Episoder
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Exploring Sustainability in Commercial Real Estate with Paul Nellist at KobaJoin us on This Week In Coworking podcast for an insightful chat with Paul Nellist from Koba.
Paul shares his extensive journey in commercial real estate, from his early days with Savills to his leadership roles at Standard Chartered Bank, CBRE/Hana, and now Koba.
Discover the transformative impact of technology in the industry, the crucial role of sustainability, and Koba's innovative approaches to creating eco-friendly workspaces.
Learn about the challenges and successes of implementing sustainable practices and get inspired to push the boundaries in your own operations. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and industry trends!
See more show notes and links at https://twic.co/nellist
Chapters:00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:38 Paul Nellist's Career Journey04:40 Changes in Flex Space and Coworking06:15 Challenges and Constants in Real Estate08:55 Mergers, Acquisitions, and Strategic Plays12:15 Koba's Mission and Sustainability Focus18:40 Repurposing Coffee Grounds for Sustainability19:30 Building a Culture of Sustainability20:01 Engaging with Potential Occupiers24:19 The Importance of Transparency and Data25:31 Innovative Sustainable Practices27:17 Challenges and Partnerships in Sustainability29:39 New London Location and Future Plans35:25 Advice for Other Operators
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In this week's episode of 'This Week in Coworking' podcast, Hector and Mike dive into current trends in the coworking industry from this weekâs newsletter.
Follow along with Week 26âs newsletter at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-26-2025/
This recap focuses on the diversification of coworking spaces across various sectors and regions, cross-border hiring tips, and the need for tech standardization among coworking operators. They also discuss interesting initiatives such as IWGâs partnership to integrate lab spaces, Bamboo's educational incubation spaces, and coworking spaces in nursing homes. The episode highlights insights from a recent survey of 200 coworking operators, spotlighting their biggest operational challenges and desired tech solutions. Furthermore, they announce new features for their patron members and celebrate milestones by Gravitate Coworking and Workbox.
00:00 Welcome and Weekly Overview
00:41 Highlights
01:16 Introducing TWIC Explorer
02:17 Diving into ânicheâ-ification
04:03 Niche Coworking Spaces
06:52 Coworking in Nursing Homes
09:25 Cross-Border Hiring Insights
11:12 Tech Standardization Challenges
21:15 Celebrating Milestones and Wrap-Up
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In this episode of Unpacking APAC: Australia Tashi Dorjee hosts an in-depth conversation with Sean Lucas, SVP and Head of APAC for Essensys.
Together they unpack the dynamics, and tech considerations, of flexible workspaces in Australia and the broader APAC region. This season of UnpackingAPAC: Australia is sponsored by OfficeRND Flex, Syncaroo, and essensys .
See all the episodes at https://UnpackingAPAC.comThe discussion covers the evolving role of technology in commercial real estate, the importance of seamless digital experiences, and how the industry is adapting to greater demands for flexibility in the wake of COVID-19. They also delve into the parallels between the real estate and hospitality industries regarding tech adoption and user experience. Whether you're a real estate professional or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of flexible office solutions.00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome00:21 Sponsor Messages01:01 Guest Introduction: Sean Lucas01:24 Discussion on Macroeconomic Climate and Flexibility03:54 Technology in Real Estate04:54 Challenges and Solutions in Tech Adoption07:43 Seamless User Experience in Real Estate10:50 Spec Suites and Flex Spaces20:32 Case Study: Rapid Growth in Flex Space21:38 The Challenge of Rapid Expansion22:29 Flexibility in Leasing Solutions23:02 Global Trends in Flex Spaces23:58 The Role of Technology in Real Estate27:20 Adoption of Technology in Other Industries33:59 The Importance of Trust in Technology36:15 Comparing Hospitality and Commercial Real Estate37:51 Concluding Thoughts and Future Outlook40:08 Future of Coworking Spaces in Hotels
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In this episode of 'This Week in Coworking,' host Hector Kolonas introduces Emiliano and Shannon Lerda, the founders of Elevator Spaces, a co-warehousing company focused on elevating small businesses that need warehousing type spaces for their physical goods businesses.
