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  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