California Now Podcast

Much of California's history is inextricably tied to the region that lies between the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sierra Foothills. Gold Country takes its name from the famous historical period that kicked off in 1848 with a Coloma carpenter's discovery of gold flakes in the American River. Today, this thriving collection of river cities and towns offers visitors insight into the past as well as a delicious taste of the present. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson uncovers some of the best attractions Gold Country has to offer, starting with a quick history lesson from Sacramento City Historian Marcia Eymann. She talks about the thriving Native American communities of the pre-Gold Rush era, and continues on to discuss the Sacramento of today, a port city known as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital. Johnson next speaks with travel blogger Preethi Chandrasekhar to get a first-time visitor's perspective of the region. Chandrasekhar immersed herself in Gold Country, visiting histor

Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine nature preserves on all sides, the Greater Palm Springs area is a posh nexus of natural beauty, wellness, and culture. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about the iconic mid-century modern style of architecture that sprang forth from a burst of post-WWII creative energy. Tour guide Kurt Cyr offers his insights on these must-see marvels, sprinkling in details about Hollywood’s connection to the region and how visitors can practice COVID-19 safety while viewing stylish local homes. After that, Johnson speaks with Palm Springs Life Editor-in-Chief Steven Biller to get the inside scoop on the local art scene, al fresco dining options, and great lodging. And finally, Johnson gets a rundown of the best hikes and outdoor experiences from veteran hiking guide Jason Bruecks.

Hiking gear may not be among the first items on your packing list for a trip to San Diego, Anaheim, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, but you won't want to forget these articles of clothing. When you're not visiting world-class museums or checking out the diverse restaurant and nightlife scenes, California’s urban gateways offer a range of highly accessible—and highly unique—outdoor experiences. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with a few folks who know their way around the great urban outdoors. First, he connects with San Diego guide Kenneth Lippman, who provides insights on everything from the historic Gaslamp Quarter north to the alluring beaches of La Jolla. Next, Johnson gets a feel for outdoor opportunities in and around Anaheim with Orange County journalist Gregory Nagel, who discusses the culinary offerings at the Anaheim Packing House as well as the al fresco shopping scene at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. Johnson's next guest, guidebook author Casey Schreine

Despite restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers are slowly but surely turning their vacation daydreams into reality. And as we quickly discover during this podcast, California is ready for them. Host Soterios Johnson first checks in with San Francisco International Airport Public Information Officer Doug Yakel to get a feel for the scene at this busy travel hub. Masks and social distancing are top priorities, of course, but the airport has introduced a variety of other enhancements designed to help get the country moving again. Innovation is also the name of the game at Montage International, as Executive Vice President James Bermingham explains. Thanks to its Peace of Mind commitment, Montage Academy program, and partnership with One Medical, guests at Montage Laguna Beach and Pendry San Diego can relax with confidence. Finally, Johnson chats with San Luis Obispo brewery owner Hamish Marshall, who discusses safety protocols, entertainment pivots, and how California businesses can take adv

When it comes to agricultural output, California is truly the cream of the crop. The Golden State produces one-third of the nation's vegetables and two-thirds of its fruit. And those grapes you're enjoying, either in a bowl or in a glass? Odds are they were grown on a California farm. While the California sunshine, mild temperatures, and fertile soil make for optimal growing conditions, there would be no California agricultural industry without hardworking farmers and farmworkers. They toil day in and day out all year long to cultivate everything from juicy oranges and peaches to crunchy almonds. In recognition of those tireless workers, California Grown has designated October California Farmer and Farmworker Month. To mark the occasion, California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson interviews farmers located in two of the state’s richest agricultural regions—the Central Valley and the Central Coast. Johnson first learns about the family history and traditions of a multigenerational peach and stone-fruit farm

In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson looks back at some of the most memorable Northern California highlights from previous episodes. Join Johnson as he starts his journey with a tour of some of the trendiest boutiques in San Francisco and the East Bay before heading north to visit the farms that comprise the mouthwatering destinations along the California Cheese Trail. Subsequent stops include some farm-to-table dining in Sacramento, a bit of historical hiking in Butte County, and some fresh and flavorful seafood on the Mendocino coast. The episode wraps with a conversation about the spiritual side of Mount Shasta.

In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson revisits highlights from interviews conducted across the center of the state. Follow along as Johnson travels up the Central Coast, learning about the hidden gems of Ventura County, getting a taste of the bounty of Paso Robles wine country, sampling Julia Childs–approved bites in Santa Barbara, and discovering where to find an unforgettable cattle-wrangling adventure. Johnson also gets the inside scoop on how to make the most of a trip to the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. After that, the episode heads east into California's Central Valley, where our host gets a taste of the Bakersfield Sound at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace. The episode wraps up with a personal tour at Fresno's subterranean marvel, Forestiere Underground Gardens.

