Max&Madeleine are Unboxing the story of betahaus, first coworking space in Germany, today operating 8 spaces around Europe.

Key points discussed include the origins and motivations behind betahaus creation, the importance of fostering a genuine community beyond just providing a workspace, adapting to changing needs and market conditions, the role of corporate innovation programs powered by its partner company-betahausX, investment opportunities for startups, Berlin's changing landscape and affordability, and visions for the city's future.

Max and Madeleine, share personal experiences, challenges faced while having to move spaces several times and going through an insolvency, lessons learned, and their perspectives on creating sustainable value propositions for their community and corporate clients.

‍Q: What do you don't like about Berlin?

A: Max dislikes that Berlin feels geographically isolated from the rest of Europe. Madeleine finds the trash and graffiti bothersome at times.

Q: How much would you say who you are today is betahaus?

A: They feel betahaus has significantly shaped their identities, but they try to maintain a balance and not let it consume them entirely.

Q: Imagine aliens wipe your memories, what would you do?

A: Max thinks he would take on a societal role with responsibility, like being a judge. Madeleine would likely start hosting and building communities again.

Q: What was the moment you felt you 'made it' with betahaus?

A: For Max, it was making it through the insolvency process. For Madeleine, there wasn't one defining moment, as success is an ongoing journey.

Q: Is betahaus still 'always in beta'? What does that mean?

A: They believe being 'always in beta' represents a mindset of openness and not trying to appear as something they're not. It reflects their reality and natural evolution.

Q: What is something people often get wrong about you?

A: Max reveals that he's actually an introvert, which surprises some people.

Q: What do you consider a big mistake in your career?

A: Max wishes he had learned earlier to set boundaries and take time off, as the intensity and overworking took a toll. Madeleine regrets not being more hands-on with financial details earlier on.

Q: What was a good decision you made?

A: For Madeleine, it was deciding to fight through the company's insolvency as a professional project. For Max, it was taking the courage to build up BetaHouse X.

Q: If you were the new mayor of Berlin, what would your entry speech be?

A: Max would start a process to consciously define the city's values to protect, ensuring the spirit is felt everywhere. Madeleine would admit not knowing how she ended up there but look forward to shaping the city togethe

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