California Now Podcast
106 episodes - English - Latest episode: 19 days ago - ★★★★★ - 96 ratingsThe California Now Podcast explores the people and places that make California a unique travel experience. Host Soterios Johnson, veteran radio journalist and former host of NPR’s Morning Edition on WNYC in New York City, has recently moved to California and is using his journalism skills to learn every fascinating thing about his new home state. He interviews travel experts, chefs, local guides and many others on his journey of discovery. For more ideas on California travel, go to www.visitcalifornia.com
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Episodes
Discovering Lake County
April 09, 2024 12:00 - 54 minutes - 75.3 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson procures local insights on Lake County with three knowledgeable guests. First, Johnson is joined by Melinda Price, co-owner of Peace & Plenty Farm, one of California’s few saffron farms. In addition to highlighting what makes Lake County ideal for saffron farming, Price tantalizes listeners with descriptions of some of the saffron-infused treats available for purchase—including saffron lemonade, a local favorite. She deta...
Ways to Play in California
March 26, 2024 00:09 - 51 minutes - 71.2 MBCalifornia offers endless ways to play, and on this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores some of the reasons why California is The Ultimate Playground. First up, Johnson is joined by Andrew Nelson, award-winning writer and editor for National Geographic Traveler. The Here Not There author discusses one of this year’s biggest travel trends, destination dupes, with a focus on where to experience them in California. Nelson explains why the Golden State is suc...
Local’s Guide to Marin County
March 12, 2024 12:00 - 50 minutes - 70.3 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson heads across the Golden Gate Bridge to talk with three local experts about where to eat, shop, and play in Marin County. First, Johnson talks with Alex Fox, owner of Food & Farm Tours in West Marin. Fox delves into Marin’s history of sustainable and regenerative agriculture, tracing its roots back to the Gold Rush era. “A lot of people don't know Marin County was actually the very first agricultural hub of California,” sh...
Margaret Cho’s Iconic California
February 29, 2024 13:00 - 39 minutes - 55.2 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with five-time Emmy-nominee Margaret Cho. A lifelong Californian, Cho shares how her upbringing in San Francisco helped shape her career in comedy. “I was seeing comedians like Robin Williams, Paula Poundstone, and Dana Carvey all the time, and it was a really incredible place to grow up within comedy,” Cho explains. Cho also discusses getting back on the road for her Live & LIVID stand-up tour, showcasing iconic v...
Samin Nosrat’s California Love
February 13, 2024 13:00 - 48 minutes - 67.1 MBOn this, the 100th episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson interviews James Beard Award–winning author, chef, and Netflix star Samin Nosrat. The San Diego native and Oakland resident shares how she began her culinary career in Alice Water’s kitchen at Chez Panisse: “I started, and I was pretty much immediately just enchanted by this place,” Nosrat recalls. “I'd never worked anywhere like that, where everybody cared so much and was just such a perfectionist.” It was th...
Locals Guide to San Jose
January 23, 2024 13:00 - 49 minutes - 68.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the vibrant city of San Jose alongside four lifelong locals, creatives, and business owners. First, Johnson talks with sisters Be'Anka Ashaolu and Jeronica Macey of Nirvana Soul Coffee. The co-owners share how their business has grown into a much-loved cornerstone of San Jose’s burgeoning coffee community. “There are just so many different types of people who feel comfortable coming into our shop, which ...
3 Award-Winning California Authors
December 19, 2023 13:00 - 47 minutes - 65 MBFirst up, Johnson speaks with San Diego–based Alana Quintana Albertson about her latest novel, Kiss Me, Mi Amor. Albertson discusses how the Golden State’s diverse settings provide endless inspiration for her many romance novels. “I really use setting as a character, and I was contrasting La Jolla and Barrio Logan and different communities,” says Albertson. Albertson also shares a few sneak peaks of her upcoming works and names some of her top San Diego County spots for coffee, tacos, and b...
Insider’s Guide to Inyo County
December 05, 2023 13:00 - 57 minutes - 79.2 MBOn 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 log...
Exploring San Luis Obispo County
November 21, 2023 13:00 - 57 minutes - 79.3 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson heads to San Luis Obispo County to secure top-tier suggestions from three in-the-know locals. First, Johnson chats with Jason Haas, partner and general manager of Tablas Creek Vineyard in Paso Robles. Haas describes how SLO’s unique landscape makes it perfectly suited for producing an array of award-winning wines. “The conditions here are amazing and we have the chance to make something tremendous really every year,” ...
