GCUC Podcast - Coworking, Hospitality & The Future of Work

Get ready for a powerhouse episode of the GCUC Podcast. Meet Katerina Cirilli, Co-CEO of Saltbox, the operations hub redefining how entrepreneurs grow. Saltbox is where coworking, warehousing, and next-level logistics meet, all wrapped in real community. With 12 locations and more than 1,000 brands operating inside its ecosystem, Katerina is helping build the infrastructure that allows founders to scale without getting crushed by operational complexity. Katerina joins Liz Elam, founder of GCUC, for a high-energy conversation about scaling with purpose, leading through culture, and why community remains the ultimate competitive advantage. In this episode, they unpack what it truly takes to scale a community across both physical and virtual spaces, and why logistics is ultimately “the business of exception management.” They explore how Saltbox empowers creative founders to stay focused on product and brand while a strong operational engine runs seamlessly in the background, and how AI and automation are reshaping modern logistics when used to amplify humans rather than replace them.  The conversation also dives into the surprisingly collaborative ecosystems that emerge inside purpose-built communities and makes the case that hiring for vibe and developing leaders from within may be the real secret to building something that grows sustainably over time. From viral product brands to early-stage founders shipping their first ten orders a week, Saltbox is building a new model for entrepreneurial infrastructure, one that blends physical space, digital connection, and deeply human support. If you care about the future of work, the power of community, and building businesses that scale without losing their soul, this one is for you.   Learn more about Saltbox: https://www.saltbox.com/resources/company-why-saltbox Connect with Katerina Cirilli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-cirilli/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

What happens when wellness, work, love, and ambition collide?  In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, founders Espoir Michalek and Connor Michalek pull back the curtain on how they built Gevity, a bold new concept redefining coworking through wellness, recovery, and deeply intentional community. From an “ice bath epiphany” and a chance meeting abroad to launching one of Austin’s most talked-about spaces, Espoir and Connor share their raw founder journey, the power of building a business as partners, and why sustainable ambition, not burnout, is the future of work. Expect insights on recovery-first workplaces, community-driven growth, and what it really takes to protect culture while scaling. The conversation is guided by Liz Elam, host of the GCUC Podcast, who brings her signature curiosity and industry expertise to an episode that blends heart, hustle, and the next evolution of coworking and wellness.  If you’re curious about the future of work, wellness-led spaces, and building something meaningful, this one’s a must-listen.  

  Antonette Benting doesn’t just build community; she is designing belonging across an entire continent. As the leader behind GCUC Africa and a powerhouse operator in the coworking industry, Antonette has helped shape what community-first workplaces look like in one of the most dynamic and fast-growing regions in the world. Her work is proof that coworking is not a one-size-fits-all model, it’s a movement deeply influenced by culture, people, and place. From leading coworking teams to scaling member experiences without losing soul, Antonette brings sharp insight, real talk, and a deep belief that community is a strategy, not a buzzword. In this episode, Antonette sits down with Liz Elam, founder of GCUC, for a candid conversation that puts a spotlight on GCUC Africa, regional leadership, and what operators everywhere can learn from the innovation happening across the African coworking ecosystem. Together, they explore leadership, resilience, cultural nuance, and why the future of work belongs to operators who lead with intention and local relevance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about community, culture, and the global evolution of coworking. Connect with Antonette Benting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonette-benting/ Learn more about GCUC Africa: https://africa.gcuc.co/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, Amanda Neanor, founder of NEANOR Projects, brings a behind-the-scenes perspective from the worlds of private membership clubs, luxury hospitality, and coworking. With leadership experience at Soho House, NeueHouse, and Platinum Clubs of the World, Amanda has spent her career designing and operating spaces where community, culture, and commercial success actually align.   Amanda joins host Liz Elam, founder of GCUC, for a candid conversation about the invisible details that separate “nice space” from truly magnetic experience. Together, they unpack what most operators miss, from service culture and onboarding to brand identity, surprise-and-delight moments, and why community is built through intention, not amenities.   They dive into:   Why hospitality thinking is essential to the future of coworking   The first signals that tell you whether a space will be special or forgettable   What coworking operators should steal from private clubs and luxury hotels   How to balance aesthetics, operations, and revenue without compromising experience   The role of rules, rituals, and human connection in building lasting communities   If you’re creating, operating, or rethinking coworking spaces, private clubs, or experience-led environments, this episode is packed with sharp insight, real-world examples, and ideas you can apply immediately.   Bonus: Amanda will also be joining us live at GCUC New York, making this episode the perfect primer before meeting her in person.   Connect with Amanda:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-neanor-980a20109/ Learn more about NEANOR Projects: https://www.neanorprojects.com/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

