Legend holds that Cornelius Vanderbilt had built a massive fortune in the steamboat shipping industry, but then realized the railroads were the way of the future and invested almost his entire net worth into railroads. The gamble paid off and made Vanderbilt one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs ever. But risks are inherently…risky. How do you think about risk and how has it affected your life and career? Some of our community favorites share their perspective below.

Tommee Profitt | Cinematic Music Producer

There’s been several moments in my life where I look back and see that if I had not taken a risk, I would not be where I am today. Most of the time the risk was prompted by passion and drive… something that I wanted so bad, I knew I HAD to move forward, and would just figure it out. Read more>> 

Karen Richard | Specialist Headshot and Portrait Photographer

I guess the biggest risk I’ve taken was to give up my corporate career, sell my home, and leave behind my life in the UK (and all my friends and family there) when I moved to the US 14 years ago! Read more>>

Kyle Matthew | Artist

All of life is risk. Even the so-called “safe” paths we’ve been told are “less risky” are, in fact, riddled with risk. So much so, that oftentimes such safe paths are inherently more risky. Read more>>

Harleigh Wilder | Script Writer/ Director

I love risk taking. Without risk taking you will never know what you are capable of. I feel as if I have always taken risks, either something big, such as moving to a different state on my own, or a smaller risk, such as running for a position on my senior class council.  Read more>>

Spencer Ratliff | Founder and owner of Able Trade an Industrial maker space

Risk has definitely been an integral role in my life and career. I believe you cannot be an entrepreneur without it. I have taken a lot of risks especially in the last 15 years but one of the biggest was starting Able Trade. Read more>>

Jeff Flathau | Cookie Man

Risk taking has been a major theme in my business life from early in my career. I began waiting tables and made lots of money. I jumped from that to management and found a mentor and someone who needed to be pushed to take a risk[He had a family and 4 kids, so his timidity was natural]. Read more>>

Marty Ray Project | Songwriter/ Artists

The old adage, “no risk, no reward,” is actually one of the best life mantra’s one can adopt. It is true in every aspect of our lives actually: not just in business. There are many opportunities that I missed out on because I was not willing to take the risk. Read more>>

Kathey Garrett | Owner & Lead Chaperone, Wagnolia Bells Wedding Day Pet Service

How do I feel about risk taking? That is a great question! I do not consider myself a risk taker. I like to play it safe; I stay on the grass if there’s a DO NOT WALK ON THE GRASS sign! After my husband retired from the military after a 28-year career, I found myself bored to tears. Read more>>

Maria Cestaro | Investor/Coach/Catalyst for Change

Everything I’ve done to better myself has taken some level of risk. I believe you always need to take a risk but I also believe that you should be well prepared for the outcome after the risk whether that be a positive or a negative. At the end of the day, I wouldn’t be as successful as I am if I hadn’t taken risks. Read more>>

Tracee Perrin | Singer-Songwriter & Indie Alternative Folk Artist

Oddly enough, I consider myself rather risk averse, and yet, seem to pursue a career path that is riddled with risk and uncertainty. I’m definitely moving against the grain in that way. I think this has caused me to hesitate to be super ambitious in the past, even when I had less to lose by taking the risk.  Read more>>

Richard Wilson | Soulful Blues Songwriter and Performer

Forging a path as an original soulful blues songwriter and performer has been all about taking risks! Its not a profession for the faint hearted – but if you are committed to your art and vision – you HAVE to follow your creative destiny! Read more>>

Leanna Hicks Carey | Oil Painter

It has always been very important to me to live authentically, and integrate what makes me unique into daily action. Risk taking is a way of life. I love that saying ” Fortune favors the bold” … My career began with a huge risk which was turning away from a very active social life and dependable income(s) to dedicate all of my time to my craft.  Read more>>

Miss ByPolA MEmphiS | Memphis Standout ent & CEO Married To The Music World

Miss ByPolA MEMpHIS Risk Taking of course starting my Do Me Journey. Was a risk. The reason why I say that is because that’s when I started pushing my own career for my life legacy for my family and Brand. Doing things on your own is a Risk also a blessing. Knowing you no what your focus on. Read more>> 

Josmar Lopez | Entrepreneur

I believe that risk is always part of the process in life in general, many times you have to take risks to achieve your dreams. In my case I have had to make decisions that put certain things at risk. I think you take risks when you face something unknown or when you don’t know what the outcome will be and that scares you, but who hasn’t felt afraid of the unknown? Read more>> 

Treven Martin | Audio Engineer/Producer/Technician/BeatMake

Risk taking is a huge part of building a business, especially in the music/entertainment business. Nothing is guaranteed in your own business. You could have a great year, then next 3 are just barley staying afloat. Read more>>

Melissa Lucas | Entertainment Agent & Manager| Speaker| Author

In the realm of entrepreneurship and career pursuits, the ability to embrace risk-taking stands as a cornerstone for success. It embodies the courage to navigate uncharted territories, tread beyond comfort zones, and push boundaries in the pursuit of growth and achievement. Read more>>

Ana Rodriguez | Coffee Shop Owner/Barista & Professional Picture Taker

Taking risks has been my entire career thus far. I think taking risks and gaining experience is the only way to walk through open doors or seize opportunities. Read more>> 

John Quillen | Mountain Professional

Mountaineering is inherently risky. Starting a mountaineering company takes it to a definitely higher altitude given the number of variables and client factors. Managing these risks and mitigating potential hot spots is as challenging as the climbs. Read more>>

Brandon Gorman and Michael | Wild Love

Michael: I think putting yourself out there in any way, whether that be making art, starting a business, really investing in anything that doesn’t pay right out the gate is inherently risky, as you’re giving up other opportunities, investing in something that you don’t know the outcome of, all of which is especially risky with music. Read more>>

Nadia Merino | Healer & guide

I would definitely consider myself a risk taker! I personally work the best under pressure. I see the most growth when I step out my comfort zone. Every time I stepped into the unknown in my life/career I’ve managed to flourish and exceed my own expectations.  Read more>>