In today's Coworking Values Podcast episode, Bernie and Emily cut through the fluff to discuss why vision, mission, and values are more than just corporate jargon.
They keep you from falling off the map, whether running a coworking space, a business or just trying to get through the day.
Through personal stories and honesty, they show how these principles drive everything, especially when things get tough.
You'll hear why so many businesses get this wrong and how you can avoid that trap, plus tips on cutting through the noise and keeping it simple.
If you've ever felt lost or unsure about what you're doing, this conversation will help you get your head straight.
Episode Timeline:
[00:00] Bernie introduces the Community Builders cohort, a peer-to-peer learning programme for those who want to transform their community from invisible to unstoppable.
[01:01] Emily checks in from Ohio.
They dive into how vision, mission, and values should guide every team meeting and not be a dusty artefact.[02:39] Bernie shares a personal story of how a startup he worked with treated vision and values like a marketing task and why that’s a big mistake.
[03:09] Emily breaks down why the whole team needs to be in on shaping a company’s principles, not just the leadership.
[06:15] Bernie asks what happens when someone loses their way.
Emily describes vision and values as the “lighthouse in the storm” when you're adrift.[09:25] Bernie and Emily talk about how outsourcing your vision to AI strips away authenticity—and why you can spot it a mile away.
[12:15] Bernie dives into the emotional drive behind staying aligned with your mission, especially when times get tough.
[16:03] Emily talks about how founders can confuse community-building with day-to-day tasks and how that stalls progress.
[18:59] Bernie and Emily discuss the importance of discussing money and balancing financial goals with the bigger picture.
[20:30] Bernie shares how a lack of clear vision can fragment a team and drain the life out of a project based on his own experiences.
No BS Breakdown:
This episode is about vision, mission, and values—whether you’re running a business, building a community, or figuring out your next move.
Bernie and Emily tear down the idea that these are just corporate buzzwords, showing how they’re practical tools for staying on track when the going gets rough.
Bernie shares how some founders get so caught up in startup chaos that they pawn off the important stuff, like defining their vision, to marketing teams.
This is a big mistake. Vision and values need to come from the top, and Emily backs that up, explaining that the whole team needs to understand why certain values matter and how they manifest in daily work.
Revisiting these values regularly is vital.
It’s not a one-and-done thing—it’s your lighthouse when everything’s going sideways.
Emily digs into why personal alignment with a company’s mission fuels the team, especially during hard times.
They also discuss how money can’t be ignored—yes, the mission matters, but if the bills aren’t getting paid, there is no mission.
Bernie shares his frustration with businesses that outsource their vision and values to AI or marketing consultants.
It’s hollow, and everyone in the company feels that disconnect.
Real vision has to come from within, or it will fall flat.
Emily finishes by offering a challenge to listeners—define your vision, mission, and values.
These aren’t just tools for business; they’re for life.
They’ll help you figure out where to go when things go off the rails.
Links & Resources:
Hero On A Mission - An online morning ritual and vision planner
Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
Save the date 15th May 2025, European Coworking Day
Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
Connect with Emily on LinkedIn
One more thing
Remember, the strength of our communities lies in our collective efforts and shared values.
Please rate, follow, share, and leave a review for the Coworking Values Podcast; it helps our show have an even greater impact.
It also helps people in the general public and your neighbourhood understand coworking, how it can benefit their local community, and how it can benefit them in building their careers, projects, and work.
No Bullsh*t: Vision, Mission, and Values That Keep You on Track