Rupert Dean isn’t just rethinking coworking; he’s reengineering how people experience work, culture, and connection. As CEO and Co-Founder of x+why, Rupert operates at the intersection of hospitality, flexible workspace, and purpose-driven business, designing environments that prioritize people, planet, and profit, in that order. With nearly 600,000 square feet of space under management across the UK, he’s building a new blueprint for what offices can be in a post-loneliness, post-remote-only world. In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, GCUC founder and host Liz Elam sits down with Rupert to continue the conversation sparked on stage at Coworking Europe in Berlin. Together, they dig into why offices should be destinations, not obligations, and how hospitality, food & beverage, members’ clubs, and programming are no longer “nice-to-haves,” but core infrastructure for thriving workspaces. Rupert opens up about his unconventional journey from corporate finance law to founding x+why how discovering his “why” reshaped his career, and why coworking operators must stop thinking like landlords and start thinking like hosts. He shares how x+why approaches hospitality in-house (and why outsourcing F&B often fails), what landlords are really asking for right now, and how flexible workspaces can actively combat isolation and burnout. Liz and Rupert also explore why culture can’t truly be built remotely, the rise of members’ clubs and hospitality-led workplaces, and how events, wellness, and thoughtful programming can drive real revenue. They dive into why mental health needs to be a baseline offering rather than a bonus, what the coworking industry can learn from hotels, restaurants, and private clubs, and ultimately why the future of work depends on spaces that help people feel a sense of belonging, not just a place to get work done. This is a bold, honest, and energizing conversation about experience-driven design, human connection, and the responsibility workspace leaders have to society. Rupert brings equal parts insight, optimism, and “wear life like a loose garment” energy, and it’s contagious. A must-listen for coworking operators, landlords, developers, and anyone building spaces meant to bring people together. Connect with Rupert Dean https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupert-dean-xandwhy Learn more about x+why https://www.xandwhy.co.uk/ Connect with Liz Elam https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get tickets for GCUC North America https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

2026 Is a Reset, Not a Tweak  In this solo, can’t miss episode of the GCUC Podcast, Liz Elam breaks down the megatrends shaping the future of coworking and the world of work, and spoiler alert: it’s not about desks anymore. From the end of “hybrid work” debates (finally) to the rise of belonging, hospitality, wellness, AI, and purpose-driven real estate, Liz connects the dots between culture, community, and human need. She dives into why coworking is becoming civic infrastructure, how Gen Z is rewriting the rules, why emotional intelligence is the new competitive advantage, and what it actually means to design spaces that help people feel good, not just look good. This episode is part trend forecast, part reality check, and part rally cry for operators, leaders, and anyone building the future of work. Expect bold takes on: Intentional gathering over daily attendance Community as core infrastructure Hospitality > perks AI that empowers humans Wellness that goes way beyond yoga room Leadership shifts shaping what comes next If you care about where work is headed and how coworking becomes the solution, this one’s for you.  Press play and step into 2026. Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC gcuc.co  Get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/

Koral Ibrahim isn’t just talking about community; he’s rebuilding what it means from the ground up. As the founder of The Ready House, a creative consultancy and community helping brands forge real connections from the inside out, Koral sits at the intersection of brand, culture, and belonging. He’s a strategist, keynote speaker, published author, and one of the most articulate voices pushing the industry to rethink how humans and places shape one another. In this episode, GCUC founder and host Liz Elam continues the electrifying conversation that started on stage at GCUC UK, one of the most talked-about moments of the conference. Together, they go deeper into why Koral hates the word “community,” what truly separates a customer from a community member, and why brands must shift from being something people buy to something people join. Koral pulls back the curtain on his journey from agency life to building The Ready House, how becoming a new father reshaped his mornings and perspective, and why the coworking industry desperately needs to steal from the playbooks of fashion, beauty, and other “sexy verticals.” He breaks down the frameworks that help brands build genuine emotional connection, how events function as the “front door” to a brand, and why activation, not just events, will define the future of engagement. Liz and Koral also explore the data behind perception as a value multiplier, what landlords get wrong about community, why mental health support will become a baseline expectation in coworking, and how Gen Z is about to transform the future of work with their unapologetic insistence on values, belonging, and wellness. This conversation is a must-listen for operators, placemakers, workplace leaders, and anyone who cares about human-centered spaces. It’s honest, energizing, and packed with insights that challenge how we think about brand, behavior, and the business impact of belonging. Tune in to discover why the future of coworking belongs to brands that behave like people, and how leaders like Koral Ibrahim are helping businesses get there. Connect with Koral Ibrahim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/koralibrahim/ Learn more about The Ready House: https://thereadyhouse.com/  Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

