California Now Podcast

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with three San Francisco insiders and uncovers some great ways to experience the City by the Bay. First, Johnson speaks with Josh Armel, owner of the Painted Ladies Tour Company. Armel discusses the city’s rich past and the unique advantages of touring San Francisco’s historic neighborhoods in vintage Volkswagen buses. Each of the lovingly restored vehicles have their own personality, not to mention eyelashes that adorn their headlights. Next, Johnson learns how to plan the perfect literary-inspired weekend with Erica Messner, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The San Franciscan magazine. From taking in poetry readings at a local pub and tasting out-of-this-world focaccia in North Beach to whale watching around the Farallon Islands, Messner has no shortage of hidden gems to explore. And finally, Johnson connects with MeeSun Boice, owner of the bar/restaurant Mersea on Treasure Island. The island, Boice points out, is one of San Franci

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with the culinary innovators behind three Michelin-starred restaurants. To start things off, Johnson connects with Matthew Kammerer, executive chef of Harbor House Inn in the North Coast town of Elk. Awarded a second Michelin star as well as a Michelin green star for sustainability in 2021, Kammerer discusses his love for hyper-local ingredients, foraging in the nearby cove and forests, and the restaurant’s very own working ranch. Johnson then chats with Greg and Daisy Ryan of newly starred Bell’s in Los Alamos. The culinary power couple talks about how their French-inspired bistro settled into the Santa Ynez wine country, and discusses crowd-favorite dishes such as escargot and steak au poivre as well as some of their own favorites. Finally, Johnson talks “California gastronomy” with Executive Chef William Bradley of Addison in Del Mar. Recently awarded a second Michelin star––the only two-star chef in San Diego––Bradley takes Johnso

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with three Super Bowl specialists who offer advice on the best ways to celebrate the NFL’s big game on Feb. 13. First, Johnson connects with NFL Senior Director of Events Nicki Ewell about the Super Bowl Experience fan fest at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Ewell shares some of the top draws at the event, including photo ops with the official Vince Lombardi trophy, a chance to gawk at all 55 Super Bowl rings, and even some player meet-and-greets. An array of interactive games will also be available to guests, such as a field-goal kicking challenge and a digital 40-yard dash, where weekend warriors can test their speed against two NFL stars. Next, Johnson speaks with food blogger Meg van der Kruik about party-planning tips for game-day gatherings. The animated van der Kruik highlights some of her go-to recipes from California Grown’s Golden State Game Day Eats e-book, including her roasted sweet potato brownies and the ultimate Cal

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about a few jolly ways to enjoy the holidays in the Golden State, from embracing the snowy vibes of the High Sierra to taking in the sparkling lights—and sparkling wines—of Sonoma County. First, Johnson talks to Sonoma Magazine Dining Editor Heather Irwin, who highlights four distinctive towns that boast all sorts of holiday fun. In Santa Rosa, for instance, visitors can skate on Snoopy's Home Ice and then nosh on a seasonal favorite: tamales. Healdsburg, on the other hand, is a fantastic place to shop for hard-to-please people on your list and Petaluma is a Mayberry-like city that features abundant craft fairs and festive decorations. Next, Johnson connects with Vincenzo Giammanco, who is bringing actual snow—and more than one million twinkling lights—to Ventura and Del Mar. The producer of the Snow n Glow Holiday Festival says 70-degree temps and sunshine won't melt the fun, so visitors can enjoy traditional winter activities like s

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about three popular food tours—in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego—from some “tasteful” guides who are truly passionate about the flavors of their respective cities. First Johnson connects with Avital Ungar, who runs Avital Tours in San Francisco. Ungar delves into the Italian food scene in the city's North Beach neighborhood, and how some of the traditional dishes one can find there have fascinating ties to the people and history of San Francisco. Next Johnson talks to Sally Tiongco of Six Food Tours in Los Angeles. “Sally from the Valley,” as she calls herself, offers a taste of what you'll find on mouthwatering food tours through Downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica. From a secret Italian bistro in the Broadway Theater District to a classic English pub near Santa Monica Pier, she says the foodscape offers an endless array of gems that are hidden in plain sight. Finally Johnson chats with Bianca Beale, who runs So Diego To

