You’re working hard, things are going well, piece by piece you’ve built a life you are proud of, you’ve overcome obstacles and challenges, beat the odds and then you find yourself at the center of an unexpected dilemma – do you risk it all to keep growing? What if growing means leaving the job you worked so hard to get or the industry you worked so hard to break into? How we approach risk often has a huge bearing on our journey and so we’ve asked some of the brightest folks we know to share stories of risks they’ve taken.

Tammy Jo Long

When I had my first and only son, Robby, I had Pre-eclampsia. This resulted in Robby being born 2 months prematurely. I had heart failure, pulmonary edema and double pneumonia (all side effects of Pre- Eclampsia). Robby was in Neonatal Intensive Care, and I was in Cardiac Intensive Care for a month. It was touch and go for both of us. Having survived near death, I decided to do something insane. Give up my cushy executive job and go to Savannah, GA and start buying dilapidated historic homes and restore them! My husband at the time (now divorced) thought I had lost it and gone off the deep end. I had no serious plan as to what to do with these properties, I just knew that it had always been my dream to restore historic homes in the deep south. Read more>>

Latina Bohemian

The biggest risk I’ve taken thus far is sacrificing stability over a creative life. As a late teenager, I have always had a job, whether it was part-time or full-time. Growing up with a family who believed going to college or working 9-5 is what you should pursue. My adulthood has had periods of unemployment and financial stagnancy, but I have created my best work during those times. I took the risk of staying true to myself and not following a traditional path. One thing I have learned over the last few years is that you can create your own happiness and not live by anyone’s expectations.  Read more>>

Kelle Sutliff

I took a huge risk one that goes against deity of some religions and social/moral environment. I followed my instinct to become a Psychic Medium over twenty three years ago, leaving a successful real estate career. Imagine, my husbands face and his response when I said,” I think I am going to do that ” psychic thing” like I did, when I was younger?” What? Read more>>

Kristine Skeie

Early on in our marriage, my husband and I sold our home, quit our jobs and moved from Long Island, NY to Maui to help my in-laws start up a restaurant. This was a big change from my previous job, handling public relations for a college. While I learned the inner workings of running a restaurant, I never gave up on my dream of becoming a screenwriter. I contacted TV shows trying to get a foot in the door and finally was offered a job as a PA for a tv show called Step by Step. Soon I was packing up and moving to Manhattan Beach. Read more>>

Caiti Mackenzie

The biggest risk I have taken is moving out of my hometown alone to Hawaii. Post graduating high school, I knew I was looking for something new and exciting & it wasn’t college for me. This resulted in packing up my bags and moving away from everything I had ever known and loved in Georgia, and setting sail to a new life. I moved to Oahu without knowing anyone and without having ever stepped foot on the island. It was exactly what I needed at the time, a fresh start. After 4 months of living on island I decided I got what I came for and headed on my next journey. Moving to Florida was next on the to-do list because clearly, exploration is something that I need out of life! Read more>>

Barbara Kerr Condon

Taking a risk has defined how I’ve lived my creative life. I am a Christian, and it seems God does not want me to become complacent. Over and over I’ve been challenged to do something that made no sense, or I did not feel qualified, or there were other circumstances that made it unreasonable to expect a positive outcome, and yet I felt compelled to go ahead and do it. You asked for one example. I’ll give you several to demonstrate what I mean. Read more>>

Adam Brown

I grew up in a Small town in Idaho. I was adopted around 9 years old and came from a rough up bringing, I was blessed to be part of a family that loved and cared for me. I started wrestling when i was a freshman in High school. This sport gave me confidence i could do and accomplish anything with hard work. After high school I left to south Africa to serve a mission for my church for 2 years. on my mission I learned how to speak with people and truly excel in the art of selling. After coming home I decided I wanted to open an Insurance Office, I had very little money but knew if I worked hard dedicated my time to being successful I could make this work. Read more>>

