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 

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 

With New Zealand leading the pack, Jessica Knapp, Founder at Bright Work talks about the big coworking bounce back, and how landlords are trying to get in on the game. Jessica talks about the importance of connectivity, technology consulting for coworking spaces, and supporting the internal member experience. We explore how branching out on her own made Jessica feel professionally more adrift than ever, but her impeccable timing was a blessing in disguise. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #JessicaKnapp #Technology #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

The acceleration and opportunity of technology, the importance of voice communication, and how to stay psychologically solid amidst a global crisis is all unpacked by Brian Meece, CEO at GreenlightGO. Brian talks about his journey from his back of napkin ideas to watching a full fledge movement through his new lense, the content boom, and his dual sided marketplace platform for production. We explore how the pandemic pushed small business into freefall, increased space for decreased people, and workflow as a wonderfully orchestrated form of chaos. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #BrianMeece #Technology #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Explore technology advancement during the pandemic, how people are adjusting to working outside of the traditional office, and the role of company culture. Join Liz Elam and research team leader, Melissa Gregg, Chief Technologist, User Experience and Sustainability at Intel as they talk about transitions to remote work, agile work practices, and distributed work locations as the new normal. Melissa talks about the trauma that was caused by the loss of the office, new theories behind how companies are going to evolve their company culture, and the new emerging etiquette around space. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #MelissaGregg #Technology #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Aassia Haq, Vice President of Talent Marketing at MBO Partners talks with Liz Elam about the importance of optimism during this time of extreme flux, the Texas snowmageddon, and 2021 being all about resilience. We explore the commitment to flexibility as businesses continue to operate under the single, core principle of uncertainty, growing with the fluid industry, and serving customers in an optimistic way. As Vice President of Talent Marketing, Aassia stresses the importance behind hope in your mindset, understanding the details about supporting yourself as a small business owner, and using content to best position you to access economic benefits. #gcucpodcast #AassiaHaq #MBOPartners #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Daan van Rossum, CEO at Dreamplex talks with Liz Elam about what happens when you put a strategist in a coworking space and the innovative perspective that comes with it. We explore workplace experience as a service, the 5 years of research behind it, expanding in a post COVID world, and tips on breaking the mold to do something different. As the Chief Experience Officer, Daan talks about the universal problem concerning companies and how the solution is not so much in the design of the physical space but more of a manifestation of the company culture. #gcucpodcast #DaanvanRossum #Dreamplex #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Advocacy around race, culture, ethnic identity and the flexibility that should come with it. Melissa Marsh, Founder and Executive Director at PLASTARC talks about her career dedication to helping buildings and people work better together. We explore the hybrid work environment, the number one problem we face in the future of the workplace experience, asking people what they want, and security. We talk about the focus on digital security, it’s correlation with proper training instead of regulations, and how to provide these secure environments. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #MelissaMarsh #Design #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

With Australia leading the charge, Tori Shepherd, WELL Faculty, LEED GA talks about air quality as a human right, the science behind it, and how the focus of building design and health is changing the future of our world. Tori talks about how she facilitates the implementation of WELL building standards to help buildings reach their environmental, ESG, and general workplace wellness goals. We explore how air quality is our first line of defense in building health, how to promote wellness, alertness, productivity, and its impact on the workplace future. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #ToriShepherd #Design #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Everything changed, 15 years ago when Philip’s big picture view went from technology fueled to human driven. The founder at Ozadi, Philip Vanhoutte, talks about how his childhood journey in a full force quality customer service upbringing helped foster his altruism and enthusiasm about the potential of human beings. We explore how he got involved with WELL, what spaces actually need for us to work, and the big picture flip. With no funding to hire consultants, Philip talks about his journey to excellence in soundscaping, designing an acoustic temple, and how the Leesman Index is implemented to improve workspace. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #PhilipVanhoutte #Design #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Explore the number one lifestyle risk that impacts work, how to design around it and how to pay closer attention to it. Join Liz Elam and award winning, Kay Sargent, Senior Principal & Director of WorkPlace at HOK as they talk about design for the neurodiverse, the neurotypical, how most of us are grossly unaware of our sensitivities and how that affects our work. With no fear of speaking her mind, Kay talks about sensory intelligence, our industries gap in nomenclature and the ecosystem of work. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #KaySargent #Design #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

Liz Elam and Larissa Murphy, Co-Founder at Contrast talk about how she turned the design approach upside down to achieve high density coworking without a bunch of straight boring corridors - think origami. Together they talk about the importance of challenging design in new and innovative ways to create an experience and moving away from oppressive work environments. As a guest lecturer in psychology, Larissa explores how to design to promote mental health and the ergonomics behind it all. #WorkplaceTrends #GCUCpodcast #LarissaMurphy #Design #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #coworking #community

