Narrator
"Throughout my journey, I’ve seen pain, suffering, misguidance, and neglect more times than I’d like to mention. But far and few between, I also saw how the human heart and spirit could patch up those cracks and make a person whole again. My education helped me be patient and learn how to read between the lines, but it was my poetic voice that gave people a medium to connect the dots inside themselves. I strongly believe that transformation starts with knowing one’s self, but enlightenment comes with carrying the torch for others, so that they too can find the light.
"New Mexico has such a unique sense of spirit, as we are branded the “Land of Enchantment” for a reason. You can only find it here, in our mountain air, the cleansing waters, and the healing dirt. Our people comprise a melting pot-fused with belief, wonder, and old traditions. Far Too often we are overlooked and yes, sometimes plagued without resources, but through the art of storytelling, and the strong connections we have to one another, perhaps we can find a means of cohesiveness, and craft the art of healing together.
"This project is dedicated to all those loved ones who were lost to their own shadows of darkness, and for those who are trying to find the courage to fight another day."
"I am a first generation high school/college graduate, and I pursued the science of Psychology at the University of New Mexico. I wanted to have a better understanding of human behavior. Why? Why, when we know what is right, do we go Left based on our emotion or circumstance? After slowly learning how to “fix” myself, I paved a career in social work and community service in hope to help others in THEIR struggles. I worked in hospitality to pay the bills and toiled in service organizations like ENLACE, PB&J Family Services, Sequoyah Adolescent Treatment Center, and Service Organization for Youth.
In her own words:
"Immersed in my own troubles in life at a young age, I wanted to understand myself and those around me. My curious nature and Scorpio being seemed to make me hypersensitive to energy and emotion, so I always thought of myself as a catalyst in my environment. But let me tell you, it took many trials and tribulations to learn how to channel that in a positive direction.
SARA TAPIA-TOMER
Jake was born in the small town of Raton and grew up on an organic farm in Northeastern New Mexico. His parents were teachers, mentors and lifelong educators who instilled in him a deep sense of service to others. Jake left New Mexico to pursue his education in Austin, Texas, then worked for many years in politics and public relations in Washington, D.C. He also spent one year in Los Angeles working in the entertainment industry, building social impact campaigns for documentaries, TV shows, and films. In 2019, Jake returned to the Land of Enchantment and founded a communications consulting firm, McCook Strategies, LLC and a production company, What's Good Video, LLC. He is passionate about using video storytelling to create social change.
Executive Producer
JAKE McCOOK,
PRODUCTION TEAM
NMCO Studio is an award-winning New Mexico-based creative team dedicated to telling impactful, community-driven stories.
Led by Producer & Director Tina Ballew, whose 18+ years of experience shape the studio's vision and narrative, the team brings together a strong blend of creative and technical expertise. NMCO's Director of Photography Aaron Walterscheid crafts cinematic visuals that ground each story in authenticity, while videographer and photographer Larenz White captures meaningful moments that connect. Production Assistant Phoebe Adame (not pictured) ensures seamless execution by managing the details that keep productions running smoothly.
Together, they operate as a cohesive unit, combining storytelling, cinematography, and production precision to work that highlights and elevates stories across New Mexico.
NMCO Studio,
Have you gone through the fire and made it to the other side? Do you know someone who has? Here's what we're looking for:
We're highlighting people who are living in, or who are originally from, New Mexico.
We care more about the person than the problem, and we want to highlight the triumph, not the trauma.
We're casting a wide net - some have shared stories about their family, relationships, job, or their personal struggles with mental health, addiction, or simply finding their place in life.
We're not looking to exploit, shame or embarrass anyone, and we won't use their story without their full partnership or permission.
