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What 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 a rapidly changing media landscape.

Our conversation takes a delightful turn as we explore the quirky dynamics of working in radio station management and the surprising opportunities that arose from strong professional relationships. Melissa offers an insider look at the integral role of print media and its unique ability to foster community connections, even in a digital age. From the origins of the North Coast Journal to the pivotal influence of individuals like Jennifer Fumiko Cahill, we ponder the importance of integrity and relationships in shaping a successful career while celebrating the resilience of print media amidst digital disruptions.

Reflecting on the charm and eccentricities of Humboldt County, we ramble through tales of Eureka's Christmas tree, earthquake rendezvous points, and the significance of originality in community development. The episode wraps up with a vibrant discussion on media promotion, highlighting Scott Hammond's "100% Humboldt" project, and a heartfelt invitation for listeners to engage with us on social media. With gratitude and anticipation for future conversations, we celebrate the spirit of Humboldt and its enduring impact on journalism and community life.

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...