“We can have this rhetoric of overthrowing oppressive systems, but we have to balance that with the work of overthrowing the oppressive system operating internally that actually keeps us enslaved.”

—Lama Rod Owens

Be More Human

I cofound a coworking space, Mercury Studio, in 2012 with Katie DeConto. In 2017 we merged with The Makery, founded by Krista Anne Nordgren, to form The Mothership. We devoted over eight years to developing a membership-based business, offered work space for individuals and small businesses, retail space for makers and curators, and event space for both our members and the larger Durham community.

The Mothership was shifting work culture by cultivating a working community that sought to meet a foundational need: to be more human in our work life. I helped develop The Mothership because I believe that community spaces, shared resources and supportive relationships make our work more sustainable and pleasurable. My work there focused on making space for community connections that encouraged self discovery. I organized a monthly sharing circle and annual retreat for our members, a supper club, art parties (including the Super Shitty Art Show!), and poetry nights that were open to the public.

Through our unique and heart-centered model, we provided access for people who might not have otherwise found what they need for their work in other settings. At our closing in 2020, we left behind a community of well over 400 folks woven throughout the fabric of Durham who continue to embody our mission in their own work and lives as individuals, as small business owners, as remote workers and employees, as creatives, artist, and makers.