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

Liz Elam and Jenny Poon, founder and CEO at CO+HOOTS talk about where it all began, where it is now, and where Jenny is going next. We explore how Jenny’s parents continue to fuel her love for creating equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems with their own inspiring story of perseverance and persistence. We talk about the importance of lowering the risk of entrepreneurship and small businesses, especially for people of color, using the government as a connector, and scaling on a city level. You don’t want to miss this. #gcucpodcast #JennyPoon #CO+HOOTS #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #poc #coworking #community

Liz Elam and Jean-Yves Huwart, founder at Social Workplaces and the Coworking Europe Conference talk about how they met and how Jean-Yves began. We explore the survival of coworking during the pandemic and how to keep high quality connection through each lock down wave. We talk about future offerings, high coworking demand and how we are going to handle the “coworking bonanza”. You’re going to love it! #gcucpodcast #JeanYves #SocialWorkplaces #CoworkingEurope #entrepreneur #coworking #community

Liz Elam and Nick Clark, founder and CEO at Common Desk talk about how they met and how Nick eventually bought Liz’s coworking brand. We explore tactics Nick is using to raise morale and check in on all of the Common Desk team during the pandemic. We talk about expansion, deals, and how GCUC was a major player in Common Desk’s early years. You’re gonna enjoy it! #gcucpodcast #NickClark #CommonDesk #entrepreneur #coworking #community

In this episode, Liz Elam interviews Claire Carpenter, founder and CEO at The Melting Pot – Scotland’s Centre for Social Innovation. We explore the motivations guiding the genius behind the first coworking space in Scotland, the accelerating trajectory of coworking and the human ecology driving it all. Claire discusses the highs and lows that are plaguing us all, taking care of oneself and keeping the balance to persevere. Enjoy the conversation! #gcucpodcast #ClaireCarpenter #TheMeltingPot #CoworkingAccelerator #entrepreneur #coworking #community

In this episode, Liz Elam interviews Reeves Wiedeman, contributing editor at New York Magazine and author of Billion Dollar Loser. We got a first look at the inside story of the rise and fall of WeWork and CEO, Adam Neumann. Whether positive or negative, it is undeniable that WeWork changed the world and facilitated a massive shift in coworking culture. What do you think? Don’t forget to order Billion Dollar Loser – out on October 20! #gcucpodcast #ReevesWiedeman #entrepreneur #coworking #community #business

In this episode Liz Elam interviews Neal Gemassmer, Vice President International at Yardi Systems. We talk about how COVID is impacting Yardi and their employees. We discuss why Yardi is strategically focusing on Coworking and the Flexible workspace industry. We also learned about Yardi's impressive commitment to giving back. Give it a listen!

We facilitated a conversation (on zoom) about communication during racial unrest with three accomplished and notable black leaders who specialize in Diversity and Inclusion. Valerie Williams formerly led Diversity & Inclusion efforts at Airbnb and Stripe and is now the Managing Partner and Founder of her own practice the Converge Firm. Rory Verrett served as head of talent acquisition of talent at the NFL and is now a managing partner at Protege Search Ebbie Parsons- After working at Fortune 500 companies including Intel, Medtronic and American Express, Ebbie is now the managing partner at Yardstick Management.

James Shannon is an entrepreneur and technology leader with a deep passion for creating innovative and inspiring products. In the past, he’s developed large-scale cloud services, award-winning mobile apps, integrated smart devices, and cutting-edge consumer hardware for leading global brands. Today, James is responsible for the vision and implementation of essensys software features and functionality that empower space providers with greater control and visibility over their operation. Essensys empowers ambitious space providers to grow and thrive. Our secure, all-in-one platform combines enterprise-grade technology that is efficient and simple to manage. At the touch of a button, you have complete control of your workspace operations and infrastructure, allowing you to deliver friction-free member and employee experiences, whilst gaining valuable insights. Learn more about essensys here: https://hubs.ly/H0q2KnS0

Dror Poleg is the author of Rethinking Real Estate and the Co-Chair of the Urban Land Institute's Technology and Innovation Council in New York. His insights on the future of cities and buildings have been featured in publications including the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Globe and Mail, and Business Insider. He's got some great insights into the big picture of coworking and the real estate industry in the coming years, and—good news!—he's not at all worried about the implications of the pandemic on the long term. For more about Dror and his new book: https://www.rethinking.re/ GCUC has moved swiftly to producing its content online—that means you can participate in a GCUC event from anywhere in the world now. What a silver lining! Check out all of its upcoming online events here: http://gcuc.co

