From Harlem to Rock Hill: Derek and Broyny Vitatoe on Opening Work at Wheel

This week, Jamie Russo and Giovanni Palavicini sit down with Derek and Broyny Vitatoe, co-founders of Work at Wheel in Rock Hill, South Carolina, just days before their official opening. This conversation is pure joy. Derek's the visionary who wanted bikes in every office. Broyny's the integrator who reins him in (lovingly). Together, they've built something special—and their journey to get here is a masterclass in perseverance, partnership, and trusting the process. We talk about: - How Shark Tank during the pandemic led to the Work at Wheel concept - The moment they realized 5,000 square feet wouldn't cut it—and how they got to 16,000 - How Gio drove them around Houston looking at spaces (and why they walked away) - The Rock Hill deal—and the negotiation that almost fell apart over occupancy limits - Why community buy-in matters more in Rock Hill than hustle ever did in New York - Derek's background as a spin instructor, HR executive, film director, and author (yes, really) - How Broyny went from introvert to confidently leading tours and closing deals - Their creative process for TikTok and Instagram content (and why they're both so good at it) This conversation is proof that coworking isn't just about desks and offices—it's about people, passion, and building something that reflects who you are. If you're thinking about opening a space, wondering how long it really takes, or just need a dose of inspiration from two people who are all in, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned in this Podcast: - Work at Wheel website - https://workatwheel.com/ - Derek and Broyny on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@demvitatoes - Derek on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/broyny-vitatoe-b0519111/ - Broyny on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dvitatoe/ ***Everything Coworking Featured Resources***: - Community Manager University https://everythingcoworking.com/community-manager-university/ - Masterclass: 3 Behind-the-Scenes Secrets to Opening a Coworking Space: www.everythingcoworking.com/masterclass - Coworking Startup School: www.everythingcoworking.com/start - Book a Discovery Call for special projects and interest in 1:1 work with our team www.everythingcoworking.com/book 🔔 Hit subscribe now & stay tuned for valuable tips, interactive podcasts, industry trends, and expert interviews on building and running a profitable coworking space! https://www.youtube.com/@everythingcoworking/?sub_confirmation=1 Subscribe to our weekly newsletter/ www.everythingcoworking.com/newsletter 🔊 Listen to my podcasts 🔊 → https://www.everythingcoworking.com/podcast ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Our Audio Podcast is currently on your favorite platforms: 👉ApplePodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everything-coworking/id991355914 ============================= 🎬 Recommended Playlists 👉 Coworking Education https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfZE25IKRGiPEyB1WWerqofvHZoNh8DvJ 👉 The Everything Coworking Podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfZE25IKRGiNG_v8lEhiJRnqUmnREmeHN 🎬 WATCH MY OTHER VIDEOS: 👉 Meagan Slavin, COO of 25N Coworking on Management Agreements and Leadership https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFfSSAxiycs 👉 Shlomo Silber, Founder of Bond Collective, Dishes on His New Venture https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XtQoj-dkuY 👉 Co-Warehousing Pioneer with Philip Freeman, CEO of Murphy’s Naturals and Founder of The Loading Dock https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNEsl1I4jIU 👉 How Maryann Baldwin Drives Economic Development in a Town of 1,000 with Her Coworking Space https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PGGf4cLy2fA 👉 From Bronx Roots to Coworking Success: Ramon Gonzalez's Journey with Thrive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hAq6FK5OX4 ============================= ✅ About Everything Coworking. Welcome to Everything Coworking! I help you launch and run profitable coworking spaces that fit your business and personal goals. Tune in for tips, advice, and insights on creating a successful coworking space. Learn from my weekly podcast, which features expert interviews and industry updates. Whether you're just starting or looking to improve your space, I've got you covered. 🔔 Hit subscribe now, and you won't miss expert tips, industry updates, engaging podcasts, and expert interviews on launching and running a profitable coworking space! https://www.youtube.com/@everythingcoworking/?sub_confirmation=1 ================================= #coworking #office #podcast #community #coworkingspace #vision #flex ⚠️ Disclaimer: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. © Everything Coworking