Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Mangelsdorf.
Hi Lisa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born and raised in Canada, and in 1996, I moved to Singapore to teach. I had no idea at the time that the decision would kick off a decades-long global journey. Teaching took me all over the world—Singapore, South Africa, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Along the way, I met my (very lovely) Minnesotan husband, raised our three kids overseas, and built a deeply fulfilling career in education.
After 30 years in the classroom, and with our kids now off at college, I was ready to turn the page and explore something new. I didn’t have a clear roadmap—I just knew I wanted to keep making a difference and be part of something meaningful.
That’s when the magic of the internet stepped in. I stumbled across The Coven—a women-owned coworking franchise focused on community, inclusivity, and empowerment. Even more serendipitously, it was based right here in Minneapolis, where we had recently relocated. I met the powerhouse women behind the brand and immediately felt a spark. Even though I’d never run a business before, I knew this was the next chapter I’d been looking for.
It took about 18 months from that first meeting to opening the doors of our location in June 2025. Every step was a learning curve, but I was energized by the mission—and I’ve loved the challenge.
Today, we’re building a beautiful, diverse community of people from across the Twin Cities. It’s more than just a place to work—it’s a space where people show up for one another, collaborate, and grow. I’m incredibly proud of what we’re creating together.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There were many! Coming from a teaching background, I had zero experience running a business. The learning curve was—and still is—pretty steep, from negotiating leases to overseeing a build to starting a community from scratch. Every day brought a new term or system I had to master.
Finding the right space was another big hurdle. I knew I wanted a building with character, great natural light, and a welcoming atmosphere—but the non-negotiable was parking. In Minneapolis, that can be tricky! It took a while, but we found the perfect spot that fits our needs and reflects the heart of our mission.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them?
I think what makes my journey a little different is the path I took to get here. After 30 years of teaching across several countries, I’ve developed a deep respect for diversity, resilience, and human potential. I didn’t realize it at first, but this work is a lot like being a teacher. As a teacher, it is my role to create a safe space for individuals to be appreciated, supported, and to succeed in their own way. I hope that my members feel that.
One thing I am very proud of is the community we’re building. Members are making friendships and professional connections all the time! I’ve had people walk in, take a deep breath, and say, “This feels like home.” Today, a member said, “I have a lot to do—I need to get my Coven energy! Another member was overwhelmed with work and personal life; I hugged her, made her tea and brought her a snack. She was able to get on with her day and left with a smile and a full heart. Each day, each person is unique. I am proud to be able to support people!
I also am very proud of our sustainability efforts – we are aiming to be “Zero-Waste”. From fresh and bulk snacks, to recycling, reusing, composting and no paper towels – we produce very little trash in a week. Our members love it too!
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I’ve always liked Minneapolis because it’s a small-big city. It has all the culture, creativity, and energy of a larger metro area, but it’s still approachable and easy to navigate. People are kind, curious, and community-minded. There’s a strong emphasis on supporting local businesses, which makes it an exciting place to launch something new.
I’m especially grateful to be based in Northeast Minneapolis. The diversity here is one of its greatest strengths—it’s a vibrant mix of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. That richness really aligns with the mission of The Coven and adds so much depth to the community we’re building.
Of course, the winters are long—and as a Canadian, I don’t say that lightly! It’s not the cold so much as the darkness that can be tough by late February. And like many places, Minneapolis is still working through what it means to be truly inclusive and equitable. There’s more work to do, but there’s also a strong, vocal movement here that makes me hopeful.
All in all, Minneapolis feels like the right place at the right time—and I’m proud to be part of its story.
Pricing:
- Day Pass $40
- Membership $39 – $249/month based on access
- Dedicated Desk $450/month
- Private Office start at $875/month
- Mail Service and/or 24/7 access $30/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thecoven.com/northeast
- Instagram: @thecoven.northeast
- Facebook: The Coven Northeast
- LinkedIn: The Coven Northeast