Humboldt County Travel Guide
November 07, 2023 17:26 - 41 minutes - 58 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the ins and outs of Humboldt County’s diverse offerings with three knowledgeable insiders. First up, Johnson talks with Sebastian Elrite, who oversees a trio of oyster businesses in Humboldt County: Aqua-Rodeo Farms, Humboldt Bay Oyster Tours, and Humboldt Bay Provisions. Elrite discusses his bay-to-boat- to-oyster bar operation, sharing tips and stories from his educational boat tours. “We're able to go out to ...
Discover Yolo County
October 23, 2023 17:41 - 54 minutes - 125 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson plays tourist in his own backyard of Yolo County with three local business owners. First up, Johnson talks with Rafael Galiano, co-owner of Park Winters, a charming 10-acre estate that is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and events. Galiano gives Johnson a tour of the boutique property, from its historic Victorian B&B to its flower farm and seasonal restaurant. Galiano also shares insights into the town’s charac...
Antonia Lofaso’s L.A. Guide
October 10, 2023 12:00 - 48 minutes - 110 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with celebrity chef Antonia Lofaso, known for appearing on Bravo’s Top Chef along with recent appearances on Food Network's Beachside Brawl and Tournament of Champions. Lofaso explains her culinary philosophy and shares insights into her prominent Los Angeles restaurants—Scopa Italian Roots, Black Market Liquor Bar, and Dama. “We can have a menu that encompasses so many different regions and cultures while still cel...
Exploring San Francisco’s Neighborhoods
September 26, 2023 12:00 - 41 minutes - 96.6 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson dives deep into some of San Francisco’s most celebrated and lesser-known neighborhoods with three expert guests. First, Johnson is joined by Evan Goldstein, master sommelier for the San Francisco Giants. With more than 30 years as a professional oenophile, Goldstein shares some fun on-the-job anecdotes along with his perfect wine and snack pairings at Oracle Park. “Sauvignon Blanc and garlic fries is one of my favorit...
California Theme Parks Summer 2023
June 22, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 86.6 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns what’s new at California’s top theme parks. To kick things off, Johnson chats with Disneyland Ambassador Nataly Guzman Garcia, a 13-year veteran of the resort who previously served as a tour guide. The two discuss Disney’s 100th anniversary celebration, new rides like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a musical event featuring the Avengers, her love of Dole Whip, and much more. Next, Johnson levels up at Super ...
Canadians in California
June 06, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 84.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discusses why the Golden State is the perfect place for aspiring creatives with four notable Canadian expats. First, Johnson talks with Janet Zuccarini, owner of the acclaimed restaurant Felix in Venice Beach. The Toronto-born restaurateur breaks down the dishes she loves and names some of the many A-list diners who frequent her Abbot Kinney eatery. Zuccarini also discusses where she likes to dine in Los Angeles, as we...
Exploring Ventura County
May 23, 2023 12:00 - 55 minutes - 76.1 MBLocated on the southern end of California’s Central Coast and just north of Malibu, Ventura County is an unheralded Southern California destination that is truly worth a visit. California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson interviews three guests on this episode, each with a distinctive take on the area. To start things off, Johnson discusses skateboarding, BMX, and motocross with Valerie Ryan, vice president of fan experience and hospitality for X Games, which will be held in Ventura...
Exploring Mendocino County
May 02, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 84.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson gets the locals experience in Mendocino County with three in-the-know guests. First up, Johnson chats with Holly Madrigal, managing editor at Word of Mouth Magazine. Madrigal discusses the vast and varied culinary scene from Mendocino Village to Willits, including everything from trendy pop-ups to Southern vegan fare and classic seafood spots. She also shares where to head for a great pint of craft beer and the best fish ...
Tony Hawk’s San Diego
April 18, 2023 12:00 - 25 minutes - 35.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with Tony Hawk, the world’s most famous skateboarder. Hawk, who recently appeared on an episode of Saturday Night Live, has deep roots in San Diego County and plenty of recommendations to share—especially along the North Coast region that includes Carlsbad, Cardiff-by-the Sea, Encinitas, and Del Mar. Hawk also dishes on his forthcoming Chick & Hawk restaurant, a collaboration with former Jeune et Jolie chef Andrew ...
L.A. Chef Brooke Williamson
April 04, 2023 17:00 - 38 minutes - 53 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks with celebrity chef and TV personality Brooke Williamson. Since winning Top Chef season 14, Williamson has competed on a handful of cooking competitions, including Guy’s Grocery Games, Knife Fight, and Food Network’s Tournament of Champions, for which she was the first to win. Williamson and her husband Nick Roberts own Playa Provisions in Los Angeles County’s beachside neighborhood Playa del Rey. The unique restaur...
