GCUC Podcast

GCUC Podcast - Jonathan O'Byrne, Founder of Collective Works

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Why traditional commercial real estate is outdated, inefficient, and ready for reinvention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”

AI Generated Teaser for the GCUC Podcast

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

GCUC Podcast - Emilie Lashmar, Event Producer of GCUC UK

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

GCUC Podcast – Giles Fuchs CEO and Niki Fuchs Managing Director, Office Space in Town

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 #FutureOfWorkShow Notes:Giles Fuchs LinkedIn ProfileNiki Fuchs LinkedIn ProfileOffice Space in Town (OSiT)

GCUC Podcast - Liz Simon, COO of Industrious

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 WebsiteLiz Simon’s LinkedIn Profile

GCUC Podcast - Liz Elam, GCUC Founder and Stormy McBride, Director of Operations

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:GCUCStormy McBride’s LinkedIn Profile
Liz Elam’s LinkedIn Profile
 

GCUC Podcast - Nir Kelner, CEO of Brain Embassy

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

GCUC Podcast - Ben Wright, Head of Global Partnerships at The Instant Group

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