California Now Podcast

On 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 well as a handful of her favorite California road-trip stops up the coast.  Next, Johnson chats with Eric Bauza, Emmy-winning voice actor who specializes in characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Tweety. Bauza gives Johnson a live sampling of some of the iconic voices he can produce and recounts behind-the-scenes stories featuring the likes of LeBron James and Mark Hamill. Finally, Johnson speaks with Jason Couse and Wes Marskell of the alt-pop band The Darcys. Couse and Marskell give a live performance of two songs, “Trouble Found Me” and “Washed Away.” The pair talk music, list some of their favorite spots in L.A.’s vast food scene, and share what prompted them to relocate to the Golden State. 

Located 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 July 21–23. As Ryan points out, Ventura provides the perfect backdrop for the competition, and key events will be held with the Pacific Ocean in full view.   After that, the conversation heads inland as Johnson engages in a culinary-led conversation with Zoe Nathan, owner of a unique Ojai dining establishment called The Dutchess. This open-all-day eatery, Nathan explains, is a bakery in the morning, a café at lunchtime, and a Burmese restaurant at night. If it sounds a bit quirky, well, that suits the vibe in Ojai, an artsy enclave located 80 miles north of Los Angeles and 35 miles south of Santa Barbara.   The third and final guest on the episode, Lynne Andujar, is the editor in chief and CEO of the regional magazine 805 Living. Andujar shares some of her favorite experiences and attractions in Ventura, Ventura Harbor, Oxnard, and Thousand Oaks.

On 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 and chips in town.  Next, Johnson talks with Wendy Lamer, owner of the Disco Ranch wine boutique and tapas bar in Boonville. Lamer discusses Anderson Valley’s wine region, her go-to spots for tastings, and some especially fantastic local purveyors. The connoisseur also takes Johnson on a tour through her shop, calling out her best sellers and some local restaurants worth exploring nearby.   Lastly, Johnson sits down with Jacob Halverson, the general manager of Mendocino Grove. Halverson walks Johnson through the 30-acre glamping site, dotted with safari-style canvas tents, beds, and personal fire valets. With seven state parks nearby, Halverson also discusses outdoor adventures available around Mendocino Village, including some of the best beginner mountain biking California has to offer.

On 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 Bachelier.  To top things off, Hawk takes the California Questionnaire, revealing all sorts of personal insights, including his favorite Golden State splurge, his ideal road trip, and his sunrise-to-sunset ultimate dream day.

On 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 restaurant complex features four different dining concepts inspired by the city’s charming country marts. During her conversation with Johnson, the L.A. chef breaks down each, including the grab-and-go cafe King Beach, upscale seafood spot Dockside, ice cream shop Small Batch, and whiskey bar Grain. The South Bay resident also took the California Questionnaire, sharing her favorite road-trip destinations, California song, outlet mall, and more.

On 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 his favorite attractions in town.  Next, Johnson chats with Walter Magnuson, general manager of the Winchester Mystery House. Magnuson walks Johnson through the fascinating backstory and architectural oddities of the estate that helped inspire Disney's original Haunted Mansion. The two also discuss the house’s 100th anniversary celebration, paranormal activity onsite, and the movie Winchester, starring Helen Mirren.  Finally, Johnson speaks with Jessica Carreira, head pastry chef at the Michelin Award–winning Portuguese restaurant Adega. Carreira breaks down some of the restaurant’s signature desserts, extensive wine menu, and what to order at its sister pastry shop Pastelaria. The chef also shares where in San Jose she goes to sample authentic cuisines from around the world.

On 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 “serious” topics such as video games, pickleball, and embarrassing anecdotes. During his conversation with Johnson, Anderson shares memorable stories from his time on the show, a few dozen restaurant recommendations—he really loves Mexican food—and timely tips for attending Bay Area sporting events.  The Concord native also took the California Questionnaire, answering a series of rapid-fire questions about his love for the Golden State­––including his go-to road trip and opinions on the best-ever California song.

