We had the good fortune of connecting with Shaylan Richardson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shaylan, how do you think about risk?
As a finance teacher, I often tell my students that there are opportunity costs to every decision. Opportunity cost is simply the value of what you have to give up in order to choose something else. In terms of risk taking, often times we’re choosing to give up fear, negative self talk, doubts, and the like and instead choosing to embrace our hopes and dreams and the fact that things may actually align better than we could’ve ever imagined. When I first entered the field of education, I took a risk as I was completely brand new and was literally learning on the job. When I decided to take my music seriously, I took a risk with that as well as I felt incompetent and that nobody would like what I’m writing. I also felt as if people would see what I was doing and begin to think that I think I’m something that I’m not. In both cases I’m extremely grateful that I decided to step out and take the risk. I’ve learned over the years that sometimes you have to take risks to get to the next level. There is so much growth that happens when one decides to take risks by stepping into the unknown. You can’t grow from being comfortable all the time!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I really enjoy listening to and making music. I strive to create music that is from the soul and that is something that listeners can feel and connect to. Without my church background and church influences, I know I wouldn’t have the musical style that I have today. I’m constantly learning new things musically and discovering different musical artists which helps me as I grow in my own style.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’ve got to do a little sightseeing and look at the local attractions but we can’t leave without hitting up Harold’s!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to take this opportunity to shout out my family, and specifically my parents. They have always been in my corner and they continue to be a great support as they encourage me to keep pushing and moving forward with all of my goals and aspirations.

Website: shaylanrichardson.com

Instagram: instagram.com/shaylanrichardson

Facebook: facebook.com/shaylanrichardson

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgNtXmmhHxOaYAipkiyAuPQ

Image Credits
Alexys Brandon

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