Podcasts by California Now Podcast
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 www.visitcalifornia.com
Further podcasts by Visit California
Podcast on the topic Reisen und Orte
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Three Michelin Restaurants in California from 2022-02-14T01:00
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 w...
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How to Pregame California-Style from 2022-01-31T01:00
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.
Holiday Travels in California from 2021-11-22T04:00
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...
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Local Food Tours in California from 2021-11-08T04:00
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 ...
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Undiscovered California Road Trips from 2021-10-25T03:00
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 abo...
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Essential Tips for California Road Trips from 2021-10-11T03:00
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 acro...
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California's Movie Magic from 2021-09-27T03:00
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 th...
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Travel Tips from California Locals from 2021-09-13T03:00
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 lon...
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High-Value Travel from 2021-06-07T03:00
With the relaxing of COVID-19 protocols statewide, the summer ahead is looking bright and busy for travelers seeking a California vacation. Whether that means playing on the beaches in San Diego...
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What’s New at California Theme Parks from 2021-05-24T03:20
It’s one of the most encouraging signs that life is starting to return to normal: California theme parks have reopened. In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats...
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Theme Parks Reopening from 2021-05-24T03:20
It’s one of the most encouraging signs that life is starting to return to normal: California theme parks have reopened. In this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats...
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Road Trips: Route 66 and Beyond from 2021-05-03T03:00
There are more than 386,000 miles of road in California, according to the Federal Highway Administration. This extensive network of highways and byways crisscross the state and make road trippin...
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Hollywood Icon Kevin Costner from 2021-04-19T03:00
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 ...
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What If: Exploring California from 2021-04-05T03:00
What would you eat if you could elbow up to any table anywhere in California? Where would you go if you could take the ultimate kid-friendly Golden State vacation? And what California luxuries w...
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California's Epic Natural Wonders from 2021-03-22T03:00
There are few places on earth than can claim the breadth of natural wonders and biodiversity that exist in California. You can find natural wonders in literally every corner of the state—from al...
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California's Delicious Diversity from 2021-02-08T04:00
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 Hol...
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Trip Planning in 2021 from 2021-01-25T04:00
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...
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California Snow Adventures from 2020-12-21T04:00
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 pla...
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Exploring Gold Country from 2020-12-07T04:00
Much of California's history is inextricably tied to the region that lies between the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sierra Foothills. Gold Country takes its name from the famous historical peri...
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Greater Palm Springs from 2020-11-16T04:00
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 Califo...
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Outdoor Spaces in California Urban Centers from 2020-11-02T04:00
Hiking gear may not be among the first items on your packing list for a trip to San Diego, Anaheim, Los Angeles, or San Francisco, but you won't want to forget these articles of clothing. When y...
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Safe Travels During the Pandemic from 2020-10-12T14:30
Despite restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers are slowly but surely turning their vacation daydreams into reality. And as we quickly discover during this podcast, Californi...
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Celebrate California Farmers and Farmworkers from 2020-09-28T04:00
When it comes to agricultural output, California is truly the cream of the crop. The Golden State produces one-third of the nation's vegetables and two-thirds of its fruit. And those grapes you'...
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Celebrate California Farmers and Farmworkers from 2020-09-28T04:00
When it comes to agricultural output, California is truly the cream of the crop. The Golden State produces one-third of the nation's vegetables and two-thirds of its fruit. And those grapes you'...
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Celebrate California Farmers and Farmworkers from 2020-09-28T04:00
When it comes to agricultural output, California is truly the cream of the crop. The Golden State produces one-third of the nation's vegetables and two-thirds of its fruit. And those grapes you'...
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Southern California's Greatest Hits from 2020-06-22T03:00
In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson revisits some Southern California hotspots, hidden gems, and mouth-watering local cuisine featured on previous episod...
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Southern California's Greatest Hits from 2020-06-22T03:00
In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson revisits some Southern California hotspots, hidden gems, and mouth-watering local cuisine featured on previous episod...
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Southern California's Greatest Hits from 2020-06-22T03:00
In this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson revisits some Southern California hotspots, hidden gems, and mouth-watering local cuisine featured on previous episod...
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Phil Rosenthal: Live in California from 2020-03-16T03:00
Phil Rosenthal established himself as a Hollywood player in the mid-1990s when he created the iconic sitcom Listen
The Pacific Ocean and California Coast from 2020-03-02T04:00
Given its 840 miles of beautiful coastline, California's relationship with the Pacific Ocean is deep and abiding. And if you ask SeaWorld San Diego's Jody Westberg, getting up close and personal...
