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<rss xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:podcast="https://podcastindex.org/namespace/1.0" xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" version="2.0"><channel><title>California Now Podcast</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/california-now-podcast--2966337</link><description><![CDATA[The 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 <a href="http://www.visitcalifornia.com" rel="noopener">www.visitcalifornia.com</a>]]></description><atom:link href="https://www.spreaker.com/show/2966337/episodes/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><language>en</language><category>Society &amp; Culture</category><copyright>Copyright Visit California</copyright><image><url>https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c7315ce951f6611fc3356b117ba77180.jpg</url><title>California Now Podcast</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/california-now-podcast--2966337</link></image><lastBuildDate>Tue, 04 Jun 2024 15:35:16 +0000</lastBuildDate><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Visit California</itunes:name><itunes:email>feeds@spreaker.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c7315ce951f6611fc3356b117ba77180.jpg"/><itunes:subtitle>The 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[The 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 <a href="http://www.visitcalifornia.com" rel="noopener">www.visitcalifornia.com</a>]]></itunes:summary><itunes:category text="Society &amp; Culture"/><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><item><title>California Theme Parks Summer 2024</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-theme-parks-summer-2024--60274917</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">3870066f-cd75-4e82-b522-ed294d54dd15</guid><pubDate>Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/60274917/cn_108_v4.mp3" length="76396643" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3172</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,disneyland,new,rollercoaster,summer,tips,travel,universal</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/10d21b7f26ac0f5e5c4f252e45b68f8a.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>108</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>The Beach Boys: Fun, Fun, Fun</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-beach-boys-fun-fun-fun--60123400</link><description><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with Mike Love and Al Jardine, founding members of the most California band of all time, The Beach Boys. The two share insights into the band’s legacy and discuss the brand-new documentary, The Beach Boys, streaming on Disney+ beginning May 24th, 2024.   “So much of our music was inspired by California itself,” Love explains during the first segment of the episode. Reflecting on the essence of the California Dream, Love highlights how The Beach Boys’ lighthearted and carefree music resonates across generations and geographic boundaries. “Those songs evoke such good vibrations and such positivity. It’s just miraculous that we’re still able to create that good vibration to this day,” he shares.  Johnson then chats with Jardine, who shares stories about the band’s early days and comments on the group’s continuing appeal more than six decades after they started out. “[It’s] without a doubt the songwriting genius,” Jardine says, adding that the band also owes much of its success to “the wonderful comradery and the family connection.”  Both stars conclude their interviews by taking the California Questionnaire, answering a lightning round of questions about their love for the Golden State.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">8e56e2c7-c815-4b26-aa57-9653f43646cd</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/60123400/cn_107_mix_v6.mp3" length="44555328" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with Mike Love and Al Jardine, founding members of the most California band of all time, The Beach Boys. The two share insights into the band’s legacy and discuss the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with Mike Love and Al Jardine, founding members of the most California band of all time, The Beach Boys. The two share insights into the band’s legacy and discuss the brand-new documentary, The Beach Boys, streaming on Disney+ beginning May 24th, 2024.   “So much of our music was inspired by California itself,” Love explains during the first segment of the episode. Reflecting on the essence of the California Dream, Love highlights how The Beach Boys’ lighthearted and carefree music resonates across generations and geographic boundaries. “Those songs evoke such good vibrations and such positivity. It’s just miraculous that we’re still able to create that good vibration to this day,” he shares.  Johnson then chats with Jardine, who shares stories about the band’s early days and comments on the group’s continuing appeal more than six decades after they started out. “[It’s] without a doubt the songwriting genius,” Jardine says, adding that the band also owes much of its success to “the wonderful comradery and the family connection.”  Both stars conclude their interviews by taking the California Questionnaire, answering a lightning round of questions about their love for the Golden State.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1848</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beachboys,california,celebrities,disney,documentary,film,musician,singer,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/41592f85d0b14a12ba955ec00c1c3586.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>107</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Tuolumne County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-tuolumne-county--59901942</link><description><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the wonders of Tuolumne County with insights from three area insiders. First, Johnson chats with Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant shop in downtown Sonora that showcases more than 50 makers from Tuolumne County. Broxham describes her inviting boutique/eatery, and offers recommendations including the Cookies and Confluence, an Oreo-espresso milkshake. Broxham goes on to describe Sonora, a one-stoplight mountain town nestled among green rolling hills and steeped in history. Offering insider tips, she highlights must-see attractions, family-friendly activities, and dining and lodging options in the area.  Next up, Johnson explores Columbia State Historic Park with interpreter Caleb Masquelier. “If you walk into the park now, you're going to see the largest collection of Gold Rush–era buildings in the state of California,” Masquelier explains. The immersive state park experience features a historic stagecoach and staff who wear period-correct attire. Masquelier also discusses the park's educational programs, from captivating gold mining demonstrations to immersive historical tours.   Lastly, Johnson speaks with Elisabeth Barton, co-owner of Echo Adventure Cooperative, which offers socially and environmentally sustainable guided adventures in Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Barton highlights the county’s diverse terrain, from its lush valleys to towering peaks: “You go all the way from 1,000 feet of elevation to 10,000 and above.” She goes deep on Echo Adventure Cooperative’s bespoke outdoor experiences, including fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, snowshoeing, and more. Barton passionately discusses their dedication to accessibility through their adaptive tours, specifically designed for individuals seeking accessible activities and community building.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d9c27f29-1587-40d5-8517-c2e967fb83e7</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/59901942/cn_106_mix_v2.mp3" length="67085489" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the wonders of Tuolumne County with insights from three area insiders. First, Johnson chats with Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant shop in downtown...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the wonders of Tuolumne County with insights from three area insiders. First, Johnson chats with Madi Broxham, co-owner of Local Collective, a vibrant shop in downtown Sonora that showcases more than 50 makers from Tuolumne County. Broxham describes her inviting boutique/eatery, and offers recommendations including the Cookies and Confluence, an Oreo-espresso milkshake. Broxham goes on to describe Sonora, a one-stoplight mountain town nestled among green rolling hills and steeped in history. Offering insider tips, she highlights must-see attractions, family-friendly activities, and dining and lodging options in the area.  Next up, Johnson explores Columbia State Historic Park with interpreter Caleb Masquelier. “If you walk into the park now, you're going to see the largest collection of Gold Rush–era buildings in the state of California,” Masquelier explains. The immersive state park experience features a historic stagecoach and staff who wear period-correct attire. Masquelier also discusses the park's educational programs, from captivating gold mining demonstrations to immersive historical tours.   Lastly, Johnson speaks with Elisabeth Barton, co-owner of Echo Adventure Cooperative, which offers socially and environmentally sustainable guided adventures in Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada. Barton highlights the county’s diverse terrain, from its lush valleys to towering peaks: “You go all the way from 1,000 feet of elevation to 10,000 and above.” She goes deep on Echo Adventure Cooperative’s bespoke outdoor experiences, including fly fishing, backpacking, rafting, snowshoeing, and more. Barton passionately discusses their dedication to accessibility through their adaptive tours, specifically designed for individuals seeking accessible activities and community building.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2781</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,columbia,hiking,history,outdoors,sonora,summer,travel,tuolumne,yosemite</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d5c94ca4c90e683edcd6648aabc03c49.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>106</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>A Local’s Guide to Orange County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-local-s-guide-to-orange-county--59616832</link><description><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about Orange County’s wide range of travel offerings from three locals. First, Johnson engages with Chris Epting, a seasoned travel writer and historian known for his extensive works on Orange County. Epting sheds light on a few lesser-known attractions, from live oak forests to the county’s only grove of redwoods, each with intriguing histories. Epting also shares insights on local beach culture and the charming towns that dot the coast. “Every beach city here has such a different personality... Each one of them is really worth a visit," he explains. Epting also shares his favorite eateries, as well as a few quirky attractions from the past—including the tale of a fake ski mountain. Next up, Johnson talks with Chelsea Raineri, style and home editor at Orange Coast Magazine and the host of its podcast, The Zest. Raineri discusses Orange County’s standing as a premier shopping and fashion destination, highlighting everything from luxury shopping malls to local boutiques. She raves about South Coast Plaza as a world-renowned shopping destination: “They have more than a dozen West Coast–exclusive boutiques. It's incredible,” she remarks. Raineri also explores alternative shopping experiences, from bargain hunts to vintage finds, and shares her personal favorite shopping spots in the area. Lastly, Johnson chats with Leslie Liao, an up-and-coming stand-up comedian with Orange County roots. Liao shares her unique journey from corporate life to comedy, influenced by her upbringing in an Asian household amid local skater and surfer culture. She recommends comedy show venues and secret pop-ups for catching a show, and expresses her love for performing in her hometown: “I love an O.C. crowd. They are there to laugh and drink and smile, and I couldn't love them more,” she enthuses. Liao wraps up by sharing her go-to restaurants in the area.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">bc469de4-24ce-43ce-b813-17753700ba1e</guid><pubDate>Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/59616832/cn_105_v1.mp3" length="79313292" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about Orange County’s wide range of travel offerings from three locals. First, Johnson engages with Chris Epting, a seasoned travel writer and historian known for his...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about Orange County’s wide range of travel offerings from three locals. First, Johnson engages with Chris Epting, a seasoned travel writer and historian known for his extensive works on Orange County. Epting sheds light on a few lesser-known attractions, from live oak forests to the county’s only grove of redwoods, each with intriguing histories. Epting also shares insights on local beach culture and the charming towns that dot the coast. “Every beach city here has such a different personality... Each one of them is really worth a visit," he explains. Epting also shares his favorite eateries, as well as a few quirky attractions from the past—including the tale of a fake ski mountain. Next up, Johnson talks with Chelsea Raineri, style and home editor at Orange Coast Magazine and the host of its podcast, The Zest. Raineri discusses Orange County’s standing as a premier shopping and fashion destination, highlighting everything from luxury shopping malls to local boutiques. She raves about South Coast Plaza as a world-renowned shopping destination: “They have more than a dozen West Coast–exclusive boutiques. It's incredible,” she remarks. Raineri also explores alternative shopping experiences, from bargain hunts to vintage finds, and shares her personal favorite shopping spots in the area. Lastly, Johnson chats with Leslie Liao, an up-and-coming stand-up comedian with Orange County roots. Liao shares her unique journey from corporate life to comedy, influenced by her upbringing in an Asian household amid local skater and surfer culture. She recommends comedy show venues and secret pop-ups for catching a show, and expresses her love for performing in her hometown: “I love an O.C. crowd. They are there to laugh and drink and smile, and I couldn't love them more,” she enthuses. Liao wraps up by sharing her go-to restaurants in the area.