In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson revisits some Southern California hotspots, hidden gems, and mouth-watering local cuisine featured on previous episodes. It’s a whirlwind tour through sunny SoCal that focuses on quantity and quality and will no doubt inspire a future road trip. Listen in as Johnson secures detailed directions for a perfect family outing in San Diego’s Balboa Park, gets the inside scoop for visits to both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and then talks to a master builder at LEGOLAND California. After that, Johnson gets a taste of Orange County's delicious Asian food scene from a Los Angeles Times food blogger before turning his attention to L.A.’s thriving hotel culture. The episode then heads east, with stops at the idyllic mountain town of Idyllwild and at the majestic Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Greater Palm Springs.

Do you dream about spelunking your way through a prehistoric cave? Is glamping under the stars more your style? Whatever your outdoor pleasure, you're sure to find it in California. And no matter how you choose to commune with nature, exploring by RV is a great way to go, according to Dyana Kelley, who heads up the CampCalNOW RV Park & Campground Alliance. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, she provides host Soterios Johnson with insider information about the state’s many campgrounds and RV parks, sharing a few favorites and providing listeners with essential tips. Next, Johnson talks to Pinnacles National Park Ranger Chris Symons, who discusses his favorite spots in the state's newest national park (minted in 2013). The diverse landscape of the park, he says, makes for some exciting hikes, breathtaking stargazing, and possibly a glimpse of the rare California condor. Also on this episode, Johnson talks to Matthew Doyle, who runs tours at Lake Shasta Caverns National Landmark. Formed by flowin

Phil Rosenthal established himself as a Hollywood player in the mid-1990s when he created the iconic sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. But these days Rosenthal is perhaps best known as the host of Somebody Feed Phil, a Netflix travel show that chronicles his journeys — and dining experiences — around the globe. In a wide-ranging interview, Rosenthal took California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson behind the scenes of his show, reflecting on his strong belief in the power of travel and the disarming aspect of his everyman persona: “I'm exactly like Anthony Bourdain,” Rosenthal quipped, “if he was afraid of everything.” Rosenthal dished on an upcoming episode that showcases culinary experiences in the San Francisco Bay Area, including a whirlwind tour through Thomas Keller’s culinary empire in Yountville. Rosenthal also shared some of his favorite haunts in his adopted hometown of Los Angeles, noting that his far-flung travels have inspired him to think of local spots in a totally different way.

Given its 840 miles of beautiful coastline, California's relationship with the Pacific Ocean is deep and abiding. And if you ask SeaWorld San Diego's Jody Westberg, getting up close and personal with California's sea-dwelling inhabitants is a great way to understand and appreciate the connection between land and sea. In this episode of the California Now Podcast, Westberg—who has helped rescue thousands of wild marine animals over the years—talks with host Soterios Johnson about conservation efforts along the coast. Johnson also chats with Lauren Bergloff, a tour guide at the oceanfront Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes. Terranea offers a wide variety of nature experiences along the shore, and Bergloff describes the benefits of tidepooling, kayaking, or simply walking on a trail that hugs the coast. The episode concludes with an interview with Allison Soergel, a conservation expert with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, who shares insights about this venerable institution’s ongoing research into marine life and

Stay at certain upscale hotels in Santa Monica, West Hollywood, or Beverly Hills, and you have a pretty good chance of spotting a few celebrities in the lobby or at the bar. Even if you don’t, the posh amenities and glamorous atmosphere at these Los Angeles County hotels will have you feeling like an A-lister, according to Travel + Leisure Editor-in-Chief Jacqui Gifford. Gifford joins California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson to wax poetic about this distinctly L.A. phenomenon. Johnson is next joined by Monet Hambrick, author of the popular blog The Traveling Child. Hambrick recently took her family on a fun and educational tour around the San Francisco Bay Area and Monterey, and she shares a few tips on how to make the most of a visit there. Finally, Johnson chats with travel journalist Ann Marie Brown about a tiny Northern California town that offers much more than meets the eye. McCloud was a logging powerhouse in the 19th century but has since transformed into a charming destination that blends its ric

There's nothing worse than a wasted meal, according to Esquire's Food and Drinks Editor Jeff Gordinier—and if you follow his suggestions, you won't be in danger of facing any wasted meals on your next California road trip. Gordinier is the author of Hungry: Eating, Road-Tripping and Risking It All with the Greatest Chef in the World, and he joins California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson to talk about his favorite culinary destinations from San Diego to Wine Country, and why food and road trips go so well together, particularly in California. Johnson also speaks with Gail Fornasiere, who knows more than most about the magic of Santa Catalina Island. The 21-mile-long island off the coast of Southern California is a popular destination for day-trippers and vacationers, blending a rich Hollywood history (Marilyn Monroe lived there before she became famous!) with a relaxing modern vibe. As Johnson learns during this episode, Catalina offers something for just about everyone.

Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone believes that cuisine is the true soul of a place. And as he discovered on a recent trip, Sonoma and Mendocino have a lot of soul. He joins host Soterios Johnson on this episode of the California Now Podcast to dish on his recent journey to the region while filming his new show Field Trip, and where he found culinary inspiration. There are thousands of hiking trails in California, and a good many of them offer thrilling kid-friendly adventures. Author and tour guide Wendy Gorton knows most of them, and lets Johnson in on a few must-hikes for families visiting the Golden State. And finally, SweetC's Design lifestyle blogger Courtney O'Dell recently took a “taco tour” of Southern California, from LA to San Diego. She tells Johnson about a few places where the popular Mexican dish was unforgettable.

With more than 425 wineries located within its borders, Sonoma County is truly a dream destination for wine lovers. But as Soterios Johnson discovers during this episode of California Now, this wine region offers more than just great Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon. Johnson’s first guest, Wine Road Executive Director Beth Costa, shares suggestions in and around the Alexander Valley viticultural area—with multiple recommendations in the towns of Healdsburg and Geyserville. Costa also points listeners toward five area wineries, each with its own distinctive style and approach to winemaking. After that, Kyle and Katina Connaughton of the three-star Michelin restaurant Single Thread talk about some of their favorite local haunts in the northern half of Sonoma County. The husband-and-wife team—he’s the chef, she’s the farmer—discuss their mutual love for hiking in Armstrong Redwoods Natural State Reserve, buying baked goods in Freestone, and enjoying IPAs at Russian River Brewing Company’s massive brewpub in Win

The Golden State’s astonishing variety is on full display in this episode of the California Now Podcast. Travel + Leisure Editor in Chief Jacqui Gifford kicks things with off with a preview of a family trip she has in the works. Gifford, her son, and her husband are planning a getaway that includes attractions in San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Central Coast—and she shares some of her planned stops (and a few essential strategies) for keeping everybody happy and entertained. After that, podcast regular Ann Marie Brown shines a light on Idyllwild, a tiny mountain village in the Inland Empire that is a big draw for hikers, artists, and discerning diners. Brown, an outdoor enthusiast and author who knows the area very well, recommends some essential experiences in this mile-high city located just a short drive from Los Angeles. The episode wraps up with a road trip that includes stops in Mendocino, Fort Bragg, Eureka, Trinidad, and Redwoods National Park. Jessica Wright, aka Bon Traveler, shares s

California is known for its surf culture, certainly, but come wintertime, thrill-seekers look to the mountains to ride the slopes on skis, snowboards, and other vehicles. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to a few folks who know just where to go for some epic winter adventures. First up is Mike Reitzell, who helms Ski California. Next up, Johnson speaks with Olympic gold medalist and professional adventurer Jonny Moseley. Finally, Johnson chats with Heavenly Ski Resort instructor Mike Allen.

California distillers have become pretty crafty with their spirits in the last few years. With award-winning distilleries now dotting the state, you're likely to have the chance to try a sip wherever you go. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to Ryan Friesen, head distiller at the Blinking Owl distillery in Santa Ana. Friesen is also the vice president of the California Distiller's Guild and has no shortage of recommendations for the adventurous imbiber. Johnson is next joined by California Cheese Trail founder Vivien Straus. This self-described “cheese girl” grew up on the West Coast's first organic dairy farm, and has a lot to say about the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of a California creamery. Finally, Johnson chats with Lucas Kwan Peterson, host of the Los Angeles Times’ new video series, Off Menu, which chronicles his culinary explorations of Southern California—particularly the rich Asian culinary scene he discovered there.

When you think of your dream job, does it involve playing with LEGO bricks? It certainly does for P.J. Catalano, who joins California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson on this week's episode. In it, Catalano describes his working life as a Master Builder at LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad, north of San Diego. From constructing North America’s tallest LEGO tower to trading minifigures with guests, it's fair to say that his job is pretty unique. Johnson is next joined by Mark Larabee, who knows the 2,653-mile Pacific Crest Trail like the back of his hand. He's the Associate Director of the Pacific Crest Trail Association and the author of The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail. Larabee shares a few tips for finding hidden gems along the iconic trail that runs down the Golden State’s spine. And finally, Johnson talks shop—literally—with lifestyle blogger Erica Chan Coffman. From quirky horticulture shops to cushion stores to shoe wonderlands, the HonestlyWTF creator takes Johnson to her fa

Millennial-favorite Ctrl Alt Delete Podcast host Emma Gannon regales host Soterios Johnson with tales of her latest road trip down Highway One from San Francisco to Huntington Beach. Travel blogger Jessica Wright shares Gold Country hidden gems from the farm-to-fork capital Sacramento to the heart of the state's “golden” history in Coloma to the vineyards of Amador County. Author and ghost-hunter Richard Senate gives few recommendations for those bold travelers who are seeking a little scare.