Humans of Coworking: Brad Parsonson

In this edition of Humans of Coworking, we catch up with Bradley who you might recognize as the father of Cedric the Pug (self proclaimed Prince of Ponsonby).

Having worked in financial services for over a decade, Bradley is out here working on super cool projects including launching a new company making ownership of homes achievable by co-owning with other people. We are so fascinated by this new concept in the shared economy, so we chat to find out a little more about how it all works, as well as his thoughts on coworking and why it works for him.    

Brad & Cedric

Tell us a bit yourself and what your current ventures are.

I grew up in Christchurch and have worked in financial services for over a decade. I moved to Auckland to take over NZHL Auckland Metro and sold that at the end of 2017 to pursue my vision of Miuwi.  I can’t go into too much detail on what else I have on the go because that would be telling…..BUT I have several ventures with another application ready to launch in sustainable tech. Each idea and business are quite different...Sounds quite a lot and it is, but I’ve selected co-founders to help me propel these businesses to life as you can’t do it yourself!

Cedric is originally from Waimate in the South Island, his real name is “Dellawood King of the Castle” - he comes from quite a royal bloodline of champion pugs. He turns 12 this year and is thinking of holding his party at Generator.

We'd love to hear more about Miuwi - how did this awesome idea come about?

I came up with the idea of Miuwi (pronounced me, you, we) as I had spent over a decade in financial services trying to get people into a property, first home buyers are always the weakest link so bringing people together using social media and technology made sense.

We were dubbed "Tinder for buying houses" by NZ Herald - Miuwi is increasing home ownership through shared ownership. While many people may have friends and family to buy together with, what about those who don't? Miuwi provides a platform where like-minded people can match and discuss the potential of co-owning a home, investment or holiday home.

Miuwi provides a one-stop-shop approach to all clients meaning they have access to the mortgage, insurance and legal products to ensure a safe and simple process.

Founders of Miuwi 

How did you first learn about coworking?

I’ve always created and enjoyed a coworking vibe in my businesses, so it seemed totally natural to continue the theme and work from a funky space surrounded by great people doing awesome things! I’ve been in coworking spaces for the past 4 years and it’s a great culture to be a part of. 

You generally work remotely, tell us about the different coworking spaces you work from?

I’ve worked in several spaces including BizDojo, Generator and Xero's Rewired and if I’m not there you’ll usually find me parked up at a cool cafe with Cedric on my lap.

Xero Rewired Coworking Space

What are some of the benefits of coworking for you?

For me, the benefits are all about the people and distraction - as an entrepreneur, my mind is always moving quickly and being in a stagnant environment isn’t productive. I find being surrounded by other entrepreneurs and different businesses in a changing environment is key to success and sanity.

What would we find you doing outside of work? 

I’m a social being so you’ll find Cedric and I in Ponsonby mooching around almost on the daily. Yoga and meditation keep me in check and I’m a big foodie, so on the weekend, I like to source produce from local markets to make new dishes. You can also find me reliving my childhood at the skatepark.

If you could share an office space with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

David Attenborough, Sadhguru and Ray Kroc would be a good crew and would offer some incredible insight into all aspects of life. Making sure you have balanced people and activities surrounding you - it is key to great success.

What does the future look like for Miuwi... any upcoming plans? 

We’re on a mission to solve home ownership for a generation! With that, we are really focused on our Co-owners event on the 28th August (see below link).

We will be launching something VERY cool in early September, but it’s top secret so you’ll have to follow us to know more. We are currently on the Kiwi Fin-tech accelerator refining our business model, building our technology with the aim to raise capital on the 9th of October.

Click here to find out more about Miuwi and check out their Co-owners Event here.