Only-in-California Events
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the vibrant, eclectic world of events, celebrations, and festivals in California with three noteworthy guests. First, Johnson chats with Rick Farman and Allen Scott, cofounders of the Outside Lands Music Festival in Golden Gate Park. Farman and Scott dive into the event’s origin story, evolution, and some of their favorite moments over the years. “A big highlight for me personally was in 2013 when we had Paul McCartney headline the festival,” shares Scott. “It felt like most of the festival was there singing,...
info_outline
Native American Travel Experiences in California
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the deep cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of Native American communities across the Golden State—and how travelers can experience them in meaningful ways. To begin, Johnson speaks with Tara Gomez, co-owner of Camins 2 Dreams winery in Lompoc and a proud member of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. Gomez shares the story behind her boutique winery, which she runs alongside her wife, and how their wines reflect a deep connection to the land and heritage. “I'm always trying to find that connection...
info_outline
California Road Trip Adventures
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson hits the road with three seasoned travelers to explore California’s epic road trip experiences. To kick things off, Johnson chats with Zach Dundas, the editorial director behind the Wildsam field guides and Wildsam Magazine, a publication focused solely on road trips. Dundas explains why the open road remains one of the most profound ways to experience California. “You could come up with dozens of different themed road trips just within the state of California, and that's what makes it amazing,” says Dundas. He then...
info_outline
Kristi Yamaguchi’s Golden State
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with Olympic gold medalist, bestselling author, and Bay Area native Kristi Yamaguchi. The figure skating icon reflects on her childhood in Fremont, her first time on the ice at a Hayward mall, and her unforgettable 1992 World Championship win in Oakland. “It truly was a huge homecoming,” she says, recounting the joy of competing on local ice surrounded by family, friends, and longtime supporters. Yamaguchi also discusses her nonprofit, Always Dream, which promotes early childhood literacy through book donations,...
info_outline
California’s Can’t-Miss Restaurants
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson digs into the Golden State’s dynamic and diverse restaurants with three experts who know the local food scene inside and out. First, Johnson chats with Elina Shatkin, food journalist and producer of KCRW’s Good Food in Los Angeles. Shatkin shares some of her favorite restaurants and foodie neighborhoods across the City of Angels. Shatkin runs the full gamut of good eats, from L.A. institutions to standout sandwich shops and high-end spots. “I just want to give people a good time and help them discover something...
info_outline
Josh Meyers' California Favorites
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson welcomes actor and comedian Josh Meyers, cohost of Family Trips with the Meyers Brothers— a podcast he does with his brother, late-night talk show host Seth Meyers. In this engaging conversation, Meyers shares the inspiration behind the podcast, its memorable guests (from Bill Gates to Tiffany Haddish), and why childhood vacations provide such great storytelling material. “It’s a great equalizer,” he notes. “They all were kids once, and they all took trips with their families.” Meyers talks about his Los...
info_outline
Amazing California Sports Experiences
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the wonderful world of sports across the Golden State with three notable experts. First, Johnson speaks with Natalie Nakase, head coach of the Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest team making its debut in San Francisco. Nakase, the first Asian American coach in the league’s history, shares her vision for the team and reflects on the rising momentum behind women’s basketball. She also describes how she hopes to create a dynamic game-day environment at Chase Stadium. "I hope that they come in and they...
info_outline
Exploring Sacramento
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson dives into the best of Sacramento’s food, culture, and outdoor scene with three expert insiders. First up, Johnson is joined by Benjy Egel, the food and drinks writer for The Sacramento Bee. Egel explains how the area’s agricultural abundance helps fuel its thriving farm-to-fork dining scene. “So much of the U.S.’s produce comes from the Sacramento region and the Central Valley as a whole, and so we have this wealth of tomatoes and asparagus and even caviar here in the region,” says Egel. He then dives into where...
info_outline
Exploring Monterey County
California Now Podcast
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson takes listeners on a journey through Monterey County, chatting with local experts about the best places to explore, stay, and dine in this picturesque stretch of the Central Coast. First, Johnson chats with Erin Sollecito, the business development director at Monterey Touring Vehicles. Erin shares how Monterey's diverse landscapes and rich automotive history make it the perfect place for a scenic drive. She also reflects on the thrill of cruising in one of the company’s classic cars along Highway 1 and 17-Mile Drive. "I...
info_outline
We Love L.A.
California Now Podcast
On this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with eight L.A. insiders about both the city’s incredible offerings and its resilience in response to the recent wildfires. Plus, hear special shoutouts from some of L.A.’s notable residents. First, Evan Lovett, the creator of the L.A. in a Minute podcast, brings to life the fascinating history of Pacific Palisades and Altadena. Lovett also shares a handful of unique landmarks and historic L.A. neighborhoods that both visitors and locals alike will find interesting. Next up, Johnson...
info_outlineOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the endless allure of Inyo County and the Eastern Sierra with four in-the-know locals.
First up, Johnson talks with Brent Underwood, owner of Cerro Gordo, a former Gold Rush–era boomtown and mining operation nestled in the Inyo Mountains. Underwood starts off by sharing the thrills and daily struggles of living in a ghost town. “It's a lot of learning on the fly,” he says. “It's a lot of stressful days and logistical challenges, but I love it. It's probably the most interesting and fulfilling thing that I've ever done.” The entrepreneur dives into the town’s history, his plans for reviving the property, and how visitors can explore Cerro Gordo for themselves.
Next, Johnson is joined by Bob Sigman, executive director of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine. Sigman shares his insights into the rich Hollywood heritage of the Eastern Sierra region and what made Lone Pine in particular a filming hot spot for Western films. As Sigman explains, “The sun going from east to west over Owens Valley provided just a unique opportunity for filmmakers, not only to have the landscape, but to have variable light, whether they were shooting northeast, south, or west.” He also discusses the Lone Pine Film Festival’s evolution, popular exhibits, and how to experience the cinematic landscape of Inyo County in person.
Lastly, Johnson talks to Brittany and Dave Holman, the husband-and-wife team behind Owens Valley Distilling Company in Bishop. The two share how the area’s magnificent rock climbing initially drew them to the area 17 years ago. “Bishop is literally a climbing mecca now,” Dave says. “I mean, you talk to any rock climber around the world, they will know Bishop, California.” The Holmans discuss the distillery’s origins, including the secret to their locally made spirits. The avid outdoor enthusiasts also give tips for enjoying Bishop’s epic surroundings. “If you love the outdoors, regardless of what your fitness level is—if you're just a car tourist trying to see some beautiful things or you're a hardcore athlete—there's just so much to do in this town,” Dave boasts. “It's incredible.”