Get the full shownotes at https://twic.co/warehousing
They discuss their journey from running an e-commerce pet supplies business from home to creating a unique shared space solution that combines elements of coworking and warehousing.
The conversation covers the challenges they faced, their business model, key cost drivers, and the importance of community in their spaces. They also delve into the logistics support they offer, their expansion strategy, and the role of coworking technology in their operations.
Chapters:
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:12 Meet Emiliano and Shannon Lerda
00:28 What is Elevator Spaces?
02:16 The Journey to Co-Warehousing
03:54 Challenges and Solutions in Co-Warehousing
06:57 Understanding Co-Warehousing Costs
10:50 Services and Offerings
14:58 Choosing the Right Location
23:24 Business Model and Expansion
26:29 Technology in Co-Warehousing
27:33 Conclusion and Future Plans
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In this episode of the 'This Week in Coworking' podcast, hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa discuss the latest coworking news and trends of Week 25 2025.
Read this weekâs full newsletter at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-25-2025/
Hector and Mike delve into the emerging trend of buying and selling coworking spaces and the efforts to make the process more transparent and easier. The pair also explore the notion of 'flight to quality' in the coworking sector, clarify some misconceptions, and emphasize the value-added services over just new buildings. Several market movements in countries like the UK and Australia are explored, including the innovative WOTSO Coworking Cafe in Australia. They also discuss advancements in AI tools for coworking business valuations and share insights from their recent podcast with Dean Connell, a former WeWork executive, on the state of workspace design. Lastly, they provide a sneak peek into an upcoming episode featuring a co-warehousing business.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:36 Market Moves and New Openings
01:19 Making Coworking Transactions Easier
04:02 Flight to Quality in Coworking Spaces
06:44 Innovative Coworking Concepts in Australia
09:10 Global Trends in Coworking
11:50 AI and Valuation Tools in Coworking
16:01 Discussing Interview with Dean Connell on Workspace Design
19:15 Upcoming Episode Preview and Conclusion
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In this This Week in Coworking podcast episode, Hector Kolonas interviews Dean Connell, an expert in workspace design and strategy. Dean shares his journey from aspiring football player to coworking space designer, including 12 years at WeWork where he helped launch markets across the globe. Dean discusses the importance of community and culture in workspace design, the impact of technological advancements, and the need for continual innovation in the field. He also highlights his venture into designing sustainable, adaptable furniture and emphasizes the significance of creating better workspaces that align with evolving work trends.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:30 Dean Connell's Background and Journey into Design
03:00 Global Design Experience with WeWork
07:20 Changes in Workspace Design and Technology
15:13 Designing for the Future: Community and Culture
23:08 Dean's Favorite Projects and Independent Workforce Trends
28:42 Furniture Design and Circular Economy
37:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this week's episode of the 'This Week in Coworking' podcast, Mike LaRosa is joined by Manuel Conti from PONT. They discuss major, late breaking industry news surrounding IWG and aggregators, and Landmark adding all their UK inventory into FlexGrade. They delve into the concept of permeable coworking and the role of human connections in flexible working spaces. The conversation also covers the impact of AI on coworking, the need for standardization in the industry, and the future of workspace functionalities. Manuel emphasizes the importance of quality data and transparency as the industry evolves. The episode addresses challenges and opportunities in defining coworking spaces and stresses the necessity for operator collaboration to establish industry standards.00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:37 Industry Events and Trends
01:15 Big News: Liquid Space and IWG
02:05 Discussion on Phil Kirschner's Article
04:00 AI in Coworking
07:13 Flexibility in Office Space
13:46 Landmark's Bold Move
18:22 Standardization in Coworking
21:29 Conclusion and Farewell
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The Future of Work and the Role of HR in Hybrid Work EnvironmentsJoin Tashi Dorjee, head of Flex for Australasia at JLL, as he hosts the 'Unpacking APAC' miniseries.
