California Now Podcast
Society & Culture
About
Hosted by actor, comedian, and proud Californian Josh Meyers, the California Now Podcast offers a fresh and entertaining take on the Golden State. Known for his sharp wit and natural curiosity, Josh brings a playful yet thoughtful energy to every conversation, whether he’s swapping stories with a Michelin-starred chef, uncovering hidden gems with local guides, or chatting with fellow celebrities about their California favorites. Each episode delivers equal parts inspiration and insider tips–helping listeners dream, plan, and truly experience their next California adventure.
Episodes
- Best Ways to Experience the World Cup in the San Francisco Bay Area
This episode covers the 2026 World Cup preparations in the San Francisco Bay Area, featuring insights from Levi’s Stadium, the San Francisco 49ers, American Outlaws soccer fan organization, and Rikki
- World Cup in Los Angeles: Where to Experience Soccer’s Biggest Event
Host Josh Meyers explores Los Angeles's FIFA World Cup experience, speaking with soccer figures like Cobi Jones and Max Bretos, and venue operators at Dignity Health Sports Park, SoFi Stadium, and Cosm.
- How to Plan the Perfect Catalina Island Getaway
Host Josh Meyers and Derrik Lang discuss planning a trip to Catalina Island. Lang provides tips on transportation, attractions such as the Catalina Casino, activities like snorkeling and ziplining, dining options, and local favorites.
- Winter in Mammoth Lakes
This episode of the California Now Podcast features host Josh Meyers on a winter trip to Mammoth Mountain. He speaks with Clifford Mann about the mountain's history and skiing, Olivia Amber about Nordic skiing, and Michelle Kelly about the…
- Accessible Adventures Across California
Host Josh Meyers speaks with accessible travel advocates Abbey Romeo and Cory Lee about California
- How To See Live Show Tapings In California
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers speaks with the woman responsible for packing the house for some of television’s biggest live shows. Meyers sits down with KC Cavarozzi, founder and fan experience expert at O…
- Ike Barinholtz: Hollywood Stories, Trivia Wins, & California Adventures
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers welcomes one of his oldest friends: actor, comedian, and writer Ike Barinholtz. The two look back on their early days performing together and how one unforgettable trip to Los…
- Route 66 Centennial Road Trip in California
On this special on-location episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers celebrates the 100th anniversary of America’s most legendary highway with a road trip across California’s stretch of Route 66. He kicks off the adventure i…
- Exploring the San Francisco Peninsula
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers explores San Mateo County, aka the San Francisco Peninsula, with two local experts. He starts off the episode chatting with Nick Calderon, director of Parks and Recreation for…
- Weird California: Uncovering the Myths, Legends, and Lore in the Golden State
On his debut episode of the California Now Podcast, new host Josh Meyers dives head-first into the weird and wonderful folklore that stretches across this state from the hub of spiritual tourism in Mount Shasta to UFO sightings in the Moja…
- New Season & Host Announcement!
Big news—California Now is back with a new season and a new host, Josh Meyers! Join Josh as he travels the Golden State, meeting the people and discovering the places that make California so extraordinary. Get ready for fresh stories, hidd…
- Only-in-California Events
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the vibrant, eclectic world of events, celebrations, and festivals in California with three noteworthy guests. First, Johnson chats with Rick Farman and Allen Sc…
- Native American Travel Experiences in California
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the deep cultural heritage and vibrant traditions of Native American communities across the Golden State—and how travelers can experience them in meaningful ways…
- California Road Trip Adventures
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson hits the road with three seasoned travelers to explore California’s epic road trip experiences. To kick things off, Johnson chats with Zach Dundas, the editorial director…
- Kristi Yamaguchi’s Golden State
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with Olympic gold medalist, bestselling author, and Bay Area native Kristi Yamaguchi. The figure skating icon reflects on her childhood in Fremont, her first time o…
- California’s Can’t-Miss Restaurants
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson digs into the Golden State’s dynamic and diverse restaurants with three experts who know the local food scene inside and out. First, Johnson chats with Elina Shatkin, foo…
- Josh Meyers' California Favorites
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson welcomes actor and comedian Josh Meyers, cohost of Family Trips with the Meyers Brothers— a podcast he does with his brother, late-night talk show host Seth Meyers. In th…
- Amazing California Sports Experiences
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson explores the wonderful world of sports across the Golden State with three notable experts. First, Johnson speaks with Natalie Nakase, head coach of the Golden State Valky…
- Exploring Sacramento
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson dives into the best of Sacramento’s food, culture, and outdoor scene with three expert insiders. First up, Johnson is joined by Benjy Egel, the food and drinks writer for…
- Exploring Monterey County
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson takes listeners on a journey through Monterey County, chatting with local experts about the best places to explore, stay, and dine in this picturesque stretch of the Cent…
- We Love L.A.
On this special episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with eight L.A. insiders about both the city’s incredible offerings and its resilience in response to the recent wildfires. Plus, hear special shoutouts fr…
- California Travel on Any Budget
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three Golden State insiders who want to help you get the most out of your next trip to the state—no matter your budget. First, Johnson chats with Nina Ruggiero,…
- Set-Jetting in California
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson takes listeners on a set-jetting tour of California, exploring the state’s notable TV and film locations with three knowledgeable experts. First up, Johnson chats with Br…
- Exploring Lake Tahoe
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson talks to three local experts about how to make the most of a winter trip to Lake Tahoe. First up, Johnson learns the ins and outs of skiing South Lake Tahoe with Robin Ba…
- Dean Norris’ Temecula
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 lat…
- Haunted California
On this spine-tingling episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson delves into the captivating stories behind the Golden State’s most iconic haunted attractions with three spooky-season experts. First, Johnson is joined by…
- Pattie Gonia’s California
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson speaks with Pattie Gonia, a critically acclaimed drag queen, musician, environmentalist, and influencer . During their conversation—available on both audio and video plat…
- Wine Tasting in California
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson taps into the wine tasting expertise of three oenophiles. First up, Johnson chats with Lucy Simon, assistant wine editor at Food & Wine magazine. Simon offers valuable ti…
- California Theme Parks Summer 2024
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 f…
- Beach Boys Mike Love and Al Jardine
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. “So much of our music was inspired by California itself,”…
- Exploring Tuolumne County
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…
- A Local’s Guide to Orange County
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…
- Discovering Lake County
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 fe…
- Ways to Play in California
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-wi…
- Local’s Guide to Marin County
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…
- Margaret Cho’s Iconic 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…
- Samin Nosrat’s California Love
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 c…
- Locals Guide to San Jose
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…
- 3 Award-Winning California Authors
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 reall…
- Insider’s Guide to Inyo County
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 form…
- Exploring San Luis Obispo County
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…
- Humboldt County Travel Guide
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…
- Discover Yolo County
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-ac…
- Antonia Lofaso’s L.A. Guide
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 Champi…
- Exploring San Francisco’s Neighborhoods
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 sommel…
- California Theme Parks Summer 2023
[Note: For updated information on what's new at Golden State theme parks, see our more recent episode California Theme Parks 2024.] On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson learns what’s new at California’s top…
- Canadians in California
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 accl…
- Exploring Ventura County
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…
- Exploring Mendocino County
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 . Mad…
- Tony Hawk’s San Diego
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 plen…