The Risk Optimistic Share: Facebook LinkedIn Twitter The Risk Optimistic explores the value of risk, the opportunity of risk, and the belief that taking a chance is worth it. A letter from the editors: Believe in risk Written by Keith Mays & Julie Scheidegger The endangered legacy of the American risk-takerAmelia Earhart was an American pioneer, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. January 16, 2020The endangered legacy of the American risk-taker Speaking out on the debt dilemmaJenny Poon has a unique perspective on student debt, as the child of immigrant parents who had to bootstrap her way to success through the American system. January 21, 2020Speaking out on the debt dilemma Eight readers share their stories of taking risksEight readers share their risk-filled journeys, including business startups, a spontaneous COO resignation, and a single-mom pursuing a bachelor’s degree. January 16, 2020Eight readers share their stories of taking risks Artists take risks, but so do the people and organizations who support themGalleries, venues, and nonprofits play a critical role in making sure artists can connect to their audiences. January 31, 2020Artists take risks, but so do the people and organizations who support them Beat the clock: Can you identify these 40 risk-takers?Inspired by submissions from our readers, we’ve built this interactive quiz to test your knowledge of known risk-takers throughout history to present day. January 23, 2020Beat the clock: Can you identify these 40 risk-takers? Traveling America, the willingness to risk for real solutions is everywhereUrgency pushes us to ‘be fearless’ and take risks for bold new ideas in our towns and in our lives – particularly when there is opportunity for transformational change. January 23, 2020Traveling America, the willingness to risk for real solutions is everywhere A strong performance means tapping into vulnerability for dancer Alexandra WilsonThe end-result of taking artistic risk often yields the reward of more emotionally complex stories. February 6, 2020A strong performance means tapping into vulnerability for dancer Alexandra Wilson Taking the calculated riskMr. Kauffman challenged his associates – at Marion Laboratories and at his Foundation – to take calculated risks. But what is risk for a privileged foundation? For us, it is an imperative. January 16, 2020Taking the calculated risk Building a sisterhood: A Q&A with Reshma SaujaniThe founder of Girls Who Code on how programming can teach girls to be brave and take risks. January 16, 2020Building a sisterhood: A Q&A with Reshma Saujani Sustained by riskThe Kauffman Foundation focuses on education, entrepreneurship, and programs that support our hometown Kansas City, so why a package of stories about the arts? February 6, 2020Sustained by risk Through layers of memory, painter Kathy Liao tells stories of separationFrom deciding against a career in medicine to relocating to Kansas City, Kathy Liao’s road to a profession in art has not always been straightforward or easy. February 6, 2020Through layers of memory, painter Kathy Liao tells stories of separation