I used to say, “I like individuals, but I don’t like people.”

It was a badge of honor, one that signified my preference for deep, meaningful relationships over surface-level interactions. But if I’m being honest, it was also a shield. A way to protect myself from the discomfort of forced interactions, small talk, or the energy-draining experience of being around too many people at once.

Over the years, I’ve been on a journey, a radical shift in how I approach leadership, connection, and ultimately, kindness. I’ve come to realize that one of the most underrated leadership skills is something we rarely talk about: being self-aware of the energy and vibe we give off.

And that shift started with a simple but powerful lesson from my coach, Ed Sult .

Life really is a great adventure.

The continuous process of personal growth, learning, and evolving throughout your short existence here on earth, with all its challenges and triumphs, is the most meaningful and exciting experience one can have.

And we're all here just thinking about tomorrow, or task lists, or how we didn't get enough sleep last night.

The slog of daily life can easily make us forget this great adventure we get to experience every single day.

I'm not suggesting everyday has to be better than the last. But I am suggesting you not allow the days to turn into weeks, turn into months, turn into years that you allow to pass by.

Every aspiring leader can benefit from guidance, feedback, and coaching, even those who coach or mentor others.

But if you work in the coaching or mentoring space, who do you turn to for guidance?

You could look to another person... but what if you turned to AI instead?

You may already be skilled, insightful, and driven, but with the right leader, whether human or AI, you could be even better. C.A.R.L. acts as that reliable guide, offering perspective, accountability, and a structured framework for growth. He's a Response Leader. He's ready and waiting to help you level up.

With the snow days behind us and warmer weather returning, it's no surprise your team is eager to get outside. Even if they managed to enjoy a quick snowball fight or brisk walk during the colder months, much of their time has likely been spent cooped up indoors.

Now is the perfect opportunity to shift gears and plan an outdoor adventure that brings your team together while reaping the benefits of sunshine, fresh air, and collaboration.

Spring and summer are ideal seasons for outdoor team-building activities in Charleston. Whether you're planning something fun and lighthearted or an experience focused on building deeper connections and trust, there are countless options to fit your goals.

At On Purpose Adventures, we believe that exceptional leadership is not just about strategy and performance metrics—it's about fostering connection and cohesion within teams. Our Cohesion Culture™ program is designed to help organizations retain talent by cultivating environments where employees feel a strong sense of belonging, value, and shared mutual commitments. Priya Parker’s The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters is a transformative guide for leaders seeking to infuse cohesion into every interaction, gathering, and team-building event.

No matter how many times you get knocked down, you can get back up again.

We all need that reminder sometimes. Leaders especially need to remember that even those in the highest executive positions have been knocked down before... And they'll be knocked down again.

No matter how focused, determined, or proactive you are, setbacks and hardships are inevitable. I hate to be the one to tell you, but that's just life.

As the saying goes, "It's how you get back up that counts."

On September 27th, Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina. Lives were lost, people's homes were gone in a matter of moments, and businesses were destroyed.

Meet Charlie Wellman: an adventurer, mentor, and fitness enthusiast who brings purpose to every aspect of his life. With over 40 years of experience in the hotel industry, Charlie combines his professional network with his love for the outdoors to help lead unforgettable team building experiences with On Purpose Adventures.

We're thrilled to have Charlie on the On Purpose Adventures team! His journey with us began as a kayak guide for our sister company, Nature Adventures.

Basically, Charlie is having the best, most fun kind of retirement. He loves being outdoors, bicycling and kayaking. We are able to provide him more consistent paddling on Shem Creek. He receives lots of love in our client testimonials.