Shows
100% Humboldt#84. Capturing Humboldt: Jose Quesada's Journey Behind the LensSend us a textWhat does it mean to truly see a place? To capture its essence through a lens while maintaining the human connection behind the camera? In this heartfelt conversation with Jose Quesada, we explore the remarkable journey of Humboldt County's most dedicated visual documentarian.Born to Guatemalan parents (the first "gringo" in his family, as he likes to say), Jose's path led him from Catholic school in Southern California to hitchhiking across America at 19, eventually landing in Humboldt County where he spent his first night on a bench at College of the...2025-06-2352 min100% Humboldt#83. The Musical Life of Elle Penner: How Elle found her voice in Humboldt CountySend us a textFrom the scorching heat of Red Bluff to the cool, misty forests of Humboldt County, Elle Penner's life journey unfolds like a well-composed jazz standard—full of unexpected turns yet beautifully cohesive. As she sits across from Scott Hammond in her tie-dye dress shirt, Elle radiates the kind of authentic warmth that defines both her professional and artistic lives."I love that I get to work hard at things that I feel good about," Elle reflects, capturing the essence of her dual passions. By day, she serves as an adoption social wo...2025-06-1654 min100% Humboldt#82. Dr. Join Luh--Zapping Tumors & Breaking Barriers: A Doctor's TaleSend us a textThe journey from trailer park to radiation oncology doesn't follow a conventional path, but Dr. Join Luh's remarkable story proves that passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary destinations. Born in California but raised primarily in Galveston, Texas after his parents' separation, Dr. Luh shares how his early experiences—including watching his single mother work at a medical center while attending night school—sparked his interest in medicine.What follows is a fascinating exploration of medical evolution, as Dr. Luh takes us through his education at Texas A&M, his internal medi...2025-06-0956 min100% Humboldt#81. Mark Ritz: Grinding It Out: How a Coffee Roaster Found Home in HumboldtSend us a text"The people here are real," explains Mark Ritz when asked why he chose to make Humboldt County his home over two decades ago. This authenticity—coupled with breathtaking forests just a quarter-mile from his doorstep—reflects the heart of what keeps entrepreneurs like Mark deeply rooted in this community behind the Redwood Curtain.Mark's journey to becoming co-founder of Kinetic Coffee began at Yakima Products, where his expertise in the bicycle industry helped expand the company into new product categories. When Yakima relocated, Mark and his wife Charlie faced a pivotal deci...2025-06-021h 00100% Humboldt#80. Thomas Nicholson Stratton: Future of Humboldt Belongs to Those Who Dream BigSend us a textThomas Nicholson Stratton embodies the spirit of agricultural innovation in Humboldt County, transforming traditional farming into a showcase of collaborative community building. From his roots in Northeast Oregon to becoming an integral part of Humboldt's food landscape, Thomas shares the remarkable journey that led to Jersey Scoops, Nicholson Livestock, and the emerging Loleta Meat Co.The conversation flows through Thomas's formative years in Union, Oregon, where his 4-H background instilled values of service that now drive his business philosophy: "My head for clearer thinking, my heart for greater loyalty, my hands...2025-05-181h 00100% Humboldt#79. From Dairy Farm to Music Store: Anthony Mantova's Humboldt JourneySend us a textWhat happens when you mix musical passion, Italian cuisine, and small-town entrepreneurship? Anthony Mantova, co-owner of Mantova's Two Street Music in Old Town Eureka, embodies this unexpected blend as he shares his journey from dairy farm days to running one of Humboldt County's most beloved music stores.In this fascinating conversation, Anthony reveals how his family purchased Two Street Music in 2009, continuing a legacy that began in 1978 while bringing their own innovative approach to the business. From tearing down walls to create an open, welcoming space to an unexpected pandemic pivot...2025-05-041h 01100% Humboldt#78. Banking on Community: Fred Moore's Five-Generation Humboldt JourneySend us a textFred Moore embodies what it means to be "100% Humboldt." As the President and CEO of Coast Central Credit Union, Fred brings a unique perspective shaped by five generations of family history in the region. His father's 52-year political career—including 35 years as Humboldt County Clerk and 12 years as Mayor of Eureka—instilled in Fred a deep understanding of public service that continues to guide his leadership today.During this captivating conversation with Scott Hammond, Fred shares the distinction between politicians and true public