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3287</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beaches,california,comedian,comedy,history,oc,orangecounty,shopping,summer,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/04d02963b8417f12d6a9a33bd3c4ebdf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>105</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Discovering Lake County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/discovering-lake-county--59367559</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; 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 details the experiences visitors can enjoy on her Kelseyville farm, including a picturesque seasonal lavender field that draws visitors from all over. Price concludes by sharing tips for exploring other great attractions in her community. Next, Johnson speaks with Angela DePalma-Dow, the Water Resources and Invasive Species Coordinator for Lake County, who also writes a column for Lake County News. DePalma-Dow elaborates on the freshwater lake’s ancient origins, noting, “there's been water at this site for about two million years.” She then dives into Clear Lake’s ancient ecosystem, which helps make it a world-class fishing and birdwatching destination. Lastly, Johnson talks with Tammy Lipps, owner of Ripe Choice Farm &amp; Catering in Lakeport. Lipps offers a glimpse into the visitor experience at her six-acre property, which boasts a 1904 farmhouse and an abundance of organic fruit trees and vegetables. Delving into Lake County’s growing wine scene, the chef and farmer shares insights into the region’s wine history: “This was all wine country before Prohibition,” she reflects. Lipps recommends a handful of nearby wineries to visit, including one where visitors can hunt for Lake County diamonds in rich volcanic soil.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">4eba5291-4db8-4596-9e19-cfd73e90a62d</guid><pubDate>Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/59367559/cn_104_v4.mp3" length="78965155" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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 &amp;amp; Plenty Farm, one of California’s few...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; 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 details the experiences visitors can enjoy on her Kelseyville farm, including a picturesque seasonal lavender field that draws visitors from all over. Price concludes by sharing tips for exploring other great attractions in her community. Next, Johnson speaks with Angela DePalma-Dow, the Water Resources and Invasive Species Coordinator for Lake County, who also writes a column for Lake County News. DePalma-Dow elaborates on the freshwater lake’s ancient origins, noting, “there's been water at this site for about two million years.” She then dives into Clear Lake’s ancient ecosystem, which helps make it a world-class fishing and birdwatching destination. Lastly, Johnson talks with Tammy Lipps, owner of Ripe Choice Farm &amp; Catering in Lakeport. Lipps offers a glimpse into the visitor experience at her six-acre property, which boasts a 1904 farmhouse and an abundance of organic fruit trees and vegetables. Delving into Lake County’s growing wine scene, the chef and farmer shares insights into the region’s wine history: “This was all wine country before Prohibition,” she reflects. Lipps recommends a handful of nearby wineries to visit, including one where visitors can hunt for Lake County diamonds in rich volcanic soil.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3278</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,farm,fishing,kelseyville,lake,lakeport,saffron,travel,wine</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/a7d1327632e41fa2bbc8d7b8315c3f69.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>104</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Ways to Play in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/ways-to-play-in-california--59181333</link><description><![CDATA[California 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 such a hot spot for destination dupes from all over the world. “[There are] so many different geographical features, so many different lively and vibrant cities of all sizes,” he says, “it seems only natural that so many of these destinations can be found here.” He shares several alternatives for the Riviera, Tuscany, the Galapagos Islands, and more that can be found in California. A seasoned traveler, Nelson also name-drops a few of his favorite unique travel destinations, from the Bay Area to the desert. Next up, Johnson talks with Jordan Kivelstadt, winemaker and founder of Bohemian Highway Travel Company, a tour operator crafting personalized wine country excursions in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Kivelstadt sheds light on the historic origin of the company's name and shares some of the experiences guests can expect on his custom-crafted tours. “I’m going to get you out in a vineyard on an ATV with a winemaker hearing about the process, learning why grapes grow here, what the process of harvest is, all the way to the bottle,” he shares. One remote corner of wine country receives special attention on the show: “The Sonoma coastline is spectacular, and we have some of the best creameries in the world,” he enthuses. Beyond wine, Kivelstadt adds his picks on where to eat, stay, and play in Sonoma and Napa. Lastly, Johnson speaks with Martin Cate, owner of Smuggler’s Cove, an acclaimed tiki bar in San Francisco. A driving force behind the resurgence of tiki culture, Cate cites the history of tiki in California dating back to the 1930s. “It was just kind of a wild experiential setting that people weren't used to, and it became a sensation overnight,” he explains. The tiki expert lists several must-visit tiki bars in California and gives a rundown of what to expect inside, from tropical decor to a crash course on what to order. Moreover, the tiki mocktail scene is thriving, and Cate explains how tiki drinks lend themselves to being served without alcohol.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">ebfd3921-beda-4e97-9f52-4803b4ae6ea2</guid><pubDate>Tue, 26 Mar 2024 00:09:13 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/59181333/cn_103_revised.mp3" length="74661543" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>California 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[California 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 such a hot spot for destination dupes from all over the world. “[There are] so many different geographical features, so many different lively and vibrant cities of all sizes,” he says, “it seems only natural that so many of these destinations can be found here.” He shares several alternatives for the Riviera, Tuscany, the Galapagos Islands, and more that can be found in California. A seasoned traveler, Nelson also name-drops a few of his favorite unique travel destinations, from the Bay Area to the desert. Next up, Johnson talks with Jordan Kivelstadt, winemaker and founder of Bohemian Highway Travel Company, a tour operator crafting personalized wine country excursions in Sonoma County and Napa Valley. Kivelstadt sheds light on the historic origin of the company's name and shares some of the experiences guests can expect on his custom-crafted tours. “I’m going to get you out in a vineyard on an ATV with a winemaker hearing about the process, learning why grapes grow here, what the process of harvest is, all the way to the bottle,” he shares. One remote corner of wine country receives special attention on the show: “The Sonoma coastline is spectacular, and we have some of the best creameries in the world,” he enthuses. Beyond wine, Kivelstadt adds his picks on where to eat, stay, and play in Sonoma and Napa. Lastly, Johnson speaks with Martin Cate, owner of Smuggler’s Cove, an acclaimed tiki bar in San Francisco. A driving force behind the resurgence of tiki culture, Cate cites the history of tiki in California dating back to the 1930s. “It was just kind of a wild experiential setting that people weren't used to, and it became a sensation overnight,” he explains. The tiki expert lists several must-visit tiki bars in California and gives a rundown of what to expect inside, from tropical decor to a crash course on what to order. Moreover, the tiki mocktail scene is thriving, and Cate explains how tiki drinks lend themselves to being served without alcohol.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3099</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>bars,california,dupes,fun,napa,sonoma,summer,tiki,tours,travel,wine</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5ba513c8a117b50ec92e63f07ec30deb.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>103</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Local’s Guide to Marin County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/local-s-guide-to-marin-county--59019486</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; 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,” she explains. Fox then elaborates on the experiences guests can expect on her tours, like shucking oysters, tasting local cheeses, and getting up close and personal with baby cows. Fox also shares her top picks for what to eat and do in the area, including where to find the best mozzarella gelato. Next up, Johnson is joined by Lauren Harwell Godfrey, an award-winning luxury jewelry designer based in Marin County. Her handcrafted, ethically sourced designs draw inspiration from ancient textiles and patterns of the African diaspora, and are highly sought after by collectors. Reflecting on her journey in building her brand, the designer mentions some notable individuals who wear her jewelry. “Kamala Harris actually has worn a lot of my pieces,” she reveals. Lauren also discusses Marin’s vibrant food scene, great local shopping, and her favorite places to spend time outdoors. “It's just a very special place,” she remarks.  Lastly, Johnson talks to John Finger, the CEO of Hog Island Oyster Company. Finger dives into his background as a marine biologist and what motivated him to establish his very own oyster farm in Marin County. He then shares the factors that make Tomales Bay ideal for oyster farming. “It's really about that exchange with the ocean, that nutrient-rich water, good tidal cycle in and out through the bay that really creates a great oyster,” he explains. Finger also recounts eating his crowd-favorite barbecue oysters with celebrity chef Roy Choi and director Jon Favreau on an episode of Netflix’s The Chef Show. Finger also shares a handful of his go-to outdoor activities and neighborhood spots around Marin County.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">3816152e-4d54-4c25-bcdc-9ac314ef5913</guid><pubDate>Tue, 12 Mar 2024 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/59019486/cn_102_mix_v4.mp3" length="73679301" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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 &amp;amp; Farm...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; 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,” she explains. Fox then elaborates on the experiences guests can expect on her tours, like shucking oysters, tasting local cheeses, and getting up close and personal with baby cows. Fox also shares her top picks for what to eat and do in the area, including where to find the best mozzarella gelato. Next up, Johnson is joined by Lauren Harwell Godfrey, an award-winning luxury jewelry designer based in Marin County. Her handcrafted, ethically sourced designs draw inspiration from ancient textiles and patterns of the African diaspora, and are highly sought after by collectors. Reflecting on her journey in building her brand, the designer mentions some notable individuals who wear her jewelry. “Kamala Harris actually has worn a lot of my pieces,” she reveals. Lauren also discusses Marin’s vibrant food scene, great local shopping, and her favorite places to spend time outdoors. “It's just a very special place,” she remarks.  Lastly, Johnson talks to John Finger, the CEO of Hog Island Oyster Company. Finger dives into his background as a marine biologist and what motivated him to establish his very own oyster farm in Marin County. He then shares the factors that make Tomales Bay ideal for oyster farming. “It's really about that exchange with the ocean, that nutrient-rich water, good tidal cycle in and out through the bay that really creates a great oyster,” he explains. Finger also recounts eating his crowd-favorite barbecue oysters with celebrity chef Roy Choi and director Jon Favreau on an episode of Netflix’s The Chef Show. Finger also shares a handful of his go-to outdoor activities and neighborhood spots around Marin County.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3053</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,farm,food,luxury,marin,oysters,tours,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/55493ecb94301c04c00fec28fea8ac16.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>102</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Margaret Cho’s Iconic California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/margaret-cho-s-iconic-california--58877631</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; LIVID stand-up tour, showcasing iconic venues like The Largo in Los Angeles and San Francisco’s Great American Music Hall. “I'll do a show at the Comedy Store, and the other people on my bill are people like Sebastian Maniscalco, Tiffany Haddish, Arsenio Hall, Iliza Shlesinger,” Cho notes. “You'll see only heavy hitters because everybody comes to these clubs on a weeknight just to work out new material.” Cho also dives into her favorite offstage activities, including eating late-night Korean BBQ, attending cat shows, sampling omakase in San Francisco, and dining at Hollywood’s historic Musso &amp; Frank Grill. “All of the wooden booths contain all of the stories of the old movie stars,” she says. “You can really almost feel the history in the booths.”]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">63d3ece5-2a9d-41d0-82f6-c4d8745a8fe6</guid><pubDate>Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/58877631/cn_101_v2.mp3" length="57843232" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; LIVID stand-up tour, showcasing iconic venues like The Largo in Los Angeles and San Francisco’s Great American Music Hall. “I'll do a show at the Comedy Store, and the other people on my bill are people like Sebastian Maniscalco, Tiffany Haddish, Arsenio Hall, Iliza Shlesinger,” Cho notes. “You'll see only heavy hitters because everybody comes to these clubs on a weeknight just to work out new material.” Cho also dives into her favorite offstage activities, including eating late-night Korean BBQ, attending cat shows, sampling omakase in San Francisco, and dining at Hollywood’s historic Musso &amp; Frank Grill. “All of the wooden booths contain all of the stories of the old movie stars,” she says. “You can really almost feel the history in the booths.”]