How did you start working remotely? Was it something you sought out or stumbled into?

I’d say a little bit of both. It began as writing mobile apps for a client of my father’s, who is based in another city. Since I’ve always loved the atmosphere that coffee shops provide, I felt it a natural progression to get out of the house to do my work.

Do you still work remotely?

Still do, and I enjoy it. Cozying up with a cup of coffee next to the window, looking out to the busy local street is calming (to an extent). For myself, changing my physical location when I’m working helps to flex my creative muscle so I can approach problems differently.

How did you find places to work from before Workfrom?

One of two ways: I’d either Google “local cafe near X” or I’d just go to my usual watering (coffee-ing?) hole, which is a Tim Horton’s nearby my house. As a Canadian, I’ll never be able to leave Tim’s behind, though!

How did you find out about Workfrom and why do you want to bring it to Columbus?

I found out while browsing a community site called Hacker News. After clicking the link and visiting Workfrom, I was greeted by the message that they (you!) were seeking out applications for cities. As I was an incoming freshman at a local University (go Bucks!) I was inclined to add the city. Also, having lived in Columbus for close to 9 years, I’ve come to believe that if given the opportunity, it could certainly sprout into a Silicon Valley of the Midwest (Silicon Farmland? ha!). So, using Workfrom allowed me the opportunity to hopefully give a boost to community involvement.

What would you like to see above all else come from us in the next year?

Most of all, continuing the hard work you’ve already done so far! It’s certainly inspired me to go out and explore the city I live in.  Seriously though, keep up the enthusiasm.

Any tips you’d like to share for others wanting to or already working remotely?

Just get out of your house/apartment/hole-under-rock and explore your community. Find local places that have reasonably priced food and get to know the employees and regulars. From there, it’s just a matter of building a group of people who can all benefit from others to bounce ideas off of.

On the “work” side of things, I’ve got nothin’ though.

Any tips for those wanting to visit and work from Columbus?

Visiting: stop by the Columbus Zoo, it’s huge and contains lots of entertainment, especially great if you’re with children (at least those who like animals). Also, make sure to take a stop down in the Short North, it’s the ‘artsy’ area and has a lot of cool shops and eateries.

As for working, be sure to check out Workfrom’s page, and add those you’ve discovered yourself!