145. Sarah Travers, CEO of Workbar on why Flex Sells & Coworking in the Metaverse (June 2022)

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn

17:27

Why do so many of us get nervous when public speaking? Communication expert Lawrence Bernstein says the key to dealing with the pressure is as simple as having a casual chat. He introduces the "coffee shop test" as a way to help you overcome nerves, connect with your audience and deliver a message that truly resonates. After the talk, Modupe explains a similar approach in academia called the "Grandma test," and how public speaking can be as simple as a conversation with grandma. Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey ! Become a TED Member today at https://ted.com/join Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 53:41

MP3•Episode home

In honor of the GCUC Conference happening this week in Boston, we're doing a re-run on episode 5 with Sarah Travers, CEO at Workbar, with over 10 locations in the greater Boston area.

In this episode, Sarah shares how she became an “accidental CEO,” why her team is building slow on purpose, and what it means to grow with confidence in a market that’s not chasing the latest trends.

We talk about:

Why growing in Northern Ireland requires a unique approach to community and demand
The strategic decision not to chase rapid expansion—and why that made the business stronger
How Workplus designs its spaces to reflect each local market
The cultural and operational differences between Belfast and Derry—and how the Workplus team adapts accordingly
Why Sarah isn’t looking to London for her next playbook

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

Sarah Travers on LI

Workbar

Connect with your Hosts:

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

153 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Jamie Russo #Giovanni Palavacini

145. Sarah Travers, CEO of Workbar on why Flex Sells & Coworking in the Metaverse (June 2022)

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

In honor of the GCUC Conference happening this week in Boston, we're doing a re-run on episode 5 with Sarah Travers, CEO at Workbar, with over 10 locations in the greater Boston area.

We talk about:

Why growing in Northern Ireland requires a unique approach to community and demand
The strategic decision not to chase rapid expansion—and why that made the business stronger
How Workplus designs its spaces to reflect each local market
The cultural and operational differences between Belfast and Derry—and how the Workplus team adapts accordingly
Why Sarah isn’t looking to London for her next playbook

Resources Mentioned in this Podcast:

Sarah Travers on LI

Workbar

Connect with your Hosts:

Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn

Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn

Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast

153 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Jamie Russo #Giovanni Palavacini

All episodes

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

1
152. How CENTRL Office Turned a Leasing Problem into a Flex Powerhouse with Alex Hughes 55:27

22 days ago55:27

55:27

When a real estate problem turns into a business opportunity… and then scales across the West Coast. That’s the CENTRL Office origin story. In this episode, we sit down with Alex Hughes, co-founder of CENTRL Office, to hear how a “no man's land” office building in Portland led to a full-on flex brand with locations in Oregon, Washington, and California. Alex shares how they’ve transitioned completely to true management agreements, the role of tenant experience, and why the “vibe” is more than just good coffee and nice design. We cover: How CENTRL Office grew out of a leasing challenge and scaled with a flexible model that works for landlords. Why they moved from leases to fully aligned management agreement, and what that actually looks like. The types of buildings and partnerships that set the stage for long-term success (spoiler: they’re not looking for one-off deals). How enterprise demand is showing up in LA and why it’s reshaping what “coworking” means. The challenge and opportunity of bringing hospitality-level service to landlord portfolios through flex operations. If you’re working on creative deal structures, supporting landlords through flex, or just trying to figure out how to scale your vibe, this one’s for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Alex on LinkedIn CENTRL Office website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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151. Inside Upflex: Ginger Dhaliwal on Solving for Space, Scale, and the Human Experience 51:11

28 days ago51:11

51:11

Ginger Dhaliwal didn’t plan to end up in coworking—or in tech at all. Her journey from social work to startup founder spans continents, industries, and a through-line of solving human-centered problems. As co-founder of Upflex, she’s now at the intersection of workplace experience, real estate tech, and the flex ecosystem. In this episode, we cover: Ginger’s global path from social impact to launching R&D labs, tech startups, and eventually, Upflex. The core challenges of aggregating coworking inventory—and why brokers and operators have been slow to adapt. Upflex’s unique strategy: white-label partnerships with brokerages, airport lounge operators, and the U.S. government. How Ginger thinks AI will reduce booking friction, improve workspace recommendations, and drive industry-wide transformation. Why coworking is evolving from access-based models to experience-driven destinations—and what that means for operators. Ginger shares her vision of a future where space is dynamically allocated, demand is driven by intelligent systems, and coworking plays a key role in restoring human connection. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Ginger on LinkedIn Upflex website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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150. Designing for People, Not Desks: Dean Connell on Reclaiming Creativity in the Coworking World 54:26

