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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.

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!

Send us a text

Griff Griffith's Journey: How One Man’s Journey is Saving Our Forests

"Why did he go to jail? What shocking discovery did he make while cleaning up an illegal pot grow? And who is his best friend?

Griff Griffith is a dynamic environmental educator, host of the Jumpstart Nature podcast, and the creative force behind Redwoods Rising’s social media. Once a troubled youth, Griff has transformed his past challenges into a powerful force for conservation.

In this episode, we dive into his journey—how he went from navigating personal struggles to advocating for and educating about one of the largest ecological restoration efforts in the U.S. Griff shares the importance of planting native species, not just for beauty, but for restoring ecosystems and supporting wildlife. With engaging stories and real-world takeaways, he inspires listeners to take action, whether in their own backyards or through larger conservation efforts.

Curious about how you can make a difference? Tune in for an insightful, lively conversation that just might change the way you see the natural world. Follow Griff and his work at GriffGriffith.info.

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!

--

Griff Griffith

Site: https://griffgriffith.info/

Email: NorCalGriffith@gmail.com

Podcast: https://jumpstartnature.com/

Meta: https://www.facebook.com/GriffWild

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@griffWild

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GriffGriffith

Redwoods Rising TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@redwoodsrising

Redwoods Rising Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RedwoodsRising

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!

Send us a text

Ever wonder how a Southern California surfer finds himself in Humboldt, weaving through a life filled with family, community, and transformation? Meet John Woolley, my new best friend, whose fascinating journey intertwines personal milestones with cultural shifts. From his high school days spent riding the waves at Torrance and Redondo Beaches--John's tales offer a heartfelt glimpse into the chaos and love of local community. His life story is a vibrant tapestry of the 60s and 70s, filled with enduring friendships and a captivating blend of personal and societal evolution.

John's passion for community development shines as he recounts his transition from studying fisheries to political science, driven by a belief that managing resources is about managing people. John's role in founding Youth Educational Services and an experimental college at Humboldt highlights his commitment to innovative education and community engagement.

We explore the exhilarating joys of lifelong learning through stories of senior sports leagues and the unique challenges faced as a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War era draft. His experiences speak to the importance of embracing change and staying active, regardless of age.

Our conversation takes a closer look at John's influential presence in Humboldt's community development, celebrating projects that reshaped the region's economic landscape. From the $17 million revitalization of the Carson Block Building to the grassroots efforts behind the Humboldt Area Foundation, John's impact is undeniable. The discussion wraps up with a nod to the culinary delights of Humboldt, from favorite local eateries to cherished coffee spots, ensuring our listeners leave with a smile and a sense of connection to both the land and its people. Join us for an enlightening hour with John, as we explore the intersection of personal passion and community legacy.

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!

Send us a text

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Roger Macdonald, the superintendent of Northern Humboldt Union High School District, as he shares his inspiring journey from Southern Marin County to the heart of Humboldt. Learn about his commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for over 1,700 students and nearly 300 employees, and his reflections on how weather, community ties, and personal experiences have shaped his leadership approach. Roger's story, filled with family ties and transformative career transitions, offers a unique perspective on the vibrant life and deep-rooted connections within Humboldt County.

Explore the spirit of community that defines Northern Humboldt, from the triumphs of Arcata High's football team to the enduring legacy of track coach James Washington. We celebrate the unsung heroes and beloved figures like Tiki Romanini and the DeLashmit family, whose contributions have left a lasting impact. Our conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities facing the county, with insights from community leader Mary Keene about innovative initiatives like the We Are Up Ranch project, designed to empower students with disabilities and strengthen community bonds.

Discover how the educational community has adapted in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating uncertainties and embracing new instructional methods. Roger discusses the rise of charter schools and the evolving roles of educational leaders, all while balancing professional duties with personal well-being. Through stories of collaboration, resilience, and dedication, this episode highlights the importance of community engagement and the ongoing efforts to support and uplift the diverse landscape of Humboldt County.

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!

