We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Lauridsen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chelsea, how do you think about risk?
When it comes to risk-taking, I approach it with the mindset of “what’s the worst that can happen?” I believe that the biggest risk is often not taking one at all. In my life and career, especially with my Lax.Chelsea Instagram page, I’ve embraced the idea of putting myself out there, even when I’m uncertain about the outcome. Many times, I’ve gone after opportunities, fully expecting a ‘no,’ only to be met with an enthusiastic ‘yes.’ This has reinforced my belief in being an eternal optimist and in the power of believing in yourself and your goals. Taking risks has been integral to my growth, leading to opportunities I might have missed if I had let fear hold me back.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Lax.Chelsea was born out of my deep love for adventure, photography, and discovering hidden gems around the world. What began as a fun way for my friends and family to keep up with my travels quickly evolved into something much more meaningful. As people began engaging with my content, asking for recommendations, and sharing their own experiences, a passionate travel community blossomed.
My aim with Lax.Chelsea is to inspire others, especially solo female travelers, to embrace the thrill of exploring new places. I believe that the world is full of incredible experiences just waiting to be discovered, and I hope to encourage others to take that leap and see the world through their own lens.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of what the area has to offer. We’d start by exploring some of my favorite speakeasies, like Rough Rider and Little Rituals in downtown Phoenix, which offer unique atmospheres and craft cocktails. For dining, I’d take them to my all-time favorite spots: Steak 44 for an incredible steak dinner, Four Peaks Brewery in Tempe for a laid-back vibe with great local brews, and SumoMaya for a vibrant fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine.
A visit to The Global Ambassador would be a must, especially since it’s a stunning venue. We’d check out the rooftop Mediterranean restaurant, which is next on my list to try. We’d also spend some time walking around Old Town Scottsdale, where we could pop into the charming little stores and soak in the local culture.
To round out the trip, I’d suggest a day or overnight trip to Sedona, one of the most beautiful places in Arizona. We’d stay at Ambiente, one of my favorite hotels globally, where the serene environment and breathtaking views would provide the perfect end to an amazing week.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my mother. From a young age, she has been my biggest advocate, always encouraging me to go for it—whether it was a school project, a sport, or a job. Her unwavering support and belief in my abilities have been a driving force in my life, pushing me to try new things and push the limits.
As my career has progressed, I’ve made it a priority to surround myself with supportive friends and colleagues who share that same spirit. I’m fortunate to have a great group of people who lift each other up, and I’m constantly networking to meet other like-minded individuals who inspire and challenge me to grow. Their encouragement and camaraderie deserve just as much credit in my journey!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lax.chelsea/