Podcasts are a great way to take your mind off the news of the day or to simply let your mind wander while washing the dishes or sitting by the fireplace. Here are five episodes of the California Now Podcast that will take you back to your last trip to California—or perhaps start you thinking about your next adventure.
The Pacific Ocean and California Coast
Let your mind wander to the water: In this themed episode, we talk to sustainability and wildlife experts from SeaWorld San Diego, Terranea Resort, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Culinary Road Trips, Catalina Island
Esquire Food and Drinks Editor Jeff Gordinier joins the podcast to share insights on his book, Hungry, as well as insider tips on his favorite road trip-worthy restaurants in the Golden State. Plus, Gail Fornasiere gives host Soterios Johnson a guided tour of Catalina Island.
Curtis Stone, Hiking with Kids, SoCal Taco Tour
This episode has something for everyone: Michelin-starred chef (and vibrant TV personality) Curtis Stone talks about his culinary explorations of Mendocino and Sonoma counties; author Wendy Gorton shares her favorite kid-friendly hikes in the state; and food blogger Courtney O'Dell recounts her SoCal Taco Tour, during which she tried dozens of tasty treats in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.
Family Travel, Idyllwild, Wild North Coast
Travel + Leisure Editor in Chief Jacqui Gifford kicks off this episode, regaling our host with memories from past trips to California when she was a kid as well as still-forming plans to bring her son to top spots in the Golden State. After that, podcast regular Ann Marie Brown talks up one of her favorite places for a weekend getaway and blogger Jessica Wright recounts a recent road trip up the coast.
Cowboy Culture, Highway One, Bikes and Hikes LA
If you're in the market for some fresh air and some constantly changing scenery, this is the episode for you. Cattle rancher John Varian kicks things off by telling listeners how they can spend a couple days driving cattle along the Central Coast. After that, travel writer and host Aida Mollenkamp describes her ideal road trip down Highway One and then Bikes & Hikes LA tour guide Elizabeth Conway takes listeners on a virtual hike up Mt. Hollywood and describes what it’s like to cycle around town.