Episodes

  • In this episode, Hector Kolonas sits down with Sarah Travers, the CEO of WorkBar, to discuss her extensive career in the coworking industry, starting from her 15-year tenure at IWG to her strategic role at PropTech company WorkFrame and finally leading WorkBar since 2017. Travers shares insights into WorkBar's unique coworking model, its regional density, member reciprocity, and commitment to the Boston community. The conversation also touches on the evolution of coworking spaces, the importance of strong landlord relationships, and WorkBar's strategies for future growth. Travers offers valuable advice to aspiring community managers and highlights the value of coworking in nurturing innovation and productivity.

    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    00:39 Sarah Travers' Career Journey

    03:23 The WorkBar Experience

    08:44 WorkBar's Unique Model

    14:37 Landlord Relationships and Management Agreements

    20:44 Supporting Local Businesses

    32:08 Future Plans for WorkBar

    35:38 Advice for Aspiring Community Managers

    37:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • In this week 47 recap episode of the This Week In Coworking podcast, hosts Mike LaRosa and Hector Kolonas discuss Allstate's bold move towards hybrid work by partnering with LiquidSpace, providing coworking space access to 13,000 employees. The episode delves into evolving coworking terminologies, highlighting 'space as a service' and the emergence of diverse workspace brands like Kinrise. Other key topics include the potential for the first flex-oriented REIT and the industry's collective challenge to create a standardized lexicon amid growing complexities. The episode also touches on industry community support and announces a brief hiatus for the Thanksgiving holiday.

    00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap

    01:17 Allstate's Hybrid Work Strategy

    02:20 Corporate Coworking Trends

    08:49 Terminology in Coworking

    19:05 Emerging Trends in Flex Spaces

    33:01 Community and Support

    34:03 Thanksgiving and Wrap-Up

  • Missing episodes?

    Click here to refresh the feed.

  • Join us this week as we sit down with Johnny Rosenblatt, co-founder of Spacemade, calling in from London.

    Johnny discusses his journey from founding The Headspace Group to launching Spacemade, aimed at redefining the landlord flex industry with a 100% management agreement structure.

    We dive deep into what makes Spacemade unique, from creating individual brands for each asset to leveraging unique amenities like bouldering walls and podcast studios to foster meaningful connections among users.

    Discover the future of niche coworking spaces with Spacemade's new health tech cluster, the competitive landscape of the London flex space market, and the revolutionary Workspace Intelligence Network that aggregates data for better decision-making.

    Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with industry trends, challenges, and innovative solutions!Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Johnny's Background and Spacemade’s Founding01:50 Spacemade’s Unique Approach to Flex Space03:15 Branding and Market Positioning09:10 Sales and Marketing Strategies16:03 Rebranding and Future Goals21:17 Innovative Amenities and Niche Spaces30:32 Collaborative Data Sharing Initiative37:53 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

  • This Week in Coworking: Week 46 Recap

    In this episode of 'This Week in Coworking,' Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa recap all the news from Week 46. Mike reports from the 2024 Coworking Europe Conference in Sofia, Bulgaria, highlighting conversations about management agreements and the growth of multi-location operators. They dive into IWG's Q3 earnings report, noting significant growth through franchising and the delayed launch of the Worka app. The concept of 'polyworking' or having multiple jobs and revenue streams is explored, and the importance of coworking spaces evolving to meet diverse work needs is emphasized. Multiple noteworthy stories, market moves, and best practices in community hospitality are also covered.

    00:00 Introduction and Conference Updates

    01:56 Trends in Coworking: Management Agreements

    05:36 Hospitality in Coworking Spaces

    08:45 Marketing Insights and Terminology

    12:04 Industry Data and Analysis

    19:34 Polyworking and Space Design

    27:26 Conclusion and Call to Action

  • How COHatch went from an accidental coworking space to a 44-space network, and where they're going next.In this episode of the This Week in Coworking podcast, host Hector Kolonas welcomes Ryan Fogelman, co-founder of COhatch. They discuss the serendipitous origins of COhatch, their initial ventures into coworking, and the incredible growth from one accidental space to over 40 locations across the U.S. Ryan shares insights into the COhatch community, including the Boost and Give Scholarship programs designed to empower entrepreneurs and nonprofits. They also delve into Ryan's personal ventures, Fire Rover and Stick Grip, and how coworking played a pivotal role in their development. Lastly, Ryan reveals the ambitious Startup Village project in Dublin, Ohio, aiming to create a tight-knit, supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:46 The Origin Story of COhatch03:03 COhatch's Growth and Expansion03:52 Ryan's Role and Personal Journey06:39 The Boost and Gift Scholarship Programs12:57 Building Fire Rover and Other Ventures18:24 The Startup Village Project22:30 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Links:

