California Now Podcast

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.

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.