407. Building Coworking Where It Doesn't Exist Yet: Jodie Gallant's Story

What happens when a lifelong marketer and multi-business entrepreneur realizes she's tired of working alone — and decides to build the space she wishes existed?

In this episode, Jodie Gallant, CEO of WORK Lakes Region, shares the remarkable story behind launching the first coworking space of its kind in New Hampshire's Lakes Region — and why the idea lived in her for nearly a decade before becoming real.

Jodie's journey is full of surprising turns, smart marketing insights, and honest lessons about opening a coworking space in a smaller market.

We cover:

• How growing up inside a family-run corporate environment shaped her entrepreneurial instincts

• The marketing tactics that actually work in small markets (including radio and direct mail)

• How chambers, connectors, and partnerships accelerated her visibility

• What she learned about the fears people bring into coworking spaces (including what to wear)

• Why 60 percent of her revenue comes from day passes and meeting rooms — and how she nurtures those users

If you want to understand what it really takes to open a coworking space outside a major metro — and do it with heart, clarity, and creativity — this episode is a must-listen.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

Q1 2026 Planning Workshop

Jodie Gallant on LI

Work Lakes Region

Everything Coworking Featured Resources:

Masterclass: 3 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets to Opening a Coworking Space

Coworking Startup School

Community Manager University

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