In our experience, most folks, including ourselves don’t have enough of an understanding of risk and the role it plays in our lives and careers and so we have made a concerted effort as a team to have conversations about risk with our interviewees. We’ve shared some highlights below.

Jenelle Hanes | Educational Leader & Entrepreneur, Just B.E., LLC & Founder of Camp SENAH

I feel that risk-taking is also known as being courageous! As I grow as an adult, wife, and mother, I become more comfortable with failing forward. I understand the value of being vulnerable and taking a chance on me. I have also learned that trusting my work will yield the greatest reward, confidence! Risk-taking is a superpower. Read more>>

Marqy Marq | Creative Artist

I think that risk taking is inevitable. At some point we all have to make very important decisions. When I first moved to Atlanta I came with 1,500 dollars in my account and a dream. I had no place to stay, as living arrangements fell through upon my arrival. I stayed in a motel in peachtree corners for about 4 months. I look back on that now and think, dang I made it. Had I not taken that risk I would not be where I am and who I am now. Read more>>

Arianna Brown | Founder & CEO, Brown Investors (Investing & Financial Advice Company)

As someone who grew up with very little, I would consider myself to be quite risk averse. I think that has, at times, led me to play it safe in school, in sports, in my finances, etc. out of fear or a desire to create a sense of safety and stability. While some view that as a negative, I have found that it has proven instrumental in setting me on an upwards trajectory both career wise and personally. By making the “right” decisions (i.e., saving instead of spending, getting good grades, pursuing mental health and wellness etc.) without a clear destination in mind, doors have been opened that I hadn’t planned for. Many of the opportunities I have or have had in the past, have pursued me, rather than the other way around. Now, that isn’t to say that my being risk averse hasn’t at times disadvantaged me. Read more>>