    Ryan Fogelman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjayfogelmanThe Everyday Entrepreneur Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-everyday-entrepreneur-7238522004595732481COhatch Impact Scholarship Information and Application: https://www.cohatch.com/impact/The 🔥 Fire Safety Report 🔥 Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/%F0%9F%94%A5-fire-safety-report-%F0%9F%94%A5-6897330434980880384As always, check out ThisWeekInCoworking.com for summaries on what you may have missed from across the coworking world each week.

  • In this episode of the weekly recap, hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa discuss the latest stories in coworking and flex spaces from week 45's newsletter.

    Key topics include the launch of the Workspace Intelligence Network in the UK, a data-sharing initiative among ten multi-location coworking brands, and the growing trend of management agreements in the coworking sector.

    They also explore new data sets from Coworking Cafe and CBRE, highlighting market growth and trends in the UK. The hosts dive into the benefits and challenges of different coworking models, including rent arbitrage, asset ownership, and management agreements, and mention notable expansions and acquisitions of coworking spaces.

    Additionally, they discuss the potential impact of these developments on the coworking landscape and call for listener feedback to improve future recaps.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:50 UK Workspace Intelligence Network

    05:13 UK Coworking Market Data

    09:10 Management Agreements in Flex Spaces

    17:03 Operator-Owned Assets and Trends

    26:37 Closing Remarks and Feedback Request

  • In this episode, workspace expert and consultant Phil Kirschner joins Hector Kolonos to discuss his 15 years of experience in improving work environments. Formerly at McKinsey and WeWork, Phil talks about the evolving nature of workplaces, especially in the context of the pandemic. He explains his term 'weirdo workspace things' and his contributions to Forbes about business strategies related to corporate campuses and business travel. Phil shares insights on the importance of mobility within workspaces, the challenges of legacy policies and technologies, and the role of trust between employers and employees. He also explores the concept of 'experience density' and how it impacts the vibrancy and magnetism of workspaces. Phil and Hector discuss future trends in flexible work environments and how the flex industry can adapt to seize these opportunities.

    00:00 Introduction to Phil Kirchner

    00:26 Defining 'Weirdo Workspace Things'

    01:13 Phil's Contributions to Forbes

    01:31 Learning from Campuses and Corporate Travel

    05:45 The Concept of Hyper-Local Business Trips

    06:42 Expense Management and Employee Benefits

    08:52 Trust and Legacy Policies

    16:23 Flex Office Opportunities

    25:00 Experience Density in Workspaces

    33:07 Conclusion and Future Insights

  • Join Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa for this week’s deep dive into the latest coworking news, trends, and insights shared in Week 44's newsletter.

    In this episode, they discuss how dynamic pricing is changing the coworking industry and the role of celebrity influencers in marketing coworking spaces. They also explore recent broker incentives, the benefits and drawbacks of such promotions, and what it means for consumers. Don't miss out on engaging talks, expert interviews, and all the latest updates from the world of coworking.

    Subscribe to stay informed!

    --

    00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap

    00:42 Halloween Vibes and Week 44 Highlights

    01:20 Influencer Marketing in Coworking

    03:53 Dynamic Pricing in Property Listings

    10:53 Integration Challenges in Coworking

    13:57 Broker Incentives and Industry Impact

    19:24 Upcoming Interviews and Conclusion

  • In this exclusive ThisWeekInCoworking.com interview, Hector & Mike chat with Sophia Stolberg, co-founder of Piloto 151, Puerto Rico's first coworking space, about her journey and the coworking industry on the island. Sophia shares the genesis story of Piloto 151, the significance behind the brand and its pigeon mascot, and how Piloto 151 has continuously evolved since its inception in 2013. They dive into the various concepts introduced by Piloto, from micro-offices to the innovative Piloto Venues, designed to cater to a wide range of entrepreneurs and multinational companies.

    The conversation also covers the unique managed partnerships with hedge funds, the introduction of private wings in their newest class-A building, and the potential for international expansion.

    Join them to learn more about the dynamic coworking landscape and Piloto 151's contribution to the industry.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:26 History of Coworking in Puerto Rico01:32 Piloto 151: Market Leader and Competitors02:30 Piloto 151's Unique Brand and Member Profile05:21 Genesis of Piloto 151 and the Pigeon Story10:12 Expansion and New Concepts: Venues and Private Wings32:08 Future Plans and Industry Insights34:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • Join ThisWeekInCoworking.com Podcast hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa as they unpack the latest trends and insights from this week’s newsletter.

