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.
No persons identified in this episode.
This episode hasn't been transcribed yet
Help us prioritize this episode for transcription by upvoting it.
Popular episodes get transcribed faster
Other recent transcribed episodes
Transcribed and ready to explore now
Eric Larsen on the emergence and potential of AI in healthcare
10 Dec 2025
McKinsey on Healthcare
Reducing Burnout and Boosting Revenue in ASCs
10 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
Dr. Erich G. Anderer, Chief of the Division of Neurosurgery and Surgical Director of Perioperative Services at NYU Langone Hospital–Brooklyn
09 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
Dr. Nolan Wessell, Assistant Professor and Well-being Co-Director, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Division of Spine Surgery, University of Colorado School of Medicine
08 Dec 2025
Becker’s Healthcare -- Spine and Orthopedic Podcast
NPR News: 12-08-2025 2AM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now
NPR News: 12-08-2025 1AM EST
08 Dec 2025
NPR News Now