Risk is a topic that comes up a lot in our conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives, but a related topic is investments. Investments come in many forms – investing your time, money, heart and soul, etc. So, with that broad definition of investment in mind, we asked rising stars in the community to tell us the stories of the best or worst investments they’ve made.

Armani Fountain

Hands down, the best investment I’ve made was hiring a public speaking coach. Public speaking is a top fear for many, and it’s easy to see why. While I had my strengths, I also had areas where I could really shine. This was my chance to step out of my comfort zone and level up my skills. The coaching was a game-changer. It gave me the tools to organize my thoughts, connect with my audience on a deeper level, and skyrocket my confidence. Effective communication is the key to success, and I can’t recommend a public speaking coach enough if you have the chance Read more>>

Mommy Rockstar Bitch

I was majoring in vocal performance at the University of Valley Forge. In 2014, I met my ex husband at college and immediately realized we had artistic chemistry. We played music together everyday. We eventually started our band, Voila!, and began playing shows and recording an EP. At the time, my partner had become addicted to various substances. I was so obsessed with the music and the health of my partner that I took a risk. I dropped out of college, moved us to Philadelphia, and began working and playing music full time. The band evolved into various different projects with my partner and other musicians. We started to gain momentum with our project Geisha Facade and I was extremely excited about the possibility of being a full time artist. Unfortunately, time and time again my partners addiction would cause the downfall of relationships and projects. Read more>>

Leisse Wilcox

The worst investment I’ve ever made lead me to the best one: I hired a “coach” to help me refine my business, expand my network, and increase my visibility. $50k later (!) I discovered his credentials, testimonials, and expertise were 100% fabricated: he was a very good salesman, and a master manipulator. Trusting him set me back almost 2 years in terms of operating capital, the direction and strategy of my business, and the ability to trust my decision making. Through this (very painful) experience, I learned that I already had what I needed inside me, and that integrity and my desire to support genuine transformation in leadership is something that sets me apart not only in my industry, but in our modern business landscape. Read more>>