5 weeks ago54:26

54:26

What happens when a designer trades luxury bars and boutique hotels for coworking spaces—and ends up helping shape WeWork’s global footprint? You get Dean Connell: design veteran, creative provocateur, and someone who’s not afraid to say what coworking needs most right now. In this episode, Dean shares his personal story of stumbling into WeWork, building over 2 million square feet of flexible workspace around the world, and why coworking still has a culture problem. We dig into what’s missing from today’s flex space design and how operators can bring purpose, creativity, and—yes—a little rebellion back into the process. This one’s part inspiration, part challenge to the status quo, and a must-listen for anyone trying to build spaces that matter. We cover: Dean’s unexpected journey from bar designer to creative director at WeWork, and how it changed the trajectory of his life. Why so many coworking spaces feel soulless—and what to do about it. The tension between creativity and repeatable models in coworking design. How to build spaces that reflect culture, not just brand palettes. Dean’s call for operators to stop playing it safe and start building the future, not just repackaging the past. If you’ve ever looked at your space and thought “there has to be more to this,” you’ll want to hear what Dean has to say. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Dean on LinkedIn I-AM.D.C website Wesley Edmonds on LinkedIn Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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149. From Tech Exec to Flex Pioneer: Arian Lewis on Building a Better Workplace at Kiln 47:20

6 weeks ago47:20

47:20

What if the future of work isn’t about scaling bigger offices—but building better relationships? In this episode, we dive deep with Arian Lewis, founder of Kiln and former head of global partnerships at Barclays, to unpack the evolution of flex from “startup scrappiness” to a full-on solution for enterprise clients. Arian has one foot in the VC-backed world and the other in the day-to-day of running flex spaces—and he’s got thoughts. This isn’t a rah-rah “flex is the future” hype fest. It’s a grounded convo about what actually works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to designing spaces people want to work in. We cover: Why flex isn’t just about desks and square footage—it’s about culture, community, and control. What it’s really like raising VC money for a flex workspace brand (spoiler: it’s not for everyone). The one key metric Kiln uses to track whether members are actually getting value. A behind-the-scenes look at Kiln’s operating model, including how they select cities and sites. Arian’s honest take on why landlords and flex operators still struggle to trust each other—and what needs to change. If you’re thinking about how to scale your space, attract bigger clients, or just survive the next shift in work trends—this episode’s for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Arian on LinkedIn Kiln website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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148. Tashi Dorjee on How JLL's Flex Innovation Team is Working With Landlords in Australia 56:52

7 weeks ago56:52

56:52

If you think coworking success is just about scaling fast and filling seats, Tashi Dorjee has a totally different take — and it’s working. Tashi, Head of Flex at JLL Australia, joins us to share how his team is building flexible workspaces for governments, universities, and landlords — with a fresh model that throws traditional coworking goals out the window. From a rainforest startup to creating award-winning coworking ecosystems, Tashi’s path is anything but ordinary...and it’s shaping the future of flex. In this episode, we cover: Why JLL’s Flex model prioritizes solving landlord problems over aggressive space expansion. How government and university projects like Quantum Terminal and Melbourne Connect are changing the coworking landscape. The “Flex Light” strategy and why a full coworking buildout isn't always the answer. How coworking spaces can integrate with asset management to drive real value for landlords. Tashi’s passion project outside of JLL — building a YouTube channel for the next generation (and a pretty awesome legacy). If you want to understand where flex is heading — especially from the landlord’s perspective — you don't want to miss this one. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Tashi on LinkedIn JLL website Quantum Terminal Sydney Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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147. Behind the Curtain at GCUC: Liz Elam on Building a Global Coworking Movement 49:21

8 weeks ago49:21

49:21

This episode goes behind the scenes with Liz Elam, the driving force behind GCUC, as she and Gio recap one of the most impactful GCUC conferences to date. From a packed house of operators, brokers, architects, and first-timers to a renewed focus on mental health and belonging, Liz reflects on the power of community—and where coworking goes from here. She also shares how she’s turning personal purpose into industry transformation through advocacy, C20, and her unwavering belief that coworking can (and should) help solve the loneliness epidemic. In this episode, we cover: Why GCUC Boston felt like a pivotal moment for the industry—and what made it stand out. Liz’s mission to destigmatize mental health, especially for men, and how coworking plays a role in creating connection and belonging. The strategic shift behind the conference’s programming and format—and what operators can take away from it. How Liz is leading a global effort to change the perception of coworking with the C20 initiative. Why showing up matters—for you, for your business, and for the future of our industry. Whether you were at GCUC or are catching the wave from afar, this conversation is a reminder that coworking is about more than real estate—it’s about real people. And Liz is here to help us all win. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Liz on LinkedIn GCUC website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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146. Lee Linton, from Office Evolution, on Lessons from Franchising and Front Desks 53:19

