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.

Kordell Rashad | Artist, social media expert, Author & creative

When I think about risk I’ve taken I’ve come to watch many of those I truly cared about grow disappointment in me as my mistakes have shown to be characterized as selfishness. Dispite the fact that in the past if I came up on something I would share my last and they seemed to enjoy me being that way yet it was when I decided to just go at it alone is when I’ve gained this reputation. See though I took that risk I’ve found myself reaching a breakthrough that I could not obtain waiting on others or giving them all of my plays and options to work with thus leaving me with next to nothing. Read more>>

Maria Esswein | Artist & Art Professor

When I think of “Risk,” I think about the board game…and how I’ve never actually played! On a serious note, though, I am cautious regarding risk. However, I have a lot to be grateful for because of the risks I have taken so far. I tend to overthink all possible outcomes a lot to try and prepare for the worst, but I also try to think about two major components: 1. Is this risk really worth it?
2. Will it make me happy in the long run? Read more>>

Macy Perry | Aesthetician/Salon and Airbnb Owner

I’ve always thought the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward. That has stood true for me thus far. From opening in a small town and being told I shouldn’t. To growing big enough within four years to purchase my own building downtown in a bigger city. Then to expand not only my current spa business but to later add another Airbnb business above the commercial space I ran my Spa and Salon out of. Since purchasing and running my two successful business, I have been able to purchase more property to hopefully soon, open a second Airbnb. Not only is that a huge reward in my eyes, my property value has more than doubled since purchasing it only a few years ago. Making it a great investment for my future! Read more>>

Jescia Jackson | Lady Jescia/ Mz. Parker

I am definitely a risk taker! I took a risk by inboxing Mr. Cory Espie asking him do he teach new up coming actors… By the grace of God he responded and he lived 8 minutes from me!!! From there we hit it off, he introduced me to several producers and directors and my acting career blossomed from there!!! Read more>>

Alexa Larberg | Owner of Alexa Larberg Party Co

Risk-taking has played a pivotal role in both my life and career. I’m not risk averse—I actually thrive on challenges. I believe that stepping into the unknown is where the most growth happens, whether it’s pitching new ideas, pushing boundaries, or exploring uncharted territory. One principle I live by is actively seeking rejection. I set a personal goal of getting 100 “no’s” a month because I know that each “no” brings me closer to a “yes” and helps me refine my approach. This mindset has helped me take bold steps and uncover opportunities I might have otherwise missed. Read more>>