GCUC Podcast – Chris Moeller, Founder of Orion Growth & Pathway Communities Chris Moeller isn’t just rethinking housing; he’s rebuilding the American dream from the ground up. As an entrepreneur, environmentalist, and the visionary behind Orion Growth and Pathway Communities, Chris is leading a movement toward stable living, regenerative design, and community resilience. With a background that spans geology, communication science, office development, and disaster recovery, Chris brings data, heart, and systems-level thinking to some of society’s most urgent challenges. In this episode, GCUC founder and podcast host Liz Elam sits down with Chris for a deep and energizing conversation about the future of living, working, and community. Together, they unpack why “affordable housing” needs a total rethink, how whole-body design is reshaping the built environment for neurodivergent and neurotypical people alike, and why tiny giants, the small acts done consistently, are the key to rebuilding after crisis. Chris shares an inside look at Hudson Commons, his groundbreaking new development designed to create upward mobility for civil servants, and explains how stable living, total tenancy, food systems, and regenerative community models could redefine what home and belonging really mean. This episode is a must if you're a coworking leader, placemaker, landlord, breathing or future-of-work innovator. This conversation is a powerful invitation to think bigger, build differently, and anchor your spaces in actual community impact. Tune in and discover why the future of work is inseparable from the future of living, and how leaders like Chris Moeller are helping us get there. Connect with Chris Moeller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ctmoeller/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about GCUC & get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://na.gcuc.co/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast/videos

GCUC Podcast – Jonny Rosenblatt, Co-Founder & CEO of Spacemade Jonny Rosenblatt, Co-Founder and CEO of Spacemade, is redefining how landlords think about flexible work. With a decade-long track record of shaping the UK’s coworking scene from pioneering the creative workspace movement with Headspace Group to scaling Spacemade into one of the UK’s fastest-growing operators, Jonny is proof that connection and community are the real currency in real estate. In this episode, Liz Elam, founder of GCUC and host of the podcast, sits down with Jonny to explore how Spacemade is partnering with building owners to create hyper-local, community-first coworking brands. From health tech hubs to fashion-forward studios, each space reflects the neighborhood it serves, because, as Jonny puts it, “real estate without people at the center just doesn’t work.” Together, they unpack the evolution of coworking, why “connection over capitalism” might just be the next megatrend, and how AI, sustainability, and genuine hospitality are shaping the future of flexible work. If you’re a coworking operator, landlord, or future-of-work enthusiast, this conversation is a masterclass in designing spaces that matter, places where members don’t just work, they belong. Listen now and discover how Spacemade is helping landlords and operators turn square footage into meaningful human connections. Connect with Spacemade: https://www.spacemade.co/ Connect with Jonny Rosenblatt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnyrosenblatt Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Get your tickets for GCUC North America: https://gcuc.co/tickets/ Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Y_qm75t6UM  

Journalist and researcher Georgia Norton joins GCUC CEO Liz Elam to explore how Playhood Family Club, Research & Consulting is reshaping the way we live, work, and care. From neighborhood coworking with childcare to global research on co-located spaces, Georgia reveals how families and founders are reimagining the modern workplace, blending productivity, parenthood, and community in powerful new ways. Together, she and Liz dig into what this means for equity, inclusion, and the next generation who see collaboration as the norm, not the exception.  It’s not just about where we work, it’s about how we live, connect, and create thriving communities.  Connect with Georgia Norton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgia-norton/  Learn more about Playhood:  https://www.playhood.club/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast Buy GCUC North America tickets: https://na.gcuc.co/buy-tickets/