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2396</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,celebrity,comedy,food,la,margaretcho,sf,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/1917d651bf2a66a5b9d17f83b105fed1.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>101</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Samin Nosrat’s California Love</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/samin-nosrat-s-california-love--58676368</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 there that she came up with the idea for her New York Times bestselling cookbook Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, which would later become a hit Netflix series. “I saw that it was really these four elements, salt, fat, acid, and heat, that were kind of the points on the compass. And I even went up to one of the chefs at one point, and I said, ‘I think I understand now.’” Throughout the interview, Nosrat highlights recipes from her cookbook, names some of her go-to East Bay eateries, and celebrates the state's vibrant food culture, from local farmers' markets to ethnically diverse restaurants to her favorite spot for a bean-and-cheese burrito. Finally, Nosrat takes the California Questionnaire, offering insights into her culinary and travel favorites across the Golden State. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">eed846fc-6a68-44fb-a765-1d9347f5b6f8</guid><pubDate>Tue, 13 Feb 2024 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/58676368/cn_100_v4.mp3" length="68252822" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 there that she came up with the idea for her New York Times bestselling cookbook Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, which would later become a hit Netflix series. “I saw that it was really these four elements, salt, fat, acid, and heat, that were kind of the points on the compass. And I even went up to one of the chefs at one point, and I said, ‘I think I understand now.’” Throughout the interview, Nosrat highlights recipes from her cookbook, names some of her go-to East Bay eateries, and celebrates the state's vibrant food culture, from local farmers' markets to ethnically diverse restaurants to her favorite spot for a bean-and-cheese burrito. Finally, Nosrat takes the California Questionnaire, offering insights into her culinary and travel favorites across the Golden State. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2830</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,chef,cooking,drink,food,norcal,oakland,restaurants,samin,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/6daade396345b4ff0232482b51d5135e.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>100</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Locals Guide to San Jose</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/locals-guide-to-san-jose--58418683</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 was exactly what we wanted,” shares  Ashaolu.  The dynamic duo give Johnson the full Nirvana Soul experience, from taking in the shop’s vibrant atmosphere to a quick study in ordering off the extensive menu. “We have a honey lavender [coffee], but you can also get a banana chai or a white rose,” says Macey.  Ashaolu  and  Macey also name a handful of their favorite local restaurants and black-owned businesses in the area.   Next up, Johnson talks with Jo Lerma-Lopez, the chef and owner of Luna Mexican Kitchen. Before delving into her restaurant, Lerma-Lopez shares stories from her time owning a neighborhood record shop and independent music label. “For us, it was really about making a change in the music industry and continuing to keep control of how Latino artists at English radio stations are represented,” she voices. The Michelin-lauded chef then discusses her holistic approach to cooking. “I just wanted to take food back to what was,” she says, “and we went thousands of years back to the foundation of our ancestors, which is corn.” Lerma-Lopez guides Johnson through Luna's must-try dishes and offers recommendations for other noteworthy restaurants and stops in San Jose.  Finally, Johnson talks art and culture with Daniel Garcia, photographer, founder, and creative force behind Silicon Valley’s Content Magazine. As an artist himself, Garcia explains what moved him to create the publication. “I started Content Magazine in 2012 because I started running into a lot of artists that I felt like weren't getting recognition…so I was like, let's just tell the stories,” he says. The two discuss San Jose’s thriving creative scene, during which Garcia reveals the indie art galleries, under-the-radar museums, and unique live performances he frequents. Garcia adds, “I'm just really blessed to be saturated in a community where I can take in all these kind of different expressions from other people, and that really gets me going.”]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">9e12e192-0b4b-4de8-952e-b79cad629f1c</guid><pubDate>Tue, 23 Jan 2024 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/58418683/cn_99_v2.mp3" length="72273710" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 was exactly what we wanted,” shares  Ashaolu.  The dynamic duo give Johnson the full Nirvana Soul experience, from taking in the shop’s vibrant atmosphere to a quick study in ordering off the extensive menu. “We have a honey lavender [coffee], but you can also get a banana chai or a white rose,” says Macey.  Ashaolu  and  Macey also name a handful of their favorite local restaurants and black-owned businesses in the area.   Next up, Johnson talks with Jo Lerma-Lopez, the chef and owner of Luna Mexican Kitchen. Before delving into her restaurant, Lerma-Lopez shares stories from her time owning a neighborhood record shop and independent music label. “For us, it was really about making a change in the music industry and continuing to keep control of how Latino artists at English radio stations are represented,” she voices. The Michelin-lauded chef then discusses her holistic approach to cooking. “I just wanted to take food back to what was,” she says, “and we went thousands of years back to the foundation of our ancestors, which is corn.” Lerma-Lopez guides Johnson through Luna's must-try dishes and offers recommendations for other noteworthy restaurants and stops in San Jose.  Finally, Johnson talks art and culture with Daniel Garcia, photographer, founder, and creative force behind Silicon Valley’s Content Magazine. As an artist himself, Garcia explains what moved him to create the publication. “I started Content Magazine in 2012 because I started running into a lot of artists that I felt like weren't getting recognition…so I was like, let's just tell the stories,” he says. The two discuss San Jose’s thriving creative scene, during which Garcia reveals the indie art galleries, under-the-radar museums, and unique live performances he frequents. Garcia adds, “I'm just really blessed to be saturated in a community where I can take in all these kind of different expressions from other people, and that really gets me going.”]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2990</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>art,california,coffee,culture,food,restaurant,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/f67d669eb1e78d4e07ab2d827f80a132.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>99</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>3 Award-Winning California Authors</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/3-award-winning-california-authors--58061295</link><description><![CDATA[First 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 books.   Next, Johnson is joined by Melissa Broder, author of the mystical desert tale Death Valley. The Los Angeles author and poet recounts how a traumatic personal experience in the California desert inspired her latest novel.  “I was just going to Zabriskie Point where nobody—it's a very touristy area—nobody ever gets lost there. I got completely lost and did everything you're not supposed to do,” Broder recalls.  She tops off the conversation by sharing her favorite local boutiques, restaurants, and hiking trails.    Lastly, Johnson talks with South Lake Tahoe–based memoirist and poet Suzanne Roberts. The Almost Somewhere author recounts her experience hiking the John Muir Trail: “Those 28 days taught me that there is more than one view of nature, that nature is a place where we should be connecting and not conquering.” The experienced outdoorswoman also builds an itinerary for both a laid-back and action-packed winter weekend in her hometown.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">4e118c47-c975-49d6-9c02-ba82f8e068fc</guid><pubDate>Tue, 19 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/58061295/cn_98_v2.mp3" length="68165326" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>First 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[First 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 books.   Next, Johnson is joined by Melissa Broder, author of the mystical desert tale Death Valley. The Los Angeles author and poet recounts how a traumatic personal experience in the California desert inspired her latest novel.  “I was just going to Zabriskie Point where nobody—it's a very touristy area—nobody ever gets lost there. I got completely lost and did everything you're not supposed to do,” Broder recalls.  She tops off the conversation by sharing her favorite local boutiques, restaurants, and hiking trails.    Lastly, Johnson talks with South Lake Tahoe–based memoirist and poet Suzanne Roberts. The Almost Somewhere author recounts her experience hiking the John Muir Trail: “Those 28 days taught me that there is more than one view of nature, that nature is a place where we should be connecting and not conquering.” The experienced outdoorswoman also builds an itinerary for both a laid-back and action-packed winter weekend in her hometown.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2827</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>authors,california,desert,highsierra,hiking,johnmuirtrail,mojave,novels,sandiego,stories,writers</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4b35edcf2b8234c40550fb715fae7548.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>98</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Insider’s Guide to Inyo County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/insider-s-guide-to-inyo-county--57919997</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 logistical challenges, but I love it. It's probably the most interesting and fulfilling thing that I've ever done.” The entrepreneur dives into the town’s history, his plans for reviving the property, and how visitors can explore Cerro Gordo for themselves.   Next, Johnson is joined by Bob Sigman, executive director of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine. Sigman shares his insights into the rich Hollywood heritage of the Eastern Sierra region and what made Lone Pine in particular a filming hot spot for Western films. As Sigman explains, “The sun going from east to west over Owens Valley provided just a unique opportunity for filmmakers, not only to have the landscape, but to have variable light, whether they were shooting northeast, south, or west.” He also discusses the Lone Pine Film Festival’s evolution, popular exhibits, and how to experience the cinematic landscape of Inyo County in person.  Lastly, Johnson talks to Brittany and Dave Holman, the husband-and-wife team behind Owens Valley Distilling Company in Bishop. The two share how the area’s magnificent rock climbing initially drew them to the area 17 years ago.  “Bishop is literally a climbing mecca now,” Dave says. “I mean, you talk to any rock climber around the world, they will know Bishop, California.” The Holmans discuss the distillery’s origins, including the secret to their locally made  spirits.  The avid outdoor enthusiasts also give tips for enjoying Bishop’s epic surroundings.  “If you love the outdoors, regardless of what your fitness level is—if you're just a car tourist trying to see some beautiful things or you're a hardcore athlete—there's just so much to do in this town,” Dave boasts. “It's incredible.”]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">6faa9fd0-7359-4d36-a4d1-65171f822598</guid><pubDate>Tue, 05 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/57919997/cn_97_v2.mp3" length="83056274" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 logistical challenges, but I love it. It's probably the most interesting and fulfilling thing that I've ever done.” The entrepreneur dives into the town’s history, his plans for reviving the property, and how visitors can explore Cerro Gordo for themselves.   Next, Johnson is joined by Bob Sigman, executive director of the Museum of Western Film History in Lone Pine. Sigman shares his insights into the rich Hollywood heritage of the Eastern Sierra region and what made Lone Pine in particular a filming hot spot for Western films. As Sigman explains, “The sun going from east to west over Owens Valley provided just a unique opportunity for filmmakers, not only to have the landscape, but to have variable light, whether they were shooting northeast, south, or west.” He also discusses the Lone Pine Film Festival’s evolution, popular exhibits, and how to experience the cinematic landscape of Inyo County in person.  Lastly, Johnson talks to Brittany and Dave Holman, the husband-and-wife team behind Owens Valley Distilling Company in Bishop. The two share how the area’s magnificent rock climbing initially drew them to the area 17 years ago.  “Bishop is literally a climbing mecca now,” Dave says. “I mean, you talk to any rock climber around the world, they will know Bishop, California.” The Holmans discuss the distillery’s origins, including the secret to their locally made  spirits.  The avid outdoor enthusiasts also give tips for enjoying Bishop’s epic surroundings.  “If you love the outdoors, regardless of what your fitness level is—if you're just a car tourist trying to see some beautiful things or you're a hardcore athlete—there's just so much to do in this town,” Dave boasts. “It's incredible.”]