Legend holds that Cornelius Vanderbilt had built a massive fortune in the steamboat shipping industry, but then realized the railroads were the way of the future and invested almost his entire net worth into railroads. The gamble paid off and made Vanderbilt one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs ever. But risks are inherently…risky. How do you think about risk and how has it affected your life and career? Some of our community favorites share their perspective below.

Kimo Toguchi | REALTOR at RE/MAX Alliance

Life itself is inherently risky. Every decision we make, no matter how big or small, influences the direction of our future and guides us into an array of unlimited possibilities. These choices, at their core, are risks. The willingness to embrace risk often shapes not just our individual paths, but our personal growth and success. In my own life and career, risk-taking has been a defining factor: from making the decision to join the Marine Corps when I was 17 years old to navigating the uncertainties of multiple deployments, and then shifting careers entirely to pursue something I had never imagined: real estate. Read more>>

Denae Trujillo | Owner of Lets Do Shots Mobile Photobooth, Nail Technician & Ayusa Community Representative

Growing up being a risk taker wasn’t my strong suit. I feared taking chances because I feared failure. The past two years my life has changed so much due to taking many leaps of faith. From becoming a single mother, accepting new job opportunities, and starting my own business. I no longer fear change or taking risks. The first step is always the hardest but it may lead you to the place you are destined to be. Its better to try and fail than to never try at all. Every “failure” and “risk” teaches you a valuable lesson whether its successful or not. Read more>>

Morgan Clay | Owner & Cake Artist

Life isn’t about eliminating risk; it’s about understanding it and moving forward anyway. Every step we take has some level of uncertainty, but it’s in those moments that we find purpose. Entrepreneurship is no different—it’s not about playing it safe; it’s about having the courage to back your vision while staying open to reality. Read more>>

Julia Brownfield (stand-up Stage Name Was Brown) | Grants Management Professional, Storytelling and Stand-up Comedy Instructor

For me, taking risks feels natural. When I decide on something I want to pursue, opportunities seem to appear almost serendipitously. It’s as if the moment I commit to the idea, the universe aligns to guide me toward the next step. For example, I had always dreamed of trying stand-up comedy, but for years, I let fear hold me back. Then, when I began talking seriously about pursuing it, I unexpectedly met a local comedian. I went to one of his shows, met other comedians, and soon found myself on stage telling jokes. It was terrifying—I was crippled with fear—but I couldn’t imagine not taking the leap. I wanted to do stand-up comedy, so I did it, despite the fear. Read more>>