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.

Varcy Duncombe | Recording Artist/Songrwriter

Taking the risk has always been a key element throughout my life and career it has helped me elevate to the next level even if it looks unconventional. Most times taking that leap of faith makes you look crazy and although it gets uncomfortable it opens the door for new skills, opportunities, growth and most importantly either failure or success. We can’t adapt or experience life fully without it, so take a gamble. Read more>>

Bevan Makaka | Serial Businessman and Entrepreneur

Time after time, I have taken calculated risks in the business arena that lead to great success and opportunities which may have otherwise been missed. This calculated risks definitely pushed me beyond the comfort zone and tremendously contributed to achieving things they I never thought possible. However, there are many times where I was presented with the possibilities of failure when taking these risks. Read more>>

Mimi Sterling

3. Where are you from and how did your background and upbringing impact who you are today? I was raised in Boston, Indianapolis, and New York and have had the opportunity to live on three continents. Servant leadership has been a core part of me since youth. My high school motto was non sibi (not for self), and this has really stuck with me throughout my career—whether serving a Neiman Marcus customer in previous roles or survivors of
domestic violence as I am today. I’m the happiest when I am serving others and have found truly meaningful work in my role with The Family Place. Read more>>

Amanda Veasy | Non-Profit Founder/Executive Director & Entrepreneur

I am not sure I have ever just landed in success or good fortune by accident. Every single accomplishment in my life has been the result of a huge risk. A business friend told me once that my faith is a horrible business model. Really, I can’t even say I disagree, but it has proven itself effective time and time again. Risk alone may be a poor model, but combined with unwavering belief, it produces. I always say, if we do the right thing simply because it is the right thing, it will all work out. So far, so good. Read more>>

Reggie Jennings | Financial Analyst & Realtor

Calculated risks are a must. Anyone who has ever been successful or done something great took a calculated risk. My thought process about risk is simple. I ask myself a question. “Am I willing to accept the results/consequences (good or bad) of this calculated risk?” From there if I don’t know a good portion of the potential results I sit down and reassess what it is I am trying to do and work from there. Read more>>

Ryley Wimer | Western E-Retail Store Owner

In my business my risks aren’t taking crazy, uncalculated leaps into things. For me, risk is looking for the next thing that not everyone is doing – the thing that doesn’t have proof that it has already worked for everyone else. With the speed of business and life, in our current world, you will be left in the dust if you sit around waiting to make the safe move that has been proven to work for others. You have to stick your neck out, do the leg work yourself, and be willing to put the time into your own, new idea. Read more>>

Erick Avila | Entrepreneur

There is no right or wrong approach, as it depends on the situation and individual preferences. However, taking calculated risks can be beneficial in many ways. It can help us grow, learn, and achieve our goals.Taking risks can lead to success and personal growth. Read more>>