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3446</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>bishop,california,desert,ghosts,haunted,highsierra,history,holidays,inyo,lonepine,movies,travel,tv,winter</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/90058580f5e35baf87c57bd9fbf6bec1.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>97</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring San Luis Obispo County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-san-luis-obispo-county--57751611</link><description><![CDATA[ On 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,” Haas says. The second-generation vintner also gives Johnson a crash course on Tablas Creek’s holistic winemaking philosophy before getting into personal recs around Paso Robles.   Next up, Johnson is joined by Jim Allen, director of marketing and communications at Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Allen discusses how the lavish estate came to be, highlighting the fascinating characters behind its inception. “Julia Morgan was a California native, a Bay Area architect. Mr. Hearst was also born in San Francisco, so [Hearst Castle] is a very California-created entity,” Allen notes. He goes on to discuss the incredible attention to detail and artistry that went into building the castle. “The indoor pool has 2 million hand-cut glass tiles from Venice, Italy. It took five years just to do this one swimming pool.” Allen also covers the state park’s most popular tours, its celebrity-studded past, and offers insider tips for visitors.   Lastly, Johnson talks to multi-instrumentalist Dan Curcio of the San Luis Obispo-based band Moonshiner Collective. A longtime local, Curcio explains how the area’s positive vibe continues to shape his sound. “I've been so inspired by the Central Coast, by California, just the lifestyle here and all the influences that we have around here, both musically and just in the natural surroundings,” he shares. Curcio also breaks out his guitar for a live performance of two originals,  “Autumness”  and “Good Company.” The local musician then shares some of his favorite stops in  Cayucos, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and the city of San Luis Obispo]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">01ec2772-eac1-4de3-aa9b-bd9c359a2521</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/57751611/cn_96_slo_v2.mp3" length="83203113" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle> On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[ On 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,” Haas says. The second-generation vintner also gives Johnson a crash course on Tablas Creek’s holistic winemaking philosophy before getting into personal recs around Paso Robles.   Next up, Johnson is joined by Jim Allen, director of marketing and communications at Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Allen discusses how the lavish estate came to be, highlighting the fascinating characters behind its inception. “Julia Morgan was a California native, a Bay Area architect. Mr. Hearst was also born in San Francisco, so [Hearst Castle] is a very California-created entity,” Allen notes. He goes on to discuss the incredible attention to detail and artistry that went into building the castle. “The indoor pool has 2 million hand-cut glass tiles from Venice, Italy. It took five years just to do this one swimming pool.” Allen also covers the state park’s most popular tours, its celebrity-studded past, and offers insider tips for visitors.   Lastly, Johnson talks to multi-instrumentalist Dan Curcio of the San Luis Obispo-based band Moonshiner Collective. A longtime local, Curcio explains how the area’s positive vibe continues to shape his sound. “I've been so inspired by the Central Coast, by California, just the lifestyle here and all the influences that we have around here, both musically and just in the natural surroundings,” he shares. Curcio also breaks out his guitar for a live performance of two originals,  “Autumness”  and “Good Company.” The local musician then shares some of his favorite stops in  Cayucos, Avila Beach, Pismo Beach, and the city of San Luis Obispo]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3444</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>architecture,california,centralcoast,hearst,hearstcastle,music,pasorobles,sanluisobispocounty,slo,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7793e475156835d0733465378506b1b4.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>96</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Humboldt County Travel Guide</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/humboldt-county-travel-guide--57545512</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 my oyster farm and do some fresh oyster harvesting,” he shares. “When we get those oysters landed, we'll go ahead and head back to the oyster bar at Humboldt Bay Provisions over in Old Town in Eureka and do a little tasting and have some local libations.” Going beyond bi-valves, Elrite also name-drops his favorite local restaurants and activities in the area.  Next, Johnson is joined by Kimberly Frick, co-owner of Redwood Creek Buckarettes, a horseback riding experience in Orick. A fifth-generation Humboldt native, Frick details the advantages of exploring Redwood National Park by horseback. “Most of our guests are very awe-inspired, they use the word ‘magical’ or ‘majestic,’” she says. “And on our particular trail, you're surrounded by a lot of [redwoods]. There's not just one or two, it's a whole hillside full of them.” Frick shares other options forexploring nature in Humboldt County, from hiking Fern Canyon to gondola rides in Klamath.  Finally, Johnson talks with Melissa Sanderson, publisher of The Ferndale Enterprise and owner of Humboldt’s Hometown Store. Sanderson discusses the joys of running a community newspaper, Ferndale’s ornate Victorian homes, and what it’s like to have Guy Fieri as a landlord. “The town itself is a historical landmark,” she notes. “We have more cows than people.” Sanderson also discusses shopping and unique dining experiences in the area.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">291e1f17-e244-4a21-9a9d-a7547cd414a8</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/57545512/vca_ep95_humboldt_v4_1.mp3" length="60815240" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 my oyster farm and do some fresh oyster harvesting,” he shares. “When we get those oysters landed, we'll go ahead and head back to the oyster bar at Humboldt Bay Provisions over in Old Town in Eureka and do a little tasting and have some local libations.” Going beyond bi-valves, Elrite also name-drops his favorite local restaurants and activities in the area.  Next, Johnson is joined by Kimberly Frick, co-owner of Redwood Creek Buckarettes, a horseback riding experience in Orick. A fifth-generation Humboldt native, Frick details the advantages of exploring Redwood National Park by horseback. “Most of our guests are very awe-inspired, they use the word ‘magical’ or ‘majestic,’” she says. “And on our particular trail, you're surrounded by a lot of [redwoods]. There's not just one or two, it's a whole hillside full of them.” Frick shares other options forexploring nature in Humboldt County, from hiking Fern Canyon to gondola rides in Klamath.  Finally, Johnson talks with Melissa Sanderson, publisher of The Ferndale Enterprise and owner of Humboldt’s Hometown Store. Sanderson discusses the joys of running a community newspaper, Ferndale’s ornate Victorian homes, and what it’s like to have Guy Fieri as a landlord. “The town itself is a historical landmark,” she notes. “We have more cows than people.” Sanderson also discusses shopping and unique dining experiences in the area.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2515</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>2023,2024,architecture,california,eureka,ferndale,fieri,humboldt,orick,oysters,redwoods,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/2f7b6abafb4d3cd506d16209ba05b945.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>95</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Discover Yolo County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/discover-yolo-county--57369049</link><description><![CDATA[On 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&amp;B to its flower farm and seasonal restaurant. Galiano also shares insights into the town’s character and what initially drew him to this stretch of California countryside. “Aside from the geographic beauty, it's the community of people around us that have made it special,” he says. “I describe Yolo County as a breath of fresh air.”  Galiano also gives his top picks for great eating and outstanding outdoor experiences in the area.   Next, Johnson speaks with Georgeanne Brennan, a James Beard Award-winning author and partner in L'Apéro les Trois tasting lounge in downtown Winters. The epicurean shares insights into what makes her business so special, from sourcing the best local produce to the gourmet tastings. “People tell us, ‘Wow—I feel like I’m in France,’” she says. Brennan also delves into her favorite neighborhood culinary finds before sharing info on some only-in-Winters events worth attending.  Lastly, Johnson speaks with honey expert Amina Harris, the longtime owner and “Queen Bee” of The Hive in Woodland. Harris guides Johnson through some of the shop's unique offerings, including rare and local honey flavors, a mead tasting experience, and The Hive’s new weekend brunch. Harris also provides recommendations for exploring the best hiking trails around Yolo County. "You can walk up Putah Creek and see all kind of birds and river otters, turtles and egrets," she shares. "It's really terrific."]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">584153b1-a6f4-48c1-81ba-e1918871ba25</guid><pubDate>Mon, 23 Oct 2023 17:41:49 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/57369049/ep_94_m3_5.mp3" length="130754048" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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&amp;B to its flower farm and seasonal restaurant. Galiano also shares insights into the town’s character and what initially drew him to this stretch of California countryside. “Aside from the geographic beauty, it's the community of people around us that have made it special,” he says. “I describe Yolo County as a breath of fresh air.”  Galiano also gives his top picks for great eating and outstanding outdoor experiences in the area.   Next, Johnson speaks with Georgeanne Brennan, a James Beard Award-winning author and partner in L'Apéro les Trois tasting lounge in downtown Winters. The epicurean shares insights into what makes her business so special, from sourcing the best local produce to the gourmet tastings. “People tell us, ‘Wow—I feel like I’m in France,’” she says. Brennan also delves into her favorite neighborhood culinary finds before sharing info on some only-in-Winters events worth attending.  Lastly, Johnson speaks with honey expert Amina Harris, the longtime owner and “Queen Bee” of The Hive in Woodland. Harris guides Johnson through some of the shop's unique offerings, including rare and local honey flavors, a mead tasting experience, and The Hive’s new weekend brunch. Harris also provides recommendations for exploring the best hiking trails around Yolo County. "You can walk up Putah Creek and see all kind of birds and river otters, turtles and egrets," she shares. "It's really terrific."]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3259</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>2023,2024,aperitif,autumn,california,fall,flowers,historic,honey,travel,winters,woodland,yolo</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d2c802612ac6c70e0db7620b46d073b6.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>94</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Antonia Lofaso’s L.A. Guide</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/antonia-lofaso-s-l-a-guide--57181840</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 celebrating the seasons with produce, because that's so California,” Lofaso explains. “And I think that's what California does really, really well.”   Lofaso also delves into Los Angeles’ vibrant food scene, naming her favorite bites around town. “I'm obsessed with Mother Wolf,” she shares. “I always have been. And if I just want pizza and pasta, I'm going to Mozza all day long.”  To cap off the episode, Lofaso takes on the California Questionnaire, giving listeners a glimpse into her Golden State passions. She touches on everything from her dream shopping spree to her ideal road trip, and even belts out a bit of her favorite Golden State song.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e6ff09fc-cebb-4a97-a9f5-be9efec32750</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/57181840/ep_93_mix3.mp3" length="115855552" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 celebrating the seasons with produce, because that's so California,” Lofaso explains. “And I think that's what California does really, really well.”   Lofaso also delves into Los Angeles’ vibrant food scene, naming her favorite bites around town. “I'm obsessed with Mother Wolf,” she shares. “I always have been. And if I just want pizza and pasta, I'm going to Mozza all day long.”  To cap off the episode, Lofaso takes on the California Questionnaire, giving listeners a glimpse into her Golden State passions. She touches on everything from her dream shopping spree to her ideal road trip, and even belts out a bit of her favorite Golden State song.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2892</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,celebrity,chef,fall,guie,inspiration,la,losangeles,restaurants,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b3da780f3a90ce609b52a28e0426220a.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>93</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring San Francisco’s Neighborhoods</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-san-francisco-s-neighborhoods--56943927</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 favorites,” he reveals. “And then, of course, you're going to have one of the renowned tri-tip sandwiches that we do. It's funny how people will freak out  [about what to pair it with]  if it's a sandwich, but if you tell them it's a steak, “Oh, I'll have a Cabernet with it.”  Goldstein also explores San Francisco’s diverse wine scene, from trendy wine bars in the Dogpatch to neighborhood haunts in the Inner Richmond.   Next, Johnson reconnects with Bay Curious podcast host Olivia Allen-Price. The freshly minted author discusses her new book before getting into some under-the-radar gems in North Beach—including the Dear San Francisco revue. “It's kind of like Cirque de Soleil, but with a San Francisco twist,” she says. “It's a small theater, so you're really close to these people doing amazing tricks with their bodies that just will blow your mind. I went a couple weeks ago and I'm still thinking about it.”  