    This episode features an in-depth discussion with Carsten from DeskMag about the Global Coworking Survey, highlighting a focus on coworking space profitability. PS Take the Coworking Trends Survey at coworkingtrends.co

    The conversation also covers coworking space growth in the U.S., the decline of the Bay Area, and the closure of Deutsche Bahn's coworking spaces.

    Special guest Sophia Stolberg from Piloto 151 shares the inspiring journey of Puerto Rico's first coworking space and its impact on the local startup ecosystem. Don't miss this episode full of expert analyses, industry trends, and captivating success stories.

    00:00 Introduction and Hosts

    00:42 Global Coworking Survey Insights with Carsten

    05:25 Coworking Cafe Data Drop

    11:16 Deutsche Bahn's Coworking Space Closure

    13:55 Ad Spend Strategies for Coworking Spaces

    17:09 Exciting News from Puerto Rico

    17:34 Key Takeaways from the Conversation

    18:40 Introducing Sophia Stolberg

    18:56 The Genesis of Piloto 151

    20:01 Piloto 151's Unique Market Position

    20:55 The Power of Brand and Location

    25:47 The Iconic Piloto Pigeon

    28:10 Wrapping Up and What's Next

  • In this episode of 'This Week in Coworking,' hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa delve into significant advancements and collaborations within the coworking industry - the big WeWork, Yardi and Vast Coworking Group news. Key discussions cover the shift from traditional lease models to flexible management agreements, the rise of suburban coworking spaces, and the importance of protecting intellectual property. Featured are insights into tech integrations, cybersecurity, and notable market movements, such as JLL's new flex space product and the U.S. Navy's involvement in flexible workspaces. The episode also includes an interview with Sam Pickering and Olivia Chatten from The Instant Group, discussing the launch of a new coworking rating system in collaboration with the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI). This initiative aims to fill the gap in wellbeing ratings for coworking spaces by focusing on nutrition, fitness, air quality, and more.



    00:00 Introduction and Hosts

    00:21 Exciting Week in Coworking

    01:02 Exclusive CEO Interview Insights

    02:08 Collaborative Environment in Coworking

    05:27 Landlords Embracing Flex Spaces

    11:02 Suburban Coworking Trends

    15:05 Tech Integrations and Security

    20:25 Market Moves and Trends

    20:57 Exciting New Developments

    22:07 Introducing Sam Pickering and Olivia

    22:42 The Well Building Institute Collaboration

    23:53 The Co-Working Rating System

    30:22 Key Features of the Co-Working Rating

    33:01 Advice for Co-Working Operators

    36:35 Certification Process and Costs

    39:34 Future of Well Ratings

    43:01 Conclusion and Contact Information

  • What coworking professionals need to know about WeWork's new Partner Network.

    In this episode, Hector Kolonas of Syncaroo leads an in-depth discussion about WeWork's groundbreaking launch of a coworking partner network, which involves over 690 locations across the US and Canada.

    The episode features insights from Jason Anderson, CEO of Vast Coworking, John Santora, CEO at WeWork, and Anant Yardi, CEO at Yardi Systems. The leaders delve into the changing dynamics of coworking spaces, the increasing role of technology, and the need for collaboration. Topics covered include the strategic benefits of this new network, technological advancements, and the future of coworking ecosystems.00:00 Big Coworking News: WeWork's New Partner Network

    00:35 Meet the Leaders Behind the News

    01:34 Anant Yardi on Flex Workspace and Commercial Real Estate

    05:57 John Santora on WeWork's Evolution

    08:25 Jason Anderson on Vast Coworking's Vision

    12:39 The Why Behind the WeWork Partner Network

    19:46 Technical Insights: How the Network Functions

    22:29 Expanding Beyond Yardi Kube

    23:10 Benefits for Vast Franchise Owners

    23:27 Lead Generation and Revenue Growth

    26:53 WeWork's Strategic Approach

    28:28 Technology and Asset Light Strategy

    31:50 Collaboration Over Competition

    33:06 Future Opportunities and Industry Growth

    40:13 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

  • The podcast features an interview with Jessie Glew, CEO of WOTSO, a successful coworking and flex workspace operator based in Australia. They recently celebrated their 10th anniversary and on the heels of reported record revenue. A publicly held company, they are quickly mastering how to transform distressed real estate into profitable coworking spaces. Jessie shares the origins of the WOTSO name, discusses her career path in real estate, and explains the company's expansion plans, and emphasis on technology. Jessie reflects on marketing efforts, including a TV commercial, and their success with hyperlocal marketing and nurturing local businesses.