Learn more about the Unpacking APAC mini-series at https://twic.co/apac
In this episode, Tashi speaks with Natalie Hong, a strategic HR leader from HumanX HR, to delve into the evolving dynamics between employers and employees in a post-COVID world.
They discuss the crucial role of HR in designing flexible work environments that foster collaboration, productivity, and employee satisfaction.
Learn how HR insights can enhance office spaces, the impact of hybrid work on productivity, and the importance of creating meaningful work experiences.
Chapters00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction00:21 Sponsor Messages01:01 Interview with HR Expert Natalie Hong01:34 Employer and Employee Dynamics02:52 The Role of Physical Workspace03:00 Post-COVID Work Environment04:37 Landlord and Employer Collaboration07:12 HR's Role in Workspace Strategy08:21 Hybrid Work and Employee Wellbeing12:56 The Productivity Paradox18:49 Human Behavior and Workspace Design25:05 The Importance of Hospitality in Workspaces28:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Navigating Debanking and Financial Regulations in Coworking | This Week in Coworking PodcastIn this episode of the This Week in Coworking podcast, we are joined by Jeannine van der Linden, a key figure in the coworking world. More notes, links and insights at https://twic.co/debankingBroadcasting from the south of the Netherlands, Jeannine shares insights on a critical topic â 'debanking.' She dives into what debanking is, primarily affecting those in the crypto world, and the future implications for coworking spaces.
Jeannine explains how coworking spaces need to adapt to increasing regulatory scrutiny and the challenges this brings, especially relating to anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. This episode is a must-listen for coworking operators to stay ahead of upcoming financial compliance demands.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:22 Meet Jeannine van der Linden01:37 Journey from Law to Coworking02:20 Understanding Debanking10:04 Regulatory Challenges in Coworking17:06 Impact on Small Businesses26:33 Future of Coworking Compliance33:33 Conclusion and Contact Information
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In this episode of the 'This Week in Coworking' podcast, hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa dive into the hot topics from week 23 of 2025.
Read this weeks full newsletter at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-23-2025/
They discuss the concept of coworking's evolution and whether it's a dying model, driven by insights from Brad Hargreaves' controversial post. The conversation covers the move towards specialized coworking spaces like a new fashion oriented one being operated by Spacemade and the introduction of new membership options by operators like WorkLife. They also touch upon the significant trend of AI-driven search engine optimization (AEO) and its implications for coworking operators. The episode addresses current industry sentiments, including the need for improved customer experience in virtual office services and the importance of tailored auxiliary services such as podcast production facilities. Finally, Hector and Mike emphasize the importance of keeping up with industry debates and continual adaptation in the rapidly evolving coworking landscape. Tune in to stay informed and inspired by the latest happenings in coworking.
00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap
02:09 Is Coworking Dead? A Heated Debate
10:22 Disintermediation of Virtual Offices
15:42 Specialized Coworking Spaces and New Membership Models
24:11 SEO for AI: The Future of Search
31:11 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes
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Join us for a special episode of the This Weekend Coworking podcast, featuring Jason R. Anderson, CEO of Vast Coworking Group. Get the summary, and more info at https://TWIC.co/franchisingJason shares his unique journey from military service to real estate and franchising, culminating in an in-depth discussion on how to franchise a coworking space. Learn the essential steps of strategy, operations, legalities, and launching a franchise with Jason's STROLL methodology. Discover the benefits and common pitfalls of franchising, and get insights on whether franchising is the right expansion method for your coworking business. Don't miss this expert advice packed with real-world examples and practical tips.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:46 Jason's Background and Journey into Franchising01:34 Understanding Franchising in Real Estate02:36 Launching Transworld and Accurate Franchising04:10 Franchising Venture X and Industry Insights07:30 The STROLL Methodology for Franchising07:57 Strategy and Operations in Franchising14:08 Legal and Launch Phases of Franchising17:00 Benefits and Costs of Franchising24:29 Common Mistakes and Success Tips for Franchisors27:44 Addressing Concerns About Franchising30:14 Conclusion and Contact Information
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In this episode of the This Week in Coworking podcast, hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa dive into the coworking industry's latest trends and challenges.
