GCUC Podcast - Coworking, Hospitality & The Future of Work

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/

Ana Bernardo, Head of Operations at Work.Life, joins GCUC founder and host, Liz Elam for a conversation that’s thoughtful, energizing, and real. From her beginnings in science to leading teams in the coworking industry, Ana’s story is rooted in curiosity, growth, and leading with care. Liz and Ana dive into her passion for sustainability and talk about how to implement and encourage your members to be part of the solution. Ana discusses how her background in science, personal development, and commitment to sustainability influence her leadership style and community building. The conversation covers: Ana's surprising transition from science to the coworking industry. How becoming a mother influenced her leadership approach. Work.Life's integration of purpose-driven values into their operations. The importance of making sustainability a shared responsibility. Strategies for maintaining the human connection in all aspects of work. Ana emphasizes that even small, deliberate efforts can create significant change in the flexible workspace sector. This episode is relevant for co-working operators, purpose-driven leaders, and anyone seeking to infuse more meaning into their work.   #GCUCPodcast #GCUCCommunity #Coworking #FutureOfWork #Sustainability #London #GCUCUK   Show Notes: Work.Life Sustainability Report Work.Life Website Ana Bernardo LinkedIn Profile 

Join Liz Elam of GCUC and Laura Kozelouzek of Quest Workspaces in this engaging podcast episode! They dive into Laura's recovery from a helisking incident, morning routines, and the evolving post-COVID business landscape.   Highlights include: The influence of morning routines and mindset on leadership. The transformation of workspace design: macro to micro trends. A new take on WeWork, profitability, and staying true to your vision. How Laura and her team approach artificial intelligence. The lasting significance of hospitality, freedom, and human connection. This episode offers valuable inspiration and practical advice for coworking professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to create successful workspaces. Get ready for meaningful content and as always with Laura, some laughs! #GCUCPodcast #FutureOfWork #FlexibleWorkspaces #Coworking #WorkspaceWellness #WomenInLeadership #Podcast #Businesspodcast Show Notes: Laura Kozelouzek’s LinkedIn Profile Quest Workspaces website

What comes after coworking? A smarter, fairer, more human way to build our cities—and Jonathan O’Byrne is here to tell us how. Get ready for a deep dive on this week’s GCUC Podcast, Liz Elam, GCUC Founder sits down with coworking pioneer and author Jonathan O’Byrne to unpack the big ideas behind his new book After Coworking. From the early days of Collective Works to leading 1,000 staff across Asia for IWG, Jonathan has seen the industry from all sides—and he’s not afraid to call out what’s broken. Together, they dive into: Why traditional commercial real estate is outdated, inefficient, and ready for reinvention How small operators are the true innovation engines in the coworking industry The irreplaceable power of hospitality, and why your front desk matters more than your marketing The role of AI, sustainability, and creative design in future-proofing the workplace What “next-space” means—and why we should all be thinking beyond coworking Jonathan also shares his reflections on leadership, burnout, and the importance of documenting what we’ve learned so future generations can build better. You’ll laugh, you’ll rethink your lease strategy, and you’ll probably want to read his book immediately. 👉 Tune in now and get ready for a refreshing, unapologetic take on the future of work. #GCUC #GCUCPodcast #CommunityDriven #HumanCentricWork #WorkplaceInnovation #SpaceAsAService   Show notes:  Jonathan O’Byrne’s LinkedIn Profile  Jonathan O’Byrne’s website  Link to “After Coworking”

I did the unthinkable... I forgot to record. So I used AI to clone my voice and make y'all a little teaser. Enjoy! 

The best conversations aren’t polished—they’re real, raw, and exactly what we need. That’s the energy Emilie Lashmar brings to this powerful episode with Liz Elam, recorded amid unpacked boxes, barking dogs, and refreshing honesty. Emilie, Event Producer of GCUC UK, opens up about leading through transition, the evolving future of coworking, and why human connection—not perfection—is the real currency of successful communities.  Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: How coworking spaces can future-proof themselves through authentic hospitality and intentional design. Why peer-to-peer problem-solving and roundtables are the new secret sauce for unforgettable coworking events. The inside scoop on GCUC Manchester (June 11–12) and GCUC London (June 8–9) — and how these events will redefine connection, learning, and trendsetting in 2025. How GCUC curates diverse speakers and partners with brands that elevate the coworking experience. Real talk about industry challenges like burnout—and how GCUC UK is tackling them head-on. If you’re ready for an honest, human, and inspiring conversation that will leave you rethinking leadership, events, and the coworking movement—you’ll want to listen to this one. ✨ GCUC events are coming up fast! Join us in the UK and experience the future of work firsthand. Learn more at na.gcuc.co and uk.gcuc.co! #GCUCPodcast #GCUCCommunity #CoworkingWithHeart #FutureOfWork #GCUCUK #WorkBetterTogether

