California Now Podcast

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.

California craft beer pioneer Ken Grossman shares insights into Sierra Nevada Brewing Co's history, favorite activities in Chico, and sustainability efforts. Winemaker Chris Turkovich discusses Yolo County's charm and Wine to Waves road trip. Sam LaRobardiere talks about outdoor experiences in Redding, including swimming in Whiskeytown Lake and waterfall hikes.

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.

On 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 her favorite beachside hotels, go-to restaurants, and scenic hikes. Next, Johnson talks to Kurt Bjorkman, general manager of The Ranch at Laguna Beach, a resort nestled in the Aliso and Wood Canyons. Bjorkman discusses the picturesque property’s unique amenities, ocean view, and impressive list of sustainable initiatives. The outdoorsman also shares Laguna’s best spots for mountain biking, kayaking, and where to carve your very own surfboard. Finally, the host connects with Orange Coast Magazine dining critic Gretchen Kurz to discuss the area’s flourishing food scene. Kurz dishes on under-the-radar eats in Anaheim and where to score amazing tacos in the city of Orange before heading to the coast for ocean views and savory bites in Huntington Beach. 

On 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-friendly stops, including Griffith Park. Next, Johnson connects with Mary Forgione, author of the Los Angeles Times’ e-newsletter, “The Wild.” Forgione discusses extraordinary outdoor experiences, including hiking Mt. Baldy and spotting endangered green sea turtles. She then heads to San Pedro, crafting the perfect day-trip to this coastal community. And finally, Johnson talks to Zach Brooks, general manager of Smorgasburg Los Angeles. Brooks takes Johnson on an international culinary tour through the largest weekly open-air food market in the country, sharing insights on the best bites and hot tips along the way.

Josh Armel, owner of the Painted Ladies Tour Company, shares the charm of touring San Francisco in vintage Volkswagen buses. Erica Messner highlights literary-inspired weekend activities and hidden gems. MeeSun Boice introduces Treasure Island as a hidden gem with a new ferry service coming soon.

On 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 own working ranch. Johnson then chats with Greg and Daisy Ryan of newly starred Bell’s in Los Alamos. The culinary power couple talks about how their French-inspired bistro settled into the Santa Ynez wine country, and discusses crowd-favorite dishes such as escargot and steak au poivre as well as some of their own favorites. Finally, Johnson talks “California gastronomy” with Executive Chef William Bradley of Addison in Del Mar. Recently awarded a second Michelin star––the only two-star chef in San Diego––Bradley takes Johnson on a culinary adventure through Addison’s nine-course tasting menu, highlighting signature dishes and desserts along the way.

On 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, and even some player meet-and-greets. An array of interactive games will also be available to guests, such as a field-goal kicking challenge and a digital 40-yard dash, where weekend warriors can test their speed against two NFL stars. Next, Johnson speaks with food blogger Meg van der Kruik about party-planning tips for game-day gatherings. The animated van der Kruik highlights some of her go-to recipes from California Grown’s Golden State Game Day Eats e-book, including her roasted sweet potato brownies and the ultimate California club sandwich. The host also chats with Jason Gannon, Managing Director of SoFi Stadium—the shiny new Super Bowl LVI venue—who sheds light on SoFi’s long list of impressive features, including its diverse culinary program, state-of-the-art technology, and tour experience. He also details how the surrounding Hollywood Park campus has become a gathering place for locals.