servants: "A public servant has the ability to subl...2025-04-271h 00100% Humboldt#77. The Boys and Girls Club of the Redwoods: Transforming Youth Through MentorshipSend us a textMonica Rose has spent 23 years witnessing transformations at the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Redwoods, where every day, over 300 kids find more than just a safe space—they discover possibilities they might never have imagined otherwise. Alongside board president Jessie James, who was once a club member herself, they reveal the profound impact that consistent mentorship has on young lives in Humboldt County.What makes these clubs special? They actually listen to their kids. When youth express interest in a topic, programs evolve to meet their curiosity. From college tours th...2025-04-1359 min100% Humboldt#76. From Pizza Shop to Marathon Runner: How Pete Ciotti Reset His Life at 45Send us a textCould the best years of your life still be ahead of you? That's the question Pete Ciotti asked himself at age 45 after running several businesses, touring with a rock band, and starting a family. His answer led to a complete transformation that he's now sharing through what he calls "The Five Fs" - a framework for becoming an expansive human being.Pete takes us on his journey from serial entrepreneur (running Big Pete's Pizza for a decade and later managing the iconic Jambalaya venue) to his current landscaping business and budding...2025-04-081h 00100% Humboldt#75. Community, Coffee, and Cookies: How Berit Meyer Built a Humboldt County InstitutionSend us a textBerit Meyer never planned to become a baker. After graduating from Humboldt State with a wildlife management degree in 1981, she was set to explore Alaska's wilderness when a surprising proposition changed everything. A fellow restaurant worker approached her about joining forces with her former boss to open a new venture. That decision launched what would become one of Humboldt County's most beloved institutions: Ramones Bakery and Cafe.Over coffee and freshly baked goods, Berit shares the fascinating evolution of her business - from the original Opera Alley Cafe to their expansion...2025-03-231h 00100% Humboldt#74. From Theater to Film: Cassandra Hesseltine’s Journey in Humboldt CountySend us a textStep into the enchanting world where Hollywood meets the redwoods with Cassandra Hesseltine, the passionate force behind the Humboldt Del Norte Film Commission. This enlightening conversation reveals how a theater enthusiast with a heart for helping troubled youth transformed into the guardian of Northern California's cinematic legacy.Cassandra shares her remarkable journey from creating her own college degree in theater therapy to accidentally landing her dream job as Film Commissioner. With warmth and humor, she explains how this role perfectly merges her love for storytelling with her desire to strengthen her...2025-03-091h 00100% Humboldt#73. Griff Griffith's Journey: How One Man’s Journey is Saving Our ForestsSend us a textGriff Griffith's Journey: How One Man’s Journey is Saving Our Forests "Why did he go to jail? What shocking discovery did he make while cleaning up an illegal pot grow? And who is his best friend?Griff Griffith is a dynamic environmental educator, host of the Jumpstart Nature podcast, and the creative force behind Redwoods Rising’s social media. Once a troubled youth, Griff has transformed his past challenges into a powerful force for conservation.In this episode, we dive into his j...2025-03-021h 00100% Humboldt#72. John Woolley's Inspiring Journey: From Southern California Waves to Humboldt Community Leadership, Embracing Lifelong Learning and Celebrating Family LegaciesSend us a textEver wonder how a Southern California surfer finds himself in Humboldt, weaving through a life filled with family, community, and transformation? Meet John Woolley, my new best friend, whose fascinating journey intertwines personal milestones with cultural shifts. From his high school days spent riding the waves at Torrance and Redondo Beaches--John's tales offer a heartfelt glimpse into the chaos and love of local community. His life story is a vibrant tapestry of the 60s and 70s, filled with enduring friendships and a captivating blend of personal and societal evolution.John's passion...2025-02-2352 min100% Humboldt#71. Roger Macdonald's Educational Journey: From Marin to Humboldt, Embracing Community Spirit, Overcoming Challenges, and Celebrating Educational LeadershipSend us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Roger Macdonald, the superintendent of Northern Humboldt Union High School District, as he shares his inspiring journey from Southern Marin County to the heart of Humboldt. Learn about his commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for over 1,700 students and nearly 300 employees, and his