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

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