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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."

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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%!

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