How do you think about risk? What role has taking risks played in your life/career? Check out responses from hidden gems from our community below.

BEOM Trevor Jargon | Musician, Painter, Educator

I believe both risk and failure are part of the process. That being said, I don’t think failure should be a shameful experience. It means the artist is trying, and a solution is in proximity as long as they don’t give up. The momentum should be rewarded in some capacity, hopefully for the love of the craft. Intrinsic inspiration tends to be infectious, and leaves me personally less prone to burn out, if I’m truly crating art for myself and I stay honest to that path. Read more>>

Alexandra Newton | Personal Trainer + Life Coach for Adults with IDD

Risk, to me, is not just a leap into uncertainty but rather an opportunity for growth and innovation. Throughout my life and career, I’ve approached risk as a catalyst for change, recognizing that staying within the confines of comfort often stifles progress. Whether it was transitioning from a stable career in education to launching my own business or implementing novel approaches to address community needs, embracing calculated risks has been integral to my journey. Each risk taken has led to invaluable lessons, personal development, and ultimately, greater fulfillment in making a meaningful impact. Read more>>

Robin Humble | Free Range Kitchen, Owner

After going thru breast cancer treatment, including 14 rounds of chemo and a dbl mascectomy, my husband and I decided to open our restaurant Free Range Kitchen (7.5 years ago) I cant think of a bigger risk, looking back at that decision now. We wanted to make a difference, serve cleaner food without added hormones and antibiotics, and as local as possible. I learned alot about the affect processed foods, what we spray on our produce and how we inject meats has on our health. But regardless that close to 90% of restaurants fail in the first year, we forged ahead with our plan regardless of the risk. We definitely went with our gut vs our head. Restaurants are alot of work but it has been such a joy to see how much our customers love and appreciate our commitment to them and our small town. Read more>>

TJ Romero | Ultrarunner + Commercial Advertising Photographer

Risk-taking, for me, has been a foundational aspect not just in my career but in personal development and sobriety. Early on, stepping into photography, particularly in the niche of architectural storytelling, felt like a gamble. It required investing in gear, dedicating time to hone my craft, and initially stepping away from more traditional and secure paths. Each decision to push boundaries or try new techniques has been a risk, but it’s these decisions that have carved out a unique space for me in the photography world. Read more>>

Genna Hackley | Founder & Director, Babysitters Of Boulder & The Boulder Nanny Agency

Risk has been a defining element of my working life. I’ve always been willing to take on risk by advocating for others in the workplace and remaining true to my values even when it meant swimming upstream. I learned that willingness to take informed risks is fundamental to strong leadership, and that risk is a catalyst for growth and innovation. Read more>>