reflections on how weather, community ties, and personal experiences have shaped his leadership approach. Roger's story, filled with family ties and transformative career transitions, offers a unique perspective on the vibrant life and deep-rooted connections within Humboldt County.Explore the spirit...2025-02-161h 00100% Humboldt#70. Yana Valachovic’s Conservation Journey: From Humboldt Roots to Community Collaboration, Embracing Environmental Stewardship and Building Resilient FuturesSend us a textUncover the secrets of successful community collaboration and conservation with our special guest, Yana Valachovic, a Humboldt local and director of a unique partnership program. Discover how her educational journey, from South Fork High School to the Evergreen State College and Oregon State University, paved the way for her role in fostering teamwork and community development. Jana's insights on programs like 4-H and the Master Gardener Program offer a glimpse into her commitment to education and environmental stewardship in the counties of Humboldt and Del Norte.Engage with the challenges of...2025-02-0900 min100% Humboldt#69. Paul Beatie's Musical Journey: Transforming Ferndale's Old Steeple, Embracing Cultural Legacy, and Celebrating Community Through Music and HistorySend us a textImagine transforming a historic building into a cultural gem; that's exactly what our guest Paul Beatie has accomplished with The Old Steeple in Ferndale. Join us in a mesmerizing conversation as Paul, a gifted guitarist and venue owner, takes us on a journey from his beginnings in Auburn, California, with his surf band the Pyronauts, to sharing the stage with the legendary Dick Dale. Marvel at the unique intersection of music, culture, and personal history that has shaped both his career and the enchanting atmosphere of his beloved venue.Picture a 120...2025-02-0258 min100% Humboldt#68. Hank Sims' Journalistic Journey: Shaping Humboldt's Media, Navigating Digital Challenges, and Celebrating Community NarrativesSend us a textThis episode features a vibrant conversation with Hank Sims, editor of the Lost Coast Outpost, discussing the nuances of local journalism in Humboldt County. The discussion covers the importance of community storytelling, the challenges facing local news platforms, and the need for supportive engagement from the audience. • Hank's journey from Willits to Humboldt County • The evolution and mission of the Lost Coast Outpost • Challenges of sustaining local journalism amid trolls and community dissatisfaction • The vital role of local news in fostering community connections • Insights on the future of journalism a...2025-01-2654 min100% Humboldt#67. Dale Warmuth's Automotive Journey: From Humboldt's Family Business to Community Service, Embracing Technological Shifts and Celebrating Local LegacySend us a textGet ready to meet Dale Warmuth from Leon's Car Care as we chat about everything from the much-anticipated crab season to the shifting gears of the automotive world. We kick things off with a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Eureka's crab feed fundraiser, setting the stage for a conversation about Dale's journey in the family-run business. Discover how the roles at Leon's Car Care are evolving with Lucas stepping into the office and Jim Frazier's retirement, as well as Dale's passion for dirt biking and his commitment to the Boys and Girls...2025-01-191h 00100% Humboldt#66. John Hauser's Archival Journey: From Humboldt's Public Access Roots to Digital Horizons, Preserving Heritage and Embracing Connectivity ChallengesSend us a textJohn Hauser, a digital media archivist with Access Humboldt, joins us to share his captivating journey and the evolution of media in the region. We walk through John's experiences from the early days of public access television to today's global reach through digital platforms. Listen as we discuss how Access Humboldt empowers local creators by providing essential tools and training, transforming their visions into reality. John also highlights the technological challenges Humboldt County has faced, from the absence of public Wi-Fi to overcoming connectivity issues with the Redwood Technology Consortium's efforts....2025-01-1859 min100% Humboldt#50. Unveiling Media Magic: Matt Knight on Access Humboldt's Evolution, Community Impact, and Rock LegendsSend us a textWhat if you could transform your local community through the power of media? Join us as we sit down with Matt Knight, the Training and Facilities Coordinator at Access Humboldt, to uncover the magic behind this incredible organization. Matt shares how Access Humboldt not only operates four TV channels and broadcasts public meetings but also provides top-notch media training and facilities for residents. We explore their recent move from Eureka High to the College of the Redwoods and