How do you think about risk? What role has taking risks played in your life/career? Check out responses from hidden gems from our community below.

Morgan Vicki Todd | Creative Director

I believe there is a direct correlation between risk and fear. If we consider something to be risky, it means we are fearful that it won’t work out the way we want it to. Therefore, fear often holds us back from making decisions that could vastly improve our happiness and wellbeing.

Human beings have become creatures of habit and we create environments for ourselves driven by the routine of our daily life. Wake up, go to school, go to work, eat food, shower, sleep, repeat, repeat, repeat. Read more>>

Georgia Sheridan | Wedding Photographer

Many people who know me well see me as a risk-taker, but I don’t quite see myself that way. I consider myself a calculated risk-taker. I’m drawn to adventure and constantly challenge myself by moving the goal post further. I’ve realized that when I take a leap or face a risk, my fear of failure drives me to go beyond what I thought was possible. There have definitely been moments of doubt, and it’s always a bit intimidating, but one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that if I’m going to bet on anything, it should be on myself. Each risk I’ve taken builds more self-confidence and helps me prove to myself that I’m capable of more than I imagined. Read more>>

Carina Chadwick | Subtitle Translator / Editor

It’s funny, because as I get older, the less willing I am to take risks. However, I keep reminding myself that all or at least most of the risk taking in the past has pretty much always resulted in good things.
The biggest risk I’ve ever taken was moving from Germany to Los Angeles at the age of 21. I was an Au Pair (live-in nanny) for 1.5 years and loved living in L.A., so I decided to get a work permit and Green Card to be able to permanently live here. Read more>>

Blessing Greer Mathurin | Gallerist, Curator

My whole career path is based on risk; the arts are risk. You risk vulnerability, embarrassment, time, money, and hope a lot. It creates a sort of ouroboros, with every experience directly feeding into the next, whether through wisdom or opportunity. For my first art job, I spent $60 at 18 with no money, just for the chance to feel a part of an LA arts community.

I think most of my projects, on some level, have that same level of intensity, that feeling of putting everything on the line for something I’m passionate about. Read more>>

Aryan Sachdeva | Visionary and Storyteller

I do not fear risk; I leverage it. Every adversity, every failure, every heartbreak carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit. While others hesitate, calculating the cost of failure, I move forward, calculating the price of not taking action. But in business, there is no end to the game, no finish line to cross. There are no insurmountable leads; the competition always has time to catch up.

This reality demands more than ambition, it demands vigilance, adaptability, and the courage to embrace uncertainty as a constant. Those who shy away from it are destined to follow, while those who master it write the rules. In my journey so far, I’ve learned that true power lies in seeing opportunity where others see chaos. When markets waver and hesitation grips the masses, I move decisively. One such moment came during a period of sharp market corrections. While others scrambled to protect their positions, I just waited. With a combination of precision and patience, I turned uncertainty into significant returns proof that risk rewards those who act boldly and think strategically. Read more>>

Karpit Patel | Director, Writer, Producer

Risk is an inevitable part of life and any career journey. I believe every decision we make involves some level of risk, whether small or significant. For me, the turning point was at the age of 28 when I chose to leave the security of a corporate job and pursue filmmaking—a passion that had been calling me for years. While most of my peers were settling into stable lives, I started from scratch in a completely different industry, all while honing my craft part-time as a photographer. Read more>>

Alice Tye | Illustrator & Painter

To follow any kind of creative path as a career is taking a big risk. From the time we’re at school we’re told that art is not a stable or reliable career and are generally advised to pursue something that has a more linear career path. I was very fortunate that my parents encouraged me and my siblings to pursue the creative paths that we were passionate about however that didn’t make the decision to choose illustration as a career less risky. Read more>>

Tristan Welsh | Actor and Model

I think about risk constantly. Not in a negative or overwhelming sense, but rather in the sense of risk management. Which risks am I willing to take? In this industry you HAVE to take risks to grow and succeed. As an “artist” I think the fun and the real creativity comes from taking greater risks. Throwing caution to the wind and acting courageously despite the it. But risk is inherent in this industry. It was a risk to move to Los Angeles from Missouri. It’s a risk sticking it out in LA through a pandemic, two strikes, and one of the worst fire disasters in US history. The biggest risk we all make as artists is betting on ourselves, and that’s a risk I’m always willing to take. Read more>>

Jamie Zayac | Actress, model, entrepreneur, registered nurse

Risk taking is everything. I would say the most successful people are the ones who take risks on themselves. And the people you surround yourself with play a huge part as well. Theres a quote that is something like “you are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with.” If your goals are lofty enough, you’ll notice something funny about the people around you. They’ll do one of two things: either they will encourage and support you, or they will scoff at your goals, plant small seeds of doubt, or get jealous. Those are people not meant to be in your life. If you’re a risk-taker, you’re going to have to be okay with losing people, places, and things. I call myself a “calculated risk taker.” I never agree to do something blindly or without research on pros and cons, but risk-taking could be the key to your future. Or it could be the place your thoughts stay in the grey, what-if area. The choice is yours. Read more>>

Patrick Parker | Artist and Art Gallery Owner

Risk is a word that can be applied to anything, but in terms of following your dreams, you risk not being fulfilled in life if you do not take the chance. You risk not reaching your potential, doing mundane tasks for others growth, leaving your soul left to rot on the vine.