In this episode, Lisa Magill of Aleria teaches us the basics of diversity and inclusion: the importance of both as individual concepts, the benefits to the organization for emphasizing it, and what small businesses and coworking spaces can do to set an example that will end up benefitting everyone. Learn more and download freer resources on their site: http://aleria.tech See Lisa and many more amazing presenters at GCUC USA in Seattle, April 20: http://usa.gcuc.co

This one contains a GCUC exclusive announcement… Join us for a powerful conversation with Drake Rankin, CEO of Green Hive Spaces, as he shares his journey from a college dropout to launching a coworking franchise!  Drake chats with Liz Elam (GCUC founder) about the transformative power of thoughtful space design and how it fosters authentic human connections and sparks spontaneous networking. He discusses his unwavering passion for supporting everyday entrepreneurs and how Green Hive creates environments that help them thrive. With unique insights into space amenities and a people first approach, Drake offers invaluable advice for anyone navigating the challenges of business growth. 📌Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, practical wisdom, and a fresh perspective on the future of workspaces. #Entrepreneurship #CoworkingSpace #GreenHiveSpaces #GCUC #podcast #GCUCPodcast #entrepreneur

Show Notes: Green Hive Spaces Drake Rankin LinkedIn Profile

Steve King is one of the preeminent researchers in the coworking movement. Having conducted extensive study into the future of work, Steve has a unique perspective on where things are going and where the opportunities lie. The world of work has changed a lot in just the past few years, and Steve sees where it's going—more remote, more on-demand, potentially more geographically diverse. With that change come all sorts of great opportunities. Tune in to learn more about what they are and how to get involved! Learn more about Steve's research: http://smallbizlabs.com PS - Steve is a frequent speaker at GCUC conferences. Meet brilliant folks like Steve at the next event in Seattle, April 20-23! Book your tickets now to save: http://usa.gcuc.co

Learn more about the importance of family-oriented spaces as Shazia & Yusuf tell the story of their project in London: https://www.third-door.com/

Have you ever wondered how office rental spaces seem to magically fill up? Where do all these new clients come from? John helps answer this mystery and much more in this episode. With the Instant Group, John sits at the intersection of companies that need workspace and the providers that may serve that need. As something of a matchmaker, he gets to see firsthand what the needs are and where things are headed. Learn more about the Instant Group and read their studies here: http://theinstantgroup.com

Learn more about Keita's work here: http://covenantgroup.com https://mybusinessbuilderacademy.com https://mycoachonthego.com http://keitademming.com

(Grab your ticket to GCUC Canada, October 29-November 1, here! http://canada.gcuc.co) Celia's decades of experience with IWG, which includes the Regus brand, gives us a big-picture perspective on how the industry is changing—and how it isn't. Check out their recent Global Workspace Survey here: http://www.iwgplc.com/global-workspace-survey-2019

Learn more about her Austin-based wellness-focused space here: https://www.somavida.net/ Learn more about Women Who Cowork here: https://womenwhocowork.com

Garrett's got so much to share with us about how he runs his space so well—get out your note pad! His space: http://wearehygge.com http://twitter.com/hyggeclt Garrett http://twitter.com/garretttichy His new member welcome kit: https://smpl.io/knowledgebase/new-member-welcome-kits/ His space management platform: http://smpl.io And grab a ticket to join me and a bunch of other wonderful people at GCUC Canada, October 29-31: http://canada.gcuc.co

Panthera is a coworking, events, accelerator, and membership-based space for women in Tel Aviv. Its co-founder and CEO, Galit Ben-Simon, is our guest for this episode—and she's got a lot of wisdom to share! Check out her site here: http://pantherapro.com And grab a ticket to join me and a bunch of other wonderful people at GCUC Canada, October 29-31: http://canada.gcuc.co

Check out the Melting Pot here: themeltingpotedinburgh.org.uk/ And their social impact report here: https://www.themeltingpotedinburgh.org.uk/free-resources/tmp-social-impact-report-2018/ And grab a ticket to join me and a bunch of other wonderful people at GCUC Canada, October 29-31: http://canada.gcuc.co

Shervonne's the leader of Spark Baltimore, which is helping hundreds of companies grow through its amazing programming. Learn more here: Spark Baltimore http://spark-bmore.com Facebook: https://facebook.com/SparkBaltimore Twitter: http://twitter.com/sparkbmore Instagram: http://instagram.com/sparkbmore/

With 47 locations across the globe, Mindspace has redefined coworking on a massive scale. Join Yotam Alroy, co-founder of Mindspace, on the GCUC Podcast as he shares the journey of transforming a basic concept in Tel Aviv into a world-renowned hub of innovation and hospitality.

Discover the secrets behind Mindspace’s boutique hotel inspired workspaces, their ability to foster genuine community connections, and how they navigate cultural nuances across the globe. Yotam also shares bold predictions for the future of coworking and uncovers what it takes to thrive in an ever evolving industry.