On 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 Palm Springs weekend.  Next, Johnson gets a taste of old-school Palm Springs with Mikael Healey, musical director at Melvyn’s Restaurant at the Ingleside Inn. The longtime desert local shares how the city and hotel became a refuge for celebrities like Greta Garbo and Salvador Dalí. Healey also takes listeners back to the Rat Pack era with two improvised piano medleys. Finally, Johnson chats with Greg Purdy, a longtime staffer with the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. From stargazing and hiking to formal dances and fine dining, Purdy and Johnson discuss the incredible activities that await at the top of Mount San Jacinto. Purdy also talks about the remarkable process of building the tramway, which celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2023.

On 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 detailed advice on what to order. Next, Johnson speaks with Alexa Cappelli, a musician and former contestant on NBC’s The Voice. The Upland native performs three songs on the episode—“Say Something,” “Temporary,” and “Could’ve Just Left Me Alone.” She also shares behind-the-scenes details about her recent music video and reveals a few of her Inland Empire favorites. Last, Johnson speaks with Jerry Rowley, longtime owner of Logan’s Candies in Ontario. Rowley chats with Johnson about the beloved candy shop’s 90-year history, including its newfound success on TikTok. The episode wraps with Rowley taking the California Questionnaire.

On 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 particularly memorable moment growing up in the small town of Mt. Shasta City.   Next, Johnson talks with Siskiyou County filmmaker Autie Carlisle about her new documentary film series Shasta Stories. The two discuss how the series came to be, Carlisle’s love of the community and its quirks, and where she finds her fascinating film subjects. Plus, Carlisle helps listeners plan their next visit to the region by sharing some of her go-to local haunts.

On 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 podcast where famous friends and fascinating guests alike can discuss everything from martinis to movies to pies with “Lord Kilby,” as he’s known to fans. During his chat with Johnson, Kilborn serves up dozens of recommendations: restaurants to patronize, towns to explore, trips to take, and much more. The bon vivant and lifelong traveler also took the California Questionnaire, answering a series of question about his love for the Golden State—including his ultimate splurge and how his dream day would unfold.

On 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.   Next, Johnson chats with Sonya Krimsky, events manager at the history-laden Holbrooke Hotel. Krimsky details the colorful past of this former Gold Country saloon, a spot once frequented by the likes of Mark Twain, Jack London, and Black Bart. The two also cover the hotel’s recent restoration, rumors of ghosts haunting the halls, and the joys of preserving a slice of California Wild West past.   Lastly, Patrick Millar, co-owner of Gold Vibe Kombuchary, takes the California Questionnaire. The longtime Grass Valley local shares where he would go for the ultimate shopping spree, why a weekend getaway is his go-to splurge, and dispels a certain misperception about Californians.

On 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 Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture in Riverside—a museum affectionately known as “The Cheech.” Johnson and Marin discuss how the recently opened museum came to be, Marin’s favorite paintings on display, the charms of Riverside, and future plans for “The Cheech.”  The Los Angeles native also took the California Questionnaire, answering a series of questions about his love for the Golden State—including his favorite California song and how his dream day would unfold. 

On 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 while sharing his insights into the museum’s incredible exhibits on Spiderman, Gene Roddenberry, Pac-Man, and more. Next up, Maya Madsen, owner of Black-owned vegan cookie shop Maya’s Cookies, takes the California Questionnaire. The San Diego entrepreneur decrees a state culinary experience, describes her perfect California dream day, and even performs a mini rendition of her favorite California-themed song. Lastly, Johnson is joined by three members of the San Diego soul band, Thee Sacred Souls. Hear members Josh Lane, Alex Garcia, and Sal Samano explain the inspiration behind their sound and how the song “Can I Call You Rose?” came together. Plus, the men share behind-the-scenes details from the song’s music video, shot in San Diego.

