There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

Jessica Dory | Founder & CEO

Taking calculated risks has been the cornerstone of our journey. Entering the cannabis industry in its early stages (2018) was a bold decision. Unforeseen regulations, market volatility, and even basic logistical hurdles like payment processing were significant concerns. There was no historical data to rely on – it was truly venturing into the unknown. Read more>>

MIke Muirhead | Director of Public Utilities / City Management

There is always a risk/reward analysis that needs to be done alone, with only you determining if the risk is worth it. – like “Is the juice worth the squeeze”? I think that I follow my gut instincts a lot while making decisions that will impact my life and those around me. Read more>>

Susan Ganter | Owner & Co-Founder of The Golden Mill

“Don’t overthink it” is always my go-to advice. Risks are inevitable in life and in business and if you think too hard about what could go wrong, you’ll never take that chance. I have always found that in my life, when an opportunity arises, it’s the one that excites me and inspires me that I immediately say yes to; and so far, I have never regretted that decision. Read more>>

Rhonda Daniels | Co-Founder and CEO

I like to think of myself as a calculated risk taker. Starting from the high school I chose, one on the other side of town, to the college I selected, 1000 miles from home, to quitting my first job with savings but no new job. One might say, it is in my blood. I think that risk or making a “risky” decision, is something to be contemplated, objectively looked at pursued, or not, based on your personal values.  Read more>>

Kelsey Gallery | Yoga Teacher and Studio Owner

My relationship with risk has changed a lot, particularly in recent years. I grew up with the belief that success was contingent upon planning, knowing each step towards a secure and comfortable future. Saving for retirement was the priority, deferring enjoyment until later years. Read more>>

Corey Gerson | Business-Focused Attorney and Co-Founder of G2L Law

I launched a law firm called G2L Law in 2023. Before that, I worked at a big international law firm called Kirkland & Ellis in New York City, and then in-house within fast-growing tech companies like Databricks. I definitely took a risk with starting G2L, but after a lot of thought I felt comfortable with the decision. Read more>> 

Karen Hertz | Chief Brewista and Founder

I often tell myself and our team – “ready, fire, aim”. I think the fear of failure can play into an endless cycle of “aiming” and never “firing”. Once you are willing to take risks, you realize you can always make adjustments but you have to take the leap in the first place. Read more>>

Lauren Poore | Photographer

Take all the risks you can! Risk-taking has played a huge role in who I am as an individual and what I am as a professional. I have moved cities, states and countries so many times just to try out new ways of living and I wouldn’t have changed a thing. Read more>>

Tessa Fuqua | Artist/Actor

I am a risk-taker, but usually, it is a calculated risk. I count the costs and analyze the situation or opportunity before I leap. Balancing the time, energy, and resources the risk would take with the needs of my family is always a priority in whatever professional or creative endeavour I undertake. Read more>> 

Emily Peters | Owner of Heirloom Events and Design

Taking risks can feel daunting, yet it’s vital for crafting the life you envision, particularly in the realm of creativity. As the owner of a wedding planning business in Colorado, I revel in the artistry of coordinating cherished celebrations. My career offers a flexible canvas—embracing a fluid schedule, income, and opportunities—both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Read more>>