
Brave Ideas
**Announcing our rebrand to Brave Ideas starting with the upcoming mini-series dropping January 2025.**
Join award winning podcaster and CEO of Brave Corporation, Caleb Parker, as he shines a light on the entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and brave ideas at the forefront of innovation, who are creating the future of office real estate.
Brave Ideas dives deep into the stories of the visionaries, zooms out to discuss the macro trends driving change in demand for the office, and brings you thought provoking and insightful content from the innovators challenging the status quo as we know it today.
Subscribe to this podcast and our Brave Ideas Newsletter for weekly updates. www.braveideas.media
Latest episodes

4 snips
Apr 10, 2024 • 38min
Why Are Landlords Finally Adopting Flex In Their Portfolios?
Jonny Rosenblatt, Co-founder of SpaceMade, discusses the benefits of partnering with flex operators for landlords, the importance of customization and brand differentiation in the flex market, challenges of building a sophisticated infrastructure, and potential for sector-specific spaces to attract diverse customers.

Apr 3, 2024 • 24min
PropCo-OpCo: Why HNK Moved "The Office" From Product to Service
In this episode of #WorkBold, your host Caleb Parker, talks to Robert Sparreboom. They delve into the transformation of real estate operations in response to changing market demands, specifically focusing on the impact of flexibility and space as a service. Robert shares insights from his company's journey, influenced by Anthony Slumbers, towards rethinking their business model as a real estate investor and operator. They discuss the transition from using their flex operation, HNK as a vacancy solution to viewing it as a major asset for client solutions, underpinned by sustainability and customer-centricity. The conversation covers the challenges and benefits of being a listed company operating in the flex space, strategic rebranding, and the evolving landscape of property valuation in the face of increased demand for flexible, service-driven real estate offerings. Robert Sparreboom: LinkedIn | Website Robert Sparreboom is Head of HNK, a flexible workspace provider in the Netherlands, part of NSI, a listed RE Investor located in Amsterdam. Having a broad experience in the Real Estate Sector he found his calling in the area where Real Estate, interior design, innovation and hospitality come together, creating spaces that make the world a bit more beautiful every day. Robert has been responsible for the rebranding and repositioning of the HNK brand, its operations and business development currently rolling out the new brand to existing and new locations. In his personal life he's a Husband and father of two daughters, loves sports, history, tech and DIY. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button so you get each episode as it comes out. Sponsors: Headline Sponsor | Freshwave: Website | LinkedIn Freshwave is the connectivity infrastructure-as-a-service provider bringing MNOs, government, and real estate providers to work together in new ways. From stadiums and hospitals to skyscrapers and shopping centres, we provide mobile, 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity infrastructure all over the UK and Europe. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold is a coworking brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedInNewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Brave Corporation: Website | LinkedIn The next generation real estate company driving value through strategic asset repositioning to de-risk assets and increase NOI. Launch Your Own Podcast: Website | LinkedInShoRunner is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@shorunner.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

Mar 27, 2024 • 30min
What makes a building smart, and why do customers care?
In this episode of #WorkBold, your host Caleb Parker, talks to Sanjaya Ranasinghe Global Director of R&D at WiredScore. They discuss the company's journey and the evolving importance of digital connectivity in real estate. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, WiredScore has expanded worldwide, certifying buildings across 35 countries to ensure top-notch digital connectivity. The conversation delves into how landlords and tenants' perspectives on internet connectivity have shifted, highlighting how WiredScore's certifications - WiredScore and SmartScore - aid in enhancing the digital and smart technology infrastructure of buildings. They reflect on the changing landscape of office real estate, emphasising user experience and the role of technology in meeting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. The episode also addresses the challenge of retrofitting buildings to meet current standards, the impact of connectivity on occupancy rates and rents, and the potential of technology to transform real estate into responsive, user-focused environments. Sanjaya Ranasinghe: LinkedIn | Website As leader of the R&D team at WiredScore, Sanjaya develops, implements, and reviews the criteria of WiredScore's scorecards, assessing best-in-class Internet connectivity in commercial buildings. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button so you get each episode as it comes out. Sponsors: Headline Sponsor | Freshwave: Website | LinkedIn Freshwave is the connectivity infrastructure-as-a-service provider bringing MNOs, government, and real estate providers to work together in new ways. From stadiums and hospitals to skyscrapers and shopping centres, we provide mobile, 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity infrastructure all over the UK and Europe. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold is a coworking brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedInNewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Brave Corporation: Website | LinkedIn The next generation real estate company driving value through strategic asset repositioning to de-risk assets and increase NOI. Launch Your Own Podcast: Website | LinkedInShoRunner is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@shorunner.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

