Taking Risk is essential, but how much, when and why? Taking risks effectively is as much of an art as it is a science and we’ve asked some of the brightest folks in the community to tell us about how they think about risk taking.

Lisa E | Artist & Retired Coast Guard Officer

I am an adrenaline seeking adventurist! The biggest, most life changing risk has been as a U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue helicopter pilot. While my 26-year career as a pilot does not necessarily translate to becoming an artist, it certainly adds to how I see the world as an abstract painter. As early as I can remember I have been fascinated with aviation. There have been so many dark and stormy nights when I was called out to respond to mariners in distress. In particular, was when I was stationed in Kodiak, Alaska, there were nights flying in blowing snow, hurricane force winds, and zero visibility where the risks were life threatening. I lived through these challenging flights, and have always found creative solutions in both life and art. Following my rewarding military career I returned to school and received degrees in art and art history. My artistic style is always evolving because I am curious. I find creativity is fluid & fearless. At times while painting I’m on the razors edge between success & disaster. Art is directly connected to my life journey, especially when I was serving as a U.S. Coast Guard pilot. Read more>>

joza ink | tattoo artist & visual artist

Life without risk is like a dish without salt—lacking in flavor and excitement. Growing up in the heart of the Mediterranean, where food is celebrated for its rich taste, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of risk in both personal growth and artistic expression. Just as a painter bravely applies new colors to their canvas, I’ve learned that taking risks is essential for my journey as an artist. It’s through these challenges that I’ve found opportunities to evolve, both as a person and in my craft. Stepping beyond my comfort zone has been the gateway to discovering more about myself and the world around me. In embracing risk, I’ve found the true essence of growth and creativity, as it pushes me to explore uncharted territories and unlock new depths of inspiration. In this beautiful journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, risk isn’t merely a hurdle—it’s the very essence that fuels my passion and drives me toward becoming the best version of myself Read more>>

Faellow | Singer Songwriter Performer

Being a musician I am constantly just trying to discover new ways of putting myself out there, or new ways to communicate my feelings through music. Sometimes some things don’t work and I’ve gotten to a place where I’m okay with trial and error. The truth is I have no control or say but I do know I’m having fun. Everything is a learning experience. Read more>>

Chef T | Private chef & business owner

When you think about taking risks, it’s like deciding if something is worth trying even if it might not work out perfectly. I believe risks are important as long as they lead to good things. For me, taking risks has been a big part of my life and job. For example, when I started my own business, it paid off big time within just two months. This success led to cool opportunities like catering for MTV’s Wild ’N Out. Read more>>

Rodrigo Occelli | Film Director and Screenwriter

I believe that when you are an artist and you have something to say or show to the world, you are gonna have to take the risk to go and make it happen, no plan b. Read more>>