See the full newsletter (for free) at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-22-2025/
They discuss the growing topic of disintermediation in the coworking space, touching on the evolving role of brokers and the increasing importance of being tech-enabled.
The episode also explores strategies for recession-proofing coworking spaces, citing recent data and examples from operators like WOTSO.
The hosts highlight key data points from the Australian market and emphasize the impact of flexible workspace solutions on CRE. Finally, they underscore WOTSO's significant rebranding, marking a pivotal shift in the industry by demonstrating the profitability and viability of a flex-focused REIT.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:33 Newsletter Highlights and Australian Focus02:40 Disintermediation in Coworking12:45 Recession Proofing Strategies19:49 Australian Market Data Insights24:37 WOTSO Rebranding and Industry Impact31:02 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview
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In this exclusive episode of the Unpacking APAC: Australia mini-series by This Week In Coworking, host Tashi Dorjee sits down with Gadi Hassin, CEO and co-founder of Helios Hospitality Management.
Learn more about the series at https://UnpackingAPAC.comExplore the evolution of coworking spaces within hotels, the importance of creating social connections, and how traditional commercial real estate can learn from the hospitality industry.
With over 25 years of global hospitality experience, Gadi shares valuable insights on design, community building, and experiential hospitality for nomadic travelers.
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Mini-series made possible by:
â âȘOfficeRnD⏠Flexâ , the ultimate platform that helps coworking and flex spaces streamline operations, wow their members, and grow faster.âȘ
â essensysâ ⏠is a global provider of software and technology for commercial real estate, helping the world's leading landlords and flexible workspace operators deliver seamless digital experiences.
âȘâ SyncarooâŹâ keeps your top talent unblocked through managed integrations, profit-protecting automations, and clear tech guidance.
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Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction00:21 Sponsor Messages01:01 Interview with Gadi Hassin: Hospitality Insights02:03 Personal Experiences in Hospitality03:03 Creating Community in Hospitality Spaces04:35 Hospitality vs. Commercial Real Estate07:55 Evolving Hospitality Experiences08:09 Post-COVID Changes in Hospitality17:36 Blurring the Lines Between Work and Leisure19:40 Designing Flexible Hotel Spaces20:47 Creating Soul and Energy in Large Spaces21:12 Intentional Furniture and Accidental Collisions22:45 Role of Community Managers in Hotels23:35 Technology and Social Connectivity26:46 Digital Nomads and Their Needs27:44 Commercial Real Estate and Hotel Partnerships29:26 Coworking Spaces in Hotels32:53 Case Study: Villa Turned Coworking Space34:52 Impact of Media on Hotel Occupancy35:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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In this episode of the This Weekend Coworking podcast, Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa discuss the latest trends and insights in the coworking industry for week 21. Topics covered include the rise of fractional office management services, the strategic hiring of teachers for coworking spaces, reasons why members leave silently, and an overview of the initiatives by various coworking alliances in August. Additionally, they explore coworking data from the UK, Ireland, and Sweden, and highlight IWG's recent financial announcements. The episode also celebrates successes within the coworking community, such as Felena Hanson's recognition as the 2025 Women in Business Champion of the Year by the US Small Business Administration.
