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 just love jumping behind the wheel of that '54 Chevy Bel Air,” says Sollecito. “It couldn't be any cuter, and it sounds great, it drives great, and it turns heads for sure." Next, Johnson is joined by Ben Perlmutter, managing partner at the Big Sur River Inn. A lifelong resident of the area, Ben reflects on the inn’s history and its ideal location along the river and Highway 1. "We have these beautiful redwood Adirondack chairs that we place in the river from spring through the fall. It's a beautiful place to stop, take off your shoes, dip 'em in the water, maybe grab a nice cold drink, and truly relax,” says Perlmutter. He also offers insights on must-visit spots, local dining options, and how visitors can practice responsible travel in the area. Finally, Johnson is joined by Justin Cogley, executive chef at the two-Michelin-starred Aubergine in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Cogley describes the exceptional dining experience at Aubergine and the farm-to-table philosophy that defines his cooking. “We're really lucky in this area because there's always great ingredients here,” says Cogley. He also shares his love for the incredible hiking trails in Carmel and Big Sur.

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 chats with Zach Brooks, General Manager of Smorgasburg Los Angeles, who shares how L.A.'s vibrant dining scene has banded together to support wildfire recovery efforts, while giving a sneak peek at the exciting new vendors at Smorgasburg and an upcoming firefighter benefit event. Then, Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, the powerhouse chefs behind Border Grill and Socalo, talk about their work helping feed wildfire victims with World Central Kitchen and share their picks for dining out in Santa Monica. In the next segment, Only the Lonely storeowners Krisha Garvey and Bernard Denney discuss how their Palisades Strong/Altadena Strong collection is making a difference. The duo guides Johnson through some of the best spots to visit in L.A.’s Sawtelle neighborhood, from noodle shops to bars and clothing stores. Following that, Tim Philips, superintendent of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, talks about the Arboretum’s history, grounds, and its vital role in wildfire relief. He also reveals what's in bloom this season and namedrops upcoming events. Finally, Kara Bartelt, general manager of The Hoxton Downtown LA, offers a glimpse into how her team supported guests impacted by the wildfires. Bartelt plays tour guide for Johnson, sharing some of Downtown L.A.’s top things to do.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three Golden State insiders who want to help you get the most out of your next trip to the state—no matter your budget. First, Johnson chats with Nina Ruggiero, Senior Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure. Ruggiero starts off by sharing the latest lodging travel trends and what she looks for in a great hotel. “Yes, you want a nice hotel, but you want to feel like you're actually in the destination that you're in,” she explains. Ruggiero then dives deep on her top picks for both high-end lodgings and wallet-conscious accommodations in West Hollywood, the Central Coast, Laguna Beach, and Palm Springs. Next, Johnson is joined by Farley Elliott, Southern California Bureau Chief at SFGate. Farley breaks down the best splurge-worthy dining spots in San Diego and offers up some wallet-friendly finds that still pack a punch. “If you’re on a budget, I think most corner taco shops that you stop into [in San Diego] are going to treat you pretty right,” notes Elliott. He also delves into Michelin-starred cuisine and other high-end spots in Los Angeles, Orange County, and Santa Barbara. Finally, Johnson sits down with Carrie Cramer, an award-winning celebrity stylist and personal shopper. Cramer shares how to navigate California’s shopping scene, from the high-end boutiques of Rodeo Drive and South Coast Plaza to local gems in Carmel-by-the-Sea and San Francisco.  