Sometimes the best adventures come from taking the road less traveled. That's just one of the great tips Soterios Johnson uncovers on this episode of the California Now Podcast, which is all about finding unique California road-trip experiences. To start things off, Johnson connects with Jessica Dunham, who has authored multiple road-trip guides. Dunham discusses an otherworldly cruise through the California deserts, raving about the magical experiences to be found in and around two national parks—Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Next Johnson talks with travel writer Ann Marie Brown about some of her favorite roadways in California. Brown talks about what makes a highway an officially designated “scenic byway,” and then goes deep in describing three of her favorites. And then Johnson chats with Lia and Jeremy Garcia, cofounders of the travel blog Practical Wanderlust. The pair talks about a recent trip they took to the northern stretch of the famously gorgeous Highway 1—a remote part of the state where travelers

In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson interviews three travel and lifestyle influencers and gets them to share their top tips and must-dos while road-tripping across the state. First, Johnson connects with Amber Mamian, a Temecula-based mother of six and the founder of the family travel website Global Munchkins. She talks about her family's recent journey from Hollywood to Oceanside, with a fun-filled stop in Huntington Beach. Whether it was indulging in a cotton candy dessert in the shape of Marie Antoinette's wig, or exploring the California Surf Museum, she says the whole family was enthralled (and behaved admirably) from start to finish. Next, Johnson talks to Francesca Murray, the travel writer and influencer behind One Girl One World. Murray recently embarked on road trips in Southern California and the Central Coast, and she offered fresh insights from both. From the luxurious shops of Laguna Beach to the chill vibes of Catalina to the breathtaking vistas of Big Sur, Murr

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the depth and breadth of California's cinema-centric offerings with three guests representing distinct aspects of the industry. First, Johnson connects with Ana Santiago, an assistant curator at the brand-new Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, for a preview of what's in store for visitors to the long-awaited museum. Santiago says visitors can see famous film artifacts up close, like the ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz and the famous Rosebud from Citizen Kane. They can even watch an old movie shot on rare nitrate film in a state-of-the-art theater. Next, Johnson talks to California Film Commissioner Colleen Bell, who offers insight into how the state became the center of the movie-verse for both filmmakers and cinephiles. (Hint: California’s fabulous weather and longstanding reputation as a creative and innovative hotspot play a big role.) Finally, Johnson chats with TMZ Bus Tour guide Melanie Miller about some of the fun to be h

Here's a good rule of thumb if you want to have an amazing time in California: Do as the locals do. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three longtime Californians who are absolutely enamored with where they live—women eager to pass on that love to anyone who ventures into town. Johnson starts things off with Guerneville-based Chef Crista Luedtke: They discuss the most enticing food, drinks, and outdoor fun to be had in west Sonoma County. The Boon Hotel + Spa owner and Guy's Grocery Games regular shares an impressive list of recommendations that might entice you to add this wine country destination to your next Golden State itinerary. Next up, Johnson meets Santa Barbara–based author and tour guide Tara Jones Haaf. On her food tours, Haaf reveals, she will not only turn you on to some of the best bites in town, but she'll also make you a better photographer along the way. And she can tell you exactly how the famous Santa Barbara Funk Zone got its name. (Hint, it's no

With the relaxing of COVID-19 protocols statewide, the summer ahead is looking bright and busy for travelers seeking a California vacation. Whether that means playing on the beaches in San Diego, indulging in foodie finds in Los Angeles County, or visiting a world-class museum in San Francisco, there are ways to do it all without breaking the bank. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores some ways to plan a vacation that deliver exceptional value. First, he chats with Family Vacationist blogger Christine Sarkis, who suggests a variety of low-key, low-cost destinations and activities that offer priceless memories—everything from picnics on the beach to wandering Healdsburg’s idyllic downtown plaza. Next, Johnson talks to Ali Khan, host of the Cooking Channel's Cheap Eats, about the most delicious bargain bites in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Finally, Johnson connects with Sarah McCann, senior regional director for GoCity, a one-stop shop for attractions aroun

