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This 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 and audience engagement

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...