The podcaster also tells Johnson where to go for dinner and a show in sunny Potrero Hill.   Finally, Johnson talks culinary and cocktails with Lauren Saria, editor of Eater San Francisco. Saria shares a new way to enjoy a beloved city activity: a cable car bar crawl. After that, Saria breaks down her perfect Saturday—brunch spots, taco shops, and vintage stores included—in hippie haven Haight-Ashbury. The professional foodie also points listeners to some noteworthy happy hours and bars downtown, as well as some splurge-worthy restaurants. “In San Francisco, we are so fortunate because we have so many really lovely and special high-end restaurants where you can have a three- or four-hour dinner, and everything will be perfect” says Saria.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e7e04d36-1943-4dd9-81ce-6fbc4b942af6</guid><pubDate>Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/56943927/ep_92_mix7_5_1.mp3" length="101275392" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 favorites,” he reveals. “And then, of course, you're going to have one of the renowned tri-tip sandwiches that we do. It's funny how people will freak out  [about what to pair it with]  if it's a sandwich, but if you tell them it's a steak, “Oh, I'll have a Cabernet with it.”  Goldstein also explores San Francisco’s diverse wine scene, from trendy wine bars in the Dogpatch to neighborhood haunts in the Inner Richmond.   Next, Johnson reconnects with Bay Curious podcast host Olivia Allen-Price. The freshly minted author discusses her new book before getting into some under-the-radar gems in North Beach—including the Dear San Francisco revue. “It's kind of like Cirque de Soleil, but with a San Francisco twist,” she says. “It's a small theater, so you're really close to these people doing amazing tricks with their bodies that just will blow your mind. I went a couple weeks ago and I'm still thinking about it.”  The podcaster also tells Johnson where to go for dinner and a show in sunny Potrero Hill.   Finally, Johnson talks culinary and cocktails with Lauren Saria, editor of Eater San Francisco. Saria shares a new way to enjoy a beloved city activity: a cable car bar crawl. After that, Saria breaks down her perfect Saturday—brunch spots, taco shops, and vintage stores included—in hippie haven Haight-Ashbury. The professional foodie also points listeners to some noteworthy happy hours and bars downtown, as well as some splurge-worthy restaurants. “In San Francisco, we are so fortunate because we have so many really lovely and special high-end restaurants where you can have a three- or four-hour dinner, and everything will be perfect” says Saria.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2519</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>2023,california,dogpatch,food,haightashbury,northbeach,restaurants,richmond,sanfrancisco,sf,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7f5e397b9e9dd316c7d3d236eab71a03.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>92</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>California Theme Parks Summer 2023</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-theme-parks-summer-2023--54826540</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a musical event featuring the Avengers, her love of Dole Whip, and much more.   Next, Johnson levels up at Super Nintendo World with Jon Corfino, vice president of creative at Universal Studios Hollywood. Corfino offers a detailed look at the themed land, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive ride that features cutting-edge technology. Guests will feel like they’re walking through a video game, Corfino notes, whether they’re eating a mushroom-themed dish at Toadstool Cafe or simply spotting the countless Easter eggs scattered across the attraction.  Finally, Johnson is joined by theme park expert and travel writer Katrina Hunt.  Hunt discusses everything from new coasters to her favorite foods in theme parks across the Golden State. She  also shares some cost-saving tips and simple ways to streamline your theme park experience whether you’re exploring Sesame Place San Diego or Gilroy Gardens.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">24354fa8-06be-4901-bfeb-0c964b4f70a0</guid><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/54826540/p91_v2dp.mp3" length="90782929" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 &amp; Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a musical event featuring the Avengers, her love of Dole Whip, and much more.   Next, Johnson levels up at Super Nintendo World with Jon Corfino, vice president of creative at Universal Studios Hollywood. Corfino offers a detailed look at the themed land, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, an interactive ride that features cutting-edge technology. Guests will feel like they’re walking through a video game, Corfino notes, whether they’re eating a mushroom-themed dish at Toadstool Cafe or simply spotting the countless Easter eggs scattered across the attraction.  Finally, Johnson is joined by theme park expert and travel writer Katrina Hunt.  Hunt discusses everything from new coasters to her favorite foods in theme parks across the Golden State. She  also shares some cost-saving tips and simple ways to streamline your theme park experience whether you’re exploring Sesame Place San Diego or Gilroy Gardens.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3767</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>2023,california,summer,themeparks,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/59f87476401385b6192d8de3696779a5.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>91</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Canadians in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/canadians-in-california--54114388</link><description><![CDATA[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. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">4aefb3bd-f0c3-4c63-b96b-f62ed527e268</guid><pubDate>Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/54114388/p90_v3dp.mp3" length="88983050" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3696</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,canadian,celebrities,expat,la,music,summer,travel,venice</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/16ea3745fda87d045a2533c4d697b007.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>90</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Ventura County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-ventura-county--53972694</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">0f76bca4-270f-4ccd-b149-a5686c4e8131</guid><pubDate>Tue, 23 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53972694/p89_v2dp.mp3" length="79752881" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3303</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beach,california,ojai,summer,travel,ventura</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c03a9032f4ac95fd9fb1316abd09a6bf.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>89</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Mendocino County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-mendocino-county--53717775</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d481ff9c-c5ff-4fd4-8dea-bfa08e39c53f</guid><pubDate>Tue, 02 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53717775/p88_v3dp2028129.mp3" length="88989946" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3684</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>boonville,california,glamping,mendocino,summer,travel,wine</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5cd9da22063532214914329206367752.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>88</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Tony Hawk’s San Diego</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/tony-hawk-s-san-diego--53572399</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">50ef8c3b-56b9-4024-9f6c-73b4a2d91445</guid><pubDate>Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53572399/p87_v2dp.mp3" length="37652187" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1556</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,sandiego,skating,summer,tonyhawk,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/fad1d4abd2d9a42f19d0e79bdc3fd067.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>87</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>L.A. Chef Brooke Williamson</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/l-a-chef-brooke-williamson--53445459</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">202472a2-a8be-42e7-bd81-3fbed8791f01</guid><pubDate>Tue, 04 Apr 2023 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53445459/p86_v2dp2028129.mp3" length="55539314" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2306</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>brookewilliamson,chef,food,la,topchef</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/0537720feae0056cb65aeaeebcd8a508.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>86</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring San Jose</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-san-jose--53284738</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">5b670eae-e1eb-4e4c-a48e-5a8ffc90acdd</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Mar 2023 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53284738/p85_v3dp.mp3" length="76671017" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3173</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>adega,california,lowrider,michelin,travel,winchester</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8f450ce7ce49c4ef1fb41e670af266c0.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>85</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Blake Anderson's California Hangouts</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/blake-anderson-s-california-hangouts--53123328</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">eec6f9e5-08dc-4434-8280-f81aa1a2e3fe</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 Mar 2023 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/53123328/p84_v3dp.mp3" length="55647420" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2293</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,podcast,travel,workaholics</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5502e4e7e80cbf1d140ed619b2012109.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>84</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Palm Springs</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-palm-springs--52907308</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">ff15a1e1-e129-4e4c-b3b6-e3f3b128453d</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Feb 2023 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907308/p83_v5dp.mp3" length="69873434" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2898</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,desert,modernism,palmsprings,tramway,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/e3dd21ba9b7cf2fa075f8b19d19dd4b2.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>83</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring the Inland Empire</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-the-inland-empire--52907287</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">6e3e890a-0ec5-4f16-8f57-de312c445d8c</guid><pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2023 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907287/p82_v2dp.mp3" length="79012571" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3277</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>food,ie,inlandempire,music,tiktok</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d7ec922c2e98969a8b7a742af90d3a0e.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>82</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Shasta Cascade</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-shasta-cascade--52906634</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">33691e36-d3a5-47cb-b27b-cc7d05c230b0</guid><pubDate>Tue, 10 Jan 2023 14:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52906634/p81_v4dp.mp3" length="54443781" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2257</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,mtshasta,shastacascade,siskiyoucounty,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8031f0e80282c6fae2679e8d03bc365b.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>81</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Craig Kilborn</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/craig-kilborn--52907164</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">8a1b2116-a48d-4d9c-963c-93d894647f74</guid><pubDate>Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907164/p80_craig_v3dp.mp3" length="47907213" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1982</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,carmel,kilborn,podcast,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4d01cb5680fa9f1d7269ea245febdfb6.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>80</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Grass Valley</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-grass-valley--52907079</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">7f8afb8b-1322-49d1-b849-21f09e6314e9</guid><pubDate>Thu, 08 Dec 2022 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907079/p79_v2dp.mp3" length="63440498" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2621</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>bluegrass,california,goldcountry,hotel,mollytuttle,music</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/1263ab645d66b462b6ce9b8c70f18014.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>79</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Cheech Marin</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/cheech-marin--52907230</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">36b1d83c-7f3d-4a6f-ae40-9fad7b49742f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907230/cheech_v4dp.mp3" length="56625089" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2349</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>art,cheech,chicano,chong,museum,riverside</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/41139739f27b7b3413a7da30da2e6951.