00:00 Welcome and Weekly Recap Introduction
01:16 Sponsorship and Undercurrents Report
02:20 Fractional Office Management: A Growing Trend
09:05 Hiring Teachers for Coworking Spaces
12:56 Understanding Member Retention
16:38 Planning for International Coworking Day
19:46 Coworking Data Insights: UK, Ireland, and Sweden
26:54 IWG Financial Updates and Industry Reflections
29:28 Closing Remarks and Shoutouts
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Join Hector Kolonas and special guest Zoe Ellis-Moore in this Behind the News episode of our podcast. Zoe, known for her deep industry insights, discusses the evolution and future of workspaces in the UK. The conversation centers around Zoe's recent 'UK Flex Office Market Report for 2025,' (download for free here), the distinction between spaces and places, and the rise of premium workspaces. They explore the detailed methodology behind the report, including the classification of coworking, serviced, and managed offices, and the industry's unique challenges. Additionally, they delve into data nuances, such as brand positions, pricing, and ownership structures, shedding light on the dynamic flex office market. Tune in for a thorough analysis and discover how better data and transparency can propel the industry forward.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:43 The Impact of Outdoor Workspaces01:05 Spaces to Places: Transforming Work Environments01:54 UK Flex Office Market Report 2025 Overview03:05 Key Findings and Market Trends05:43 Methodology and Data Collection06:09 Classifications and Market Segmentation08:06 Challenges in Categorizing Workspaces28:53 Ownership and Funding Models33:29 Regional Distribution and Market Nuances36:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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Join host Hector Kolonas and special guest Will from Yardi for an action-packed episode of the This Weekend Coworking podcast where we dig into some of the biggest stories in this week's summary newsletter.See the full newsletter at https://twic.co/week202025This week's recap covers a range of hot topics in the coworking industry, including whether Airbnb will delve into coworking spaces, the profitability of virtual offices, and the concept of a platform operating system. Will shares insights on how Yardi is helping coworking operators generate smarter leads, and addresses recent comments about removing brokers from transactions. Plus, tune in for exciting news about Hubble's expansion to New York and more updates from around the coworking world. Don't miss out on this informative episode filled with the latest industry trends and expert opinions!00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap01:03 Yardi's Bold Moves and Lead Generation02:37 Building Networks and E-commerce Convergence03:26 Private Suites and Hubble's Expansion05:18 Prospect and Member Self-Service08:05 Broker Controversy and Market Dynamics12:19 Airbnb's Midlife Crisis and Future of Workspaces15:41 Rating Systems and Standardization20:38 Platform Operating Systems for Landlords26:42 Virtual Offices: Profitable or Not?32:00 Final Headlines and Wrap-Up
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Welcome to the first episode of our Unpacking APAC: Australia mini-series, hosted by Tashi Dorjee, head of Flex for Australasia at JLL, where the focus is on the future of work and coworking perspectives across Australia.
Get more info and all the show notes at: UnpackingAPAC.comTashi interviews Tanya Lambert, a seasoned property professional with 25 years of experience, to explore the changing landscape of asset management and valuation.
They discuss key topics, including the integration of flexibility and amenity in office spaces, the evolving needs of tenants post-COVID, and the importance of hospitality and food and beverage components in new developments.
The conversation sheds light on how landlords and asset managers are adapting to new trends and challenges in the commercial real estate industry.--Mini-series made possible by:âȘOfficeRnD⏠Flex, the ultimate platform that helps coworking and flex spaces streamline operations, wow their members, and grow faster.âȘessensys⏠is a global provider of software and technology for commercial real estate, helping the world's leading landlords and flexible workspace operators deliver seamless digital experiences. andâȘSyncaroo⏠keeps your top talent unblocked through managed integrations, profit-protecting automations, and clear tech guidance.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Host Introduction00:21 Sponsor Messages00:58 Interview with Tanya Lambert Begins02:46 Asset Valuation and Market Changes06:01 Tenant Needs and Flex Space12:39 Hospitality and Commercial Real Estate20:54 Challenges of Returning to the Office21:33 The Social Dynamics of Office Spaces23:01 Designing Offices Like Homes23:34 The Importance of Flex Space24:00 Future-Proofing Office Spaces24:57 The Role of Food and Beverage in Office Buildings28:06 Valuation and Flex Space30:09 The Evolving Office Strategy36:37 Portfolio Strategies in Real Estate39:18 Concluding Thoughts and Insights
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Mergers & Expansion in the Coworking Industry in 2025
Hector Kolonas and Craig Baute dive deep into the exciting news of Creative Density's recent merger with Thrive Workplace.