10 snips
Mar 20, 2024 • 36min
When A 6 CAP Is No Longer A 6 CAP - Only The Paranoid (Office Investors) Survive
The podcast discusses the shift in office investments towards flexible workspace solutions, highlighting Castleforge's success in Glasgow with over 90% occupancy and higher desk rates. They argue for updated valuation models for office spaces, suggesting Flex spaces offer a more reliable income stream. The conversation touches on future office space valuations and evolving investor models to meet the demand for Flex spaces.

Mar 13, 2024 • 4min
Season 11 Trailer: Bold Visions, Brave Execution - Pioneering the Future of Office Real Estate
Welcome to Season 11 of #WorkBold, with your host Caleb Parker, CEO of Brave Corp. This podcast exists to serve stakeholders in commercial real estate including investors, fund managers, landlords, operators agents, and brokers, by providing insights from industry experts on navigating the changing landscape of office real estate and the future of work. Season 11 is sponsored by Freshwave, the champions of connectivity ensuring your mobile phone signal is strong in your offices. Grab your popcorn and tune into our preview of what’s to come over the next 10 weeks. Don't forget to hit that subscribe button so you get each episode as it comes out. Sponsors: Headline Sponsor | Freshwave: Website | LinkedIn Freshwave is the connectivity infrastructure-as-a-service provider bringing MNOs, government, and real estate providers to work together in new ways. From stadiums and hospitals to skyscrapers and shopping centres, we provide mobile, 5G and Wi-Fi connectivity infrastructure all over the UK and Europe. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold is a coworking brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedInNewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Brave Corporation: Website | LinkedIn The next generation real estate company driving value through strategic asset repositioning to de-risk assets and increase NOI. Launch Your Own Podcast: Website | LinkedInShoRunner is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@shorunner.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

Dec 13, 2023 • 29min
Should we redefine value creation in office real estate?
Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Summary: In this episode of the #WorkBold Podcast, host Caleb Parker sits down with Markus Wiedenmann, a real estate expert and passionate advocate for sustainability. The discussion unfolds at the Young Leaders Forum at ULI, offering a unique perspective from the 31st floor of an office tower in Madrid. Marcus shares insights on the evolving landscape of real estate, emphasising the increasing complexity of the industry beyond traditional metrics. The conversation delves into the crucial role of sustainability, the transformation of real estate into a technical field, and the necessity of redefining value creation. Takeaways: Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: Marcus underscores the urgent need to focus on making existing buildings energy-efficient to combat emissions. The conversation highlights the broader expertise required, including understanding energy production methods and building insulation. Optimism for the Future: Marcus expresses optimism about the future of real estate, emphasising the shift from a simple business model to a more complex, technical, and emotionally driven industry. He sees the younger generation as natural drivers of change in this evolving landscape. Prop Tech Investment Insights: Marcus shares valuable advice for property companies looking to invest in PropTech. He suggests engaging in conversations with industry players to identify inefficiencies and problems before developing solutions, emphasising the importance of understanding market needs. Space as a Service: Marcus discusses the concept of providing "space as a service" and the challenges posed by competing agendas and tax regulations. He highlights the necessity of structuring solutions collaboratively to deliver enhanced services to tenants. Connect with today’s guest: • Markus Wiedenmann on LinkedIn • Art Invest Website Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Sponsors: NorNorm: Website | LinkedIn NORNORM is a subscription-based furnishing model, letting your business adapt to the needs of tomorrow. Beautiful, affordable and fully circular. NorNorm's vision for the workspace of the future is simple. Place circularity at the core and demonstrate how this is better for business, people and the planet. By embracing NorNorm, real estate can drastically produce CO2 emissions and waste production, driving us closer to a greener future. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold merges property management & Space-as-a-Service to help office customers grow faster and drive asset value. Bold is a real estate brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedIn NewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Launch Your Own Podcast: A Podcast Company is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@apodcastcompany.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