Exploring San Jose
March 21, 2023 12:00 - 52 minutes - 73.1 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discusses San Jose’s incredible range of activities and attractions with three locals. First up, Johnson talks California car culture with artist and lowrider expert Ricardo “Tijuana Rick” Cortez. From zoot suits to rare magazines, Cortez takes Johnson through the rich history and cultural significance of lowriders in San Jose. The local artist also shares how to get involved with cruising events and even shares some of h...
Blake Anderson's California Hangouts
March 07, 2023 13:00 - 38 minutes - 53.1 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with comedian and actor Blake Anderson. Known for creating the Comedy Central shows Workaholics and Game Over, Man!, Anderson has lived all across the Golden State, from the suburbs of the East Bay to Orange County and Los Angeles. In 2020, Anderson launched the weekly podcast, This Is Important, with his best friends and Workaholics costars Adam Devine, Anders Holm, and Kyle Newacheck. In it, they discuss “ser...
Exploring Palm Springs
February 21, 2023 15:00 - 48 minutes - 66.6 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with three noteworthy guests and learns what makes Palm Springs such an inspiring destination. To start, Johnson speaks with Dani Dazey, designer and star of the Discovery+ and HBO Max TV series Trixie Motel. The two discuss behind-the-scenes details from the show, including what it was like working with famed drag queen Trixie Mattel and her celebrity pals. The designer also shares recommendations for the perfect P...
Exploring the Inland Empire
February 07, 2023 14:00 - 54 minutes - 75.4 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about the Inland Empire through the insights of three unique guests who proudly call the area home. First up, Johnson talks with Joel Greene, the charismatic host of Inland Empire Explorer. Greene shares must-visit spots in his hometown of Rancho Cucamonga, where to grab top-tier Mexican food in Riverside, and outdoor adventure in Big Bear Lake. Greene also showcases a few of his favorite doughnut shops, with detai...
Exploring Shasta Cascade
January 10, 2023 14:00 - 37 minutes - 51.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discusses the vast and varied Shasta Cascade region with two creative-minded locals. Singer-songwriter Jessica Malone starts things off with stories about her love of the area. The longtime local gives a live performance of two songs—her latest, “Sweet Sunlight,” as well as “Gold Flowers of the West,” a love letter to California’s natural splendor. Malone shares why she loves this part of the state and recounts a particul...
Craig Kilborn
December 20, 2022 17:00 - 33 minutes - 45.7 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discusses fine dining, road trips, ascots, and the most fabulous experiences available in the Golden State with TV personality Craig Kilborn. The former host of The Late Late Show and The Daily Show shares how he’s enjoying his laid-back California lifestyle these days, a topic he explores on his new podcast, The Life Gorgeous. Building off the success of his whimsical Instagram profile, Kilborn had the idea to create a p...
Exploring Grass Valley
December 08, 2022 16:00 - 43 minutes - 60.5 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson gets to know this storied small town with three unique guests. First up, Johnson speaks with bluegrass musician Molly Tuttle, recently nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy. The Northern California-bred singer-songwriter breaks out her guitar for an exclusive performance of two songs off her new album, Crooked Tree. Tuttle shares details about her song “Grass Valley” as well as her love of the area and its rich music scene...
Cheech Marin
November 21, 2022 15:00 - 39 minutes - 54 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discusses art, culture, and California with entertainer Cheech Marin. The Up in Smoke star and longtime Nash Bridges cast member recounts how he first developed a love for art when he was just 11 years old. Later, as his career blossomed, Marin started buying Chicano art and now his collection is considered one of the biggest and best in the world. More than 500 works from that collection are permanently housed at The Ch...
Exploring San Diego
November 04, 2022 00:07 - 46 minutes - 64.7 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the vibrant city of San Diego with a group of fascinating locals. First, Johnson speaks with Chris Ryall, Comic-Con Museum consultant and executive producer of Netflix’s Locke & Key. From niche subculture to global phenomenon, Ryall shares just how far Comic-Con has come since its humble beginnings as a 300-person gathering at a San Diego hotel. The lifelong comic book collector and creator geeks out with Johnson...
Exploring West Hollywood
October 19, 2022 20:00 - 47 minutes - 65.9 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the culture, music, and iconic attractions of West Hollywood through the eyes of three prominent locals. First, Johnson speaks with Rod Gruendyke, longtime general manager of the famed A-lister haunt, the Sunset Marquis. Gruendyke shares some of the stories he’s accumulated over the decades, including tales of Green Day’s prank wars, Paul Newman’s culinary preferences, and an impromptu photo shoot with ZZ Top fr...
