What If: Exploring California

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 & 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 & 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.”

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. 

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.”

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.

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.”

 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

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.

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&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."

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.

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.