  • Coworking Insights and Changes: Industry Updates and New FormatsIn this episode of 'This Week in Coworking,' hosts Hector Kolonas and Mike LaRosa discuss the transition to a new podcast format inspired by their Clubhouse days.

    This week's episode covers various coworking industry news, including legal changes affecting booking platforms like Booking.com and their implications for coworking spaces, the emergence of new coworking spaces within residential projects by Adam Neumann's Flow, and the introduction of unstaffed satellite coworking spaces by WOTSO in Australia. They also highlight financial insights for coworking spaces and explore the parallel growth patterns between the coworking and hotel industries. The hosts encourage community participation and feedback for future episodes.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 The Evolution of Friday Recaps02:24 Hot Topics and Industry Insights02:38 The Booking.com Case and Its Implications07:35 Adam Neumann's New Venture: WorkFlow13:37 Global Market Moves and Trends15:39 Interview with Jessie Glew from WOTSO23:03 Conclusion and Upcoming Interviews

  • Hines Expands Flex Office Offerings with The Square CollectionIn this episode, Hector interviews Annie about Hines' recent expansion of their flexible office offerings, focusing on the development of The Square Collection.

    Hines began this journey in 2017 to provide alternatives to long-term leases, initially with coworking spaces. The Square has evolved into an umbrella brand encompassing various office solutions, including meeting rooms and event spaces. The new announcement is The Square Collection, which allows Hines' global clients to utilize amenity spaces across their network via the Here by Hines app.

    The technology, developed with partners essensys and HqO, enables inventory management and booking capabilities. While primarily aimed at Hines' tenants, some spaces may be available to third parties. Hines is exploring strategic options to address portfolio gaps and enhance client partnerships in the future.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:11 Background on Hines and The Square01:20 Evolution of The Square02:45 Introduction of The Square Collection04:44 Technology and Implementation07:44 Future Plans and Expansion11:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • Welcome to the audio recap of this week's newsletter

    In this episode we dive into what flex space products are most popular, some numbers North America & France, and take a quick overview of market moves in Australia, Singapore and Kenya.

    Like this? Share it with your colleagues, friends and frenemies.

    Want the email version too? Head over to ThisWeekInCoworking.com and subscribe for free.

  • Welcome to This Week In Coworking, I’m Hector Kolonas and this is your audio recap of some important news views and market moves that you may have missed this week in coworking.In week 24 of 2023 I shared 21 summaries you may have missed in the newsletter.

    In today’s audio summary I’ll be diving into just a few of them, namely dynamic pricing for coworking space, more data from the hottest flex market in the world, how one Canadian operator is giving their clients access to other operators' spaces and an Amex perk on coworking - and what it could mean for the industry.

    Like this? Share it with your colleagues, friends and frenemies.

    Want the email version too? Head over to ThisWeekInCoworking.com and subscribe for free.

  • This week I explore a 95x bump in ad spend, coworking on How I Built This, a tax incentive program, Yardi acquiring CloudVO, and more residential-building coworking.

    Topics covered this week in the audio recap:

    Chains are spending up to 95x more on Google Ads Read More Tina Roth-Eisenberg chats with Guy Raz about coworking, creativity and community on the How I Built This podcast. Listen to this. Introducing commercial revitalization tax incentive program in Manhattan Read More Another booking platform changes hands Read More More coworking within residential buildings in Brooklyn Read More

    To see all 21 summaries, or subscribe to the free email version, hop over to ThisWeekInCoworking.com and click Week 23, 2023

  • In week 22 of 2023 I shared 27 summaries including a few big corporate coworking moves, how Taskrabbit saved 87% on rent through coworking, if members could become shareholders, a 25% jump in flex space demand in Singapore and more.

    In this recap podcast we dig into two celebrations, a few of these stories, and an honorable mention.

    See the newsletter at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-22-2023/

  • In week 21 of 2023 we explore Mind-blowing generative AI in photoshop, an APAC network preparing for a Nasdaq listing, strong flex numbers in India, the inevitability of coplaces, and more.

    👉 Get these summaries, their source links and 18 other stories you may have missed This Week In Coworking at https://thisweekincoworking.com/week-21-2023/