Will Sanford, Director of Coworking at Yardi, is at the forefront of unlocking the next evolution of flexible work. His unique approach combines human connection with innovative technology, a strategy that has proven successful in his role. This episode offers a rare glimpse into his daily life, from the chaos and joy of new fatherhood to his laser-focused work on how operators can leverage technology to future-proof their spaces. In this episode, Liz Elam, founder of GCUC and podcast host, sits down with Will to explore how Yardi is integrating AI, automation, and data into the fabric of flexible work. From practical AI tools operators should be using right now, to Yardi’s forthcoming Virtuoso agent builder, Will shares why the future of coworking tech isn’t flashy, it’s pragmatic, and most importantly, member-first. This approach makes the audience feel prioritized and essential in the evolution of coworking technology. Suppose you’re an operator, manager, or future-of-work enthusiast. In that case, this conversation is packed with real-world insights on how to scale more innovatively, simplify operations, and create seamless experiences that members can feel, not just see.  Don't miss the opportunity to experience the future of coworking firsthand at GCUC North America in New York City this April. As a key partner, Yardi will be instrumental in shaping the conversation around the future of coworking. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the industry.  Listen now and join the conversation: How can technology quietly support coworking, allowing hospitality and human connection to take center stage?  Connect with Will Sanford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamsanford/  Learn more about Yardi: https://www.yardi.com/ Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam  Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast Buy GCUC North America tickets: https://gcuc.co/tickets/

Magda Al-Nugaidi, Managing Director at Uncommon, starts her day rowing on a misty river before sunrise, a practice that keeps her grounded and energized to rethink the workspace from the ground up. She’s turning offices into spaces where people feel inspired, supported, and truly connected. The future of work isn’t just desks and square footage, its design, wellbeing, and community. In this episode, Liz Elam, founder of GCUC and podcast host, explores how Uncommon blends thoughtful design, hospitality, and sustainability to create environments employees actually want to be in. Magda shares why flexibility, wellbeing, and community are non-negotiables, how spaces can support neurodiversity, and why hospitality is at the heart of every modern workspace. If you’re a workspace operator, designer, or leader in flexible work, this episode is packed with actionable insights for creating spaces that go beyond function and deliver human-centered experiences. 👉 Experience it firsthand: Catch Magda live at GCUC UK in London, where she’ll share her vision for designing for a new generation of workers.  🎧 Listen now and join the conversation: What design elements or features make a coworking/flex space feel welcoming, connected, and supportive, for both those who run it and those who use it? 🔗 Connect with Magda Al-Nugaidi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdaalnugaidi/ 🌐 Learn more about Uncommon: https://uncommon.co.uk/ 🔗 Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam 📺 Watch the GCUC Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@GCUCPodcast 🎟️ Buy GCUC UK tickets https://uk.gcuc.co/tickets/

The flexible workspace industry is exploding, but here’s the hard truth: most operators are flying blind. Enter Jonathan Bevan (CEO of Techspace) and Elliot Gold (Co-Founder of Work.Life). They’re on a mission to change the game with the Workspace Intelligence Network, WIN, an operator-led alliance built to weaponize data for growth. In this episode, Liz Elam pulls back the curtain on how WIN is giving operators the insights they need to out-compete, make smarter bets and build stronger businesses. Jonathan and Elliot explain why collaboration beats competition, what metrics actually move the needle and how operators who plug in now will get the edge. If you’re an owner, operator, investor or landlord, this is your wake-up call. The next wave of winners in flex space will be the ones who master the numbers. 👉 Want even more insider knowledge? Join us in person at GCUC London. It’s where the sharpest minds in coworking and flex space come together to share strategies, forge partnerships and set the direction of the industry. Tickets are live now — grab yours before they sell out. 🎧 Listen now. And tell us in the comments: what’s the one data point you wish you had to run your workspace better? 🎧 Listen to the full episode: https://gcuc.co/gcuc-podcast-jonathan-bevan-elliot-gold\ 🌐 Learn more about Workspace Intelligence Network (WIN): https://www.winflex.org | LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Jonathan Bevan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbevan/ 🔗 Connect with Elliot Gold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/goldelliot/ 🌐 Learn more about Techspace: https://www.techspace.co 🌐 Learn more about Work.Life: https://work.life/ 🔗 Connect with Liz Elam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam https://gcuc.co/ https://uk.gcuc.co/tickets/  

