In Episode 196 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, we dive into the transformative wisdom of Ashley Perona, founder of EverWander Travel. Known for curating exceptional travel experiences, Ashley brings a unique perspective to personal and professional growth. Her mantra, “Explore, Experience, Evolve,” is not just a statement—it’s a call to action for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to grow.
Ashley’s philosophy is beautifully captured in her napkin, which features a symbolic design of hearts and airplanes, representing connection, movement, and transformation. During this first part of a two-part series, she shares how exploration has shaped her entrepreneurial journey, why meaningful experiences matter, and how leaders can embrace evolution as a continuous process.
The Art of Exploration: Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
One of the core themes Ashley shares is the importance of exploration. Whether it’s traveling to a new place or trying a different approach in business, exploration pushes boundaries and opens doors. Ashley says, “You don’t have to know the destination, but you have to take the first step. Exploration leads to clarity.”
Entrepreneurs and leaders can relate to this concept. Often, growth comes not from sticking to what you know but from venturing into the unknown. Ashley emphasizes that exploration isn’t about perfection—it’s about discovery.
Experiences That Leave a Mark
Ashley’s company, EverWander Travel, is rooted in the belief that experiences are transformative. She explains, “What we remember most are the moments that make us feel alive—the connections, the challenges, and the joy of something new.”
For entrepreneurs, curating meaningful experiences extends beyond personal growth—it’s about creating moments for customers, teams, and communities that resonate on a deeper level. Ashley’s approach shows that when we focus on crafting experiences, we build lasting impact.
Evolution as a Lifelong Journey
Ashley believes evolution is not a destination but an ongoing process. She says, “Every challenge is a chance to evolve. It’s about becoming a better version of yourself every day.”
This mindset is crucial for leaders navigating the ever-changing landscape of business. Evolution requires adaptability and a willingness to embrace change, even when it’s uncomfortable. Ashley’s wisdom reminds us that growth is a journey, not a one-time event.
Building Connections That Matter
A recurring theme in Ashley’s journey is the power of connection. She explains, “At the heart of every meaningful experience is a connection—whether it’s with people, places, or even yourself.”
For leaders, this highlights the importance of building authentic relationships. In business, as in life, meaningful connections are the foundation of trust and collaboration. Ashley’s insights encourage leaders to invest time and energy into fostering genuine relationships.
Aligning Purpose with Passion
Ashley’s mantra, “Explore, Experience, Evolve,” is deeply rooted in purpose. She shares, “When you align your actions with your values, everything feels more intentional and fulfilling.”
Entrepreneurs often face the challenge of staying true to their values while chasing success. Ashley’s journey shows that purpose-driven decisions lead not only to fulfillment but also to long-term impact.
5 Key Takeaways from Episode 196
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Step Into the Unknown Growth begins where certainty ends. Ashley reminds us that exploration isn’t about knowing all the answers but about taking the first step. This could mean trying a new strategy, entering an unfamiliar market, or simply embracing curiosity. By stepping into the unknown, you unlock creativity and new opportunities. Take Action: Identify one area in your business where you’ve been hesitant to try something new. Take the first step this week.
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Create Memorable Experiences Experiences are the foundation of emotional connection and long-lasting impressions. Ashley shared that creating meaningful moments—whether for customers or teams—can build loyalty and trust. Memorable experiences resonate deeply and help differentiate your business in a crowded market. Take Action: Brainstorm one way to enhance your customer or team experience and implement it within the next month.
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Embrace Change for Growth Challenges are the universe’s way of pushing you to grow. Ashley pointed out that instead of fearing change, leaders should lean into it as an opportunity for evolution. Whether it’s rethinking a process, adapting to new trends, or overcoming setbacks, each challenge brings valuable lessons. Take Action: Reflect on a recent challenge and write down three ways it helped you grow as a leader.
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Invest in Authentic Connections Business is personal, and success comes from genuine relationships. Ashley emphasized the value of showing up authentically in interactions with others. Strong connections create a ripple effect, fostering trust, collaboration, and shared success. Take Action: Reach out to someone in your network this week and schedule a coffee or virtual meeting to reconnect.
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Align Actions with Values Values-driven decisions lead to sustainable success. Ashley shared how staying true to her core beliefs helps her navigate both personal and professional challenges. For entrepreneurs, aligning actions with values ensures every move is intentional and meaningful, leading to greater satisfaction and impact. Take Action: List your top three values and evaluate one business decision this week to ensure it aligns with those values.
Connect with Ashley Perona
Learn more about Ashley and her inspiring work:
What did you take away from Ashley’s wisdom? Share your thoughts on a paper napkin, snap a photo, and post it on social media with #PaperNapkinWisdom. Let’s continue to explore, experience, and evolve together!