My journey is one that has lead me down many paths in the art world. I’m so thankful I took the risk to follow my soul and path, and trusted it would lead me to personal growth, healing, and discovery. Read more>>

Lu Jia | Visual Designer / Multimedia Artist

Risk is fuel for creativity. Taking risks is about challenging boundaries until they no longer feel like risks. My path as a creative has been about breaking boundaries and leaping into the unknown—whether it’s mastering a new medium, experimenting with emerging technologies, or diving into a concept I’m only 30% clear on, with 70% left to discover. The discomfort of risk is temporary; it dissolves the moment I start creating. To me, risk isn’t fear, it’s discovery and possibility. It’s how art breathes, evolves, and transforms. What others see as a gamble, I see as the next step forward, a necessary part of growth and progress in both life and career. Read more>>

Novasoul | DJ & vibe curator

Risk has been a defining factor in my journey as a DJ. With over a decade of experience, I have learned that standing out in this industry requires constant reinvention and taking creative chances. Building a name for myself as a DJ means consistently putting myself out there and pushing creative boundaries. That kind of risk comes with both moments of failure and breakthrough and requires a level of resilience to keep going even when things don’t immediately fall into place. As a female DJ, the risks are even more pronounced. The industry has traditionally been male-dominated and I have faced challenges that are unique to being a woman in this space. Whether it’s having to prove my skills more than others or sometimes simply fighting to be heard, those challenges have given me fuel to push harder and stay innovative. Read more>>

Carson Frae | Carson Frae – Host of The Real House Guest of North Hollywood

When I think about risk-taking, I think about the times in my life when I’ve felt a tug towards something unknown—a choice that might not fit into a traditional definition of success or what others expect of me. Growing up doing theatre, the stage always felt like home. From a young age, I was performing in plays, telling stories, and dreaming of a life where art was central. Studying acting in college felt like a natural continuation of that dream. It was a path with risks of its own, but it was also familiar to me—a world I understood. Pivoting into my podcast, The Real House Guest of North Hollywood, felt like a completely different kind of risk. At first, it didn’t feel like “art.” I struggled with the idea that talking about Bravo TV, reality shows, and pop culture wasn’t “serious” enough, especially compared to the artistic goals I thought were worthy. Read more>>

Jennifer Karugapadam | Dry Cutting Master stylist and Scalp Specialist

My journey has been a dynamic balance between embracing risks and seeking stability to regroup. Before I became a hairstylist, I enjoyed a thriving career as a professional dancer—a world that required constant risk-taking. From weekly auditions to chasing opportunities with no guarantees, I leaned heavily on my talent and rigorous training. I relied on a confident mindset to navigate the unpredictable nature of the industry, balancing the highs and lows with resilience. Read more>>

Rachel Edelstein | Actor & Comedian

I think the choice to be an artist, especially in this climate, is a risk in and of itself. Every time I enter an audition room or get onstage to tell a joke, I am taking a small risk. With stand-up comedy specifically, every night spent at an open mic or a show is a risk because you never know how a joke will resonate with an audience. My whole artistic life has been built on risk. From the choice to transfer to the California Institute of the Arts to study theater to the choice to start performing on my own, I consider risk baked into my artistic identity. I would be nothing without the choice to take leaps and try new things. My decision to do stand-up came from my inability to be cast in conventional projects. I knew I had a voice but I also knew that I would have to take a risk and start creating and performing my own work in order to be heard. With great risk comes great reward and I have been constantly rewarded by my community for my risks as an artist. Read more>>

Victoria Manning | Professional Ballerina & Dance Educator

I think risk taking is a vital part of finding success. I wouldn’t classify myself as a blind risk taker but instead, as a calculated one.

When I founded a ballet school at age 22 it was certainly a huge risk, but I had poured endless time and energy into the planning, researching and development stages to maximize setting it up for success.

I take this mindset into my daily work as a professional ballerina. If while I dance I am “playing it safe” that is not as interesting or exciting for an audience to watch or for me to experience. That is why I challenge myself daily to take risks in my dancing to keep my technique and artistry growing and exciting. Read more>>

John Wiersma | Production Designer, Art Director & Entrepreneur

My entire career has been what you could call “risky”. I always wanted to design theme parks since I was 5 years old which is a very niche and limited field. Through a very focused path I was able to land my dream job at Disney Imagineering as my first job out of college.

