for specific tasks. AI can support email marketing, blog creation, and Instagram strategy for coworking folks. The key is persistence: learning to prompt effectively and understanding each tool’s unique “personality” leads to better results. Customer Service Meets MarketingDrawing inspiration from Will Guidara's Unreasonable Hospitality, Sonya and Julie explain how exceptional customer service can reduce marketing efforts. They encourage coworking spaces to focus on creating "wow" moments for members, fostering trust and loyalty. StoryBrand and AI: Finding the BalanceSonya and Julie, as seasoned StoryBrand guides, explain why AI can’t replace human strategic thinking. While AI can accelerate processes like competitor analysis or avatar development, it lacks the context and nuance needed for compelling storytelling. StoryBrand still requires human insight to craft a meaningful brand script. Links & Resources: * Story 22 Website * Story 22 LinkedIn Page * Unreasonable Hospitality Book * Business Made Simple University * StoryBrand.com * 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 Sonya Whittam on LinkedIn * Connect with Julie Firth 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 🔑. Get full access to 🎙️Coworking Values Podcast at coworkingvaluespodcast.substack.com/subscribe

36 min
NOV 14

21st Century Community: Work & Social Change with Stephen Carrick-Davis

Episode Summary:In this episode, Bernie chats with Stephen Carrick-Davis, founder of FaceWork and a passionate advocate for creating work opportunities through community spaces. Together, they explore how the FaceWork maker space initiative in South London is breaking down barriers to employment, supporting refugees, and redefining what it means to “make” jobs instead of just seeking them. They discuss how coworking can serve as a modern community hub, fostering connection, resilience, and local engagement in ways that support those often excluded from traditional labour markets. Timeline Highlights: [0:03] – Emily introduces the Third Place Works Coworking Community Builder Cohort[0:24] – Bernie introduces Stephen Carrick-Davis and the impact of FaceWork[1:25] – Makerspace and its effects on local London communities[2:32] – Social impact coworking: Bridging the gap for those furthest from the job market[5:51] – Stephen on job making vs. job seeking and redefining ‘making’ [8:34] – Shallow entry points: A new perspective on the world of work [10:49] – Making as social integration: How FaceWork builds community [12:15] – The importance of intergenerational connections in neighbourhoods [13:54] – Rebuilding local trust and connection post-COVID [17:30] – Why coworking spaces should serve as community hubs [20:14] – The high street as a new coworking frontier [23:51] – Lessons from Spain: Community at the school gate [28:15] – Stephen’s approach to empowering refugee communities Detailed Episode Breakdown: The Impact of Makerspaces: Bridging Gaps in LondonStephen explores the purpose behind FaceWork’s maker space initiative, a community-driven project in South London aimed at helping those on the fringes of the job market. From supporting refugees to rethinking job-making, Stephen highlights how the maker space model is about more than just workspace—it’s about connection, empowerment, and real-world change. Job Seeking vs. Job Making: A New Mindset for WorkBernie and Stephen discuss the powerful concept of “making” jobs rather than simply seeking them. For Stephen, making isn’t just about physical creation and building connections, skills, and opportunities, especially for those facing language or cultural barriers in traditional job-seeking processes. Reimagining Community Spaces for Social GoodStephen shares his vision for community-led coworking spaces, reflecting on the need for accessible, ‘high-street coworking spaces.’ This isn’t just about business; it’s about creating local hubs where connections are formed and trust is built. Stephen believes these spaces can foster a new era of social integration and local cohesion. Learning Through Experience: Shallow Entry Points in WorkThe conversation turns to shallow entry points, an approach that allows people to ease into the job market through accessible, low-pressure environments. Stephen likens this to a “swimming pool” approach, where people can wade in without feeling overwhelmed, offering refugees and younger generations a chance to develop confidence and skills gradually. Rebuilding Social Fabric Post-COVIDReflecting on lessons learned during COVID, Bernie and Stephen talk about how the pandemic has reshaped local communities. For Stephen, coworking spaces represent modern-day community centres, spaces that can foster relationships across generations and backgrounds. He shares his hopes for coworking to help repair the social fabric, creating environments where people are more connected and supportive of one another. The outline for the maker space Links & Resources: * FaceWork main website * FaceWork on Instagram * 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

30 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 - 2024
Episodes

151
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Bernie J Mitchell
Show Website

Coworking Values Podcast