Taking Risk is essential, but how much, when and why?  Taking risks effectively is as much of an art as it is a science and we’ve asked some of the brightest folks in the community to tell us about how they think about risk taking.

Kat Cynewski | Business Coach, Yoga Instructor, & Be Well Events Founder

I believe that risk-taking has been a key piece in the growth of my business and life. I view risks as an opportunity to expand. Some of the biggest risks so far in my life and business have led to the greatest growth. Read more>> 

Susan Sly | Co-Founder and Co-CEO RadiusAI

There are varying degrees of risk in entrepreneurship, much of which can be avoided with preparation, the right team, and sage advisors. With large decisions, I do a significant amount of research myself and empower my team to do so also. Read more>> 

Fernando Bandin | Audio Engineer

I think risk is a scary feeling. What is risk? It’s the possibility of a negative turn of events in most cases. Taking risk can make you feel uncomfortable. On the other hand, you’ll find without stepping out of you comfort zone, you cant experience new opportunities. Risk can lead to leveling up and opening new doors. Read more>> 

Carol Campos | Empowerment Coach & Alchemist

For most of my life I was completely risk-averse. I was a very sensitive and shy child, preferring to stay under the radar. I didn’t want to be teased or judged and, unfortunately, this kept me from trying new things. Read more>> 

Dustin James Leighton | Director of Photography

I left home at 17 and 3 months and headed for Mt. Vernon, NY, where my aunt had a one bedroom co-op. She was kind enough to allow me to put a bed on the floor of her living room and lend me a dresser for my personal belongings. Read more>> 

Celeste Figueroa | Cake Decorator & Owner

Quitting your stable 9-5 job with benefits & sick pay, to pursue self employment is probably the biggest risk you can take. The hardest part for me, was deciding when was the “perfect time”. The truth is, there is no perfect time. Read more>> 

Victor & Gilliane Carracedo | Fusteira Wood Designs

When we think about risk, we tend to connect it to something negative or something to avoid. Risk for us is stepping out of our comfort zone, but it’s not necessarily a bad thing. We see it as an opportunity to learn, grow and gain more experience. Read more>> 

Marsia Nogueira | Salon Owner & Bridal Team Director

From the very first start of my business, I have always had the same mode of thinking when it comes to taking risks -“Let’s just see what happens.” Taking risks, betting on myself, and taking the plunge have gotten me this far in my career and my personal life. Read more>> 

Winston Harrell Jr. | Illustrator, .Graphic Designer and Chef

When I originally started my business I lived in Chicago. After I graduated Le Cordon Bleu of Chicago I found it impossible to find a job in the culinary industry. Every employer refused to hire a person like me with a culinary degree. Read more>> 

Hailee Edmundson | Freelance Digital Artist

Risks are always present in any decision whether its something small like choosing dinner, or gigantic decisions; business decisions. Before you take risks you have to plan for the worst possible outcome. Read more>>