100% Humboldt

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From 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 worker, helping families navigate the complex emotional terrain of welcoming new members and honoring each person's unique story. This fulfilling career emerged from her undergraduate fascination with refugee communities and international relations at UC San Diego, where she spent weekends helping families from Burundi acclimate to American life.

The musical countermelody to Elle's social work began in childhood, harmonizing with her siblings Devin and Brianna in what she jokingly calls their "Von Trapp family band." Though this musical thread temporarily faded into the background during her college years and early career, it reemerged magnificently when her brother moved to Humboldt for graduate school. Through a serendipitous "momager moment" at a local gym, the Penner siblings connected with Zach Zwerdling, who recognized their exceptional talent and helped launch several musical projects.

Now fronting the jazz ensemble Young and Lovely, Elle brings both classic standards and reimagined contemporary hits to venues throughout the county. Whether performing at Fieldbrook Winery, the Botanical Gardens, or the upcoming Jersey Scoops Lolita Block Party, her mesmerizing vocals create spaces where community members connect through music. Additionally, her work with Humboldt Musicians for Peace demonstrates her commitment to using art as a vehicle for positive social change.

When asked what she hopes to be remembered for, Elle's answer speaks volumes: "That Elle got us thinking about how we treat anyone we meet." This simple yet profound aspiration underlies everything she does—creating spaces where families feel supported through life's transitions and where audiences experience the transformative power of music. Subscribe now to hear our full conversation with one of Humboldt County's most captivating voices, both on and off the stage.

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About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

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The 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 medicine training, and ultimately his discovery of radiation oncology. He vividly describes the technological transformation of cancer treatment—from the days of drawing treatment fields on X-ray films with wax pencils to today's sophisticated AI-assisted planning systems that allow for precise "dose painting" of radiation. This technological revolution has fundamentally changed patient outcomes by enabling higher tumor doses without damaging surrounding healthy tissues.

Beyond the medicine, Dr. Luh offers a compelling perspective on practicing in rural Humboldt County, where he's built a life and career spanning nearly two decades. He challenges common misconceptions about rural healthcare, noting that Humboldt had advanced technology like IMRT and PET-CT scanning before some university medical centers. His enthusiasm for the region's extraordinary quality of life—where one can "go fishing, play golf, go surfing, and mountain bike all in one day"—makes a powerful case for rural medicine as not just a career choice, but a lifestyle upgrade.

Considering a move to somewhere with cleaner air, less traffic, and world-class natural beauty? Dr. Luh's story might just convince you that sometimes the most rewarding professional opportunities are found outside major metropolitan areas. Listen now to discover how this radiation oncologist found his perfect match in California's spectacular North Coast.

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About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

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"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 decision. Looking to their passions—bikes, coffee, and wine—they landed on coffee, recognizing the perfect overlap between outdoor enthusiasts and caffeine lovers. "Bike rides start at coffee shops, stop at coffee shops, and finish at coffee shops," Mark explains with a knowing smile.

Since 2005, Kinetic Coffee has been serving certified organic beans throughout Humboldt County, a commitment Mark feels strongly about given conventional coffee's status as "one of the most sprayed products we drink or eat." Beyond building a successful business, Mark and Charlie have immersed themselves in community service, working as advisors for the Small Business Development Center and with the Arcata Chamber of Commerce.

The most poignant part of our conversation centered on the Kevin Ebbert Foundation, established to honor Charlie's son—a talented musician and mathematician who became a Navy SEAL medic, saving numerous lives in combat before tragically losing his own. The foundation now supports local organizations through an annual golf tournament, continuing Kevin's legacy of service and sacrifice. Mark shared the touching news that SEAL Team 4 recently created an award in Kevin's name, voted on by fellow SEALs—a testament to his lasting impact.

As we wrapped up our conversation overlooking the soon-to-be-completed bay trail connecting Arcata and Eureka, Mark reflected on what he hopes his legacy will be: "I just hope people remember me as someone true to his values, who's done everything he can to leave the world better than he found it."

Looking to support local? Find Kinetic Coffee at markets throughout Humboldt or visit their website. Want to make a difference? Consider participating in or donating to the Kevin Ebbert Foundation's golf tournament on August 8th at Baywood.

