Beneath the Canopy - October 2025

From Miami, to Melbourne, the heartbeat of family enterprise is found in continuity, not capital.

One of the more interesting developments in the global family enterprise world came from the Bezos family this month. Mike Bezos' (father of Jeff) family office, Aurora Borealis, has appointed its first CEO and broadened its remit to serve multiple generations. For all the resources at their disposal, this move underscores a truth that applies to families of every scale: continuity is never automatic. It demands structure, clarity and, above all, purpose. It’s the same theme I explored in What Families Lose When They Win. The financial windfall is often only the beginning of the harder, more human questions.

Here in Australia, National Family Business Day on 19 September reminded us that family businesses are not only economic engines, they are our heartbeat. With festivities hosted this year in Melbourne and Christchurch (NZ) at Sutton Tools, the gathering was both a celebration and a reflection. Stories shared on the day spoke to resilience, succession, and the importance of keeping identity intact as businesses evolve. 

Every success story brings with it its own baggage. Building and maintaining wealth introduces complexity, pressure and scrutiny.

That sense of legacy and renewal is what I tried to capture in Family Business: Australia's Heartbeat, a reminder that these enterprises are as much about community and continuity as they are about commerce.

This month I also shared something more personal. The Smile That Sparked My Journey In Philanthropy tells the story of how a simple encounter years ago continues to this day, to remind me that generosity is not measured only in dollars, but in the lasting change a moment of kindness can set in motion.

Whether it is the world’s wealthiest families redefining their structures, or Australian enterprises gathering to honour their role in our economy, the real work lies beneath the surface. It’s about keeping story, purpose and humanity at the centre of wealth.

As ever, the view Beneath The Canopy is clearer when we pause to notice the patterns. Family enterprises- whether in Miami, Melbourne or across the ditch-  remind us that purpose is the thread that keeps stories intact across generations.

If these reflections strike a chord, I’d welcome a conversation. Reach out, share your own story, or pass this on to someone in your circle who might need it.

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Speaking Engagements

Having advised families on their personal and family wealth for more than two decades, I am now available for speaking engagements to your family, your staff or your clients.

"How To Destroy Your Legacy in One Generation" is a dive into the behaviours that have been the cause of some of the world's greatest family financial disasters, and how to avoid the pitfalls that come with significant wealth.

Please contact me directly to discuss this opportunity.

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Thank you for your support. Of course, we welcome any opportunity to discuss families who may need our assistance. 

Please contact Robert to arrange a time to discuss his services further.

Robert Carson robert@canopyeast.com.au       +61 406 934 231