Send us a text

Uncover the secrets of successful community collaboration and conservation with our special guest, Yana Valachovic, a Humboldt local and director of a unique partnership program. Discover how her educational journey, from South Fork High School to the Evergreen State College and Oregon State University, paved the way for her role in fostering teamwork and community development. Jana's insights on programs like 4-H and the Master Gardener Program offer a glimpse into her commitment to education and environmental stewardship in the counties of Humboldt and Del Norte.

Engage with the challenges of forest health management and the evolving conservation movement as we explore the fascinating intersection of science, education, and community needs. From combating invasive plant pathogens like sudden oak death to streamlining the California Forest Practice Act, we address the complex role of Extension work in empowering landowners and protecting public trust resources. Our conversation also highlights the importance of community dialogue in shaping environmental policies, emphasizing the limitations of structured processes and the potential of design charrettes for inclusive public engagement.

Join us in a thought-provoking discussion on building resilience through the lens of fire management and biophilia. Learn from Yana’s experiences with wildfires in California and explore practical insights for homeowners on fire adaptation and preparedness. We delve into the emerging need for specialized professionals in real estate and the role of community engagement in addressing climate change challenges. This episode promises to equip you with a deeper understanding of how to protect and enhance ecological and community resilience in a rapidly changing world.

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!

Send us a text

Imagine transforming a historic building into a cultural gem; that's exactly what our guest Paul Beatie has accomplished with The Old Steeple in Ferndale. Join us in a mesmerizing conversation as Paul, a gifted guitarist and venue owner, takes us on a journey from his beginnings in Auburn, California, with his surf band the Pyronauts, to sharing the stage with the legendary Dick Dale. Marvel at the unique intersection of music, culture, and personal history that has shaped both his career and the enchanting atmosphere of his beloved venue.

Picture a 120-year-old venue with stained glass windows and a tin roof, where acoustics create a magical experience for performers and audiences alike. Paul reveals the touching father-son dynamics that played a role in reviving this historic space, recounting its evolution from a vacation-like home to a bustling events hub. Dive into stories of hosting legendary musicians like Gene Parsons and bask in the spiritual and inviting ambiance that makes The Old Steeple a cherished community treasure.

But wait, there's more—attic adventures with barn owls and the art of concert promotion come alive through Paul's anecdotes. We explore the vibrant tales of music and art, and the importance of fostering strong relationships in the industry. Revel in the allure of upcoming performances, including a mini-tour featuring the Starhoppers and a unique mix of genres from bluegrass to Tuvan throat singing. This episode is packed with insights, memories, and the enduring charm that music brings to life.

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!

Send us a text

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

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!

Send us a text

Get ready to meet Dale Warmuth from Leon's Car Care as we chat about everything from the much-anticipated crab season to the shifting gears of the automotive world. We kick things off with a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Eureka's crab feed fundraiser, setting the stage for a conversation about Dale's journey in the family-run business. Discover how the roles at Leon's Car Care are evolving with Lucas stepping into the office and Jim Frazier's retirement, as well as Dale's passion for dirt biking and his commitment to the Boys and Girls Club of the Redwoods.

Join us for a nostalgic trip through Dale's life as a lifelong Humboldt resident. From Worthington Elementary to Eureka High, Dale shares memories of strong community ties and the educators who left a lasting impact. Our discussion shifts gears to the future of the automotive industry, focusing on technological advancements like digital vehicle inspections and ADAS systems. Through humorous anecdotes and insightful reflections, we explore customer service excellence in a small business and the broader implications of technology on safety and insurance costs.

As we wrap up, we look at the promising job opportunities brought by the wind power grid and fish farms in Humboldt. We delve into local service projects by the Rotary Club, such as Jefferson Community School and Coats for the Cold, emphasizing the power of collective action. We also reminisce about the iconic eateries and businesses that have shaped Northern California, celebrating the vibrant commercial and cultural landscape of Eureka. Tune in for a heartfelt journey through community, innovation, and nostalgia—a love letter to the place Dale and many others call home.

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!