new membership options that make media creation more accessible for everyone.Get an...2025-01-111h 00100% Humboldt#65. Carol Lang's Artistic Journey: From Humboldt County's Rich Heritage to Theater and Film Magic, Uncovering Community Spirit and Creative ResilienceSend us a textImagine a world where the rich tapestry of history and the vibrant pulse of the arts meet in harmonious celebration. That's the world our guest, Carol Lang, inhabits as she takes us on a journey through Humboldt County's past and present. With roots reaching back to her great-grandfather's time in the 1870s, Carol shares not only her family's legacy but her own adventures in theater and film. From humorous tales of her strict Catholic upbringing to the unpredictable world of performing arts, Carol’s experiences reveal the heart and soul of this unique co...2024-12-291h 00100% Humboldt#64. Melissa Sanderson's Journey: From Fortuna's Dairy Farm to Leading North Coast Journalism, Embracing Media Transitions, and Celebrating Humboldt's Community ConnectionsSend us a textWhat happens when a dairy farm girl from Fortuna grows up to become a dynamic force in community journalism? Join us as Melissa Sanderson, publisher and owner of the North Coast Journal, shares her captivating journey from her humble beginnings to her significant role in promoting local narratives. Melissa recounts her formative years in advertising at the Times-Standard and Tri-City Weekly, where she faced unfamiliar territories and learned the ropes of the industry. Her passion for her hometown of Humboldt County shines through as she navigates career transitions and embraces the challenges of...2024-12-221h 00100% Humboldt#63. Greg Gardiner's Inspiring Journey: From Marine Brotherhood to Publishing Success, Transforming Lives with Toys for Tots, and Celebrating Community Spirit in Humboldt CountySend us a textGreg Gardiner's journey from Illinois to Humboldt County is nothing short of inspiring. As a Marine Corps veteran and committed community member, Greg has poured his passion into making a difference through initiatives like Toys for Tots. In this episode, we explore Greg's life story—his career in publishing with "101 Things to Do," his deep-rooted sense of service, and the unbreakable bonds he shares with fellow Marines. We also get a glimpse into Greg's family life, with his children and grandchildren spread across Arizona, California, Nevada, and Pennsylvania, underscoring the love and dedication th...2024-12-1551 min100% Humboldt#62. Ross Creech-Desk Diving to Business Ventures: A Humboldt Earthquake, Motocross Dreams, and Humboldt's Community SpiritSend us a textJoining us to share his own unique journey is an inspiring guest Ross Creech who transitioned from the thrill of dirt bike racing in Eureka to a promising business career in Sacramento. His story is one of passion meeting practicality, with stops at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and corporate gigs in Los Angeles and Santa Maria. We explore how he balanced his motocross dreams with education and career aspirations, offering insights into making bold but thoughtful life choices.California living gets a vibrant showcase, from charming Arroyo Grande to...2024-12-0858 min100% Humboldt#61. Chris Mikkelsen's Leadership Journey: From Humboldt's Mischievous Past to Harbor Transformation, Community Collaboration, and Renewable FuturesSend us a textChris Mikkelsen, the CEO of the Humboldt Bay Harbor Recreation and Conservation District, joins us to share his journey from a mischievous childhood in Humboldt County to leading regional transformation initiatives. Raised in a Roman Catholic Italian family, Chris recounts tales of firecrackers, Hot Wheels, and dreams of basketball glory, painting a vivid picture of his upbringing and early career. His passion for Volkswagens, sparked at Redwood Motors, eventually led him to the Harbor District, where he steps into the shoes of his mentor, Alan Boblot, and embraces a leadership style rooted in...2024-11-2351 min100% Humboldt#60. Michelle Bushnell's Resilient Path: From Southern Humboldt's Ranch Roots to Community Leadership, Economic Challenges, and Embracing ChangeSend us a textMichelle Bushnell, a resilient figure from Southern Humboldt, shares her remarkable life journey with us, from being raised on a cattle ranch to overcoming significant personal challenges. Her story is a testament to resilience, covering her roles at the Southern Humboldt Hospital, as a school bus driver, and a store owner in Garberville. Michelle's transition from the private sector to government service as a county supervisor showcases her commitment to her community, driven by her empathetic approach and personal experiences. Despite initial hurdles, she has successfully become a guiding force, demonstrating her dedication...2024-11-171h 00