Heather Burmester

In the span of a year, I faced both a layoff and being fired from two different agencies—an experience that left me rethinking my career path. Rather than jumping back into the job search for another full-time position, I chose to take a different route. I started freelancing for a former client, and it has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. It not only provides me with a sense of freedom and satisfaction but also allows me more time to focus on my own life, something I never realized how much I needed. Read more>>

Marianna Turov

On 2017 I began to specialize in Anxious Attachment, through my formal studies I learned a lot, but I wanted to know more, speak to people. But I did. not know how. So, I created a YouTube channel and made content asking for people to visit my calendly and schedule a session with me for an hour for free,
Over 3 years I spoke with over 7k people from all over the world and began my Anxious Attachment Research. Read more>>

Nijayah Jones

Honestly I feel all my life I had to take risks but I will say leaving the medical field I was a home health aide /caregiver for over 11 years . I loved helping my clients which consist of the elder or disabled but it lack progress and finical staibilty, I remember within the 8 year mark I was becoming drained , unhappy I knew it was my soul telling me it was time to move on ,fast foward into the summer of 2020 right before I even knew the pandemic will hit I was losing clients and it was putting a damper on my pockets . I remember sitting on the edge of the bed praying and saying I can’t do this I have to leave of course fear creeped in fear to me is a illusion state to keep you stuck with being uncomfortable. Read more>>

Christian Cameron

I’m from Indianapolis, In and had very established clientele. Everytime I would travel I just knew there was more to life. I took the risk of moving 9 1/2 hours away with knowing NOT ONE PERSON in 2019, to expand my clientele and move to a bigger, faster paced city. Within the almost 6 years since I’ve moved, I’ve built a dedicated, loyal clientele, have traveled out of the country & have worked with celebrities all for getting out my comfort zone! Read more>>

Justin Metoyer Mullon

This was an objectively small risk but I think it speaks to an important aspect of artistic practice and life in general. It was during the summer of 2020 and I noticed an organization online called that was hosting a celebration of Juneteenth. The surprising part was to find that in the area and they were offering booths at no charge or a low fee at that time, I don’t completely remember. Read more>>

Nena Hammer

Three years ago, I quit my reliable day job to pursue my hand at being an entrepreneur. Fresh into our marriage, with minimal prior restaurant experience, my husband and I opened and operated a farm/forage to table in the small town beside where we live. My husband, Tim, kept his day job as a landscaper, while I launched head-first into the restaurant. I learned about QuickBooks, business licenses, business taxes, and so much more. We had a decent savings put back, but neither of us had owned a business, let alone a restaurant. We both have a history and passion for local and AR-native foods, so that was what we focused on in the restaurant. I have connections with many local farms and was able to utilize those relationships to purchase beautiful, local produce. Read more>>

Cayla Shae O’neil

The story of my college journey, I would say, has been a risky business.

I have always been a more quiet person unless I’m performing; I love trees and woods and generally calm environments—cities are not my thing. I only knew about stage dance and even less about musical theatre. Where did I choose to go to college? Downtown Los Angeles.

I chose this small, very commercial focused school that was located on a film lot. Because dance was the only thing I knew, I applied and got accepted as a Commercial Dance Major. Everything I learned was completely new to me—the industry, clothing, styles and grooves, social structures, etc. Read more>>

Krystal Henry

The biggest risk I ever took was opening my own storefront. After starting The Key Salon in 2020, I saw a need for a space where business owners could thrive and gain the knowledge they needed to succeed. In 2022, I opened The Key Salon Studios, creating a community of incredible women-owned businesses. Read more>>

Charity Hill

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was stepping away from a steady corporate career to co-found Epic Entertainment Group. At the time, it felt daunting to leave the security of a regular paycheck, benefits, and a clear career trajectory for the unknown of entrepreneurship. However, my co-founder, Steve Sheldon, and I saw a gap in the market—an opportunity to create immersive, large-scale experiences that could redefine live entertainment. We believed in the idea so strongly that we poured everything into it, knowing full well that there were no guarantees. Read more>>