Eco-Friendly Travel
June 21, 2022 12:00 - 48 minutes - 66.5 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the Golden State’s wide range of eco-friendly travel experiences with four thoughtful guests. First, Johnson connects with Jessica Blotter, owner and CEO of Kind Traveler. The two chat about California’s many sustainable destinations and how to give back while booking your next hotel. Blotter also shares tips for minimizing your footprint while traveling. After that, our host talks with Oksana and Max St. John,...
Summer Travel in California
June 06, 2022 12:00 - 51 minutes - 71.5 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson helps you fill out your summer travel itinerary as he confers with three knowledgeable experts. To start things off, Johnson chats with Robert Niles, the journalist and “professional rollercoaster rider” behind the website Theme Park Insider. Niles outlines what exciting new developments to expect in parks across the Golden State—ranging from gravity-defying coasters to nostalgic live entertainment experiences. Next, Jo...
Wellness Experiences in California
May 16, 2022 12:00 - 44 minutes - 61 MBOn this Episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores a few of the many ways to experience wellness in California with three knowledgeable experts. First, Johnson connects with Les Alfred, creator of the Balanced Black Girl website and podcast. Alfred shares highlights from a recent wellness getaway in Sonoma County, including biking trips, unique spa treatments, and an experience that combines forest bathing with wine tasting amid towering redwoods. Alfred, a wonderf...
Travel Tips from NorCal Locals
April 29, 2022 20:39 - 53 minutes - 73.4 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson hits the beverage trifecta, connecting with beer, wine, and coffee experts who share a passion for Northern California. First, Johnson speaks with California craft beer pioneer Ken Grossman, founder of Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Grossman shares tales of how his empire took shape and offers insights into some of his favorite activities in and around Chico—including mountain biking, fishing, and taking a behind-the-scenes ...
How to Hack San Diego
April 18, 2022 00:00 - 47 minutes - 65.5 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson heads to the southwest corner of the state to conduct a deep dive with three San Diego County experts. To start things off, Johnson chats with beer aficionado, journalist, and podcaster Beth Demmon. From hoppy, West Coast IPAs to rich stouts, Demmon explains why San Diego is known nationwide as the Capital of Craft. She also shares insights on favorite watering holes in Barrio Logan, National City, Oceanside, and beyond, ...
How to Hack Orange County
March 28, 2022 00:00 - 51 minutes - 71.1 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson discovers new and unexpected ways to experience Orange County with three longtime locals. First, Johnson speaks with Gisele Anderson of Capt. Dave's Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari. Anderson shares some of her most memorable whale-watching moments as well as insider tips for making the most of your tour experience. The Dana Point local also highlights where she steers friends visiting from out of town, including ...
How to Hack Los Angeles
March 14, 2022 00:00 - 1 hour - 95.2 MBOn this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three Los Angeles County locals about where they go to experience the best this SoCal destination has to offer. First, Johnson speaks with Food Network star Jet Tila. The L.A. native gives Johnson a brief history of Thai Town, sharing his go-to spot to grab jade noodles and exclusive stories from his tour through the East Hollywood neighborhood with Anthony Bourdain. Tila also chats about his favorite family-frie...
How to Hack San Francisco
February 28, 2022 01:00 - 44 minutes - 62.2 MBOn 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 ...
Three Michelin Restaurants in California
February 14, 2022 01:00 - 46 minutes - 65.1 MBOn 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 ow...
How to Pregame California-Style
January 31, 2022 01:00 - 39 minutes - 54.5 MBOn 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, a...
Holiday Travels in California
November 22, 2021 04:00 - 44 minutes - 62.2 MBOn 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 ...
Local Food Tours in California
November 08, 2021 04:00 - 46 minutes - 64.5 MBOn 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 ...
Undiscovered California Road Trips
October 25, 2021 03:00 - 49 minutes - 68 MBSometimes 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 nation...
Essential Tips for California Road Trips
October 11, 2021 03:00 - 51 minutes - 72 MBIn 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 co...
California's Movie Magic
September 27, 2021 03:00 - 37 minutes - 52 MBOn 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 Wizar...
Travel Tips from California Locals
September 13, 2021 03:00 - 49 minutes - 68.6 MBHere'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 Bo...
High-Value Travel
June 07, 2021 03:00 - 49 minutes - 68.1 MBWith 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. Firs...
What’s New at California Theme Parks
May 24, 2021 03:20 - 42 minutes - 60.4 MBIt’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...
Theme Parks Reopening
May 24, 2021 03:20 - 42 minutes - 60.4 MBIt’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...
Road Trips: Route 66 and Beyond
May 03, 2021 03:00 - 1 hour - 83.6 MBThere 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...
Hollywood Icon Kevin Costner
April 19, 2021 03:00 - 30 minutes - 41.9 MBKevin 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 ...