4 snips
Dec 6, 2023 • 20min
Do Dynamic And Diverse, Multi-Tenant Buildings Have The Edge On Static Single-Let Assets?
In this podcast, Boudewijn Ruitenburg from Edge Technologies shares insights on redefining office spaces, integrating tech into buildings, sustainability challenges, and the importance of creating diverse, collaborative communities within office buildings.

Nov 29, 2023 • 26min
Can You Build a Real Estate Brand in the Shifting Global Landscape?
Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Summary: In this episode of the Workbook Podcast, host Caleb Parker sits down with Rohan Sikri, CEO of Xander Group, a prominent figure in the world of private equity real estate. Rohan shares insights on the evolving dynamics of global investments, the changing nature of office real estate, and the crucial role of branding in today's real estate market. From the impact of geopolitical shifts to the transformation of office spaces into B2C experiences, Rohan provides a forward-looking perspective that challenges traditional investment strategies. Takeaways: • The Shift to a Less Global World: Rohan emphasises the noticeable trend towards more localised investments and the need for investors to adapt to a world that is becoming less globally connected. • Office Real Estate Evolution: The discussion delves into the changing landscape of office real estate, emphasising the importance of considering factors like geography, user experience, and brand differentiation in modern investment strategies. • Brand Building in Real Estate: Rohan highlights the increasing significance of branding in the real estate industry, particularly in office spaces evolving from B2B to B2C. The discussion explores how brands in real estate are not just about logos but about delivering a consistent experience that resonates with tenants and clients. • Two Businesses, One Vision: Rohan emphasises the need for vertical alignment between the investment management business and the operating brand, acknowledging that they are distinct yet interconnected entities. The discussion provides valuable insights for investors looking to balance operational excellence and brand recognition. • Optimism Amid Challenges: Despite the challenges posed by a shifting global landscape, Rohan remains optimistic about the real estate industry. He sees an innovative and passionate community capable of finding solutions and believes that good portfolios are built even in challenging times. Connect with today’s guest: • Rohan Sikri LinkedIn • Xander Group Website Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Sponsors: NorNorm: Website | LinkedIn NORNORM is a subscription-based furnishing model, letting your business adapt to the needs of tomorrow. Beautiful, affordable and fully circular. NorNorm's vision for the workspace of the future is simple. Place circularity at the core and demonstrate how this is better for business, people and the planet. By embracing NorNorm, real estate can drastically produce CO2 emissions and waste production, driving us closer to a greener future. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold merges property management & Space-as-a-Service to help office customers grow faster and drive asset value. Bold is a real estate brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedIn NewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Launch Your Own Podcast: A Podcast Company is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@apodcastcompany.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

Nov 22, 2023 • 23min
Why PropTech1 VC is Investing €100 Million to Future-Proof Real Estate
Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Summary: Award winning podcast host and Founder of Bold, Caleb Parker sits down with Kingma Ma, Managing Director in the UK for PropTech1, a venture capital firm investing in European startups shaping the future of the built environment. Kingma shares insights into the dynamic world of PropTech, the challenges and opportunities in sustainability, and the importance of fostering a diverse ecosystem. From discussions at ULI in Madrid to the intricacies of retrofitting existing structures for energy efficiency, this episode explores the evolving landscape of PropTech and its impact on real estate. Takeaways: • Kingma emphasises the significance of building relationships across diverse domains within the built environment, highlighting the international nature of challenges and solutions in PropTech. • Innovation in Retrofitting: EcoWorks, a German-based startup backed by PropTech1, demonstrates the potential of retrofitting existing multifamily residential apartments into net-zero energy spaces through advanced digital modelling and energy-efficient solutions. • Strategic Partnerships for PropCo Innovation: PropTech1's approach involves not only providing capital but also creating an ecosystem where startups collaborate with established players in the built environment. This collaborative model aims to address real problems faced by property companies and drive innovation from within. • Royal Connections: PropTech1's unique network includes the Liechtenstein Royal Family Office among its investors, showcasing the diverse and influential partnerships that contribute to the success of PropTech ventures. • Kingma invites potential investors to join PropTech1 as Limited Partners (LPs) to be part of the venture's mission to reach a funding target of 100 million euros, supporting the growth of startups that tackle critical challenges in the built environment. Connect with today’s guest: • Kingma Ma LinkedIn • PropTech1 Website Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Sponsors: NorNorm: Website | LinkedIn NORNORM is a subscription-based furnishing model, letting your business adapt to the needs of tomorrow. Beautiful, affordable and fully circular. NorNorm's vision for the workspace of the future is simple. Place circularity at the core and demonstrate how this is better for business, people and the planet. By embracing NorNorm, real estate can drastically produce CO2 emissions and waste production, driving us closer to a greener future. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold merges property management & Space-as-a-Service to help office customers grow faster and drive asset value. Bold is a real estate brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedIn NewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Launch Your Own Podcast: A Podcast Company is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@apodcastcompany.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe