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson takes listeners on a set-jetting tour of California, exploring the state’s notable TV and film locations with three knowledgeable experts.  First up, Johnson chats with Bryan Rice, owner of San Francisco Movie Tours, who reveals how the city’s unique landscapes have played host to countless classic films. Rice takes Johnson through some of San Francisco's most famous movie spots, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. “We go to all the major neighborhoods of San Francisco, and as we go by these locations we’re showing 70 clips from 55 movies filmed all over [the city],” says Rice. He also dives into the local filming locations of Mrs. Doubtfire and Hitchcock's thriller Vertigo, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what makes San Francisco a film-fan favorite. Next, Johnson is joined by Samantha Gonzalez, PR and social media representative for the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. For fans of Friends, Gilmore Girls, The Big Bang Theory, and many other TV shows and films, it’s a must-stop attraction that showcases actual sets, props, costumes, and more. Celebrity spotting is also a distinct possibility: “This is where plenty of actors, directors, and writers work,” Gonzalez notes, “so it is very common to just be riding on a tour cart and suddenly you see an actor from Ted Lasso pass by.”   Finally, Johnson connects with Charlie Hartsock, cofounder of the SetJetters app, which helps film lovers track down the real-world locations from their favorite movies and TV shows. Hartsock talks about the growing trend of set-jetting, especially across California’s diverse landscapes. “I moved out to California for my acting and film career, and when I finally got settled and was able to venture out into the state, it made me realize everything's not just done in Hollywood,” says Hartsock. He also shares practical tips for navigating these filming locations and how to use the app to better plan your own cinematic itinerary.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three local experts about how to make the most of a winter trip to Lake Tahoe. First up, Johnson learns the ins and outs of skiing South Lake Tahoe with Robin Barnes, director of skier services at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Barnes shares what initially drew her to alpine skiing and why teaching the sport is so rewarding. “Some people maybe don't grow up playing sports and then you put them on a pair of skis and they realize they're actually quite talented,” she says. Barnes then offers a beginner’s guide to skiing, sharing tips on where to rent equipment, the benefits of taking lessons, and the joys of hitting the slopes for the first time. She also name-checks some of her favorite expert runs at Heavenly. Next, Johnson explores more snow sports options with Aaron Pearlman, manager of the Northstar Cross-Country, Telemark, and Snowshoe Center in North Lake Tahoe. Pearlman gives an overview of Nordic sports and how visitors can enjoy them. “You just attach these snowshoes onto your boots, go out into the forest, and stroll around through fresh snowfall,” he says, “It's just the most amazing and quiet experience.”  Lastly, Johnson talks with seasoned travel writer and 20-year Tahoe resident Ann Marie Brown. Brown discusses her favorite off-mountain activities for anyone looking to enjoy Tahoe’s winter without strapping on skis. “People are so surprised that you can go out on a boat on Lake Tahoe in the wintertime and have a great time, be cozy, warm, and see amazing scenery,” Brown says. She also highlights some don’t-miss restaurants, breweries, and spas in the area.

On this episode of California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson welcomes celebrated character actor and longtime Temecula resident Dean Norris. During their conversation—available on both audio and video platforms—Norris discusses his latest projects, including his work on Ghosts and Law and Order: Organized Crime. He also shares a memorable anecdote from his time filming with Arnold Schwarzenegger, recalling, “He was so cool that when the camera was on his closeup, he'd have a cigar down here while the camera was going. It was awesome.” Norris then discusses the joys of owning the Swing Inn Cafe and BBQ in Old Town Temecula, a nostalgic neighborhood joint that dates back to 1927. He recounts the story of how he acquired the cafe and his decision to introduce barbecue to the menu. “I found a great pitmaster who makes just really legendary stuff,” Norris notes. “We have people from Texas that come in and say, ‘This is legit.’” The actor goes on to highlight some of his favorite menu items, including the slow-cooked brisket and his signature Shraderbräu beer, along with other Breaking Bad–themed cocktails.   Finally, Norris calls out some of his go-to Temecula wineries, golf courses, and one uniquely local nightlife spot. “You can line dance and hear some country music... it's a very Temecula experience to hang out at the Stampede.” Norris ends the episode by taking the California Questionnaire, offering his takes on the best ways to play, splurge, and road-trip around the Golden State.