It’s one of the most encouraging signs that life is starting to return to normal: California theme parks have reopened. In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with insiders from three Golden State parks about what to expect this summer. He first visits with Jon Corfino of Universal Studios Hollywood, who talks about the pleasure of being back. “There’s real joy in seeing people’s reactions,” he says. “The energy is just something I have never seen before.” He offers details about the park’s two big debuts: the high-tech ride The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash, and the thrillingly fierce Indominus rex at Jurassic World—The Ride. Next, Johnson chats with two folks about Disneyland Resort: Ambassador Rafa Barron and Plan Disney specialist Kiki Yee, who each have their own tips for exploring the Anaheim park. Recommended highlights include Snow White’s Enchanted Wish and the new Avengers Campus, which opens June 4. Finally, Johnson is joined by Dominic Ashford, head of reso

There are more than 386,000 miles of road in California, according to the Federal Highway Administration. This extensive network of highways and byways crisscross the state and make road tripping an ideal method to explore the Golden State. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores itineraries with several seasoned road trippers. He first talks to Active NorCal founder Zach O'Brien, who says there is endless adventure to be found amid the natural wonders in the North Coast and Shasta Cascade regions. From active volcanos to hidden waterfalls and ghost towns, a road trip across the northern part of the state can be an outdoor enthusiast's dream vacation. Next, Johnson chats with Traveling Newlyweds bloggers Alli and Bobby Talley, who share their favorite foodie finds, dog-friendly hotels, and attractions in the Inland Empire and Central Coast. And finally, Johnson connects with author and historian Jim Hinckley, whose knowledge of how to get kicks along the old Route 66 corr

Kevin Costner first fell in love with California from the back seat of his father’s Buick. As a child, his family would vacation by taking road trips across his home state, immersing themselves in the majesty of the High Sierra. Costner would eventually go on to become a Hollywood icon, winning two Oscars for directing and producing the 1991 film Dances with Wolves. He also starred in numerous other blockbusters, including Bull Durham, Silverado, and JFK. Despite all the glitz and glamour Hollywood offered, Costner never lost his love for the simple pleasures offered by the open road. Now, Costner has found a way to blend his love of road trips with his other passion: American history. He is the cofounder of HearHere, a mobile app that acts like a tour guide, offering up history, local insights, and hidden gems in an audio format that’s linked to your current location. Costner lends his voice to the effort, telling stories about everything from the Native peoples of California to the geological shifts that cr

What would you eat if you could elbow up to any table anywhere in California? Where would you go if you could take the ultimate kid-friendly Golden State vacation? And what California luxuries would you indulge in if money was no object? These are the questions host Soterios Johnson investigates in this episode of the California Now Podcast. The answers, in case you’re wondering, are nearly infinite, since the state is all about abundance and variety. Our host is first joined by San Diego–based food writer and frequent Guy's Grocery Games culinary judge Troy Johnson, who shares his favorite bites up and down the California coast. Next, Johnson talks to journalist Kelly Mickle for some tips on taking an epic family vacation. (Pro tip: Get up early to find the hidden gems.) Finally, Johnson chats with Dino Michael, Hilton Senior Vice President, to discuss over-the-top experiences ranging from perfectly situated hotel rooms to In-N-Out Burger runs in an Aston Martin convertible.

There are few places on earth than can claim the breadth of natural wonders and biodiversity that exist in California. You can find natural wonders in literally every corner of the state—from alpine forest to rugged desert to city sidewalk. This episode of the California Now Podcast is dedicated to the ecological wonderland that is the Golden State, and some of the most compelling ways visitors can experience it. First, host Soterios Johnson hops into a time machine of sorts to learn about the origins of the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles with paleoecologist Dr. Emily Lindsey. She shares all sorts of fascinating insights about this paleontological treasure trove—a spot in the center of Los Angeles where sabre-toothed cats and mastodons meet the 21st century. Johnson's next guest, horticulturist Jason Dewees, lays out some magnificent ways to marvel at California's diverse assortment of trees, including redwoods that practically touch the heavens, cartoonishly appealing Joshua trees, and majestic desert palms

