In this episode, we interview Miguel Lucea, the visionary behind Sojuela Joven, the first rural co-living space in La Rioja, Spain.
Miguel shares his journey and the transformative impact of rural co-living on local economies and cultural landscapes.
Discover how digital nomads and entrepreneurs revitalise small towns, create meaningful connections, and contribute to community growth.
This conversation illuminates rural areas' potential to offer a high-quality, fulfilling lifestyle beyond big cities' allure.
Timeline Summary
[01:20] - Miguel Lucea introduces Sojuela Joven, the first rural co-living in La Rioja, Spain.
[02:12] - Discussion on the rapid impact of co-living on local economies and cultural dynamics.
[04:17] - Average stay duration and the goal of fostering long-term community engagement.
[05:23] - The role of regional government support and public funding in the project.
[06:55] - The longstanding issue of rural depopulation and its historical context.
[09:20] - Miguel’s connection to rural life through his grandparents' agricultural background.
[10:01] - The shift from rural to urban life across generations and the decision to return.
[12:02] - The appeal of rural living post-COVID and the advantages of remote work.
[13:22] - Quality of life in rural areas versus the perceived benefits of urban living.
[17:12] - Miguel’s career path from academia to founding Sojuela Joven.
[22:09] - The importance of genuine human connections in the digital age.
[24:47] - The future of rural co-living and its potential to drive regional development.
[28:43] - Ideal candidates for Sojuela Joven and the community-oriented lifestyle offered.
Links & Resources
Sojuela Joven Co-living: Sojuela Joven Website
Connect with Miguel Lucea on LinkedIn
Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn
Join the 7k people in the LinkedIn Coworking Group
Rural Coworking Project by European Coworking Assembly
Maria do Ceu Bastos, co-founder of Nowheredesk
Virtual Headquarters - join the independent virtual office network for your coworking business.
Detailed Episode Breakdown
Introduction to Sojuela Joven
Miguel Lucea introduces Sojuela Joven, emphasizing its unique position as the first rural co-living space in La Rioja. Located in the village of Sojuela, this initiative aims to revitalize the local community by attracting digital nomads and entrepreneurs.
Impact on Local Economies
Miguel explains how the introduction of Sojuela Joven has rapidly influenced the local economy and social dynamics. With a small permanent population, the arrival of new residents has increased the village's population by 20%, bringing new energy and interactions.
Government Support and Public Funding
The success of Sojuela Joven has been bolstered by support from the regional government through the Emblematic Initiatives to Fight Rural Depopulation program. This funding and support have facilitated engagement with local authorities and other regional initiatives.
Historical Context of Rural Depopulation
Miguel discusses the historical and economic reasons behind rural depopulation in La Rioja and similar regions. He highlights the migration trends that have led to the current situation and the need for innovative solutions to reverse this trend.
Personal Connection to Rural Life
Drawing from his family history, Miguel shares the generational shift from rural to urban living and the desire among younger generations to reconnect with their roots and create sustainable rural communities.
Advantages of Rural Living Post-COVID
The pandemic has highlighted the benefits of rural living, such as lower costs, better quality of life, and the feasibility of remote work. Miguel emphasizes the unique opportunities rural areas offer for personal and professional growth.
The Future of Rural Co-Living
Looking ahead, Miguel envisions rural co-living spaces as hubs of community and cultural development. He sees potential for these spaces to address rural depopulation and foster regional growth by attracting diverse and dynamic residents.
Ideal Candidates for Sojuela Joven
Sojuela Joven is open to young professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives looking for a supportive community and a high-quality rural lifestyle. Miguel describes the ideal candidates as seeking a meaningful and collaborative living experience.
Closing Remark
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