I’m all about manifesting your future and the world you want to live in. But you can’t just want it – you need to lay out a roadmap to get there. There will be roadblocks and detours and possibly complete failures but if you know your destination you’ll find a way. Read more>>

Karina Konupek | Artistic Entrepreneur and Creative Director

Risk-taking is at the heart of any creative career, especially in the world of artistic entertainment. For me, taking risks has always meant pushing boundaries, trusting my instincts, and being willing to venture into new, uncharted territories. When I started Artistic LA over 18 years ago, it was a leap of faith. The entertainment industry is competitive and constantly evolving, but I was determined to carve out a niche that emphasized artistic expression in unique, joyful, and elegant ways. Read more>>

Erik January | Sales VP/Director of Strategic Partnership

When I reflect on the concept of risk, both in my professional endeavors and personal life, I view it as an indispensable element for growth and achievement. It’s akin to diving into the deep end of life; without taking the plunge, one can never truly experience the full spectrum of possibilities and opportunities. Read more>>

William Terry | Retired Rector of St. Anna’s Episcopal Church

For much of my life I have been a risk taker rather than a conservator. When I became a priest at a very thread-bare little urban church that did not change. Without the burden of “protecting an endowment” I found that life was much more abundant and filled with potential. Poverty is a terrible thing but it is also liberating in some ways. Our church was poor and we made no apologies for it. After Hurricane Katrina devastated our city, the City of New Orleans and much of the region we discovered that work in our community and diverting resources pouring into us were far better placed in the community rather than “conserving” or “saving the church.” So when we had funds or resources we plowed them back into the community. Read more>>

Richard Modiano | Poet and editor.

Taking risks has been a crucial part of my life and career. I view risk as an essential element of growth and progress. Without taking risks, it’s difficult to achieve significant breakthroughs or discover new opportunities. In my life, embracing risk has led to valuable learning experiences, both from successes and failures. In my career, taking calculated risks has often opened doors to advancements and innovations that wouldn’t have been possible otherwise. Risk-taking is about stepping out of comfort zones, facing uncertainty, and having the courage to pursue potential rewards despite the inherent challenges. Read more>>

Monica Chamberlain | Costume Designer

Taking risks have been a huge part of my life and career. Making the decision to move to Los Angeles where I didn’t know a single soul and pursue a career with no set path was highly risky. Thankfully, it worked out. Now, the risks I take aren’t quite as big but can feel just as scary. Risk is inherent to the industry I work in and generally the riskier the project the larger the pay off. Read more>>

Ian Trout | Artist

This question reminds me of an article by Jon Regardie published in 2023 by Los Angeles Magazine. The article went through some of the data from the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s 2023 State Income Limits paper. Here are some relevant lines that illustrate some of the economic realities folks live with here in Los Angeles:

“Over the last decade, we’ve seen affordability hit a new crisis level in Los Angeles County.” Read more>>

Debora Amiliay | Director / Photographer / Stylist

Risk is a tricky thing, It needs a lot of courage to go a risky road but once you get to the end of the road you feel truly amazing!

Risk has been and still is a big part of my life. I risked a lot, leaving my old job at the bank behind me to through myself into photography and fashion, not knowing if I would ever get a job without having any degree in it.
Yet, I did! Read more>>

Valeree Young | Business Owner and Choreographer

Taking risks has defined our advancement in this industry. We all took risks by moving to LA, by choosing to open a business, by putting ourselves out there. If there isn’t at least a little risk involved in every gig then the product likely isn’t going to make a very big impact on anyone. Read more>>

Jasimen Phillips | Painter

Risk drives everything I do. My expressive style, bold colors, and storytelling wouldn’t exist without stepping outside traditional boundaries. Hanging my paintings sideways is my way of challenging how art is experienced. The rotated orientation dares viewers to see the world differently.

Risk has fueled my artistry by allowing me to trust my vision and take unconventional paths. Instead of playing it safe, I embrace the unknown, which is the foundation of creativity and the key to making art that resonates. Read more>>

Cristian A. Castillo | Photographer & Filmmaker

How I’ve thought about risk is that it has been annoying. It’s annoying because of the stress it has brought into my life. The projects I’ve created or helped create have been risky, and I never know how they’re going to play out. It’s all a game of chance, and it’s frustrating because I care so much about the things I put my all into. I always find myself relieved and feeling more confident after reaching the other side of it. Any risk I’ve taken has ultimately been for the betterment of my life, and especially my career. Even when I feel like I’m playing it safe, I’m still putting myself out there to create what others ask of me. It’s all building blocks, and it’s a risk to my own reputation because I’m a very straightforward person in what I seek. Read more>> 

A.b. Smith | Writing Duo

Taking a risk can build your tolerance, your expectations, and can even influence your faith. However, risk taking does require effective and critical thinking. Not all leaps are righteous. This is why it’s important to evaluate possible benefits and potential threats. Overall, we believe healthy risk taking is vital to your personal and professional life. Read more>>

Alan Xu | Designer

Taking risk is essential. Risk sparks change and opportunity.

