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

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