If you’re eager to explore the future of workspaces or curious how experience-driven design and hospitality are reshaping the coworking world, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss. Tune in now! 📌 Don’t miss this international perspective on coworking’s evolution. Plus, connect with Yotam on LinkedIn (link in show notes) and learn more about his incredible work! Show Notes: Mindspace Website Yotam Alroy LinkedIn Profile

 #coworking #GCUC #podcast #GCUCPodcast #flexworkspace #entrepreneur #GCUCPodcast #MindspaceMoments #HospitalityMatters

To secure, build, and operate a space is a huge undertaking—you want to be sure you're getting it right. If the kind of client you want to serve wants one thing and you end up building something else, you could be in for a lot of pain. Fortunately, Giovanni's here to help! As a real estate strategist and flexible workplace specialist, Giovanni helps clients determine the best way to approach finding a new space. Learn more about his offerings here: https://fronterasre.com/

Christine is a longtime coworking leader with some amazing insights to share. She's also leading a workshop at Camp GCUC in Denver April 15! Grab your ticket now: http://usa.gcuc.co

Along with Angie Thurston, Casper produced a seminal report with the Harvard Divinity School called How We Gather. It's well worth a look, as it speaks to the root causes driving much of what's caused coworking to become a big deal in recent years. Find it here: https://howwegather.org Casper is currently working as the Director of Possibility of the Impact Lab at the On Being project, which among other things produces some amazing podcasts: https://onbeing.org He's a brilliant mind. Don't miss this episode and check out all of the great things he's produced!

In this episode, Tony talks with Andrew Debenham, Global Account Director at essensys. Essensys and GCUC recently announced a global partnership, so we got to talk a little about what that means as well as his perspective on the changing industry after 9 years in the business. As a space owner in a changing industry, you've got a decision to make—adapt your business to welcome the coming flood of corporate customers, or go the other direction? We'll get into that and more!

Subscribe to Cat's Coworking Out Loud newsletter: http://catjohnson.co Join the Coworking Content Alliance: https://www.facebook.com/groups/coworkingcontentalliance/

In this conversation. Tony interviews Natasha Guerra, CEO of UK-based Runway East in London. We discuss just how different it is to be running a brick-and-mortar business when you're used to working online, as well as more about the value system they use to foster a consistently great culture across multiple locations. Natasha is joining an amazing lineup of speakers at GCUC UK this September. Check out the full agenda and get your ticket here: http://uk.gcuc.co

Join me as we chat with brilliant business mind Tobi Skovron of Creative Cubes in Hamilton Australia!

In this episode, Tony interviews Larissa Murphy of Contrast Global, a Singapore-based design firm that works on coworking space projects. Larissa's got some super handy space design tips to share, so tune in to learn how you can apply some simple best practices to make your next space feel and sound better!

In this episode, Tony interviews Felena Hanson of Hera Hub—one of the world's earliest and longest-running women-focused coworking space networks. With locations around the world and new initiatives on the horizon, Felena's story provides a valuable example as the trend of coworking spaces focused on women grows.

Changing things up this episode and talking to someone who isn't themselves a space owner! Vince talks to us about space design for coworking and other spaces in this episode!

In this dynamic year-end episode, Liz Elam dives into the Megatrends shaping the coworking industry in 2025. From the dramatic WeWork developments to the pivotal shift toward hospitality, Liz offers a fast-paced, insightful overview of where the industry is headed.

Explore the rise of hyper-focused spaces, the transformative power of AI, and the evolving real estate landscape. Learn how branding, mental health, and sustainability are taking centre stage and why corporate demand is booming like never before.

Whether you're a coworking enthusiast or an industry leader, this episode is your guide to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Plus, you can get a sneak peek at the future of coworking innovation at GCUC Boston. Tune in and join Liz in her mission to reshape the workplace and tackle the loneliness epidemic.

Let’s change the world, one workspace at a time!

 

Show Notes: GCUC Website Liz Elam LinkedIn Profile   

Tickets to Boston                 #coworking #GCUC #podcast #GCUCPodcast #flexworkspace #entrepreneur #megatrends

In this episode, Tony talks with Laura, who has been running one of the longest-running women- and wellness-focused coworking spaces in Austin. We also get an update from her on the growing Women Who Cowork group!

In this episode we head all the way over to Wagga Wagga, Australia to talk to Simone Eyles, the badass entrepreneur who's breaking new ground for the coworking movement!

In this episode, I talk to Lei Ray Xun of SimplyWork in Shenzen, China! SimplyWork is growing fast in China, but 's keeping to its community-focused roots. Learn more about how they build a participatory culture and a welcoming community in their growing network of spaces!