In this episode of The GCUC Podcast, host Liz Elam sits down with Thom Wernke, co-founder of StartDock, for a deep dive into the evolution of coworking, the power of community, and the realities of scaling without losing your magic. From his early days launching an IT company in university to running six stunning, canal-side coworking spaces in the Netherlands, Thom shares how an unexpected pivot turned into a thriving hospitality-driven brand. He reveals why StartDock’s success is rooted in community connections, how he funds growth creatively, and the surprising role collaboration with “competitors” plays in strengthening the industry. This episode dives into the evolving world of coworking with candid insights on balancing hospitality and operations, creating quiet rooms and neurodiverse-friendly spaces, and the art of scaling community without losing its personal touch. You’ll also hear about funding strategies—from private loans to investor partnerships—and discover future trends shaping Europe, from landlord management agreements to the rise of diverse customer “flavors.” Whether you’re an operator, member, or simply fascinated by the future of work, this conversation is packed with inspiration, insights, and maybe a little canal-side envy. Whether you’re an operator, a coworking member, or just obsessed with the future of work, this episode will leave you inspired, informed, and maybe a little jealous of those Dutch canal views Show Notes & Important Links Thom Wernke Co-Founder, StartDock https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomwernke/ https://startdock.nl/en/   Liz Elam  Founder, GCUC Global & Bottle Rocket Search https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam https://gcuc.co/ na.gcuc.co uk.gcuc.co

Bonus Europe Podcast, Introed by Liz Elam-  Podcast Description Guests: Jean-Yves Hauer Founder at SocialWorkplaces/ Coworking Europe & Zoe Ellis-Moore CEO & Founder of Spaces to Places  Liz introduces this special crossover episode spotlighting a new global initiative in which she  teams up with Jean-Yves Hauer of Coworking Europe. Jean Yves is sitting down with Zoe Ellis-Moore, founder of Spaces to Places, to explore her groundbreaking report "From Hype to Operational Real Estate" and uncover the real growth trends driving the flex office sector. From the explosive rise of managed offices to the shift toward service-driven, hospitality-inspired workspaces, this conversation challenges old stereotypes and looks at how collaboration between major players is redefining the future of the workplace. Whether you're a coworking operator, landlord, or just curious about where the industry is headed, this episode offers data-driven insights, fresh perspectives, and a glimpse into the power of industry-wide alignment Show Notes & Important Link Jean-Yves Hauer Founder at SocialWorkplaces https://socialworkplaces.com/ Coworking Europe https://coworkingeurope.net/team/jean-yves-huwart/ Zoe Ellis-Moore  CEO & Founder at Spaces to Places https://spacestoplaces.co.uk/resources/reports/london/ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-ellis-moore-flexspaceconsultant/   Liz Elam Founder, GCUC Global & Bottle Rocket Search gcuc.co  Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam/    

From building one of Canada’s top coworking brands to crushing triathlons, Kane Wilmot knows what it takes to push limits and lead with resilience. In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, Liz Elam chats with the co-founder and CEO of IQ Offices about scaling a premium flexible workspace brand, navigating new market challenges, and why endurance training has made him a stronger leader. Kane shares insights from opening new locations, recruiting top talent with Bottle Rocket, and staying ahead of industry trends—all while balancing the demands of running a company with a passion for triathlons. Packed with leadership lessons, health hacks, and coworking strategy, this episode is a must-listen for operators looking to grow and lead with strength. Show Notes & Important Links Kane Willmott – LinkedIn CEO & Co-Founder, iQ Offices LinkedIn+1LinkedIn+1LinkedIn+11LinkedIn+11LinkedIn+11LinkedIn+1LinkedIn+1 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kane-willmott Liz Elam – LinkedIn Founder, GCUC Global & Bottle Rocket Search LinkedIn+1LinkedIn+1LinkedIn+9LinkedIn+9LinkedIn+9 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam iQ Offices – Official Website Learn more about their Toronto HQ and Canada-wide workspace network LinkedIn+12LinkedIn+12LinkedIn+12 https://iqoffices.com 

How do you create a coworking experience that not only attracts members but keeps them happy and engaged long-term? In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, Liz sits down with Megan from 25N Coworking to reveal the secret sauce behind their legendary onboarding and hospitality strategy. Megan shares how 25N sets the tone for community from the very first touchpoint, delivering a high-touch experience across multiple locations while maintaining consistency and culture. They also dive into 25N’s evolution into managing coworking spaces for landlords, what it takes to successfully run these partnerships, and the leadership principles that guide their growth. From actionable tips on improving member retention to insights on scaling without losing your brand identity, this episode is packed with strategies you can put into practice.  Show Notes Connect with Megan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meagan-slavin Connect with Liz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam Learn more about 25N Coworking: https://25ncoworking.com   

