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 from some of L.A.’s notable residents.

First, Evan Lovett, the creator of the L.A. in a Minute podcast, brings to life the fascinating history of Pacific Palisades and Altadena. Lovett also shares a handful of unique landmarks and historic L.A. neighborhoods that both visitors and locals alike will find interesting.

Next up, Johnson chats with Zach Brooks, General Manager of Smorgasburg Los Angeles, who shares how L.A.'s vibrant dining scene has banded together to support wildfire recovery efforts, while giving a sneak peek at the exciting new vendors at Smorgasburg and an upcoming firefighter benefit event.

Then, Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, the powerhouse chefs behind Border Grill and Socalo, talk about their work helping feed wildfire victims with World Central Kitchen and share their picks for dining out in Santa Monica.

In the next segment, Only the Lonely storeowners Krisha Garvey and Bernard Denney discuss how their Palisades Strong/Altadena Strong collection is making a difference. The duo guides Johnson through some of the best spots to visit in L.A.’s Sawtelle neighborhood, from noodle shops to bars and clothing stores.

Following that, Tim Philips, superintendent of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, talks about the Arboretum’s history, grounds, and its vital role in wildfire relief. He also reveals what's in bloom this season and namedrops upcoming events.

Finally, Kara Bartelt, general manager of The Hoxton Downtown LA, offers a glimpse into how her team supported guests impacted by the wildfires. Bartelt plays tour guide for Johnson, sharing some of Downtown L.A.’s top things to do.

GUESTS

Evan Lovett, creator of the podcast L.A. in a Minute 
Zach Brooks, general manager of Smorgasburg Los Angeles
Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken, executive chefs at Border Grill and Socalo 
Krisha Garvey and Bernard Denney, owners of Only the Lonely
Kara Bartelt, general manager of The Hoxton Downtown LA
Tim Philips, superintendent of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden

SHOUTOUTS

Margaret Cho
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Dee Dee Myers
Caroline Beteta

RESOURCES

Evan Lovett is the creator of L.A. in a Minute, a popular YouTube channel and podcast highlighting the diverse culture, history, and attractions of Los Angeles.

L.A. in a Minute
Los Angeles
Sylmar 
San Pedro 
Venice Beach
Griffith Park
Boyle Heights
Lakewood
MacArthur Park
King Taco
Porto’s Bakery
Pacific Palisades
Altadena
Eaton Canyon
Korean Friendship Bell
Los Angeles Dodgers 
Great Wall of Los Angeles
Forest Lawn—The Hall of Crucifixion Resurrection
Glendale

Zach Brooks is the General Manager of Smorgasburg Los Angeles, managing its vibrant food and vendor market.

Smorgasburg Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles
ROW DTLA
Menchita's Grill
Whole and Oat Coffee
Bangkok BBQ Bowl
Guelaguetza
I Love Micheladas
Calling All Cars

Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken are the award-winning, founding chefs of Border Grill and current executive chefs at Socalo in Santa Monica.

Santa Monica
Socalo 
Border Grill 
Cobi’s 
Back on the Beach Cafe
A.O.C.
Gjelina 
Chefs Love L.A.

Krisha Garvey and Bernard Denney are the owners of Only the Lonely, a curated boutique in L.A.’s Sawtelle neighborhood.

Only the Lonely
Sawtelle
Giant Robot
Black Market
Blackbeard’s Crafts
Bar Hermanito Sawtelle
Killer Noodle Tsujita
Menya Tigre
Hide Sushi
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

Tim Philips is the superintendent of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, where he oversees its conservation, education, and horticultural efforts.

Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Arcadia
Pasadena
Southern California Camellia Society Show & Sale
Inter City Cactus Show

Kara Bartelt is the general manager of The Hoxton Downtown LA, a boutique hotel in the heart of DTLA.

The Hoxton Downtown LA
Cabra
Moonlark’s Dinette 
The Original Los Angeles Flower Market 
Grand Central Market
Santee Alley 
Belasco Theater 
The United Theater on Broadway
Pine and Crane 
The Last Bookstore

ABOUT THE HOST

Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on New York radio station WNYC, has been the host of the California Now Podcast since its inception in 2018.

OUR TEAM

Host, Soterios Johnson
Producer, Kate Eplboim
Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall
Theme music, Aaron Taos