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L.A. Hotels, Family Learning Adventure, McCloud from 2020-02-17T04:00
Stay at certain upscale hotels in Santa Monica, West Hollywood, or Beverly Hills, and you have a pretty good chance of spotting a few celebrities in the lobby or at the bar. Even if you don’t, t...
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Culinary Road Trips, Catalina Island from 2020-02-03T04:00
There's nothing worse than a wasted meal, according to Esqu...
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Curtis Stone, Hiking with Kids, SoCal Taco Tour from 2020-01-20T04:00
Celebrity Chef Curtis Stone believes that cuisine is the true soul of a place. And as he discovered on a recent trip, Sonoma and Mendocino have a lot of soul. He joins host Soterios Joh...
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Sonoma County’s Hidden Gems from 2020-01-06T04:00
With more than 425 wineries located within its borders, Sonoma County is truly a dream destination for wine lovers. But as Soterios Johnson discovers during this episode of California Now, this ...
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Family Travel, Idyllwild, Wild North Coast from 2019-12-16T04:00
The Golden State’s astonishing variety is on full display in this episode of the California Now Podcast. Travel + Leisure Editor in Chief Jacqui Gifford kicks things with off with a pre...
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Skiing and Snowboarding in California from 2019-12-02T04:00
California is known for its surf culture, certainly, but come wintertime, thrill-seekers look to the mountains to ride the slopes on skis, snowboards, and other vehic...
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Craft Spirits, California Cheese Trail, Asian Cuisine from 2019-11-18T04:00
California distillers have become pretty crafty with their spirits in the last few years. With award-winning distilleries now dotting the state, you're...
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LEGOLAND California, Pacific Crest Trail, Bay Area Boutiques from 2019-11-04T04:00
When you think of your dream job, does it involve playing with LEGO bricks? It certainly do...
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Emma Gannon, Gold Country, Haunted Sites from 2019-10-21T03:00
Millennial-favorite Ctrl Alt Delete Podcast host Emma Gannon regales host Soterios Johnson with tales of her latest road trip down Highway One from San Francisco to Huntington Beach. Travel blog...
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San Diego Zoo, Bishop, Mount Shasta from 2019-10-07T03:00
Rick Schwartz, spokesperson and ambassador for the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, shares his love of animals and a few pro-tips for visiting the zoo. Travel writer Ann Marie Brown ...
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Cowboy Culture, Highway One, Bikes and Hikes LA from 2019-09-23T03:00
Cattle rancher John Varian tells listeners how they can spend a couple days driving cattle in the Central Coast. The Food Network host Aida Mollenkamp describes her ideal road trip down Highway ...
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California Surfing Day, Ryan Robinson, Glamping from 2019-09-09T03:00
As the state’s official sport, surfing is integral to California culture. There’s never a bad time to catch a wave in the Golden State, but thanks to warmer waters September is one of the most p...
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California Wine Month from 2019-08-26T03:11:34
In celebration of harvest season, this episode of California Now Podcast is dedicated to vintages and vineyards. Host Soterios Johnson learns the best way to swirl, sip, and savor from Anna McPe...
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Michelin Guide, Central Coast Road Trip, LGBTQ Travel from 2019-08-12T03:00
Meet an anonymous Michelin inspector and learn how he helped anoint 90 California restaurants with coveted stars
In an unprecedented move, Listen
Balboa Park, Wellness Travel, Wide Open Walls from 2019-07-29T03:04:05
Join host Soterios Johnson as he explores America’s largest urban cultural park: Balboa Park in sunny San Diego. Jennifer Davies, a Director of Cultural Tourism for the San Diego Tourism Authori...
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Road Trip: Music to Wine on 99 from 2019-06-17T03:00
Join California Now Podcast host Soterios Johnson on this special road trip edition as he drives along Highway 99 through the heart of the Central Valley. His journey begins in Bakersfield, loca...
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Road Trip: Searching for Stars from 2019-06-03T02:59:35
On the first-ever road trip edition of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson gets out of the studio and explores Southern California’s awe-inspiring night sky. His stargazing adventu...
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Whale Watching, Dog-Friendly Travel, Ironstone Vineyards from 2019-03-25T03:30
In episode 20 of the California Now Podcast, we set off to sea with Patti Schick of Hornblower Cruises as she discusses whale watching with host Soterios Johnson. Schick shares what to expect w...
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Spas, National Monuments, Mission San Juan Capistrano from 2019-03-11T03:00
Forbes Travel Guide recently released its Star Awards Winners, and California spas landed at the top of the rankings. In episode 19, Amanda Frasier, Executive Vice President of Standards & Ratin...
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Sunnylands, Oysters, Free Activities from 2019-02-19T03:45:34
Episode 18 of the California Now Podcast begins in the epicenter of Mid-Century Modern design: Sunnylands. The center’s director, Janice Lyle, guides host Soterios Johnson through a tour of the ...
