The First Endeavor Videocast
The first endeavOR videocast featured an engaging introduction to James Glover, co-founder of endeavOR, with Davin Lopez—an endeavOR board member—serving as host. In this premiere episode, Mr. Glover shared his personal outdoor experience participating in a thrilling mountain bike race held in the rugged terrain of Moab, Utah. He highlighted the breathtaking landscapes and the spirit of adventure that both Utah and New Mexico offer, underscoring the region’s potential as a hub for outdoor recreation and industry. Becoming more than just a competition, Glover recounted several inspiring stories of fellow riders who had turned to the outdoors as a means of improving their health, mental well-being, and overall life outlook. These stories illustrated how outdoor activities can go beyond recreation, serving as a catalyst for personal transformation and resilience.
As James Glover discussed, the development of New Mexico as a hub for outdoor recreation begins with a dual focus: enhancing the quality of outdoor experiences and fostering long-term career opportunities within the industry. Glover points out that New Mexico is uniquely positioned to accommodate and sustain this expansion, thanks to its diverse landscapes and growing interest in outdoor lifestyles. The conversation then shifts to the importance of building up the state’s resources—not only to attract outdoor enthusiasts but also to strengthen the business ecosystem that surrounds recreation. A mentioned Kickstarter project was Artic Fox Trekking Paws created by Preservation Dogs. This project is New Mexico based and supports an environment friendly and fun product for outdoor enthusiast.
Advancing this agenda, Glover has initiated partnerships such as the Outdoor Recreation Meet-ups in Santa Fe. These gatherings aim to connect individuals and organizations involved in outdoor industries with the tools, networks, and funding they need to succeed. Glover also highlights one of New Mexico’s strategic advantages, its proximity to national laboratories in the northern region. These institutions offer advancement in knowledge and technology that could significantly contribute to the development of innovative outdoor products and services. Glover concludes by sharing his broader vision for endeavOR, an initiative aimed at bringing together people, businesses, and stakeholders from various backgrounds. His goal is to form a collaborative force capable of driving the outdoor economy forward and positioning New Mexico as not only a destination for adventure but also a leader in recreation innovation and opportunity.
As New Mexico’s first outdoor recreation business alliance, endeavOR is committed to advancing the state’s growing outdoor industry by supporting the success and sustainability of outdoor recreation (OR) businesses and organizations. Through advocacy, collaboration, and resource-sharing, endeavOR aims to strengthen the outdoor economy, foster innovation, and elevate the voices of entrepreneurs and leaders who are shaping the future of outdoor recreation in New Mexico. To learn more about their mission, programs, and how to get involved, check out our website or reach out via email at director@endeavorNM.org and stay tuned for future videocasts.