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>78</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring San Diego</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-san-diego--52907400</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">5c8eaa2b-cafb-4f9f-b877-a1951b9dea5b</guid><pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2022 00:07:02 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907400/p77_v3dp.mp3" length="67868901" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2811</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>band,comiccon,comics,museum,music,sandiego,vegan</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/9cfa2fa2f57af034b26a6e7756aac047.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>77</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring West Hollywood</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-west-hollywood--52907148</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">2a21048f-b570-4a53-95cf-0138c10c157f</guid><pubDate>Wed, 19 Oct 2022 20:00:02 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907148/p76_v5dp.mp3" length="69089447" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2866</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>celebrities,hotel,sunsetstrip,westhollywood</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4784bac345ab609413c4b00b770a60ec.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>67</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Eco-Friendly Travel</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/eco-friendly-travel--52906682</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">640a50ef-18b8-418a-9b7c-9ca619166f0d</guid><pubDate>Tue, 21 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52906682/p75_v3dp.mp3" length="69776969" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2892</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,ecofriendly,sustainability</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5cbe85070bfbf06a6c8b3f15c622c781.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>75</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Summer Travel in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/summer-travel-in-california--52908624</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; Kings Canyon, and Pinnacles.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">a05ef7f4-2661-4d86-9dcb-661993fe6925</guid><pubDate>Mon, 06 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52908624/p74_round1.mp3" length="74954754" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; Kings Canyon, and Pinnacles.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3099</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beach,california,centralcoast,disneyland,legoland,pinnacles,summer,themeparks,yosemite</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/1faba8f07264c169cd832255cebc8c42.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>74</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Wellness Experiences in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/wellness-experiences-in-california--52908619</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">da9c70ec-aa09-4d10-9c81-b034591ca1d1</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 May 2022 12:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52908619/p73_v3dp.mp3" length="63986001" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2657</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,healing,luxury,ojai,ranchomirage,relax,sonoma,spa,wellness</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/d72cb4ac502c368ac6d7d71c6bcb7af8.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>73</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Travel Tips from NorCal Locals</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/travel-tips-from-norcal-locals--52907420</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">2aff9e5c-966a-4433-8fcf-a5e905692ec2</guid><pubDate>Fri, 29 Apr 2022 20:39:47 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907420/p72_round2.mp3" length="76951575" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3192</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beer,california,chico,coffee,norcal,redding,wine,winters</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/2a8cde6ef6729f5d2b5afe609fca61d6.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>72</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Hack San Diego</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-hack-san-diego--52908583</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">6f0d2c9e-8460-45c2-b857-505b43cd08fd</guid><pubDate>Mon, 18 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52908583/p71_round2.mp3" length="68653518" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2828</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>beer,hiddengems,local,sandiego,sesameplace,westcoastipa</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/a547411f71bf29fe680becc75d5ac5d6.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>71</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Hack Orange County</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-hack-orange-county--52907401</link><description><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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. ]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">1eaddf0f-b62d-4b37-9e42-6941156cf358</guid><pubDate>Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907401/p70_round1.mp3" length="74550776" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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 &amp;amp; Whale...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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 &amp; 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. ]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3076</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>anaheim,food,huntingtonbeach,lagunabeach,orange,orangecounty,sustainability,whalewatching</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/9d8926c32acd548c6d186010e41e29f8.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>70</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Hack Los Angeles</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-hack-los-angeles--52906716</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">01799df4-5e35-4234-8c6c-d7a7b5436271</guid><pubDate>Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52906716/p69_v3dp.mp3" length="99862614" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>4144</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>celebritychef,food,losangeles,outdoors,smorgasburg,thaitown</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/2c420c4e66517f2a1d25ebbd31cc0f5c.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>69</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Hack San Francisco</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-hack-san-francisco--52907446</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 adorn their headlights. Next, Johnson learns how to plan the perfect literary-inspired weekend with Erica Messner, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The San Franciscan magazine. From taking in poetry readings at a local pub and tasting out-of-this-world focaccia in North Beach to whale watching around the Farallon Islands, Messner has no shortage of hidden gems to explore. And finally, Johnson connects with MeeSun Boice, owner of the bar/restaurant Mersea on Treasure Island. The island, Boice points out, is one of San Francisco’s best-kept secrets and well worth a visit. And with a new ferry service coming soon, it’s about to become much more popular.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">145f998d-3b07-4a6c-9927-625caa966310</guid><pubDate>Mon, 28 Feb 2022 01:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907446/p68_v3dp.mp3" length="65243410" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 adorn their headlights. Next, Johnson learns how to plan the perfect literary-inspired weekend with Erica Messner, co-founder and editor-in-chief of The San Franciscan magazine. From taking in poetry readings at a local pub and tasting out-of-this-world focaccia in North Beach to whale watching around the Farallon Islands, Messner has no shortage of hidden gems to explore. And finally, Johnson connects with MeeSun Boice, owner of the bar/restaurant Mersea on Treasure Island. The island, Boice points out, is one of San Francisco’s best-kept secrets and well worth a visit. And with a new ferry service coming soon, it’s about to become much more popular.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2698</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,literarytour,paintedladies,sanfrancisco,treasureisland,volskwagenbus</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c329b7be167de621c55296d1b73ad719.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>68</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Three Michelin Restaurants in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/three-michelin-restaurants-in-california--52907348</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">11ff96be-d0e6-4e27-91fa-15fa34805a31</guid><pubDate>Mon, 14 Feb 2022 01:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907348/p67_final.mp3" length="68238882" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2790</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,chef,finedining,gastronomy,michelin</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7a393b1e57f99e78c156edd0c27f5738.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>67</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>How to Pregame California-Style</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-pregame-california-style--52907347</link><description><![CDATA[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.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">311219ad-53b4-4d94-9133-e777682121bd</guid><pubDate>Mon, 31 Jan 2022 01:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907347/p66_v2dp.mp3" length="57173935" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[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.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2355</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,californiagrown,fanfest,football,losangeles,pregame,sofi,superbowl,thebiggame</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/02da4f05e0ec191baf1305706428e87b.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>66</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Holiday Travels in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/holiday-travels-in-california--52907427</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 a seasonal favorite: tamales. Healdsburg, on the other hand, is a fantastic place to shop for hard-to-please people on your list and Petaluma is a Mayberry-like city that features abundant craft fairs and festive decorations. Next, Johnson connects with Vincenzo Giammanco, who is bringing actual snow—and more than one million twinkling lights—to Ventura and Del Mar. The producer of the Snow n Glow Holiday Festival says 70-degree temps and sunshine won't melt the fun, so visitors can enjoy traditional winter activities like snow tubing and sledding, and they can even reserve a private igloo. Finally, Johnson chats with Brendan Madigan, who owns the Tahoe City outfitter Alpenglow Sports. Madigan notes that though downhill skiing and snowboarding reign supreme in the region, there are plenty of other activities to consider—from window shopping in quaint villages to snowshoeing in the back country.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">032c12be-2c1e-41a1-9e3d-4625063495bd</guid><pubDate>Mon, 22 Nov 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907427/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode65.mp3" length="65192314" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 a seasonal favorite: tamales. Healdsburg, on the other hand, is a fantastic place to shop for hard-to-please people on your list and Petaluma is a Mayberry-like city that features abundant craft fairs and festive decorations. Next, Johnson connects with Vincenzo Giammanco, who is bringing actual snow—and more than one million twinkling lights—to Ventura and Del Mar. The producer of the Snow n Glow Holiday Festival says 70-degree temps and sunshine won't melt the fun, so visitors can enjoy traditional winter activities like snow tubing and sledding, and they can even reserve a private igloo. Finally, Johnson chats with Brendan Madigan, who owns the Tahoe City outfitter Alpenglow Sports. Madigan notes that though downhill skiing and snowboarding reign supreme in the region, there are plenty of other activities to consider—from window shopping in quaint villages to snowshoeing in the back country.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2693</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>alpenglowsports,christmas,delmar,healdsburg,heatherirwin,holidaylights,holidays,holidaytravel,laketahoe,northlaketahoe,petaluma,santarosa,sebastopol,snoopyshomeice,snownglowholidayfestival,sonomacounty,sonomamagazine,truckee,ventura,winter</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/a216420a6dc9e0139a44753aae788233.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>65</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Local Food Tours in California</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/local-food-tours-in-california--52908640</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 to the people and history of San Francisco. Next Johnson talks to Sally Tiongco of Six Food Tours in Los Angeles. “Sally from the Valley,” as she calls herself, offers a taste of what you'll find on mouthwatering food tours through Downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica. From a secret Italian bistro in the Broadway Theater District to a classic English pub near Santa Monica Pier, she says the foodscape offers an endless array of gems that are hidden in plain sight. Finally Johnson chats with Bianca Beale, who runs So Diego Tours in San Diego. Beale is devoted to the diverse cuisine of her hometown, and raves about the culinary delights one can find in Old Town, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy. (Spoiler alert: This segment of the podcast includes irresistible descriptions of classic San Diego tacos.)]