We asked some of the most interesting folks in the community to open up about how they think about taking chances and the role risk has played in their lives and careers. Risk is by far the topic folks talk to us most about and we hope the responses below will help shed light on many different perspectives.

Courtney Shaw | Business Owner & Football Player

Risk, is well.. risky. But if we don’t take it how will we succeed? I have definitely taken some risks that did not turn out all that well. One example I would say was jumping head first into my business was a risk that didn’t turn out how I planned. Read more>>

Dr. Jennifer Smith | Speaker, Writer, Coach & Book Nerd

Risk has been a constant companion in my life. Sometimes, it chose me, and sometimes, I chose it. But it became so present that I decided to embrace it wholeheartedly. My professional and personal motto is to “live dangerously, be you.” As a professional, it looks a little different than it does in my personal life. Read more>>

Nikolas Wrobel | Designer & type foundry owner

I think, at some point, not taking any risks, might be the biggest risk. Especially when you work for yourself and your vision. Doing what feels right always came and comes with a big portion of risk, even discomfort, because often, you have to chase your vision beyond the easy answers in order to achieve a dream. Read more>>

Timmy Burke | Native Hawaiian, Content Creator, DJ, and CPA!

I’m a firm believer that taking risks is essential for personal growth. Outside of your comfort zone is where real growth happens. DJing for strangers always puts me in that uncomfortable zone, but I thrive on the growth that comes with it. Read more>>

Catherine Chauvin | Printmaker and educator

I am a very cautious person by nature – but risk and going out of one’s comfort zone is essential in our time. It makes me queasy now to think of the risks artists take – that anyone takes. Read more>>