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

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Thomas 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 for larger service, and my health for better living." After falling in love with Humboldt and joining a dairy family, he's now managing nearly 1,000 acres with ten employees across multiple enterprises.

What makes Thomas's approach revolutionary is his focus on soil health as the foundation for community wellbeing: "When we focus on the community below the ground, we're able to impact the community above the ground in a greater way." This philosophy extends to Jersey Scoops, where they transform their dairy's milk into premium ice cream featuring collaborations with local producers like Patch's Pastries, Shake Fork Farm, Fogline Coffee, and soon Dick Taylor Chocolate.

Beyond business, Thomas is helping revitalize the town of Loleta by restoring the historic Meat Market building and positioning the community as a future gateway for the Great Redwood Trail. His involvement with Leadership Redwood Coast and initiatives like Redwood Region Rise demonstrates his commitment to addressing regional challenges through collaboration rather than competition.

The conversation tackles complex issues facing Humboldt County—housing, healthcare, economic development—with Thomas advocating for solutions that emerge from listening to those directly experiencing challenges. His vision includes creating processing infrastructure for everything from meat to textiles to seaweed emulsifiers, keeping economic value within the community.

Join us for this inspiring discussion about community-centered business, sustainability, and how focusing on others creates prosperity for all. Listen now to discover why Thomas hopes to be remembered as "someone who put others first, a servant leader who supported others in creating what they want to accomplish for the better."

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

Send us Fan Mail

What 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 that introduced Italian foods sharing the family name, Anthony's story exemplifies the creativity required to thrive in a rural economy.

The conversation takes surprising turns as Anthony shares his family's deep Humboldt roots dating back to Prohibition-era challenges, his educational journey to the Midwest, and political work that included collaborating with figures like James O'Keefe. His pragmatic yet compassionate approach to local challenges—particularly homelessness—stems from years of frontline experience in Old Town Eureka, where he's developed practical strategies now compiled in a book for fellow merchants.

What truly shines through is Anthony's unshakable belief in economic resilience through diversification. His personal goal of developing 1,000 different income streams and his refreshing perspective on Humboldt's boom-and-bust cycles offer valuable wisdom for anyone navigating uncertain economic waters. For music lovers, entrepreneurs, or anyone fascinated by the creative ways local businesses adapt and thrive, this episode delivers inspiration, practical insights, and a deep appreciation for the persistent spirit that keeps Humboldt's unique business community alive.

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About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

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Fred 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 sublimate or set aside their own best interest for the will of the majority, for the will of their constituency." This philosophy has served as his north star throughout a remarkable career journey from staff accountant to credit union leader.

Fred's banking trajectory took him from Bean, Stanhope, Story, Wagner, McCauley to Humboldt Bank, where mentor Ted Mason advised him to "make yourself invaluable to your coworker and your supervisor." This guidance helped propel Fred through various roles before he joined John Dalby in founding Redwood Capital Bank—"a chance of a lifetime to be part of a team starting a bank in your own hometown." Now at Coast Central Credit Union, he oversees a $2.2 billion institution that handles 40% of deposits across three counties and funds one of every two local car loans.

Beyond banking, Fred reveals his entrepreneurial side through Humboldt Craft Spirits, which he founded with his wife Jackie, and reflects on the region's rich culinary history through beloved restaurants like Parlato's, and Angelina Inn. Throughout the conversation, his genuine appreciation for Humboldt County—especially its people, natural beauty, and resilient spirit—shines through. As Coast Central celebrates its 75th anniversary while giving back $650,000 annually to the community, Fred's leadership embodies the credit union philosophy of "people helping people."

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

Send us Fan Mail

Monica 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 that visit six campuses to hands-on job preparation in the Teen Lounge, the clubs create pathways to futures that might otherwise seem unattainable. For some children living with poverty or unstable housing, the club provides food to take home each night, computer access for schoolwork, and a sense of belonging that transcends socioeconomic barriers.

The heartbeat of the organization is its volunteer network. Take Jerry Nelsen, who started volunteering 12 years ago running Jeopardy games. Once the club's executive director 50 years ago, he now donates over $500 weekly in prizes and treats that have kids chanting his name when he arrives. These intergenerational connections form the foundation of the clubs' success.

