Send us a text

Greg 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 that fuel his work.

The heartwarming tales of generosity from the Toys for Tots program in Humboldt County are bound to touch your soul. Discover how a small effort blossomed into a massive community project, serving nearly 11,000 kids annually, thanks to the unwavering support from local businesses and volunteers. Listen as we recount moving stories of individuals who go out of their way to help others, even when they themselves are in need. The efforts of organizations like Blue Lake Casino and Rancheria, alongside numerous volunteers, ensure that each child receives a gift, highlighting the true spirit of giving during the holidays.

Join us in celebrating the joy of giving, as we share stories of Santa Claus delivering customized toys to children with disabilities and the logistics behind distributing toys to remote areas. Greg shares insights into the meticulous planning and year-round efforts required to make the toy drive a success. These initiatives not only bring cheer to children but also create a lasting legacy of community service in Humboldt County. We invite you to be part of this incredible journey and experience the fulfillment that comes from bringing smiles to children during the holiday season.

Ever wonder how a high school dropout becomes a leading voice in local journalism? Meet Hank Sims, the editor of the Lost Coast Outpost, who takes us through his transformative journey from the alternative print scene of Mendocino County to shaping the media landscape in Humboldt County. We kick things off with lighthearted dad jokes and musings about the unpredictable weather before diving into Hank’s fascinating backstory, including his diverse educational path through Humboldt State, San Francisco State, and UC Berkeley. Along the way, Hank shares personal stories about raising a family in Humboldt and why this vibrant region captured his heart.

As the conversation unfolds, Hank provides an insider's look at the Lost Coast Outpost, a digital newspaper that's become indispensable to the community. He reveals how it all started with just a computer and a server and evolved into a media powerhouse integrated with local radio stations. Tackling the challenges and opportunities of digital journalism, Hank emphasizes the Outpost’s mission to document the daily life of Humboldt County and maintain journalistic integrity in an era dominated by social media giants. With tales of internet trolls and the struggle for meaningful engagement, Hank underscores the crucial role of local journalism in preserving community narratives.

From dining gems and local culture to the broader challenges of promoting Humboldt amidst a changing economic landscape, our discu...