Taking Risk is essential, but how much, when and why? Taking risks effectively is as much of an art as it is a science and we’ve asked some of the brightest folks in the community to tell us about how they think about risk taking.

Timothea Biermann | Co-founder | Chameleon Art Collective

The Chameleon Art Collective was co-founded by Nik Arnoldi & Timothea Biermann. Our collective began with 4 members, and has now grown to 12. Our members are primarily public art teachers in Denver, CO. When we began the collective, we were dealing with post-Covid isolation, career burnout, and the ever accumulating challenges of being educators. Educators are expected to give so much time and energy while dealing with inadequate resources and unrealistic expectations. We felt pressure from administrators and the district to always work beyond our contract hours in order to be effective. We needed creative outlets and self care strategies. Read more>>

Claire Quintero | Licensed Massage Therapist

I would rather live with the consequences of a failed risk than the regret of not trying. The biggest risk I have taken lately was moving my family to Costa Rica. We sold everything, and started over. It was a ´failure´ in the sense that we decided the lifestyle was not what we wanted and moved back but the experiences, self growth and time with family I gained will be something I get to keep forever. It inspired me to come back and start my own massage business with a clear mind of my priorities and a fresh perspective on how to help my clients. Read more>>

Nicole Riniker

Risk-taking has been a defining factor in both my personal and professional growth. Living with a rare chronic illness has given me a unique perspective on life—it’s short, unpredictable, and often forces you to adapt quickly. This reality has shaped my “why not” mindset, encouraging me to take chances that align with my goals and values. Over the past 10 years as an entrepreneur, I’ve taken countless leaps of faith, stepping away from stability and the traditional path to pursue both my passions and the challenges that come with them. Read more>> 

JJ Yosh

I see risk as an essential part of growth, both personally and professionally. Without risk, there’s no chance for real progress or discovery. Every major leap I’ve taken in my career has involved stepping outside my comfort zone, whether it was pursuing a non-traditional path in media, creating a production company from scratch, or even integrating my adventure cat, Simon, into my work as my sidekick. These choices weren’t guaranteed to succeed, but they were true to who I am, and they’ve made all the difference. Read more>>

Melba Velázquez

I think of risk as an inherent part of growth and learning. Without risk, there’s little room for innovation or progress, whether in personal development, career, or creativity. I see it as a balancing act—too much risk, and things can go off course; too little, and you might miss opportunities. I understand the importance of taking calculated risks in shaping a meaningful path for personal and professional growth. For instance, when people pursue new projects, careers, or ideas, the risks they take—whether it’s changing industries, starting a business, or speaking out—can open new possibilities. Of course, those risks often come with challenges, but they’re also the things that can push someone past their comfort zone and lead to breakthroughs.
The key is staying curious! Read more>>

Joel Hecht

When I first started out with photography, I did the safe and most common type of it. I shot weddings, basic senior style headshots, families and kids, etc. , but I quickly realized that while there was safe job security in it, I had very little passion for it. What I really wanted to do was unique portraits, sports, and portfolio type art. The issue was, I wasn’t sure I could find the clientele that could support a photographer that purely focused on that type of work. Eventually, I realized that the only way I would find out was if I stopped doing the traditional and focused on my own style. What I’m really passionate for. That risk ended up being the best decision I ever made. Now I get to create my way and put everything I have into my process, and I couldn’t enjoy it more. Read more>>

Justin Dennis

I consider myself a moderate risk-taker. While some might see my choices as bold, I view them as carefully calculated. Risk is often about perspective, what one person sees as a big leap, another might see as a logical step forward if it’s approached thoughtfully. Take, for instance, changing jobs or moving into a new career. For some, that might seem like a significant risk, but with the right preparation, researching the industry, learning about the company, or speaking with someone in that field, it becomes more of a well-informed decision than a gamble. Read more>>

Melanie Damore

Taking risks has been essential to my growth and discovery as both an artist and entrepreneur. When I accepted a mural job for Grey Rock Landscaping in LaPorte, Colorado, despite having no prior mural experience, it was a bold step. Embracing the unknown allowed me to explore something new and exciting, and rather than fearing the outcome, I focused on the potential for learning, trusting that my existing skills could adapt to a larger, more public canvas. Read more>>

Kennedy Shriver

In June 2023, I completed a two-year role as Director of Creative Services in the Athletic Department of a Division II university—my hometown alma mater, where I had also competed in volleyball during my undergraduate studies. While this position marked the beginning of my professional career, remaining tied to my hometown left me feeling more confined than fulfilled. Read more>>