Without taking risks I would not be where I am, who I am, and have gotten to know all the amazing people I’ve met along the way. Read more>>

Daevontae Paino | Musical Artist

I think taking risk can be a good thing but also can be a downfall. It all depends on your work ethic, I feel like if you want something so bad you’re willing to sacrifice whatever it takes to make that happen. For instance, I took a big risk moving to California for my dreams to progress my music career with only $200 no job or income, but I was determined to the point I wasn’t going to go back home to Illinois regardless the circumstances. I’m here now and it’s time to make it happen. It has its ups and downs but I can say it’s been worth it vs settling and going back home. Read more>>

Gamin Kang | Performing & Teaching Artist

Risk-taking is essential, and I believe it’s one of the most important keys to building a successful career. As a musician, I’ve often chosen risky paths that didn’t guarantee a secure future, but these choices have opened doors to new opportunities and allowed me to continuously explore uncharted territories as an artist. Read more>>

Alliya Jayde Cunanan | Luxury Lash & Brow Artist

Risk taking is essential to life itself and can be a beneficial towards growth and transformation. It involves stepping out of one’s comfort zone to pursue opportunities that come with uncertain outcomes. The way we perceive and handle any risk can significantly influence both personal and professional lifestyles. When considering a risk, it’s important to weigh potential benefits against potential downsides. Risk taking has played a pivotal role in shaping my personal and career path with one thing on my mind, which was to embrace the risk. While risk taking can be intimidating, it’s also a powerful tool for achieving goals and realizing potential. Read more>>

Christophe Galati | Game Creator

Risk taking has always been part of my career, which is why I often don’t feel confortable giving advices to others, as what worked for me had really high chances of failure. When you survive growing up with trauma, it kinds of gives you the feeling that you are now invicible, that the worse is already behind you. I felt like I had gold in my hands, and that I should follow my path no matter the risks, because I had nothing left to lose, as I felt my life was already broken. With this mindset, I did a student loan to study game programming, moved out to Paris to live in a tiny appartment and started creating games as an indiependant basically at 19. Right at the start of my carreer, the big risk was already taken. Read more>>

S. Maurice Douglass | Jewelry designer

Both in my personal life and career I find that reasonable risk taking helps me in particular to venture beyond being comfortable. I found in life sometimes the greatest challenge you have is simply dealing with unknown outcomes. In my own personal life I went through a period where I really needed to isolate myself so that I could manage personal growth. That was a challenge because I’m normally very sociable with family and friends. In business, I’ve had to take risks at every step from committing to get a location to upscaling my business and incurring greater monthly cost. Read more>>

Brett Zapel | Photographer & Traveler & Hospitality Professional

Risk taking has definitely played a factor for me. In 2013, I started traveling solo. My first trip was to Buenos Aires. I did have some trepidation traveling by myself into a foreign country, however the excitement to explore was far greater. When I saw Steve McCurry’s photos from Southeast Asia, I made it a point to visit India & Myanmar so I could capture my own images from these wonderful countries. Many friends and co-workers would ask, is it safe to visit, aren’t you afraid you will get sick? My visit to Myanmar was in April of 2015, one month after the country transitioned away from being run by the military, towards that of a democracy. I was uncertain of what to expect given the recent change, and was checking the local newspapers daily. Read more>>

Cody Volk | Musician

When I think of that moment when I’m about to take a big risk, I pay much more attention now to how I feel. That moment of feeling confidence and clarity but also uncertainty is a true growth moment – and good or bad, it’s going to feel uncomfortable. I’ve backpedaled from that moment in the past to be more ‘realistic’ and I now think that was a mistake. That was referring to a default paradigm in a moment of potential growth that felt right – and I now believe it was. So going forward, I’m going to pay attention to how I feel when taking risks no matter how big gamble. Everything is a risk. Moving forward is a risk, and so is staying still, so I’m going to trust my intuition and if it feels right – I’m going for it! Read more>>

Jordon Turner | Writer & Aspiring Director

I believe risk taking is very huge in a career of being self-employed or even chasing after your dreams and passions. They were huge in my life from quitting my job multiple times because I was blessed to have opportunities somewhere else or even sleeping in car for several months not sure whether you were gonna survive. To be in a good environment and state of mind is mixed with A lot of leaps of faith. Is what risk is all about. Read more>>