Preston Douglas

Two Risks, Two Careers: A Journey of Faith and Determination

For those who don’t know, I was a truck driver for seven years. And for those unfamiliar with the industry, there are two types of truckers: company drivers and owner-operators. Four years into my career, I found myself wanting more—a desire to become the man I believed God created me to be. After months of prayer, I took a leap of faith and bought my own semi-truck. Read more>>

Foster Army Animal Rescue

At Foster Army Animal Rescue, we take in pets most in danger of being put to sleep at the shelter. This includes ill, injured, underage, senior, hospice, special needs, and misfit pets.

A lot of people ask why we spend so many resources on pets of this type. The financial, time, and energy commitments to rehabilitate and find homes for these animals can be daunting. Every pet we take in is a risk as far as severity of medical and/or behavioral issues. Read more>>

The Theos

As a band, we hold onto the risk of being mocked, laughed at if a show goes bad or if a song we release isn’t received well. Were aware of the embarrassment it has the power to apply to us, but we love the craft, we strive for the fun, and we live for the music. Read more>>

Vianai Austin

From early in my work career, I spent the majority of my career working in entertainment, marketing and promotions for two companies, Power 106 (the hip hop radio station) and the 99 cents only store (cooperate). My main duties were handling social media channels, scheduling meet and greets, concerts, and making lower lift content. Even though I had a great time in my positions, I still felt like it wasn’t what I was supposed to be doing. It wasn’t my purpose. Read more>>

Doniesha Sanders

With no other source of income, I decided to dive headfirst into the world of hairstyling. Offering $20 wraps and $40 color services, I knew the risks were high, especially with numerous established stylists already in the area.

Despite the odds, I was determined to make a mark. I rented a small space and transformed it into a cozy, welcoming salon. The affordable prices and personalized service began to attract clients who appreciated the quality and care that I put into each style. Read more>>

Dere Hney

The boldest risk I’ve ever taken? Ditching fear, embracing faith, and diving headfirst into the unknown during one of the most uncertain seasons of my life. That leap of faith led me to experiences that were as challenging as they were life-changing. But the wildest part? It all started with a one-way ticket out of the U.S., just $800 to my name, and zero concrete plans for survival. Read more>>

Erika Sellers

The biggest risk I ever took will be opening my business. In today’s market, it is very competitive. Women all over the world are doing the same thing I am. At first I would always procrastinate or second guess even starting but once I realize it’s quality over quantity things become more consistent. I don’t regret taking this risk because my brand provides not only women physical needs but also all around wellness for every women and girl. Read more>>

Alexia Seba-robles

The biggest risk I’ve ever taken continues to shape my life, even decades later. It forever changed how I see myself—for the better. Like most 19-year-olds, I thought I had it all figured out. My hometown felt fake and suffocating, like I had to wear a mask every day just to get by. I was young, rebellious, and restless—but far from free. All I wanted was to escape my strict parents’ rules and start fresh. Read more>>

Tracy Poizner

A long, long, time ago, even before the release of Indiana Jones’ Raiders of the Lost Ark, I was lying on the floor in my parents home agonizing over the biggest decision I had ever made. I was being called to take a leap of faith that felt to me every bit as dangerous as the iconic, heart-pounding step off a ledge into the abyss, hoping a bridge would appear under my feet. At 19, I was nearing the end of my first year of university and on my way to becoming a multilingual translator. I was getting great marks and found it dead easy – so easy, in fact, that I started asking if there wasn’t more to life than just doing what you’re already good at. Until then, I believed it was all about doing what you were good at – that’s what they taught us at school! Read more>>

Kaylah Nicole

One of the biggest risks I’ve taken in my life was when I decided to become an actor. Back in 2019, I was at a university studying Early Childhood Education. My goal at the time was to become a Pre-k to 3rd Grade Teacher. While I have so much respect and admiration for teachers, I remember saying in my very first month of college that I couldn’t see myself doing it for the rest of my life. I auditioned for the musical theatre minor program and I got in! A couple weeks later, we went on spring break. Then, the pandemic happened and changed everything. Read more>>