It's no secret that California has a lot to offer. But did you know it's a podcasting powerhouse too? Shows about the state, the people, the food, and the culture abound, highlighting everything from Gold Rush history to why some San Franciscans bristle at the term “Frisco.” On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson cozies up to some of those California-themed audio gems. First, Johnson talks to Walt Disney Family Museum's Bri Bertolaccini, host of the WD-FM podcast, and discovers that the museum has a treasure trove of Walt Disney audio recordings that tell fascinating stories about the man behind the Mouse. After that he connects with Desert Lady Diaries podcast host Dawn Davis, who found a spiritual connection with the California desert and decided to seek out others who had formed a similar bond. Johnson wraps up his audio tour of California-themed podcasts with Olivia Allen-Price, host of the popular KQED podcast Bay Curious, and the two podcasters chat about some of the quirki

California is a world-class destination for all sorts of travelers—including history buffs. Visitors can find rich historical gems in surprising and delightful ways, from hidden plaques in San Francisco's Portsmouth Square and Chinatown to Angels Flight, a still-operating funicular in downtown Los Angeles that dates back to 1901. Many California cities can trace their roots back to Native peoples, European explorers, the Gold Rush, and a melting pot of cultures that blended over hundreds of years. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into that history in three iconic California cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Johnson starts out in the City by the Bay, connecting with author and San Francisco historian Gary Kamiya about how the city has played host to bootleggers, the Beat Generation, and everything in between. Next, Johnson speaks with Robert Petersen, host of the Hidden History of Los Angeles podcast, about some little-known aspects of La-La Land cult

In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with three culinary insiders who represent different aspects of the state’s abundance. He first talks to chef Tanya Holland, owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, and a Top Chef alum. Known for her mouthwatering soul food, Holland has been expanding her culinary horizons via her new OWN TV show, Tanya's Kitchen Table, as well as her podcast, Tanya's Table. The multifaceted East Bay icon also shared details about her new projects with the James Beard Foundation and the Oakland Museum of California. Next, Johnson checks in with chef Claudette Zepeda, who's embarking on her own culinary adventure with her new Encinitas restaurant at the Alila Marea Beach Resort, Vaga. Drawing on her Mexican heritage but also incorporating the many cuisines she enjoyed growing up in Southern California, Zepeda revealed that she is on a mission to capture the essence of San Diego County’s eclectic culture. After that Johnson chats with food tour guide La

When was the last time you took a vacation? Research shows that travel is profoundly beneficial to our mental health and productivity—and according to Expedia's annual Vacation Deprivation study, Americans are not taking nearly enough vacation. Compounding matters, researchers noted that 60 percent of respondents canceled or postponed their travel plans in 2020. January 26 is National Plan for Vacation Day, and even if you’re expecting to travel later in 2021, there's no time like the present to start dreaming up your next getaway. This episode of the California Now Podcast can help you get started: Host Soterios Johnson first talks to Expedia Vice President of Customer Marketing Nathan Lump about the many benefits of travel, including the joys of travel planning. Next, Johnson connects with Condé Nast Traveler West Coast Editor Rebecca Misner to discuss the latest travel trends, including “slow travel” and splurge-filled adventures. The third guest is author and illustrator Chandler O'Leary, who shares the m

Like so many things, the pandemic has added a layer of complexity to the typical California snow season. Mountain ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas have COVID-19 safety regulations in place and restrictions on capacity that make planning ahead and pre-purchasing passes essential to a successful winter getaway on the slopes. But as California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson found out in this episode, skiing and other snow sports can be a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages during this tumultuous time, whether it's flying down the slopes on skis, boards, or tubes. Johnson opens with a discussion of the current state of Golden State snow play with Ski California president Mike Reitzell. Then he learns about the benefits and thrills of cross-country skiing with guidebook author and ski instructor Tim Hauserman. Finally, Johnson chats with Top Flight Family blogger Carmen Sognonvi, who offers up tips for having fun in the snow with kids—and without skis.