9 weeks ago53:19

53:19

You don’t need a real estate background to thrive in coworking—but you do need to understand people, process, and patience. Lee Linton, owner of two Office Evolution locations outside Austin, shares how he used his background in telecom and data to build strong community-centered businesses. Lee walks us through the realities of building out two locations, hiring (and marrying) his community manager, and learning to let go of the details so he could focus on being the visionary leader his team needed. In this episode, we cover: How Lee chose coworking as his next move after decades in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. The biggest lesson he learned after expanding too quickly—and what he’d do differently now. Why a front desk person isn’t just a nice-to-have—and how to train them to deliver on brand promise. The power of mystery shopping your competitors (and what he discovered when he did). How Lee and his wife approach the business as a team—and what they’ve learned about drawing boundaries. Whether you’re a first-time operator or managing multiple locations, Lee brings relatable insight and thoughtful takeaways that’ll resonate with anyone building in this space. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Lee on LinkedIn Office Evolution website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

1
145. Sarah Travers, CEO of Workbar on why Flex Sells & Coworking in the Metaverse (June 2022) 53:41

10 weeks ago53:41

53:41

In honor of the GCUC Conference happening this week in Boston, we're doing a re-run on episode 5 with Sarah Travers, CEO at Workbar, with over 10 locations in the greater Boston area. In this episode, Sarah shares how she became an “accidental CEO,” why her team is building slow on purpose, and what it means to grow with confidence in a market that’s not chasing the latest trends. We talk about: Why growing in Northern Ireland requires a unique approach to community and demand The strategic decision not to chase rapid expansion—and why that made the business stronger How Workplus designs its spaces to reflect each local market The cultural and operational differences between Belfast and Derry—and how the Workplus team adapts accordingly Why Sarah isn’t looking to London for her next playbook Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Sarah Travers on LI Workbar Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

1
144. How Jon Lambert Transformed a Bank into The Cannon, a Thriving Coworking Space 49:50

11 weeks ago49:50

49:50

What happens when a banker walks away from finance and into the world of coworking? Jon Lambert did just that—turning an old bank (yes, with an actual vault!) into a thriving coworking community. His story is packed with insights on transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, building a space with character, and creating a model that works. In this episode, we cover: How Jon made the leap from banking to coworking (and why he never looked back). The unique challenges—and opportunities—of transforming a bank into a flex space. The strategy behind building a strong community in a non-traditional location. What’s working (and what’s not) in Jon’s coworking model today. Key takeaways for anyone thinking about launching or evolving a coworking space. If you’re dreaming of starting your own space or looking for fresh ideas, this episode is packed with real-world insights. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: Jon on LinkedIn The Cannon website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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143. The GSA Launches a Pilot to Transform How Agencies Book, Share, and Manage Workspace 38:33

12 weeks ago38:33

38:33

The biggest real estate operator in the world—the U.S. federal government—is making a bold move toward flexible work. Mark Gilbreath, CEO of LiquidSpace, joins us to break down what this means for the coworking industry, why it signals a major shift in how large organizations view their real estate portfolios, and what coworking operators should be doing right now to prepare. In this episode, we cover: How the GSA’s new enterprise-wide marketplace for flexible work could change the coworking industry. What it means when a government agency starts thinking like an enterprise occupier. How coworking operators can position themselves to capture demand from this shift. Why flexible office space is becoming a critical piece of workplace strategy for major organizations. Mark’s insights on how the coworking industry is evolving—and what’s next. This is a huge step forward for the coworking and flex space industry. Don’t miss this conversation! Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/ Mark on LinkedIn LiquidSpace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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142. Inside IOS Offices: A Masterclass in Coworking Culture & Leadership with Javier Garcia Iza 53:44

