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.

Nicole Rizkallah | Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Taking risks feels a lot like standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon. Looking down, you might feel the vertigo of uncertainty, a terrifying sense of losing everything. But if you shift your gaze forward, you’ll see a path—a step into possibility and growth. Read more>>

Jennifer Marie

Risk is an intrinsic part of entrepreneurship and business ownership. For me, taking on this journey meant stepping into uncertainty—there’s no guaranteed income, no paid sick days, and work rarely fits within the bounds of a typical 9-to-5 schedule. As a business owner, you’re on the clock around the clock, yet the rewards far outweigh these challenges. The ability to be my own boss, set the standards for excellence, and create work that not only meets but exceeds client expectations has been incredibly fulfilling. Read more>>

Andrea Merrill

Risk-taking has been more than a career strategy for me; it’s been a lifeline. I didn’t choose to pivot my career on a whim or simply because I wanted a change. I pivoted because life handed me one of the hardest seasons I could have imagined. After nearly losing my life with my fifth child, my family and I faced a financial storm—our home was in foreclosure, the HOA was auctioning off our house, and our water was even turned off. I was pushed to a point where taking risks wasn’t optional; it was necessary to keep moving forward. Read more>>

Henri Benard

Taking risks has played a vital role in the life of CHKLZ and my career as an artist in general. I think without taking some risks and going after it, it’s hard to have that true fire that is needed to elevate your artistry to the next level. Taking risks have brought us to so many new places and opportunities. And we hope to take these opportunities and turn them into more opportunities by continuing to take the necessary risks to grow our brand. Read more>>

Ads Aguilar

Disrespect Boyz (DB) exemplifies the importance of risk-taking in music and performance. By blending punch-in rap flows, punk rock screaming, and trap beats, they challenge conventional genre boundaries, inviting listeners to explore new sounds. Their emphasis on authenticity over trends resonates with fans seeking genuine expression, proving that risk can lead to deeper connections. Read more>>