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">b156616d-87ce-4459-af81-2ca4ae9c5e94</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Nov 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52908640/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode64.mp3" length="67673884" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 to the people and history of San Francisco. Next Johnson talks to Sally Tiongco of Six Food Tours in Los Angeles. “Sally from the Valley,” as she calls herself, offers a taste of what you'll find on mouthwatering food tours through Downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica. From a secret Italian bistro in the Broadway Theater District to a classic English pub near Santa Monica Pier, she says the foodscape offers an endless array of gems that are hidden in plain sight. Finally Johnson chats with Bianca Beale, who runs So Diego Tours in San Diego. Beale is devoted to the diverse cuisine of her hometown, and raves about the culinary delights one can find in Old Town, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and Little Italy. (Spoiler alert: This segment of the podcast includes irresistible descriptions of classic San Diego tacos.)]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2801</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>avitaltours,california,culinary,dining,foodtourism,foodtours,gaslampquarter,grandcentralmarket,littleitalysandiego,losangeles,missiondistrict,northbeach,oldtownsandiego,sandiego,sanfrancisco,santamonica,sixtastetours,sodiegotours</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b3c31ee6f405072af94131dabc1b0339.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>64</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Undiscovered California Road Trips</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/undiscovered-california-road-trips--52907357</link><description><![CDATA[Sometimes 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 national parks—Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Next Johnson talks with travel writer Ann Marie Brown about some of her favorite roadways in California. Brown talks about what makes a highway an officially designated “scenic byway,” and then goes deep in describing three of her favorites. And then Johnson chats with Lia and Jeremy Garcia, cofounders of the travel blog Practical Wanderlust. The pair talks about a recent trip they took to the northern stretch of the famously gorgeous Highway 1—a remote part of the state where travelers can explore historic lighthouses, ancient trees, and unique beaches.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">abca2f21-b30a-465e-8f7f-10e01eb5937e</guid><pubDate>Mon, 25 Oct 2021 03:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907357/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode63.mp3" length="71268521" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Sometimes 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Sometimes 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 national parks—Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Next Johnson talks with travel writer Ann Marie Brown about some of her favorite roadways in California. Brown talks about what makes a highway an officially designated “scenic byway,” and then goes deep in describing three of her favorites. And then Johnson chats with Lia and Jeremy Garcia, cofounders of the travel blog Practical Wanderlust. The pair talks about a recent trip they took to the northern stretch of the famously gorgeous Highway 1—a remote part of the state where travelers can explore historic lighthouses, ancient trees, and unique beaches.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2945</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>annmariebrown,california,californiadesert,deathvalleynationalpark,highway1,jessicadunham,joshuatreenationalpark,liaandjeremygarcia,northcoast,practicalwanderlust,roadtrips,scenicbyway,soteriosjohnson,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b35fec175d77dc24ff8cb3c755afbee6.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>63</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Essential Tips for California Road Trips</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/essential-tips-for-california-road-trips--52906650</link><description><![CDATA[In 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 cotton candy dessert in the shape of Marie Antoinette's wig, or exploring the California Surf Museum, she says the whole family was enthralled (and behaved admirably) from start to finish. Next, Johnson talks to Francesca Murray, the travel writer and influencer behind One Girl One World. Murray recently embarked on road trips in Southern California and the Central Coast, and she offered fresh insights from both. From the luxurious shops of Laguna Beach to the chill vibes of Catalina to the breathtaking vistas of Big Sur, Murray says you feel like you're traveling the world within the state's borders. Finally, Johnson chats with Henry Wu, a San Francisco–based photographer and co-founder of This Life of Travel, who recently took a mini-break in Napa Valley and Sonoma County. Wu tells Johnson about a few must-visit places in wine country, and also shares some expert-level tips for taking stunning, Instagram-worthy photos of it all.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">400f78ca-613e-467e-8e38-39364fc447af</guid><pubDate>Mon, 11 Oct 2021 03:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52906650/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode62.mp3" length="75476555" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>In 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,...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[In 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 cotton candy dessert in the shape of Marie Antoinette's wig, or exploring the California Surf Museum, she says the whole family was enthralled (and behaved admirably) from start to finish. Next, Johnson talks to Francesca Murray, the travel writer and influencer behind One Girl One World. Murray recently embarked on road trips in Southern California and the Central Coast, and she offered fresh insights from both. From the luxurious shops of Laguna Beach to the chill vibes of Catalina to the breathtaking vistas of Big Sur, Murray says you feel like you're traveling the world within the state's borders. Finally, Johnson chats with Henry Wu, a San Francisco–based photographer and co-founder of This Life of Travel, who recently took a mini-break in Napa Valley and Sonoma County. Wu tells Johnson about a few must-visit places in wine country, and also shares some expert-level tips for taking stunning, Instagram-worthy photos of it all.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>3119</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>ambermamian,bigsur,california,californiasurfmuseum,catalinaisland,francescamurray,globalmunchkins,henrywu,hollywood,huntingtonbeach,lagunabeach,napavalley,oceanside,oneworldonegirl,sonoma,thislifeoftravel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/64e222eaa852578a54c6a763b87b7a26.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>62</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>California's Movie Magic</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-s-movie-magic--52907410</link><description><![CDATA[On 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 Wizard of Oz and the famous Rosebud from Citizen Kane. They can even watch an old movie shot on rare nitrate film in a state-of-the-art theater. Next, Johnson talks to California Film Commissioner Colleen Bell, who offers insight into how the state became the center of the movie-verse for both filmmakers and cinephiles. (Hint: California’s fabulous weather and longstanding reputation as a creative and innovative hotspot play a big role.) Finally, Johnson chats with TMZ Bus Tour guide Melanie Miller about some of the fun to be had tooling around town looking for A-listers and checking out celebrity hangouts. The two-hour tour covers highlights in Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills—and Miller shares a few great stories featuring popular celebs.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">1c406eff-f3e1-4f2c-8e87-d9b7fdd5d404</guid><pubDate>Mon, 27 Sep 2021 03:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907410/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode61.mp3" length="54501065" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>On 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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[On 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 Wizard of Oz and the famous Rosebud from Citizen Kane. They can even watch an old movie shot on rare nitrate film in a state-of-the-art theater. Next, Johnson talks to California Film Commissioner Colleen Bell, who offers insight into how the state became the center of the movie-verse for both filmmakers and cinephiles. (Hint: California’s fabulous weather and longstanding reputation as a creative and innovative hotspot play a big role.) Finally, Johnson chats with TMZ Bus Tour guide Melanie Miller about some of the fun to be had tooling around town looking for A-listers and checking out celebrity hangouts. The two-hour tour covers highlights in Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills—and Miller shares a few great stories featuring popular celebs.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2245</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>academymuseumofmotionpictures,annasantiago,california,californiafilmcommission,celebrities,celebrityspotting,cinema,colleenbell,film,hollywood,melaniemiller,movies,tmz,tmzcelebritytour,tmztv</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/16222e2d6e089e338aa3c05b3367221d.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>61</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Travel Tips from California Locals</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/travel-tips-from-california-locals--52907422</link><description><![CDATA[Here'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 Boon Hotel + Spa owner and Guy's Grocery Games regular shares an impressive list of recommendations that might entice you to add this wine country destination to your next Golden State itinerary. Next up, Johnson meets Santa Barbara–based author and tour guide Tara Jones Haaf. On her food tours, Haaf reveals, she will not only turn you on to some of the best bites in town, but she'll also make you a better photographer along the way. And she can tell you exactly how the famous Santa Barbara Funk Zone got its name. (Hint, it's not what you might expect!) Finally, Johnson connects with Elexia de la Parra, owner of the popular folk art shop Artelexia in San Diego's North Park neighborhood. De la Parra’s passion for this colorful and welcoming neighborhood is infectious, and she can rattle off at least a dozen stellar recommendations—including shopping tips —within just a few blocks of her store.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">65b3218c-6775-4a74-875f-ba57a112d460</guid><pubDate>Mon, 13 Sep 2021 03:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/52907422/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode60.mp3" length="71892158" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Here'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...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Here'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 Boon Hotel + Spa owner and Guy's Grocery Games regular shares an impressive list of recommendations that might entice you to add this wine country destination to your next Golden State itinerary. Next up, Johnson meets Santa Barbara–based author and tour guide Tara Jones Haaf. On her food tours, Haaf reveals, she will not only turn you on to some of the best bites in town, but she'll also make you a better photographer along the way. And she can tell you exactly how the famous Santa Barbara Funk Zone got its name. (Hint, it's not what you might expect!) Finally, Johnson connects with Elexia de la Parra, owner of the popular folk art shop Artelexia in San Diego's North Park neighborhood. De la Parra’s passion for this colorful and welcoming neighborhood is infectious, and she can rattle off at least a dozen stellar recommendations—including shopping tips —within just a few blocks of her store.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2970</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>artelexia,california,chefcristaleudtke,elexiadelaparra,funkzone,guerneville,guysgrocerygames,northpark,sandiego,santabarbara,sonomacounty,tarajoneshaaf,theboonspahotel,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b5fffb235cd829ac48e6a638c93b0c05.jpg"/><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>60</itunes:episode><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Hollywood Icon Kevin Costner</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/hollywood-icon-kevin-costner--46408970</link><description><![CDATA[Kevin 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.<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, the movie icon talks to Soterios Johnson about the HearHere road trip companion app, shares some of his favorite Golden State destinations, and kicks off the new occasional feature on the podcast, The California Questionnaire.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">30ed8a2e-fa14-4173-babd-6b999e3043bb</guid><pubDate>Mon, 19 Apr 2021 03:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/46408970/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode56.mp3" length="43976414" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Kevin 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.

On this episode of...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Kevin 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.<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, the movie icon talks to Soterios Johnson about the HearHere road trip companion app, shares some of his favorite Golden State destinations, and kicks off the new occasional feature on the podcast, The California Questionnaire.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>1804</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,goldenstate,hearhere,highsierras,history,hollywood,kevincostner,roadtrips,santabarbara,sequoias,travel</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/5db7890df61a7fd5d6f9133a2e232489.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>3 California Podcasts You Should Know</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/3-california-podcasts-you-should-know--43837266</link><description><![CDATA[Did you know California is a podcasting powerhouse? Shows about the state, the people, the food, and the culture abound, highlighting everything from Gold Rush history to why some San Franciscans bristle at the term “Frisco.”<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson  talks to Walt Disney Family Museum's Bri Bertolaccini, host of the WD-FM podcast, Desert Lady Diaries podcast host Dawn Davis, and Olivia Allen-Price, host of the popular KQED podcast Bay Curious.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">1a92bc6b-1bad-4561-8f96-c9c5cc9ac0ef</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Mar 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43837266/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode53.mp3" length="61810272" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Did you know California is a podcasting powerhouse? Shows about the state, the people, the food, and the culture abound, highlighting everything from Gold Rush history to why some San Franciscans bristle at the term “Frisco.”

