By far, the topic that comes up most in our conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives is risk. We’ve had conversations about risks that worked out and risks that did not. We’ve seen eyes light eye sharing about career-trajectory changing risks as well as folks sigh about the risks they wish they had taken. Below, we’ve selected and shared some of those thoughtful conversations.

Steven Sued | Creative Director & Brand Strategist

Being a creative entrepreneur is risky business. But risk is essential in everything we do as human beings and it’s no different when choosing a career path or building a business. You’re bound to face uncertainty and adversity at every turn because most people don’t see the world the way we do and it requires a lot of convincing to make work that separates itself from the status quo. You need to truly embrace risk to do things that are worthwhile instead of playing it safe and trying to control how everything turns out. Read more>>

Kelly Tolliday | Yoga Instructor, Retreat Facilitator & Podcast Host

Taking risks has been at the core of my most transformative moments in my life. I’ve always run towards challenges and uncertainty with a sense of curiosity. When a new opportunity presents itself, I’ve found that I more naturally lean towards the side of excitement, rather than fear. I get lit up about the potentiality of new situations, and I think that’s why I’ve gravitated towards travel and entrepreneurship throughout my life. Read more>>

Theo Arranz | Dreamer

I completely agree that embracing risk is crucial when striving for significant achievements. Risk, often wrongly associated with failure, should indeed be seen as valuable experience. In my life and career, I’ve come to view risk as a catalyst for growth and innovation. Taking calculated risks has played a pivotal role in propelling me forward. It has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, opening doors to new opportunities and teaching me invaluable lessons along the way. Read more>>

Jordan Rome | writer/director|performer|activator

Risk has been a driving force in the success I claim over my life. Risk is an opportunity to exercise your faith and strengthen your trust muscles. Still, more importantly, it’s a catalyst that brings you closer to your desires. That’s not to say that risk lacks intention or even calculation. It’s more so that you don’t have to wait for everything to be perfect before putting your vision out into the world or taking a chance on yourself- which is especially significant for women of color because the gender disparities in pitching ideas will show you that women are more hesitant when it comes to pitching their ideas. Read more>>

Joseph Yerkovich | Fine Art Nature and Underwater Photographer

As a professional underwater and nature photographer, risk has always been an integral part of my career and life. In fact, it’s impossible to capture awe-inspiring images of the underwater world and the wonders of nature without taking calculated risks. Taking risks has played a pivotal role in my career by allowing me to capture images that others might shy away from. It has led to moments of intense exhilaration and adrenaline, as well as moments of reflection and humility in the face of the immense forces of nature. Read more>>

Blondie Catarina Starke | DJ & Entertainer

I see risk as a catalyst for personal and artistic growth. Every time I push myself outside of my comfort zone or try something new, whether it’s experimenting with a new genre of music, collaborating with different artists, or taking on challenging projects, I learn and evolve as an artist. Without taking risks, I believe it’s difficult to innovate and progress. Being an artist and DJ often involves navigating uncertain terrain. The music industry is dynamic and constantly changing, and taking risks means embracing this uncertainty. Read more>>