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.

Darlene Taylor | Author, Co-parenting Expert and Coach

I see risk as an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and grow in ways I may not even realize I need. I have always been a risk-taker in my personal and professional life. I believe it helps avoid stagnation and can present you with unique opportunities. I believe my openness to taking risks has contributed to my career, which has continued to change, though I have always focused on helping others. I have been a therapist, personal trainer, nutrition coach, and now a life coach, author, and public speaker. Each of these transitions required me to take a leap of faith. Being willing to take those leaps has opened incredible doors for me and helped me grow as a person and a professional. Read more>>

Crystal Geneva Wooten | HR Consultant and Authenticity Coach

In the world of Crystal Geneva Consulting and Coaching Services and The Journey… Back to Me, risk isn’t just a calculated gamble; it’s the cornerstone of growth and transformation. Throughout my 27-year career, I’ve not only navigated the delicate balance of risk but embraced it as an essential catalyst for progress. My journey from a seasoned HR professional to the founder of my own consulting businesses is a testament to my willingness to take risks. The decision to step away from the comfort of a traditional career path was a pivotal moment, one where I chose the uncertain terrain of entrepreneurship over the familiar landscape of corporate stability. Read more>>

Eryn Gilson | Marketing Strategist + Boutique Agency Owner

I think everything about being a business owner is risky but it’s a risk I gladly take every single day because I couldn’t imagine life any other way. I love doing work I love while building a life that gives me the freedom to be the mom I want to be while growing something I am so proud of. Not every single risk has paid off but I refuse to give up. Sometimes you’re going to fail or not succeed as much as you’d like to but the secret to success is to keep going, especially when it’s difficult. Keep going. You will never regret betting on yourself and believing in yourself even when it feels like no one else does. Read more>>

M/O, The Madman | Artist/Producer

When it comes to music I like to ask myself why questions. If I’m working on a project and it’s starting to take on a life of its own, I will more than likely play it through numerous times. Then I ask, “why can’t hip-hop sound/be…” questions. Why not make it mysterious, fantastical, and something unique? We are creators and I feel like a lot of people are playing it safe. I take risks every single time I put something out and challenge myself to create outside of the mold. Read more>>

Morgan Bukovec | Artist, Educator, Collector of Things

Risk taking has played an impactful role in my life and art career! Many years ago, I took a massive risk by deciding to switch my major (very late in my college experience) to a dual degree in Fine Arts and Arts Education. This decision and “risk” changed my life and propelled me on a path forward toward my career as an artist. Taking risks (alongside leaning into fear) has been something that I haven’t turned away from. For me “taking risks” means putting myself and my work out there, applying my work to galleries and opportunities, and experimenting with new mediums such as: textiles, installation, sculpture, podcasting, website building, event planning and more! Taking risks (big or small) has built my confidence, given me the opportunity to learn more about myself and ultimately believe that I am capable of anything I put my mind to. Read more>>