Series 4 Ep7. Coworking in Ireland: inside the movement with Stephen & Leah of Connected Hubs
In this episode discover how Ireland’s national coworking network is transforming local business, innovation and community through people-led workspaces and what it means for your coworking space or micro business.
Together with Stephen Carolan and Leah Fairman of Connected Hubs we explore the real-world impact of coworking in Ireland on local economies, SME growth and community resilience, especially in regional and rural areas.
Whether you run a neighbourhood coworking space or lead a micro business, this episode is packed with insights.
We talk about:
✅ How the Connected Hubs network evolved from a rural broadband project to a national initiative with nearly 400 hubs
✅ The vision for coworking in Ireland and hub strategy, and what it means for your workspace or business
✅ Why hub managers are community builders, not just operators and how to support them
✅ The power of human connection in helping a diverse member makeup thrive from solopreneurs to corporate remote teams
✅ How coworking spaces are helping tackle real challenges like isolation, uncertainty and burnout
✅ The importance of being a step ahead of your members anticipating their needs before they even ask
✅ Real examples of how hubs are fostering innovation, collaboration, and local regeneration
We also talk about the vital role of relationships, shared identity and community champions and why belonging is a competitive advantage in today’s uncertain world.
If you’re building a space or business that’s rooted in people and purpose, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, informed, and connected.
🎧 Listen now and discover how Ireland’s coworking movement is shaping the future of local enterprise and thriving communities.
🔗 Learn more about Connected Hubs here
SM S4E7 TRANSCRIPT
Listen to more of our podcast episodes here
I’d love to hear your stories, experiences in these areas….
If any of this resonates with you and you’d like to learn more then I’m here to help.
………………………
I’m Suzanne Murdock
📖 Read more of my articles here
Suzanne Murdock
MD & Co Founder
Hi, I’m Suzanne Murdock - Co-Founder & Operator of The Hub Newry, a neighbourhood coworking and flexible workspace in the heart of Newry. For over 13 years I’ve worked closely with micro business owners, remote workers, growing teams and coworking operators, helping create calmer, more sustainable ways of working that support both people and performance. Alongside running The Hub, I also coach and mentor purpose-led business owners and neighbourhood coworking/flex space operators who are often quietly carrying a lot behind the scenes. My work focuses on helping people create more clarity, structure and momentum within real-life time, energy and capacity - without losing the human side of what they’re building. Much of what I write about here explores: • flexible and hybrid working • neighbourhood coworking and local business ecosystems • leadership, energy and decision fatigue • creating supportive environments where people can do their best work • balancing ambition with real life If you’re exploring workspace options, navigating change in your business, or simply trying to create a steadier and more sustainable way of working, you’re very welcome to get in touch. You can connect with me through The Hub Newry or email me at suzanne@thehubnewry.com 💛
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