California Now Podcast

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.

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 & 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 & 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.

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.

On this episode of California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson welcomes celebrated character actor and longtime Temecula resident Dean Norris. During their conversation—available on both audio and video platforms—Norris discusses his latest projects, including his work on Ghosts and Law and Order: Organized Crime. He also shares a memorable anecdote from his time filming with Arnold Schwarzenegger, recalling, “He was so cool that when the camera was on his closeup, he'd have a cigar down here while the camera was going. It was awesome.”

Norris then discusses the joys of owning the Swing Inn Cafe and BBQ in Old Town Temecula, a nostalgic neighborhood joint that dates back to 1927. He recounts the story of how he acquired the cafe and his decision to introduce barbecue to the menu. “I found a great pitmaster who makes just really legendary stuff,” Norris notes. “We have people from Texas that come in and say, ‘This is legit.’” The actor goes on to highlight some of his favorite menu items, including the slow-cooked brisket and his signature Shraderbräu beer, along with other Breaking Bad–themed cocktails.

Finally, Norris calls out some of his go-to Temecula wineries, golf courses, and one uniquely local nightlife spot. “You can line dance and hear some country music... it's a very Temecula experience to hang out at the Stampede.” Norris ends the episode by taking the California Questionnaire, offering his takes on the best ways to play, splurge, and road-trip around the Golden State.

On this 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.