We asked some brilliant folks from the community to talk to us about how they think about risk and the role risk has played in their lives and careers.

Kim Hess | Business Owner, Seven Summiteer, Keynote Speaker

Risk-taking has always been at the core of who I am—whether it’s standing on the summit of Mt. Everest, pushing through the challenges of climbing the Seven Summits, or starting a business in a small ski town. Each of these moments required courage, preparation, and trust in myself, even when the outcome wasn’t guaranteed. Climbing taught me that calculated risks lead to incredible growth, and that mindset has been the foundation for everything I’ve pursued—both on mountains and in business. Read more>>

Candice Mullen | Outdoors + Adventure with Anxiety | Content Creator

Risk-taking has been a significant part of my journey, both personally and professionally. As someone who shares on social media that you can embrace the outdoors while managing anxiety, risk has become a value I hold deeply, even though it can be challenging as a worrier.

Through my adventures over the past few years, I’ve intentionally pushed myself outside of my comfort zone to achieve things I never thought I would do. For instance, this year, I climbed my first class 3 14er. It was absolutely terrifying, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences of my life. Read more>>

Lisa Berley | Visual Artist & Poet

Many people in Boulder are here for the thrilling outdoor activities, taking big physical risks be it in hiking, cycling or climbing. I love the beauty of the foothills and the surrounding nature, but that’s not where I take risks. Making art and writing poetry is where I take risks. The poetry came later in life after a profound loss. The need to write about my feelings of grief were heightened by the trauma. I had little energy to work in the studio and a great need to process the grief. I wrote and wrote and with it came a curiosity that drove me down an unfamiliar path. It was exhilarating. Read more>>

Sarah Hope | Founder, Slow Medicine. Coach, guide, educator, retreat leader

Risk really comes alive when it’s tied to a vision. Otherwise, it’s just plain scary and reckless. But when you have a vision, risk has a direction, a purpose. It becomes absolutely crucial for building a business that actually means something. Without that risk, a business just doesn’t grow. Read more>>