There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

Lauren Benning | Owner/ Director of Operations & Marketing

I took a huge risk by quitting my job and working full time for our business. My husband has always painted as long as I’ve known him and I’ve always worked. I was a job gypsy in the sales, restaurant, and medical industries for all of my adult life working two jobs most of my 20s. After the pandemic I worked from home for two years because it was as the most logical way to continue getting a steady paycheck while being home with my two kids because painting never stopped. 2020 is actually when J&B Painting Plus of Florida Inc really got people’s attention. Once things got back to normal and I was starting to become a hermit I took a sales position at WB Mason and my husband was just getting busier and busier. The same week I celebrated my 1 year at WB (I really LOVED that job and shoutout to all the cool people I met during that chapter ) and was promoted to a supervisor my husband said the magic words, “I know you love your job, but I need you to quit”. We dabbled with this idea here and there but always tossed it not wanting to mix home and work, but we both knew he needed me and it was time. I had stipulations. I needed a direct deposit like I have been used to my whole life, I needed an office not inside of our home, and I needed to give my team a 30 day notice. My husband delivered with a full office placed right into our warehouse and it was the best decision we have ever made. Together we have made this a million dollar business and moved mountains we didn’t even think we would ever get near. It’s only up from here! Read more>>

Chris Kelly | Copywriter, Journalist, Author

When I think of risk taking, I come at it from a place of “what’s the worst thing that could happen” balanced with “what if I don’t take this risk?” I have taken great risks in life and business. Some worked out in my favor and others turned into lessons. From the lessons, I always learn something important about myself and usually others. I know for sure, when my time to leave the earth comes, I don’t want to have any regrets and for that reason, I will continue to take calculated risks. I encourage everyone to understand, tomorrow is not promised so go do the damn thing! Start the business, learn something new, fall in love, see the world. Read more>>

Boualem Hassaine | Founder, Film Producer

When it comes to risk-taking, I’m all in. I see it as the secret sauce that spices up life and career. Sadly our brains are wired to keep us safe, which means they often throw a fit when we’re about to take a leap of faith. But for me, that’s where the magic happens—the discomfort of the unknown is where growth truly begins. Read more>>