We asked some brilliant folks from the community to talk to us about how they think about risk and the role risk has played in their lives and careers.

Khayla Mcclinton | Founder/ Director of McClinton Scholars Mentoring Program, Founder and Co-Director of SRA Media, Clinical Research Associate

I think risk taking is a necessity for getting what you actually want out of life. There is this connotation surrounding the “risk” that is heavily negative and fear based and I hate that. Taking a risk is often not a life crippling decision to make. I think many people are afraid to see themselves fail at something they want, or they’re afraid they will achieve their goal and realize they do not want it at all. Read more>>

C West | Abstract Artist

Taking risks is absolutely necessary. But I believe the risks we take need to be calculated. What that looks like for me is a lot of prayer and seeking wise counsel from individuals that have gone through what I am facing and or have made the decisions I’m about to make. The decision to be a full time entrepreneur has been a blessing. I get to be with my family more and also create my own schedule which I love. Read more>>

Nona-kerry Banks | Talkshow Host

I see risk as an opportunity for growth. In my life, I’ve often stepped out of my comfort zone, whether it was trying to be a street entrepreneur or by getting involved in multiple MLM opportunities. And now present day, accepting the opportunity to host my very own talkshow on a new up and coming streaming tv network that is in the beginning stages. These risks have not only helped me develop resilience but also opened new avenues for success. I’ve learned that the greatest rewards often come from taking the boldest steps. Read more>>

Riley Robinson | Painter / Multi-Media Artist

Being an artist and pursing a creative career of any kind requires taking risks, and risk demands resilience. It’s a double edged sword, not every risk offers reward, but almost always offers growth and new perspective. I wouldn’t be here today and have the opportunities I do without the risks I’ve taken in both my life and career. I didn’t grow up in a family of artists or around anyone really who knew what it meant to practice art professionally, but I was lucky to be supported in the risk of pursing the path that I did. My most rewarding experiences have come from taking the leap, allowing myself to be vulnerable, and trusting that the process leads to something more meaningful. Read more>>

Elliott Holland | Body Piercer

That’s interesting because if you had asked me the same question 20 years ago I wouldn’t have given it much thought because I never considered it. But now I look forward to it, because nothing worth doing doesn’t have some inherent “risk factor”. And being willing to step out of your comfort zone is a risky and usually uncomfortable situation but tends to yield the most rewarding results. Read more>>

Summer Rhodewalt | Filmmaker

I think the word “risk” gets a bad rap. It has a negative connotation, but in reality, risk-taking is such an exciting, essential part of life that we all need to undertake. To me, risks are the only way forward in life, we can’t grow or embody our highest potential without allowing ourselves the room to take the jump. Within my career, this has proven true time and time again. In film, all we do is take risks. Are we going to be able to finish this film within our time/budget? Is it going to be successful? Will it make back the money we put into it? Will it translate to the audience well? Read more>>