Leaders
How tech CEOs became “thrill seeking bros”
Right now the news is dominated by headlines featuring tech titans indulging in extreme hobbies or eccentric behaviors.
Now there’s a growing call for a different breed of leader in the tech industry.
From Mark Zuckerberg’s foray into combat sports to Elon Musk’s controversial tweets and public antics, the archetype of the risk-taking, thrill-seeking CEO seems to be in vogue.
Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg.
However, amidst the spectacle, there’s a clamor for a return to a more grounded and mature leadership style.
The tech industry has long been associated with innovation, disruption, and the celebration of the unconventional.
Indeed, many of the most successful companies have been founded and led by individuals who embody these qualities.
However, as the industry matures and faces increasing scrutiny from regulators, investors, and the public, there’s a growing recognition of the need for a different kind of leadership.
Personal pursuits
Mark Zuckerberg, the founder and CEO of Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook), has garnered attention not just for his company’s groundbreaking technologies, but also for his personal pursuits outside the boardroom.
From participating in high-intensity combat sports to embarking on cross-country listening tours, Zuckerberg’s actions have often raised eyebrows and invited criticism.
While some argue that his willingness to embrace risk and push boundaries is emblematic of the entrepreneurial spirit, others question whether such behavior is appropriate for the leader of a multi-billion dollar corporation with significant societal impact.
Similarly, Elon Musk, the enigmatic CEO of Tesla Inc. and SpaceX, has cultivated a reputation for his eccentricities and unconventional antics.
Twitter spats
Whether it’s smoking marijuana during a podcast interview or engaging in Twitter spats with critics and regulators, Musk’s behavior has sometimes overshadowed his company’s technological achievements.
While his fans laud him as a visionary and a maverick, skeptics worry that his unpredictable behavior could undermine investor confidence and tarnish the reputation of the companies he leads.
Critics argue that the cult of personality surrounding figures like Zuckerberg and Musk has created a distorted image of what it means to be a successful tech CEO.
Instead of valuing prudence, integrity, and long-term strategic thinking, the focus has shifted to spectacle, bravado, and short-term gains.
Leaders
Regional small businesses thrive through digital marketing strategies
Regional small businesses thrive as marketing improves and technology enhances growth potential amid rising city living costs, says Sarah Cann
Regional small businesses thrive as marketing improves and technology enhances growth potential amid rising city living costs, says Sarah Cann
– Small businesses outside major cities are growing due to better marketing, streamlined systems, and strategic focus.
– The internet enables regional businesses to connect with wider audiences and scale operations effectively.
Small businesses outside major cities are experiencing rapid growth due to enhanced marketing, streamlined operations, and focused strategies. Rising living costs in urban areas are prompting many entrepreneurs to seek opportunities in regional markets.The internet and technological advancements enable these businesses to reach local, national, and international audiences more easily. Transitioning from local to national mindsets is facilitated by digital marketing and online platforms.
Sarah Cann from Powered by Sarah Cann, highlights the importance of effective, integrated marketing for small businesses. She refers to this as “functional marketing,” stressing the need for a solid marketing foundation rather than reliance on trends. Expert marketing advice is recommended for sustainable growth.
Regional businesses often benefit from authenticity, as owners typically serve as the face of their brands, fostering strong connections with customers. Their agility allows them to adapt quickly compared to larger enterprises. Building community, both online and offline, is vital for cultivating loyalty and customer relationships.
Cann offers a comprehensive approach to marketing, including market research, strategy, product development, and digital advertising. She provides flexible services, functioning as a fractional chief marketing officer or collaborating with existing teams.
For more information, visit Powered by Sarah Cann
Leaders
How families can raise confident, money-smart kids from day one
Teach kids money habits early for lifelong financial health; learn playful strategies to foster confidence in saving and spending.
How children can learn playful strategies to foster confidence in saving and spending from an early age.
Teaching kids about money from an early age sets the foundation for lifelong financial wellbeing.
Adele Marriott from Little Finance Builders explains how playful budgeting, hands-on tools, and family conversations can help kids build confidence around saving, spending and even early investing concepts
We also look at the emotional side of money, how mindset, confidence and consistency shape healthy financial behaviour.
Leaders
Melbourne’s property market heating up with investor interest
Melbourne property market heats up as buyers rush into affordable suburbs ahead of promising 2026 outlook
Melbourne property market heats up as buyers rush into affordable suburbs ahead of promising 2026 outlook
– Melbourne’s property market sees increased activity and competition from first-time buyers and investors due to auction bidders.
– Key suburbs and regional areas attract strong demand, with buyers encouraged to build support teams for off-market opportunities.
Rob Panetta from Lux Buyers Agents discussed the current state of Melbourne’s property market, noting increased buyer activity and competition due to multiple bidders at auctions. Both first-time buyers and investors are showing significant interest in the market.
Affordability is a key driver for investor behavior. Melbourne’s property values attract interest from interstate investors who recognise the city as undervalued, especially compared to areas in Sydney and Western Australia. Panetta highlighted that 2026 is expected to be pivotal for Melbourne’s property sector.
Active Suburbs
Areas like Faulkner, Hadfield, Glenroy, and parts of Keylor East and Avondale Heights are seeing notable activity due to first home buyer incentives. The Frankston area and regional hubs like Ballarat, Bendigo, and Geelong also showcase strong buyer demand.
Home purchases are favoured over apartments, which Panetta advises against unless for lifestyle choices. Many older apartments have decreased in value, whereas land acquisition within budget is recommended for clients.
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