We asked some brilliant folks from the community to talk to us about how they think about risk and the role risk has played in their lives and careers.

Tori Sikkema | Interiors | Brand Photographer + Stylist

My father was a risk taker. He worked in advertising at Conde Nast as the Advertising Director for House & Garden Magazine. I loved being on location during interior photoshoots; seeing the flurry of interior designers, stylists, photographers, and architects collaborating on preparing the home for the photoshoot and publication was like being on the set of a movie. These experiences are imprinted in my DNA and have ever influenced me. Read more>>

Dr. Patty | Cosmetic & Implant Dentist

As an entrepreneur and business owner, you have to take risks to start and grow your business. I had to defy the odds from the beginning. I was one of only a few women of color to graduate from my dental school. Right after dental school, I moved to South Florida and in my early 30s I started my first practice in a new market where I had no connections. My concept was untraditional too – a dental spa and boutique. Bringing a new business concept to life took risks in many different ways, including financial, operational, market and reputational. Read more>>

Dr. Barbara Flores Caballero | Educational Leadership and Emotional Intelligence Specialist, Author & International Speaker

I think that risk is an opportunity for growth. Although by definition we know that it is a possibility that you will encounter a mishap, suffer damage and have possible consequences. But for me it is where you have two bags, one to win and the other to learn in case you don’t get what you want so much. The role of risks in my life has been an active one in my personal and professional life. However, I have not let my mind or fear paralyze me to achieve what I want so much. On the contrary, I see risks as conscious challenges. Now, before assuming the risks, I evaluate them in the short and long term, what their impact could be and if I am willing to assume it. Read more>>

Adam Ramos | Branded Merch Distributor | Creative Equity Seeker | Collaborater

Risk taking and more importantly managing risk has played a much larger role in my life and career over the past couple of years. Whether it is expanding investment opportunities into new categories, such as restaurants, arcades, crypto, & NFTs, or finding the best structure to grow a promotional products business and apparel franchise without sacrificing profitability has been a risky set of ventures. Although taking on risks can be very stressful, I believe it is at the heart of most entrepreneurs. Read more>>