Dan Coughlan

Kevin Kelly put it best when he said that in the long run, optimists shape the future. Working with the founders that are living in the future and building it out for the rest of us is the biggest privilege in this role.‍

I have a great appreciation for products and ideas that appear much simpler than they are. Whether it's APIs and no-code abstracting away complexity and democratising software for non-technical users or clean design and marketing - I'm a sucker for it.‍

I am originally from Perth. I still prefer AFL over any form of Rugby (but I have an open mind).‍

I'm massive music fan and used to play guitar in a band. I've got a pretty broad taste - from The Doors to Kanye, Britney to The Smiths - and I'm a default "yes" for live gigs.

I'm usually surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming, body surfing, or virtually any other beach-related activity in my spare time. If I'm not in the ocean, then I'll likely be embarrassing myself on the tennis court/poker table or parked up with a book.‍

I'm big believer in trying to get a little less dumb every day. I love getting stuck into books, newsletters, and podcasts. Despite the growing pile on the nightstand, I've abandoned my FIFO inventory management for books, so please hit me up with any recommendations.‍

Sustainability is really important to me - keep cups, recycled toilet paper, sustainable packaging - and it's incredible to see some great companies doing a lot of good on this front.