13 weeks ago53:44

53:44

What does it take to build one of the most respected coworking brands in Mexico—one that spans 36 locations and is known for its unparalleled hospitality? Javier Garcia Iza, CEO of IOS Offices, joins us for a deep dive into how he and his team have created a coworking brand that prioritizes people, purpose, and premium experiences. From redefining workspaces to scaling a culture that employees and members love, Javier shares the strategies that have made IOS Offices a leader in the industry. In this episode, we discuss: The origin story of IOS Offices and how it has evolved over 18 years The secret to hiring and keeping a passionate, dedicated team—without micromanaging Why IOS Offices integrates baristas, bartenders, and hospitality-driven experiences into its coworking model How IOS Offices serves enterprise clients and why long-term relationships are key to its success The importance of giving back—how Javier’s passion for community, conservation, and wellness fuels his leadership Plus, Javier shares his experience climbing one of Mexico’s highest peaks just days after hosting Immersive Mexico—because work and adventure go hand in hand. If you want to learn how to build a coworking brand with heart, hospitality, and longevity, this episode is a must-listen! Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/ Javier on LinkedIn IOS Offices website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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141. Inside GWA Immersive in Mexico City: Hospitality, Community & Big Takeaways with Kurt Patrick and Grant Barnhill 52:22

14 weeks ago52:22

52:22

What happens when you bring together top coworking operators, investors, and service providers from across North America and Latin America? A conference packed with insights, unexpected surprises, and a deep dive into the booming coworking scene in Mexico City. In this episode, we break down the key moments from GWA Immersive, an event that brought fresh perspectives on hospitality, enterprise adoption, and the future of Flex. Join us as we chat with event organizers and attendees about what made this gathering so unique. In this episode, we cover: 🔥 How EOS and other Mexican operators are setting new standards for hospitality in coworking 🏢 Why demand for flex space in Mexico City is outpacing supply—and what that means for the global market 🎧 The behind-the-scenes logistics of hosting a bilingual coworking conference (spoiler: it involved 25 translation devices!) 🍹 Why coworking spaces in Mexico are doubling down on baristas, bartenders, and high-touch service 🤝 The value of global collaboration and how events like this are shaping the future of flex If you’re in the coworking industry—or just love a good story about how Flex is evolving—this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/ Kurt Patrick on LinkedIn Grant Barnhill on LinkedIn essensys website Shift Workspaces website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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140. Beyond the Office: Why Hospitality is the Secret to Coworking Success with John Egan & John Herring 1:03:38

15 weeks ago1:03:38

1:03:38

If coworking is just about filling offices, you’re doing it wrong. John Egan (Lucid Private Offices) and John Herring (Fuse Workspace) know that thriving flex brands are built on hospitality, experience, and genuine community. In this episode, we dig into how these two regional operators create spaces where members feel truly at home—and why that’s the key to long-term success. We cover: The strategy behind scaling a hospitality-first coworking brand. Why design and first impressions matter—but why people matter more. The role of culture, service, and even faith in coworking leadership. How regional flex brands can go head-to-head with the big players. What coworking operators can learn from hotels, restaurants, and even summer camps. If you’re serious about running a coworking space that actually builds loyalty, retention, and impact—this one’s a must-listen! Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/ John Egan on LinkedIn John Herring on LinkedIn Lucid Private Offices website Fuse Workspace website Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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139. Caleb Parker Uncensored: Brand, Partnerships, and the Future of Flexible Work 45:12

16 weeks ago45:12

45:12

We finally got Caleb Parker in the hot seat! If you know Caleb, you know—he’s a flex space industry leader, a branding expert, and the voice behind the Brave Ideas podcast. Caleb joins us to talk about his journey from IWG to launching multiple companies, the critical role of brand and hospitality in the future of flex, and how he’s building a business that he actually wants to work in. In this episode, we cover: How Caleb got into the flex industry and what led him to London The power of branding and why it’s more important than ever Why office space needs to focus on human experiences, not just desks The future of flex partnerships and why collaboration beats competition How to build a company culture that keeps people coming back Caleb is one of the sharpest minds in the industry, and this conversation is packed with insights. Don’t miss it! Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: GCUC discount code: EVERYGCUC for 20% off - https://na.gcuc.co/ Caleb on LinkedIn Brave Corp website Brave Ideas podcast Connect with your Hosts: Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn Connect with Jamie on LinkedIn Find Jamie on the Everything Coworking Podcast…

Flex Uncensored - A Coworking Podcast

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138. Coworking Meets Mixed-Use Development: Anne Olsen on The Shop’s Unique Model 42:56

17 weeks ago42:56