There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

Haley Texada | Entrepreneurial Artist

I think taking risks is the key to living freely. It’s one of the scariest things you can do, but taking risks can also bring the most rewarding feeling. Almost four years ago, I took the risk of becoming an entrepreneur. I wasn’t sure how my family, friends, or community would reciprocate my art which made me hesitant. Read more>>

Mike & Jessica Barakat | Owners – Buttermilk Sky Pie Shop – Mansfield & Fort Worth

We believe risk is necessary in order to grow. Risk is relative. At times, it may feel more painful to not take the risk. Mike took a risk and joined the military after 9/11. Then Mike took risks daily with a job in law enforcement. Jessica took a risk to move to Texas, where she ended up meeting Mike. Together we took a risk finding something we both love to do together with Buttermilk Sky Pie. Looking back on all the risks we have taken, we are so glad we did. Read more>>

Mikael Vaughn | Hairstylist

Risk and opportunity go hand in hand. In my experience, there have been times where my goals and aspirations were big steps for me. It took a lot of courage and self determination to risk putting myself out there to even be considered for gigs that I’ve only even dreamed of being a part of. I’ve grown so much as a person, and a professional because I chose to act instead of wait around for opportunities. I’ve also met so many amazing people and have a fantastic network because of my ability to find humility in risk taking situations. Read more>>

John Pagnam | Illustrator, Painter, Tattooer

I think taking risks is one of the most important and fun parts of life. These are the moments you’ll remember. If you want to achieve something big eventually you will be forced to take a few risks. My advice, lean into them don’t shy away. Win or lose you will be better than you were before. Read more>>

Shayna Hickox | Model and Creator

I feel like your life is all based on the risks you take and how far you put yourself out there! You’re only going to get as far as you let your self! A lot of people get comfortable and are afraid to step out of their comfort zone, that’s why they stay in the same place, for me the only way I can grow and succeed with a career in this industry is by taking risks and stepping outside of my comfort zone and pushing myself further to develop a more defined resume. Read more>>

Beatriz Reid | Artist

“Do one thing every day that scares you.” – Eleanor Roosevelt Taking risks in general was very low in my priorities growing up. I thought that I had a simple path in front of me that I was going to follow without asking too many questions, while probably checking the boxes that people had put in front of me. My teens left and my college chapter came. Instead of pursuing what I wanted, I allowed fear to keep me from taking action. Read more>>

Judge 2 Heavy | Texas Fleet Dj Social Media/Promotion Ambassador

“No Risk No Reward” I think taking risks is essential in everyone’s everyday lives. I mean, we take risks just waking up and stepping out the door, especially in this day and age. Risks mold us into who we are, or who we eventually will become. You never know what you are capable of until you jump out that box, or, what we like to say, “step off the porch”. Read more>>

Krishan Patel | Photographer and Videographer

Risk brings us the greatest joys in life. I have always believed that if you want something bad enough you will get it. For me I was afraid of taking a risk because of the uncertainty of failure, but then I realized I was never moving forward. I have battled ulcerative colitis for most of my life. I recently saw functional nutritionist to help hone in my diet so I could overcome the daily struggles of having living with this chronic condition. Read more>>

Tierra (Tee) Osuna | Tattoo Artist & Shop Owner

Risk-taking for me is challenging your fears, taking on new barriers, and allowing new changes 1 of my most significant risks has been opening my tattoo studio in my hometown Arlington, Texas I purchased my shop in April of 2021 with intentions to move in right away. After moving into the shop the next step was to obtain my license, while trying to obtain my license I soon discovered that after 2014 Tattoo Shops were more restricted to specific zoning. Read more>>

Jonathan Colafrancesco | Dance Artist

My story as a professional dance artist is determined by the choice of taking risks. Growing up in a small town back in Italy, I always saw my approach to dance as a passion and my own moment of distraction from my main job as a Hair stylist. After 6 years of juggling my time between these two passions of mine, a once in a life time opportunity knocked at my door. After auditioning for the renowned Certificate Program at Peridance Center in NYC, I was accepted with a full scholarship for 2 years in 2019. Read more>>

Rodey Bell Dortly | Musician/Actor & Insurance Adjuster

Risk taking, I feel is the most essential part in anything and everything needed to be successful. I would not be here in Texas nor in either of my career fields if I didn’t take the chance to bet on myself when leaving my hometown city Gainesville, FL. Taking risks puts you in the position where it’s your vs you. What have you learned, experienced, and how determined are you to exceed in the positions you landed because of the risks. Read more>>

Melinda Benavides | License Manicurist

I’ve always lived by a saying ” We only live once , Live it up” Beginning of March 2020 I decided to take a big step and open up a nail salon in Lewisville, Texas. Again taking the risk and not know the outcome of sucesss or minor set backs that could have caused a major loses on everything I invested into my business. COVID-19 hit our economy end of March 2020 that put everything on pause for everyone and businesses. Read more>>