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John 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.

Immerse yourself in the world of media transformation as we reflect on the shift from physical media to digital streaming and cloud storage, revolutionizing broadcasting and data management. John and I share heartfelt personal stories, including my memorable road trip from San Francisco to Humboldt in a '73 Chevy Impala. This journey not only underlines the cultural transitions of moving but also shows the broader technological advancements that have influenced the media landscape and local access channels.

We also explore the magic of the Internet Archive, a treasure trove of digital history, and discuss how community media archiving has evolved amidst challenges like funding shifts and cable company consolidations. John opens up about a life-changing heart attack experience, underscoring the importance of pursuing passions and preserving history. Closing on a call to action, we invite our listeners to support invaluable resources like the Internet Archive and Access Humboldt, reinforcing the community spirit and appreciation for those dedicated to preserving our digital and cultural heritage.

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...