Nov 15, 2023 • 19min
Is The Capital Stack For Office Real Estate Evolving?
Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Summary: Award winning podcast host and Founder of Bold, Caleb Parker sits down with Kari Pitkin, Head of Client Solutions at PIMCO Prime Real Estate. In this episode, recorded live at the ULI conference, Carrie shares insights on navigating the complex landscape of real estate investment amid uncertainties like rising interest rates, geopolitical tensions, and the evolving ESG framework. The discussion touches on the challenges and opportunities in the market, emphasising the importance of patience and a long-term view. From repositioning brown buildings to green to addressing the changing demands of occupiers, Carrie provides a strategic perspective on sustainable and resilient real estate investments. The conversation delves into the evolving dynamics of office spaces, the impact of the pandemic on space usage, and the emergence of opportunities in logistics, residential, and alternative assets. Highlighting the need for a flexible approach, the podcast explores the significance of high-quality locations, services, and amenities in the modern real estate landscape. The episode concludes with valuable insights into the capital stack, emphasising the potential in debt credit and special situations to unlock returns for investors. Takeaways: • Explore the Kremm decarbonization pathway for aligning buildings with sustainability goals. • Stay informed about energy efficiency deadlines and regulations impacting real estate, especially in Europe. • Consider the opportunities in logistics, residential, and alternative assets for potential real estate investments. • Keep an eye on the evolving dynamics of office spaces, focusing on high-quality locations and flexible solutions. • Evaluate the potential in debt credit and special situations within the capital stack for unlocking returns in the current market conditions. Connect with today’s guest: • Kari Pitkin LinkedIn • Pimco Real Estate Website Connect with the WorkBold Podcast Team: • Host Caleb Parker: LinkedIn • Collaboration Partner Morgan Pierstorff: LinkedIn Sponsors: NorNorm: Website | LinkedIn NORNORM is a subscription-based furnishing model, letting your business adapt to the needs of tomorrow. Beautiful, affordable and fully circular. NorNorm's vision for the workspace of the future is simple. Place circularity at the core and demonstrate how this is better for business, people and the planet. By embracing NorNorm, real estate can drastically produce CO2 emissions and waste production, driving us closer to a greener future. Fortune Favours the Bold: Website | LinkedIn Bold merges property management & Space-as-a-Service to help office customers grow faster and drive asset value. Bold is a real estate brand owned and operated by NewFlex. Future Proof Your Portfolio with NewFlex: Website | LinkedIn NewFlex delivers and manages a range of branded solutions for every type of building, in every type of location, for every type of occupier. Including the flexibility to develop your own brand. All enabled by flexible management contracts where we are invested in making money for you. Launch Your Own Podcast: A Podcast Company is the leading podcast production and strategic content company for brands, organisations, institutions, individuals, and entrepreneurs. Our team sets you up with the right strategy, equipment, training, guidance and content to ensure you sound amazing while speaking to your niche audience and networking with your perfect clients. Get in touch jason@apodcastcompany.com Get full access to Brave Ideas that evolve office real estate at www.braveideas.media/subscribe