Adrian Padarath

Finally slowing down a bit since getting back from Charleston, SC for the first “Built for More” experience.

Back in late 2016, I connected with Adam Kunes through some brand work, then met him in person in Costa Rica. We kept in touch ever since, so when he launched Dad Day, a newsletter & online community, I subscribed ASAP.

Fast-forward to their first event… to be around 20 dads from across the country all navigating a lot of the same stuff was special. It’s easy to get buried in all the new or augmented responsibilities. Days blur into weeks, and it’s true… I blinked and somehow went from 0 kids to 2, with a fiery almost “three-nager” and a wild man of a soon-to-be 1-year-old.

Thankfully no one called it a “retreat,” because that word screams escape. This was more about running toward… toward becoming more intentional, disciplined, present, and capable for the people depending on you.

Shot a bunch of my own stuff while there and I’ll probably share some more detailed takeaways that hit me hard, but big thanks to .mcalpin for these photos.

Even if you’re not a dad, I’d still recommend checking out the newsletter. There’s a ton of wisdom in there around habits, mindset, health, discipline, and becoming the person your friends & family can rely on.

More soon.

Black and white set while visiting a new city never gets old.

Wish I had more time, Chicago.

Congratulations to on his incredible “Exotic Woods” exhibition at .

Most wouldn’t know this, but Russ was a major catalyst in my pivot from corporate to creative.

I studied Economics in college and was chasing a role in finance, but it all felt like a dead end. Taking a chance in the live music production space changed everything. I became Russ’s Creative Assistant, working on show posters and graphics for a music venue. It was during that time that I learned Photoshop and Illustrator.

He also encouraged me to create my own pieces – even if they fell flat compositionally or got rejected by clients.

That season became the foundation. The baby steps that led to what’s now been my livelihood for the past decade.

Thankful for the journey and the good ones I’ve met along the way.