On this episode of the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Did you know California is a podcasting powerhouse? Shows about the state, the people, the food, and the culture abound, highlighting everything from Gold Rush history to why some San Franciscans bristle at the term “Frisco.”<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson  talks to Walt Disney Family Museum's Bri Bertolaccini, host of the WD-FM podcast, Desert Lady Diaries podcast host Dawn Davis, and Olivia Allen-Price, host of the popular KQED podcast Bay Curious.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2564</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>baycurious,dawndavis,deathvalleynationalpark,desertladydiaries,goldengatepark,joshuatreenationalpark,kqed,oliviaallenprice,podcast,sanfrancisco,soteriosjohnson,twentyninepalms,waltdisney,waltdisneyfamilymuseum,wdfm</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c892d93df904bb6a0ec1067c304e630a.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>California’s Fascinating History</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-s-fascinating-history--43611888</link><description><![CDATA[Many California cities can trace their roots back to a melting pot of cultures that blended over hundreds of years. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into that history in three iconic California cities.<br /><br />Johnson starts out in the City by the Bay, connecting with author Gary Kamiya. Next, Johnson speaks with Robert Petersen, host of the Hidden History of Los Angeles podcast. Finally, Johnson talks to Bill Lawrence of the San Diego History Center.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">f3fffa1f-2c4e-4e90-a556-937bc1f95eab</guid><pubDate>Mon, 22 Feb 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43611888/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode52.mp3" length="62337381" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Many California cities can trace their roots back to a melting pot of cultures that blended over hundreds of years. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into that history in three iconic California cities....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Many California cities can trace their roots back to a melting pot of cultures that blended over hundreds of years. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into that history in three iconic California cities.<br /><br />Johnson starts out in the City by the Bay, connecting with author Gary Kamiya. Next, Johnson speaks with Robert Petersen, host of the Hidden History of Los Angeles podcast. Finally, Johnson talks to Bill Lawrence of the San Diego History Center.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2584</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>arcadia,billlawrence,garykamiya,goldrush,hiddenhistoryoflosangeles,history,losangeles,robertpeterson,sandiego,sandiegohistorycenter,sanfrancisco,waltdisney</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7c0b2af888d5c388207c5108ccdd8e8d.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>California's Delicious Diversity</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-s-delicious-diversity--43360954</link><description><![CDATA[In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with three culinary insiders who represent different aspects of the state’s abundance. He first talks to chef Tanya Holland, owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, and a Top Chef alum. Next, Johnson checks in with chef Claudette Zepeda, who's opening her new Encinitas restaurant Vaga, at the Alila Marea Beach Resort. After that Johnson chats with food tour guide Lauren Herpich, who runs Local Food Adventures out of Oakland.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">e343215d-9852-4fff-a4ae-dca071903af6</guid><pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43360954/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode51.mp3" length="64845053" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with three culinary insiders who represent different aspects of the state’s abundance. He first talks to chef Tanya Holland, owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, and a Top...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with three culinary insiders who represent different aspects of the state’s abundance. He first talks to chef Tanya Holland, owner of Brown Sugar Kitchen in Oakland, and a Top Chef alum. Next, Johnson checks in with chef Claudette Zepeda, who's opening her new Encinitas restaurant Vaga, at the Alila Marea Beach Resort. After that Johnson chats with food tour guide Lauren Herpich, who runs Local Food Adventures out of Oakland.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2679</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>alilamareabeachresort,brownsugarkitchen,claudettezepeda,foodnetwork,foodtours,jacklondonsquare,laurenherpich,localfoodadventures,oakland,own,sandiego,tanyaholland,tanyaskitchentable,tanyastable,topchef,vaga</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/1a68eed1d8393eb8b71ee930c1d322d4.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Trip Planning in 2021</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/trip-planning-in-2021--43101281</link><description><![CDATA[When was the last time you took a vacation? Research shows that travel is profoundly beneficial to our mental health and productivity—and according to Expedia's annual Vacation Deprivation study, Americans are not taking nearly enough vacation. <br /><br />January 26 is National Plan for Vacation Day, and even if you’re expecting to travel later in 2021, there's no time like the present to start dreaming up your next getaway. This episode of the California Now Podcast can help you get started.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">9dd9bbe5-222b-4b59-b3db-97a32b0e53b9</guid><pubDate>Mon, 25 Jan 2021 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/43101281/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode50.mp3" length="53090139" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>When was the last time you took a vacation? Research shows that travel is profoundly beneficial to our mental health and productivity—and according to Expedia's annual Vacation Deprivation study, Americans are not taking nearly enough vacation....</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[When was the last time you took a vacation? Research shows that travel is profoundly beneficial to our mental health and productivity—and according to Expedia's annual Vacation Deprivation study, Americans are not taking nearly enough vacation. <br /><br />January 26 is National Plan for Vacation Day, and even if you’re expecting to travel later in 2021, there's no time like the present to start dreaming up your next getaway. This episode of the California Now Podcast can help you get started.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2184</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>2021,california,chandleroleary,condnasttraveler,expedia,nathanlump,nationalplanforvacationday,rebeccamisner,roadtrips,slowtravel,travel,vacation,vacationplanning</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/917c45d88760a3ae769db21804698de1.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>California Snow Adventures</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/california-snow-adventures--42607463</link><description><![CDATA[Like so many things, the pandemic has added a layer of complexity to the typical California snow season. Mountain ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas have COVID-19 safety regulations in place and restrictions on capacity that make planning ahead and pre-purchasing passes essential to a successful winter getaway on the slopes. <br /><br />But as California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson found out in this episode, snow sports can be a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages during this tumultuous time.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">03ba83e7-a4b6-44d2-a7fc-d769da550f8f</guid><pubDate>Mon, 21 Dec 2020 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/42607463/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode49.mp3" length="51382504" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Like so many things, the pandemic has added a layer of complexity to the typical California snow season. Mountain ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas have COVID-19 safety regulations in place and restrictions on capacity that make planning ahead...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Like so many things, the pandemic has added a layer of complexity to the typical California snow season. Mountain ski resorts and outdoor recreation areas have COVID-19 safety regulations in place and restrictions on capacity that make planning ahead and pre-purchasing passes essential to a successful winter getaway on the slopes. <br /><br />But as California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson found out in this episode, snow sports can be a safe and enjoyable activity for all ages during this tumultuous time.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2115</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,kirkwood,laketahoe,northstar,skicalifornia,skiing,skiresorts,snowboarding,snowsports,snowtubing,topflightfamily,winter,wintersports</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/e123915e6c8ef4f6495be8abf6e24b18.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Exploring Gold Country</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/exploring-gold-country--42354128</link><description><![CDATA[Gold Country takes its name from the famous historical period that kicked off in 1848 with a Coloma carpenter's discovery of gold flakes in the American River. Today, this thriving collection of river cities and towns offers visitors insight into the past as well as a delicious taste of the present.<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson uncovers some of the best attractions Gold Country has to offer.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">c8503d0a-828f-4004-8b76-339439aedd9a</guid><pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2020 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/42354128/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode48.mp3" length="61553374" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Gold Country takes its name from the famous historical period that kicked off in 1848 with a Coloma carpenter's discovery of gold flakes in the American River. Today, this thriving collection of river cities and towns offers visitors insight into the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Gold Country takes its name from the famous historical period that kicked off in 1848 with a Coloma carpenter's discovery of gold flakes in the American River. Today, this thriving collection of river cities and towns offers visitors insight into the past as well as a delicious taste of the present.<br /><br />On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson uncovers some of the best attractions Gold Country has to offer.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2529</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>americanriver,applehill,california,coloma,columbia,goldcountry,goldrush,history,jamestown,placerville,preethichandrasekhar,sacramento,sacramentoriver,sonora,theeagertraveler,tuolumnecounty,westsacramento,yosemitenationalpark</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/019eb2280d8b3682e90dc2011e179e13.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item><item><title>Greater Palm Springs</title><link>https://www.spreaker.com/episode/greater-palm-springs--42015209</link><description><![CDATA[Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine nature preserves on all sides, the Greater Palm Springs area is a posh nexus of natural beauty, wellness, and culture. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about the iconic mid-century modern style of architecture. Johnson also speaks with 'Palm Springs Life' Editor-in-Chief Steven Biller to get the inside scoop on the local art and dining scene. And finally, Johnson gets a rundown of the best hikes and outdoor experiences.]]></description><guid isPermaLink="false">d583d0a6-e25d-4846-8af1-0b75ae842062</guid><pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2020 04:00:00 +0000</pubDate><enclosure url="https://api.spreaker.com/download/episode/42015209/visitcalifornia_podcast_episode47.mp3" length="61121977" type="audio/mpeg"/><itunes:author>Visit California</itunes:author><itunes:subtitle>Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine nature preserves on all sides, the Greater Palm Springs area is a posh nexus of natural beauty, wellness, and culture. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about the...</itunes:subtitle><itunes:summary><![CDATA[Surrounded by majestic mountains and pristine nature preserves on all sides, the Greater Palm Springs area is a posh nexus of natural beauty, wellness, and culture. On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns about the iconic mid-century modern style of architecture. Johnson also speaks with 'Palm Springs Life' Editor-in-Chief Steven Biller to get the inside scoop on the local art and dining scene. And finally, Johnson gets a rundown of the best hikes and outdoor experiences.]]></itunes:summary><itunes:duration>2525</itunes:duration><itunes:keywords>california,californiadeserts,coachella,coachellavalley,greaterpalmsprings,hiking,indio,joshuatreenationalpark,midcenturymodernarchitecture,outdoors,palmdesert,palmsprings,palmspringslife,ranchomirage</itunes:keywords><itunes:explicit>clean</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/7467d25a6e4b3c3668b55022393ec7ae.jpg"/><itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>