If you know Liz & GCUC then you know our obsession with the book Unreasonable Hospitality. We consider it the bible of our industry and evidence that Coworking should be in the hospitality industry. When we heard from our friend Brad Krauskopf that a top member of his team was attending the Unreasonable Hospitality summit, we knew we had to get her take on the experience. Rebekah (Bex)  Murphy, Chief Revenue and Experience Officer at Hub Australia and Liz Elam are unpacking the game-changing mindset of Unreasonable Hospitality. Inspired by lessons from a summit dedicated to creating world-class experiences, Bex shares how hospitality done intentionally and personally isn’t just nice to have. It’s the only long-term competitive edge in an industry where products can be copied, but feelings can't be. From “Hub Lux Moments” and surprise coffee tabs to onboarding strategies that collect member preferences from day one, this podcast conversation explores the little details that make a big difference. Bex dives into how Hub Australia is building a culture where excellence is the baseline, and hospitality is everyone’s job no matter their title. Expect actionable ideas, a few laughs, and a fresh perspective on the future of coworking, community, and human connection. Show Notes: Connect with Rebekah Murphy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekahmurphy1 Learn more about Hub Australia: https://www.hubaustralia.com Host – Liz Elam, Founder of GCUC: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizelam/    Unreasonable Hospitality :https://a.co/d/icM08pu #GCUCPodcast #CoworkingCulture #HubAustralia #WorkplaceExperience #ExperienceMatters #CommunityBuilding #CoworkingLeaders #RebekahMurphy #FutureOfWork #MemberExperience #HospitalityInBusiness

Raj Choudhury, Professor at London School of Economics and Political Science joins Liz Elam to reveal what “work from anywhere” really means, and why it matters now. Dr. Raj Choudhury, a Professor at London School of Economics and Political Science and widely recognized expert on the future of work, draws on over a decade of research and global case studies, including companies like Airbnb and Spotify. In this episode, he and Liz Elam explore how location-independent models are reshaping talent strategy, productivity, and real estate, and why return-to-office mandates may be accelerating attrition, particularly among women. The conversation also explores how coworking spaces can attract and serve distributed teams, highlighting the unique role community managers play in fostering real connection. Raj discusses the growing relevance of digital twins in shaping the future of work design, along with strategies for managing distributed and asynchronous teams. He and Liz delve into building inclusive, global cultures through Employer of Record models, the broader societal benefits of decentralizing work opportunities, and the evolving landscape of hybrid work, examining which models are proving most effective today. Raj also reflects on his experience at the GCUC conference, shares advice for coworking operators, and talks about the shifting momentum of flexible work worldwide.  Show Notes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prithwiraj-choudhury-5566314 Selected Publications: https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/profile.aspx?facId=327154&click=publications Book – The World Is Your Office: https://www.amazon.com/dp/026204891X #GCUCPodcast #FutureOfWork #WorkFromAnywhere #RajChoudhury #CoworkingCommunity #RemoteWork #HybridWork #DigitalTwins #GCUC2025

Liz Elam sits down with Juda Srour, the CEO and Co-founder of Jay Suites and Jay Conference, for a candid conversation about what it takes to grow a coworking and event space brand in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets. Juda began his journey in the industry at just nineteen years old, launching his first location and building Jay Suites from the ground up. Today, the company spans twelve coworking spaces, six event venues, and multiple rooftops throughout New York City. In this episode, Juda shares the hard-earned lessons he’s learned along the way. He opens up about how Jay Suites weathered the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and managed to expand while many others were closing their doors. He explains how owning the buildings fundamentally changed their business model, streamlining operations and enhancing the tenant experience. Juda also dives into what makes Jay Suites stand out in a crowded market—from custom build-outs and contemporary design to prioritizing long-term relationships with clients. Looking ahead, he shares his thoughts on emerging market trends, the evolving demand for flexible space, and Jay Suites’ first expansion beyond New York City. The episode also features a special announcement: GCUC 2026 will take place at Jay Conference Bryant Park. A builder of spaces, systems, and community, Juda offers invaluable insight into scaling a space business with vision, adaptability, and a focus on long-term success. If you enjoyed the episode, leave us a review and subscribe to stay ahead of what’s next in coworking and the future of work. Show Notes: Connect with Juda on Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juda-srour-b674168/  Explore Jay Suites: https://www.jaysuites.com/