Craig shares insights on the history of coworking in Denver, the operational aspects of coworking alliances, and the market research that drives successful coworking spaces.
He also highlights the significance of mergers, acquisition strategies, and the benefits of scaling operations.
Whether you're a coworking space operator or thinking about entering this market, this episode offers a masterclass on the complexities and opportunities within the coworking industry.
See the full show notes at https://twic.co/exits
00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:31 History of Coworking in Denver02:30 Craig's Journey in Coworking03:44 Market Research and Consulting05:13 DenSwap and Marketplace Insights09:16 Valuation and Seller Financing13:17 The Big Reveal: Creative Density Merges with Thrive Workplace17:25 The Benefits of Merging18:12 Why Choose Merger Over Cash Buyout?20:21 Deal Structure Insights21:28 Landlord Partnerships and Benefits22:48 Maintaining Separate Brands26:35 Expansion Plans and Strategies28:19 Pro Tips for Smooth Mergers and Exits30:48 The Power of Complementary Skills32:49 Conclusion and Future Outlook
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This Week in Coworking: Special Edition from Huntingburg, Indiana with Wesley EdmondsJoin us for a unique Weekly Recap episode of This Week in Coworking, as we visit Huntingburg, Indiana, and chat with the excellent Wesley Edmonds.
Weekly Recap episodes dive into the biggest stories from this week's industry newsletter.
Read Week 19, 2025's newsletter here: https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-19-2025/
This week, we discuss contract furniture, its relevance to coworking spaces, and dive into technological advancements in workspace design.
We also explore the exciting development of coworking spaces in train stations, featuring Industrious and Bright Line, and how automation is revolutionizing the furniture manufacturing industry.
Additionally, we touch on AI's role in future office management and highlight some notable industry updates. Don't miss out on this special edition!
Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Setup00:23 Special Guest: Wesley Edmonds00:38 Recap of the Week01:39 Key Takeaways from the Podcast03:57 Industrious and Bright Line Collaboration07:47 AI and Automation in Flex Spaces11:59 Technological Innovations in Furniture14:47 Community Highlights and Closing Remarks
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Hector Kolonas guides us through fundamentals, insights, lessons earned and pro-tips from 9 industry leaders implementing AI Agents in and around coworking businesses.Premieres on May 9th 2025 at noon ET.Fill web, PDF and audio versions of the report will then be made available at https://twic.co/agentsWelcome to Undercurrents! In this episode, we explore the transformative potential of AI agents in the coworking industry. Join us as we analyze their current applications, motivations for adopting AI, and the potential future impact on the sector.Featuring insights from leading experts, operators, and industry leaders, we take a deep dive into how AI agents enhance efficiency, customer engagement, and business growth. Although AI is rapidly evolving, our discussion provides a foundation to understand the present and future possibilities of AI in coworking. Whether you're a coworking space operator or simply interested in AI, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of technology and flexible workspaces.
Chapters
00:16â Introâ 02:58â Forewordâ 03:40â Expertsâ 04:49â Fundementalsâ 13:15â Why now?â 19:48â Some Implementationsâ 29:30â Some Buildersâ 38:52â Fears, Myths & Misconceptionsâ 44:22â Learning Curvesâ 52:19â Challengesâ 56:13â Agents all the way downâ 01:01:32â Pro-tips and considerationsâ 01:08:20â What next?â 01:14:31â Last word
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