On this spine-tingling episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the captivating stories behind the Golden State’s most iconic haunted attractions with three spooky-season experts. First, Johnson is joined by John Murdy, the creative director of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. Murdy reflects on how his lifelong fascination with movie monsters and pop culture sparked his journey into the horror industry. “When I was 10, I made a Star Wars–themed haunted house,” says Murdy. “I did it for four years until my dad shut me down because there were hundreds of people lined up in front of our house.” He also shares his creative process for designing the event’s immersive haunted houses and teases exciting new features in this year’s chilling mazes. Next, Johnson sits down with Dylan Matteson, the director of experiences at The Queen Mary in Long Beach. Matteson explores the ship’s recent renovations, its storied past, and why it has earned a reputation as one of the world’s most haunted locations. “Whether you come here to have dinner or you go to the observation bar to have a drink, you feel the history really strongly.” He also highlights the unique tours available aboard, including the ship's thrilling Halloween events.  Lastly, Johnson speaks with Dante, a seasoned tour guide at Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours. Dante shares tales from San Diego's wild west past, spotlighting the city’s most notorious haunted sites, including the Whaley House and the Davis-Horton House. He then recounts some of his most thrilling ghost encounters. “Three girls were huddled together, and they were pointing at one of the two rocking chairs in the parlor because they saw the chair start to rock,” he shares. He also outlines the variety of offerings, from eerie walking excursions to a tour on a bus resembling a coffin.

Pattie Gonia, a critically acclaimed drag queen, musician, and passionate environmentalist, dives into her sustainable philosophy and experiences in the great outdoors. She shares memorable adventures in California, from backpacking in Bishop to organizing Pride Festivals in Yosemite and Truckee. Gonia emphasizes the importance of diversity in outdoor activities and personal narratives in activism. Plus, she gives a sneak peek into her upcoming road trip series with Bonnie Wright, set to premiere in 2025, and reveals her favorite Californian spots.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson taps into the wine tasting expertise of three oenophiles.  First up, Johnson chats with Lucy Simon, assistant wine editor at Food & Wine magazine. Simon offers valuable tips for novices looking to up their California wine-tasting skills. “Taking a breath, letting loose a little bit and being honest with your likes and dislikes is the best way to have a positive wine-tasting experience,” advises Simon. She also shares her top recommendations for tasting rooms in Healdsburg, Napa Valley, Paso Robles, and beyond, guiding first-timers through the best spots to start their wine journey. Next, Johnson is joined by Tina Caputo, a writer known for her extensive knowledge on the Golden State’s food and wine scenes. Caputo dives into California vineyards and wineries offering out-of-the-ordinary wine-tasting excursions. “Obsidian Ridge vineyard, which is up in Lake County, does a volcano adventure that is led by a professional geologist,” Caputo says. She also gets into more playful wine tours that offer such activities as baby goat petting in Lodi and sound bathing in the Anderson Valley. Finally, Johnson talks with Mary Orlin, a certified sommelier and cohost of the Sip, Sip, Hooray! Podcast. Orlin goes deep on the Sierra Foothills wine region, a historic, hidden gem viticultural scene producing diverse varietals. “The Sierra Foothills was first famous for Zinfandel,” says Orlin, “and there are some heritage vineyards that are over a hundred years old that are still producing.” The James Beard Award–winning journalist name-drops outstanding spots to sip and stay in El Dorado County and Amador County.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to two insiders about the latest and greatest happenings at California’s theme parks. Along the way he also discovers tips and tricks for extracting maximum value from a theme park visit, as well as recommendations for tasty treats you can only get on the other side of the turnstiles.  Johnson first interviews Robert Niles, founder of Theme Park Insider. Niles shares the newest developments in California’s theme parks, including thrilling new rides, special anniversary celebrations, and exciting park expansions. Niles also highlights his personal favorite theme park attractions across the Golden State—roller coasters, live shows, and more. After that Johnson chats with family travel expert Katrina Hunt, who offers wallet-friendly tips for optimizing your theme park experience. Hunt discusses ways to unlock the best deals, shares money-saving strategies, and explores when it might make sense to pay extra to skip the lines. She also reveals some of the must-try theme park treats, from beloved classics like Disney’s Dole Whip to limited-edition snacks.