Are you a risk taker? Do you think you have a stronger appetite for risk relative to your friends and family? We asked some folks from the community about their approaches to risk and have shared their thoughts below.

Harry Stern

Since my early teen years, risk-taking has energized my life. My pre-teen and teen years were spent in New York City, adjacent to Harlem. Signs of intimidation from gang violence had to be suppressed. Those years were the foundation of showing no fear. Rock climbing and hiking in treacherous areas came easily. Leaping forward a couple of decades, six years in Israel as a newly developed country surrounded by powerful enemies helped shape the next decades of my life. Read More>>

La’Porscha Smalls

Risk is most necessary to reach levels that are higher than just “successful.” Since taking the risk of opening my own law firm this past April, I’ve not only seen more income, but I am a lot happier. I have spent the past almost 15 years studying, working, and learning about my craft as a lawyer. Given the work and du diligence that I have put in during those years, hard work is second nature to me now. Having that and putting that energy into my own business gives me one of the things that most people desire: the space to work and it not feel like work. Risk gives you peace. Read More>>

Kacie Luaders

Risk-taking has been absolutely fundamental to my career trajectory. I’d say I’ve built my entire professional life around calculated leaps of faith. The biggest risk I took was launching Could Be Pretty Cool in 2020, right in the middle of a global pandemic when the creative industries were completely shutting down. Starting a freelance podcast production company when live events were canceled and budgets were slashed seemed almost reckless, but I saw it as an opportunity to pivot into a medium that was actually thriving during lockdown. Read More>> 

 Zachary Ward

I’ve come to see risk as an essential part of growth, both personally and professionally. Life is inherently challenging, filled with unpredictable obstacles. By intentionally embracing calculated risks, I’ve learned to build resilience and take control of what I can influence.

To me, risk-taking isn’t about being reckless—it’s about stepping into discomfort with faith and preparation, trusting that the process will lead to growth. My belief in God guides me; I see risk as a step of faith toward reaching my full potential. By pushing through uncertainty, I’ve found that the challenges I can’t control become less intimidating, and the rewards—whether professional success or personal growth—are worth the effort. Read More>>