Gisell Ale

In the hair industry, typically it’s not recomended to start your own business until you are fully booked. I had a small kid, and needed the freedom of setting my own schedule, but I was only booked part-time.
I considered the pros and cons, and figured worst-case scenario I’m back where I started.
I decided to take the risk, while promising to myself that I was going to market my business aggressively. In business, you won’t grow unless you take (smart) risks. Read more>>

Sean Crouch

In January 2024, I encountered a side of corporate life that forced me to reconsider my commitment to the traditional 9-to-5. It was the catalyst I hadn’t realized I was waiting for—a stark reminder that perhaps it was time to leave behind the predictable path and take a chance on building something of my own. So, I made the decision to quit my job. Read more>>

Nursah Wood And Sarah Cea

When I (Nursah) first started shooting Boudoir sessions, I was renting Airbnbs, hotel rooms and then even shot from my guest room for a year… I was also renting other photography studios, but I knew I wanted a space to show more of my style with consistency. One day at a Historical Buildings touring event by Delaware County, I discovered my current studio. The historical, rustic style of the space quickly grabbed my attention. It was the summer of 2021 and we were still going through Covid and it was not even a year after becoming a single mom. The decision of having a lease was scary, but I also knew that this was the space for me… a space to crate my own art. Read more>>

Lindsay Price

One of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken is simply believing in myself. It’s so easy to stay in the comfort of what you know, to remain in the box you or others—like family or society—have placed you in. But stepping out of that box, daring to believe you have something meaningful to share with the world, and continuing to show up even when progress feels slow, takes courage. Read more>>

Alana Samuels

My entire life, school has been of the utmost importance. I have always been studious and academic, and have valued learning tremendously. I still do, however my perspective has shifted a bit.

I earned my bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University in psychology and Spanish linguistics. My intention was always to help others, and this manifested as a goal to go on to get my masters’ degree in mental health counseling once I graduated. However, COVID altered this trajectory. I found myself by the end of college mentally and physically drained and burnt out. More school seemed like the only option for so long, but there was so much more to be uncovered. Read more>>

Jennifer Curry Prasad

After a 23 year successful career in banking I made the decision to walk away from the only thing I believed I knew how to do.
My teenage son Nico had passed away and completely shattered my life as I knew it
I made the decision the day I had to walk out of the hospital without him downstairs to get my daughter who was only 3 at the time, I scooped her up as she was the only reason I made it out of there that day. I knew I had to raise her differently. I knew I couldn’t continue living ground hog day stuck at a 9-5 in an office commuting an hour each way spending too many hours away from my babies any longer. Read more>>

Elizabeth Leyk

There is a saying that goes something to the effect of “if you’re not at least a little bit scared, you’re not thinking big enough”. I think there are some risks worth taking in life that you’ll never feel fully ready to take, and those are usually the ones that end up shaping your story big time. For me, there have been several: changing my major to art (because “what are you going to do with an art degree?!”), starting a family and leaving a comfortable in-house corporate design job to spend more time with my kids & start my own business rank high in my mind of those times where I was some 50/50 mix of absolutely terrified and utterly excited. I don’t consider myself a big risk taker, generally speaking (although I’ll do almost anything to find a geocache. *Google this*). I’m a planner, classic over analyzer, passionate creative, recovering perfectionist and all-out misfit in both the worlds I occupied before deciding it was time to start my freelance design business.  Read more>>

Mario Herrera

From Drone Pilot to Marketing Maverick: The Risk That Shaped Spiderweb Media

In life, risks often come disguised as opportunities, and for me, that opportunity arrived at a time when I felt stuck. Working a traditional 9-to-5 job left me feeling uninspired, craving something more fulfilling. I knew I needed a change, but the path forward wasn’t clear—until I was hired as a lead drone pilot for a company. Read more>>