On 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 frontman Billy Gibbons. From Bono to Billy Bob Thornton to Rihanna, celebs swear by the Sunset Marquis, and our lead guest helps explain why the property is such a draw.  Next, David Cooley, founder and CEO of the world-famous gay bar The Abbey, takes the California Questionnaire. The West Hollywood trailblazer shares how his California dream day would unfold, where he would like to go on the ultimate road trip, and his go-to place for a Golden State splurge.  Lastly, Johnson connects with Tommy Black, musician and longtime GM of The Viper Room. Hear his song “Summer Took Me” play as Black chats with Johnson about the irresistible energy of the Sunset Strip and WeHo’s evolving music scene, plus an anecdote from a memorable show with Willie Nelson and Woody Harrelson.

On 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, the couple behind the award-winning blog Drink Tea & Travel. The pair recount their recent sustainable road trip in the Golden State, discussing stops in Sonoma County, the Tri-Valley region, and the seaside town of Ventura. The duo toured the state in a Tesla—an experience they found to be easy and enjoyable. Lastly, Johnson speaks with Ida Kaller-Vincent, Eco Tour Manager for San Diego-based non-profit Ocean Connectors. From witnessing gray whales by boat, birdwatching by bike, and kayaking amid sea lions, Kaller-Vincent shares the glory of experiencing the area’s rich biodiversity up close. As an added bonus, all tour proceeds go back into funding the organization’s educational programs.

On 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, Johnson talks with Keryn Means, editor of PCH Travel Magazine, about her family’s epic Central Coast road trip. Means details where to discover incredible beaches and breathtaking views in Carpinteria, Cayucos, Cambria, and many more seaside stops. Finally, Johnson connects with author and trail master John McKinney about some lesser-known hiking spots in California’s national parks. McKinney shares expert tips for avoiding crowds and exploring the best nature has to offer in multiple national parks, including Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and Pinnacles.

On 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 wonderful storyteller, also gives tips on how to leave your travels feeling restored and refreshed. After that, our host talks to Nancy Furst, resident spiritual artist and advisor at the renowned Ojai Valley Inn, located east of Santa Barbara. Furst takes Johnson on a spiritual journey as she describes one of her healing sessions—a truly unique experience involving crystals and sage. She also shares the joys of blending wellness with nature at this picturesque property in the Topatopa Mountains. Finally, Johnson heads to the desert for a day of pampering with Kelly Steward, general manager of the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. Steward sets the stage for an over-the-top luxury spa experience at the award-winning resort with treatments ranging from aromatherapy showers to relaxing massages and breathing exercises.

On 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 “Beer Geek Tour.” After that, our host chats with winemaker Chris Turkovich about the charming Yolo County town of Winters. Turkovich discusses where to go for private wine tastings, sunflower field tours, and eclectic dining. He also breaks down must-see stops along Highway 128’s Wine to Waves road trip, which runs from Winters all the way to the Mendocino coast. Finally, Johnson speaks with Sam LaRobardiere, founder of the award-winning Theory Coffee Roasters in Redding. The pair discuss a variety of outdoor experiences, ranging from swimming in Whiskeytown Lake to waterfall hikes to mountain biking along the Sacramento River.

On 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, with a few bonus tips on window shopping and ice cream parlors. Johnson next speaks with Tyler Carter, Vice President of Operations for Sesame Place San Diego, a new family-friendly theme park in Chula Vista. Carter discusses the many experiences on offer, including water slides, roller coasters, and parades featuring Elmo and the gang. Sesame Place is also proud to be the only Certified Autism Center theme park in the area, Carter points out. Lastly, our host connects with Jessica Johnson, the creator of Hidden San Diego, a website showcasing under-the-radar spots around the county. Johnson discusses where to find everything from unique green spaces in Escondido to a UFO repair shop in the high desert. Johnson also shares some amazing speakeasies to visit for one-of-a-kind cocktails.