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Butte County, Temecula, San Diego County from 2019-02-04T03:09:53
Join host Soterios Johnson as he gets to know a Northern California region that has shown incredible resilience: Butte County. This corner of the Shasta Cascade region is recovering from last ye...
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Fascinating Road Trips from 2019-01-22T02:00
Our podcast guests often rave about one very special way to experience California: a classic road trip, where the destination and the journey are one and the same. We’ve compiled some of our fav...
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Culinary Greatest Hits from 2019-01-07T02:00
We’ve had so many fascinating food experts on the podcast that we decided to assemble a greatest hits album of sorts—a collection of tip-filled snippets with some true insiders. The episode star...
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California Cuisine, Sonoma County, Yosemite from 2018-12-08T00:45:49
Hunter Lewis, editor in chief of Food & Wine magazine, explains what California cuisine is, how it took shape four decades ago, and where visitors can experience it today. After that, a...
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California Curiosities, Architecture, East Bay from 2018-11-26T02:00
Atlas Obscura’s Dylan Thuras gives us a tour of strange sites that are perfect for families or anyone young at heart. Architecture expert Sam Lubell shares his picks for the most impressive cont...
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Solo Travel, L.A. Street Food, Olive Oil Tasting from 2018-11-05T02:00
Stephanie Rosenbloom, a New York Times travel writer, discusses the merits of solo travel. Eater L.A. senior editor Farley Elliott lists his five favorite street food purveyors in Los A...
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Redwood Coast, Favorite Hotels, Sacramento Dining from 2018-10-22T00:00
Alison Bing explains why Lonely Planet named California’s Redwood Coast the top destination in the country. Next up, Travel + Leisure Editor in Chief Nathan Lump shares his top...
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Jonny Moseley, Orange County, Museum Hack from 2018-10-08T15:53:25
We begin with a conversation with Olympic Gold Medalist Jonny Moseley and his new video series Wildest Dreams. The always-engaging Moseley shares insights about a few of the locations he discove...
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Rock Climbing, Best Campgrounds, L.A. Shopping from 2018-09-23T23:00
Kevin Jorgeson joins host Soterios Johnson for a breakdown of California’s best climbing—from pure beginner to expert-level adventures. Author Ann Marie Brown takes the outdoorsy theme up a notc...
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Culinary Gems, Hidden Beaches, Napa Valley Wine from 2018-08-24T19:58:47
Eater LA Senior Editor Farley Elliott dives deep dive into California's culinary treasures--where to find authentic ranch cuisine, why Highway 99 has some of the country’s best Mexican food, and wh...
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Curtis Stone’s Culinary Tour, Lake Tahoe, Death Valley from 2018-08-10T14:26:48
When Curtis Stone decided to showcase Central Coast wines at Maude, his 24-seat Beverly Hills hotspot, he knew he had to hit the road. Stone and his culinary team ventured north from Los Angeles...
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Curtis Stone’s Culinary Tour, Lake Tahoe, Death Valley from 2018-08-10T14:26:48
When Curtis Stone decided to showcase Central Coast wines at Maude, his 24-seat Beverly Hills hotspot, he knew he had to hit the road. Stone and his culinary team ventured north from Los Angeles...
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Curtis Stone’s Culinary Tour, Lake Tahoe, Death Valley from 2018-08-10T14:26:48
When Curtis Stone decided to showcase Central Coast wines at Maude, his 24-seat Beverly Hills hotspot, he knew he had to hit the road. Stone and his culinary team ventured north from Los Angeles...
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San Francisco Dining, Channel Islands, Luxury Hotels from 2018-06-18T21:38:02
What happens when an intrepid food critic is asked to consume 13 Michelin stars worth of cuisine in the space of four days in San Francisco? Amanda Frasier pulls back the curtain on Forbes Trave...
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Bucket Lists, Craft Beer, San Andreas Fault from 2018-04-28T01:16
Patricia Schultz, author of 1000 Places to See Before You Die talks about bucket list travel and offers up some Golden State destinations. The director of Craft: The California Beer Documentary, Je...
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Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland from 2018-04-27T23:14:47
Samantha Brown, PBS host of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love talks about the gorgeous views along Highway One and raves about the are...
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Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland from 2018-04-27T23:14:47
Samantha Brown, PBS host of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love talks about the gorgeous views along Highway One and raves about the are...
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Big Sur, Waterfalls, Oakland from 2018-04-27T23:14:47
Samantha Brown, PBS host of Samantha Brown’s Places to Love talks about the gorgeous views along Highway One and raves about the are...
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