With locations in Eureka and McKinleyville, and programs like Teen Court that provide alternatives to traditional juvenile justice, the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Redwoods exemplifies community in action. Though they charge only $35 annually for membership (while the actual cost exceeds $1,000 per child), their impact is priceless. Want to help? Visit bgcredwoods.org, attend their May 10th "Boots and Bling" fundraiser, or simply stop by to see firsthand how mentorship makes all the difference.

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

Send us Fan Mail

Could 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 coaching career. But the heart of our conversation explores how Pete's spontaneous decision to wake up at 5AM and go to the gym snowballed into a life-altering routine that led him to ultramarathon running, sobriety, and a rekindled faith.

With refreshing candor, Pete breaks down each component of his Five Fs framework - Family, Friendship, Faith, Fitness, and Finance - explaining how strengthening these five areas leads to what he calls the Four Gs: Gratitude, Grace, Grit, and God. His insights on forgiveness (particularly self-forgiveness) and replacing negative influences with positive ones offer practical wisdom for anyone feeling stuck.

As a father of four children (ranging from a high school senior to a newborn), Pete shares how prioritizing family relationships through consistent communication creates the foundation for everything else. His perspective on viewing wealth as "richness of life" rather than material possessions challenges conventional definitions of success.

Whether you're facing a mid-life reset or simply looking for a more purposeful approach to daily living, Pete's framework provides a refreshingly straightforward blueprint anyone can follow. The question now is: are you ready to become an expansive human?

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

Send us Fan Mail

Berit 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 into five thriving locations across Humboldt County. The name "Ramones" came not from the punk rock band but from a local street character, chosen to evoke an international feel for their "international cuisine with a California twist." What began as a simple cafe transformed when they started baking their own bread rather than sourcing it from San Francisco via Greyhound bus, and later when they began roasting their own coffee beans - a move Berit identifies as the true turning point for profitability.

Between stories of chocolate cake recipes and artisan bread development, Berit reveals her parallel passion for endurance horseback riding, competing in grueling 100-mile races across challenging terrain. This connection to Humboldt's natural beauty resonates throughout our conversation, as she expresses deep appreciation for the county's green spaces, trails, and beaches that provide balance to her entrepreneurial life.

While sampling the day's offerings - including gluten-free double chocolate walnut cookies and innovative cheddar jalapeño scones - Berit reflects on what makes Humboldt's food scene special. She celebrates fellow local producers like Dick Taylor Chocolate, Larrupin sauces, and Tofu Shop, acknowledging the unique ecosystem that allows passionate food entrepreneurs to thrive here without big-city pressures.

As we wrap up, Berit shares exciting news about a recently purchased building at 7th and E in Eureka, where her daughter plans to join the family business. Forty-four years after choosing baking over wildlife management, her greatest pride comes from creating spaces where community connections flourish and where thousands of employees have launched their own working lives.

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!

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Step 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 community. The economic ripple effect is undeniable—every dollar spent by production companies generates nearly three dollars circulating through the local economy before departing.

Did you know the iconic Ewok scenes from Return of the Jedi were filmed exclusively in Humboldt and Del Norte counties? This Star Wars connection inspired the annual Forest Moon Festival, where fans can walk the same forest paths where speeder bikes once raced. Cassandra's creativity doesn't stop there—she's developed a film location app, established a Museum of Cinema showcasing movie props, and hosts a glamorous Oscar night celebration that honors local film contributors.

Beyond the economic impact, Cassandra reveals the profound joy of bringing cinematic magic to her community. Whether it's Leonardo DiCaprio running down an Arcata on-ramp in a bathrobe or Stormtroopers posing with redwoods, these moments create lasting memories while putting Humboldt County firmly on Hollywood's radar.

Ready to explore the surprising film history of Northern California? Download the Redwood Coast Film Experience app and discover where ET, Jurassic Park, and countless other productions captured the region's natural splendor. The redwoods are calling—and they have quite a story to tell.

Support the show

About 100% Humboldt with Scott Hammond

Humboldt County CA USA is the home of some of the most iconoclastic, genuine, and interesting folks in the world.

We are getting curious about the movers, shakers, and difference makers in Humboldt County CA-Home of the giant redwoods, 6 Rivers, and the vast Pacific Ocean.

We will discover what makes people live/evolve in the beautiful, diverse, isolated, and ever-changing North Coast of California 100%!

Listen in and learn what it is to be 100% Humboldt! 

Find us on You Tube, Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, and Tik Tok!