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.

Katie Hoang | Photographer, Nonprofit Founder, Miss Teen Texas International 2021

Risk always comes with reward. In my experience, I have had to look at results of risks as lessons and opportunities especially if they are unexpected. My first memorable risk was selling origami stars at 3rd grade recess for $.75 each. I didn’t know if any of my friends or teachers would buy it, but it was a risk I was willing to take. I learned how to make those origami stars when I spent a summer with my cousin in Vietnam a few years before. I lived life on the edge in Vietnam- riding four people to a moped, chasing stray dogs in the food markets, and climbing up coconut trees daily. Those risks may have led to a moped accident and getting lost countless amount of times, but my love for adventure and travel was able to blossom at a young age. Read more>>

Jessica Housewright | Hairstylist & Salon Suite Owner

I do not really look at myself as a risk taker. I look at risk as opportunities. You will never miss an opportunity you did not work towards. We are sometimes afraid to set goals that might be too big or too far away. You are the only one that limits how far and how quickly you move. Every opportunity I have had in my life has been perfectly positioned when I am ready to see it. I left a job after almost 8 years to create my own path. Was it scary and to some a risk? Yes. To me it was an opportunity to grow and expand myself to create something better for my daughter and myself. In the opportunity did I have risk…sure I did not know anything about business but what I did have was the skill set and knowledge to grow. Read more>>

John Quinn | Founder and CEO

I believe is the law of Risk/Return. Working a 9-5 job has its own risk but it feels “safe” because often a big employer is behind it. That said I opted to work for myself almost 8 years ago and while I have had some tight times I have never regretted that decision. Read more>>

stephanie hanson | Fitness Professional Human & Animal Rights Advocate

I think every decision is a risk. I have lost alot, learned alot, but gained soooo much more by not being afraid to step out of the box and stand up for what i believe in. you will never know unless you try. Read more>>