Businesses are often judged by a single metric, profitability. While financial success is essential, many leaders recognize that true success extends beyond short-term gains. Conscious capitalism provides a more sustainable approach, fostering long-term success by creating value for businesses, employees, customers, and the communities they serve. 

John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods Market, helped shape this philosophy in Conscious Capitalism: Liberating the Heroic Spirit of Business. He challenges businesses to look beyond financial statements and focuses on ethical, purpose-driven leadership; one that benefits all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the environment, without compromising financial success. 
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At the core of conscious capitalism is the pursuit of win-win solutions, where success is measured in the strength of relationships across the entire business ecosystem. A thriving business depends on every connection, from suppliers and distributors to employees and customers. A truly sustainable business recognizes that respect, fairness, and integrity must extend to every stakeholder. 

For conscious capitalism to work, leadership matters. Conscious leaders practice servant leadership, putting employees, customers, and the community at the center of decision-making. When leaders embrace a conscious culture, they build teams based on trust and collaboration. Conscious culture within an organization fosters a sense of shared purpose and belonging. Employees become more engaged, customers become more loyal, and businesses become more resilient. 

Durango’s business community is uniquely positioned to embrace these principles. As a mountain town with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, we understand the balance between growth and sustainability. When businesses invest in the well-being of their employees, customers, and the community, they not only build goodwill, but they also build long-term success. 

Examples of conscious capitalism are abundant in our community, where businesses prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term profits. Desert Sun Coffee exemplifies this commitment by ethically sourcing its beans, ensuring fair wages and empowering the coffee-growing communities they work with. Star Liquor, in collaboration with the Durango Police Department, took a proactive stance on community well-being by discontinuing the sale of mini liquor bottles, reducing litter, public intoxication, and drunk driving. Alpine Bank integrates community-giving into everyday banking, donating a dime to local nonprofits every time a customer uses their Loyalty Debit Card.

The Durango Chamber plays a vital role in strengthening our local economy by sharing best practices and showcasing models of success. By amplifying the voices of conscious leaders and encouraging businesses to consider their broader impact, we can foster a business environment where both people and profits thrive. ​

As the new CEO of the Durango Chamber of Commerce, I am thrilled to be a part of this incredible community of business leaders and entrepreneurs. Durango has a dynamic business environment, and I’m eager to support our members in embracing new opportunities and helping them meet their business goals. 

One area that has a lot of potential to benefit businesses is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The buzz around AI is more than just hype—it's an opportunity for organizations to become more efficient and competitive. While AI can seem like a tool for big corporations, it’s increasingly accessible to businesses of all sizes. AI offers practical ways to create efficiencies, improve customer service, and streamline operations, freeing up time and resources.

Durango’s businesses and non-profits should explore how AI can enhance their operations, whether it's improving customer service through chatbots, boosting marketing strategies, or streamlining logistics. There are plenty of opportunities to tap into AI’s potential to help solve everyday challenges. With AI, routine tasks like scheduling, inventory management, and data analysis can be automated. This means business owners and organizational leaders can shift their focus to growth and innovation instead of getting bogged down in repetitive tasks.

Another game-changing aspect of AI is how it supports the early stages of drafting emails, reports, or any business communication. These tools can help brainstorm ideas, suggest tweaks, and even create first drafts, making it easier for organizational leaders to produce high-quality content while really cutting down on the time needed for creation.

Fort Lewis College and the La Plata Economic Development Alliance are hosting the Four Corners AI Conference on December 6th which will feature a comprehensive overview of how AI can be utilized, enhance industry operations, improve decision making, and drive innovation. Find more information by visiting the Chamber’s Events Calendar at DurangoBusiness.org.

AI isn’t slowing down; it’s moving forward with the promise of even bigger and better advancements. Now’s the time for Durango’s business community to embrace this technology, and not get left behind. Thanks to Fort Lewis College for leading the AI conversation in our community.

Coming up on Aug 14, is a one-day conference led by esteemed employment law attorney Michael Santo and his team of lawyers. This event is an invaluable opportunity for small business owners and managers to gain critical insights into current employment laws, compliance strategies and solutions to common HR challenges. 
For small businesses, especially with limited resources, navigating the complexities of employment law can be daunting and time consuming.  Keeping up-to-date with continuously changing regulations is essential to ensuring a fair and compliant workplace environment and avoiding costly legal disputes. 

We invite you to attend this conference at the Fort Lewis College Student Union Ballroom. Michael and his team will cover a range of topics, including recent changes in employment legislation and compliance strategies. They will share their extensive experience and expertise, providing clear, actionable advice to help you stay ahead of the curve. 

This event also offers an opportunity to network with fellow small business owners and industry professionals. Sharing experiences and solutions with peers can provide new perspectives and innovative ideas for managing your business more effectively. 

Thank you to the Law Firm of Bechtel & Santo, the Leavitt Group, and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for sponsoring the conference. This event is just one example of how the Durango Chamber provides resources to support the area’s business community and why I love working here.  

To register for this conference or for more information about the Chamber, our activities and events, visit DurangoBusiness.org.

by Jack Llewellyn, CEO of Durango Chamber of Commerce

This is one of the most emotional and difficult articles that I have written as I step down as the Durango Chamber of Commerce CEO.  After a little over 17 incredible years of service, this decision was not made lightly. But after a lot of reflection, sleepless nights, and consideration, I feel it is the right time for me to pursue new opportunities and for the Chamber to begin a new chapter under new leadership.

First, I want to thank the amazing staff at the Chamber and those who have worked here in the past. Thank you to our current staff, Kim Oyler, Jennifer Dickens, and Madison Anderson-Oles your continued commitment to our members and the community will thrive. I know your knowledge and enthusiasm will continue to support economic growth and innovation for the interest of our members and the extended business community. I know you will provide all the necessary resources, connections, and advocacy to foster a thriving business environment. Thank you to the past and especially the current board of directors. You have helped guide the Chamber through good and difficult times. Thank you to all the members, your support has allowed the Chamber to provide programs, events, and so much more as we strive to grow our businesses and economy.

Throughout my tenure, I have witnessed the resilience, ingenuity and passion that helped to define the Durango Chamber. From the 2008 economic downturn to the 416 Fire, to the Gold King Mine spill, and of course the pandemic, it has been an honor to work with such amazing and talented individuals.

When my chamber colleagues ask, “How does Durango do it, you have so much happening in your town?” The answer is simple, it’s the people. Durango is fortunate to have incredibly dedicated individuals who are deeply passionate about a variety of causes. This passion drives them to find solutions and make things happen.  Add in our numerous amenities – businesses, outdoor activities, mountains, the Animas River, Fort Lewis College, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, art galleries, and our downtown – the list goes on.  When all these elements come together, we truly have a unique and exceptional community.

This is why I am staying in Durango; I’ll be the GM for Hutton Broadcasting serving the Four Corners. Please know that my commitment to our community remains unwavering, and I look forward to finding new ways to contribute to our shared success in the future.
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I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you for your friendship, support, passion, and dedication over the years. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the Durango Chamber of Commerce CEO and I will cherish the memories and relationships I’ve made during my time at the Chamber. I look forward to seeing you at upcoming chamber events wearing a different hat.