On this episode of the GCUC Podcast, host, Liz Elam is joined by siblings Giles and Niki Fuchs—the visionary minds behind Office Space in Town (OSiT) and the iconic Burgh Island Hotel. From transforming historic buildings into thriving coworking hubs to running one of the UK’s most beloved heritage hotels, their story is one of bold decisions, emotional design, and a shared vision for the future of workspaces. In this episode, they open up about: How hospitality and coworking intersect—and why it matters What the hotel world taught them about creating emotionally resonant experiences Why trust between family founders is their secret weapon And the surprising reason they traded London’s cityscape for a windswept island off the Devon coast  “Hospitality is the invisible layer. It’s not just what you offer—it’s how you make people feel.” – Giles Fuchs If you're passionate about designing spaces people actually want to be in—whether for work, rest, or inspiration—this conversation is for you. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. And if you enjoy the episode, subscribe to the GCUC Podcast and leave a review. It helps us continue bringing you inspiring, insightful conversations with the leaders shaping the future of work.   #GCUCPodcast #CoworkingSpaces #HospitalityInCoworking #OfficeSpaceInTown #BurghIslandHotel #WorkspaceDesign #FlexSpace #FutureOfWork Show Notes: Giles Fuchs LinkedIn Profile Niki Fuchs LinkedIn Profile Office Space in Town (OSiT)

In this episode of the GCUC Podcast, Liz Elam sits down with Liz Simon, Chief Operating Officer at Industrious, to discuss how the company is scaling with intention, staying true to its hospitality-driven brand, and redefining what coworking can be. Liz Simon shares valuable insights on enterprise client trends, CBRE’s influence on growth, and how partnerships like the one with Delta Airlines are shaping the future of flexible workspaces. Liz Simon’s nonlinear career journey—from policy work in the Obama administration to shaping the future of work at Industrious—offers inspiration and actionable strategies for anyone navigating the intersection of coworking, hospitality, and operational excellence. Don’t miss this insightful episode where Liz shares her thoughts on: 🎤 Building a brand that lasts 🎤 The power of hospitality in coworking 🎤 Upcoming trends in enterprise client needs Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! If you’re as passionate about the future of work as we are, be sure to subscribe to the GCUC Podcast and leave a review to help us continue bringing you inspiring conversations with industry leaders. #FutureOfWork #FlexibleWorkspaces #Coworking #Innovation #WorkplaceDesign #GCUC #GCUCPodcast Show Notes:  Industrious Website Liz Simon’s LinkedIn Profile

Imagine everyone buzzing about the groundbreaking deals, the career-launching connections, and the game-changing partnerships forged at the coworking event of the year. Now, imagine you weren't there. Liz Elam, GCUC founder, and Stormy McBride, her powerhouse director, are pulling back the curtain on why Boston and the iconic New Balance track are the epic setting for this year's GCUC. They're revealing the must-see moments, the insider agenda, and the exact reasons why being in that room is non-negotiable. Deals that reshape industries? Careers taking flight? Partnerships that ignite innovation? It's all happening, but only for those who seize the opportunity. Don't be the one hearing about it later. This podcast is your final wake-up call to stop wondering 'what if' and start planning your trip to GCUC. #GCUC #FutureOfWork #Coworking #Hospitality  #Workspaces #FlexibleWork #CoworkingTrends #GCUCPodcast #NetworkingThatMatters #WorkplaceInnovation Show Notes: GCUC Stormy McBride’s LinkedIn Profile Liz Elam’s LinkedIn Profile  

GCUC founder Liz Elam sits down with Nir Kelner, CEO of Brain Embassy, to delve into the future of coworking. Nir shares how Brain Embassy is reimagining workspaces by blending hospitality with innovation, offering unique experiences like exclusive outdoor retreats and expanding into global markets. He also highlights the resilience of Israel’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Tune in for a thought provoking conversation on how coworking spaces are evolving into dynamic hubs of connection, creativity, and community. 📌 Listen now to explore the power of strategic partnerships and discover how they’re shaping the future of flexible workspaces! #GCUC#CoWorkingCommunity#WorkplaceWellness#GlobalExpansion#OutdoorRetreats#BusinessInnovation#CollaborativeSpaces Show Notes: Brain Embassy Nir Kelner’s LinkedIn Profile

Ben Wright, Head of Global Partnerships at The Instant Group, joins Liz Elam, founder of GCUC, for an enlightening conversation about the evolving coworking landscape. Ben reveals the driving forces behind Instant Group’s global expansion, how technology is shaping the future of workspaces, and the importance of fostering authentic partnerships in today’s competitive market. From adapting to industry shifts to building meaningful relationships, Ben shares valuable lessons and strategies that anyone in business or the flex workspace industry can apply. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this discussion offers fresh perspectives on navigating the future of work and transforming challenges into opportunities. 📌 Listen now to explore the power of strategic partnerships and discover how they’re shaping the future of flexible workspaces! #CoworkingEvolution #GlobalPartnerships #FutureOfWork #WorkplaceInnovation #GCUC #InstantGroupPodcast Show Notes: The Instant Group Ben Wright’s LinkedIn Profile 

What sets you apart? In this inspiring episode, Liz Elam (GCUC Founder) chats with the incomparable Cat Johnson,(Cat Johnson Co, Founder), coworking community builder, writer, and coach. Cat shares her journey into thought leadership and how she’s helping others uncover their “unfair advantage.” From authentic storytelling to finding balance between creativity and structure, Cat offers wisdom and practical tips for anyone looking to make an impact. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or just starting your journey, this conversation is packed with insights to guide you toward your unique path. Tune in for an honest, uplifting, and empowering discussion about embracing your story, discovering your value, and connecting with others in meaningful ways. 📌Listen now and start uncovering your unfair advantage! #CoworkingCommunity #FutureOfWork #CoworkingSpaces #SharedSpaces #GCUCPodcast #CourageToLead Show Notes: Become a Thought Leader Cat Johnson LinkedIn Profile