California Now Podcast

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers experiences the ultimate celebration of pop culture with actor-director-podcaster Kevin Smith and comic book creator, writer, and podcast host Marc Bernardin.

The two longtime Comic-Con veterans share memories from their earliest trips to San Diego Comic-Con and reflect on how the event has transformed from a niche gathering of comic-book fans into a global entertainment phenomenon. They also revisit some of the convention’s most unforgettable moments, including Smith’s experience inside the Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Avengers Hall H presentations, and Bernardin’s memory of the surprise screening of the first trailer for 300. “It went over so well they played it three times in the room,” Bernardin recalls.

Smith and Bernardin discuss the thrill of hunting for collectibles, original artwork, and rare comic books on the convention floor, as well as the creativity and spectacle of cosplay. Bernardin even shares a story about a certain celebrity roaming the convention undercover in costume.
For fans without a badge, the pair share tips on how to enjoy the Comic-Con atmosphere outside of the convention halls, at events ranging from elaborate pop-ups to immersive brand activations and fan experiences that take over downtown San Diego each year. They also swap stories about some of the most impressive off-site events they’ve encountered throughout their years at Comic-Con.

Beyond Comic-Con, Smith and Bernardin highlight some of their favorite places to visit in San Diego, along with beloved California destinations that appeal to travelers and pop-culture enthusiasts alike. From coastal escapes to can’t-miss nerd-culture landmarks, they share the California experiences that keep them coming back.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers explores Gilroy with two insightful local voices about the city’s culture, creativity, and community.

First, Meyers sits down with Ruben Dario Villa, a Gilroy-based artist and designer. Villa helps orient listeners to the city’s unique geography at the crossroads of the San Francisco Bay Area, the Central Coast, and the Central Valley. He then discusses his work creating the La Ofrenda Festival, a vibrant Día de los Muertos celebration in downtown Gilroy featuring art, live entertainment, and luchadores. Villa also highlights other standout local festivals and shares personal recommendations for u-pick farms, local wineries, scenic nature trails, and restaurants. The conversation wraps with a look at the Casa de Cultura y Artes and its role in supporting the city’s arts community.

Next, Meyers talks with Joely Rosales, brand manager for digital marketing at Gilroy Gardens, a whimsical, vegetable-inspired theme park and botanical garden. Rosales shares the story behind the park’s creation, highlights its most popular rides and attractions, and suggests activities both kids and adults can enjoy. She also dives into Gilroy’s evolving food scene, including the city’s walkable taco trail.

As California continues to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, California Now host Josh Meyers heads to San Francisco to explore the energy, innovation, and community shaping this iconic World Cup host region.

The journey begins at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, where Meyers meets Stephanie Rogers, executive vice president of marketing for the San Francisco 49ers. From a rooftop garden overlooking the field, Rogers shares what fans can expect when the World Cup comes to town, highlighting the stadium’s cutting-edge technology and fan-first design. The two also take a walk through the 49ers Museum before diving into Rogers’ top recommendations for where to eat, explore, and experience the best of Santa Clara.

Next, Meyers makes his way to McTeague’s Saloon in Lower Nob Hill to meet Zach Holman, president of the San Francisco chapter of American Outlaws, along with Vice President Jackie Choi. Inside the lively neighborhood bar, they break down what the grassroots soccer fan organization is all about and what makes watching a match with fellow fans so electric. The conversation covers the excitement building around the World Cup, how nonmembers can join in the fun, and their favorite local spots across San Francisco and beyond.

The episode wraps in the historic Castro District at Rikki’s, where Meyers sits down with co-owners Danielle Thoe and Sara Yergovich. As the first women-centric sports bar, Rikki’s offers a welcoming, inclusive space for fans of all kinds. Thoe and Yergovich share the story behind the bar, why the Castro was the perfect home, and what makes the game-day experience there so special—right down to their favorite cocktails. The episode closes with Meyers joining fans to watch a U.S. Women’s National Team match.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers goes on location to experience the FIFA World Cup in Los Angeles through the players, venues, and innovators shaping the city’s global soccer moment.

The journey begins at Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the LA Galaxy, where Meyers meets soccer legend Cobi Jones. A three-time World Cup player, Jones reflects on the evolution of Major League Soccer, his most memorable moments on the global stage, and why Los Angeles has become a premier soccer city. The two continue their conversation on a walk through the stadium, where Jones shares plans for his upcoming statue and surprises Meyers with a jersey.

Next, Meyers heads to SoFi Stadium to meet Tony Vroman, senior director of facility and campus operations strategy. At one of the world’s most technologically advanced stadiums, Vroman offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to host an event of this scale—from game-day experience to soccer tournament preparation—while the two step out onto the field.
From there, Meyers visits the Bootsy Bellows Suite to catch up with Max Bretos, the voice of the Los Angeles Football Club. Bretos shares what makes attending an LAFC match is so electric, breaks down how the matches work, and highlights the city’s global appeal as a sports and entertainment capital.

The episode concludes at Cosm on the Hollywood Park campus, where Meyers sits with Corey Breton, head of venues. Breton showcases Cosm’s immersive viewing experience and explains why it’s an exciting, accessible way for fans to experience soccer in L.A., complete with cutting-edge visuals, amazing food, and a buzzing atmosphere.

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Josh Meyers explores a piece of coastal paradise on Catalina Island with Derrik Lang, senior features editor for the Auto Club of Southern California’s Westways magazine.

Lang shares expert tips on how to get to Catalina Island via the Catalina Express and Catalina Flyer. The two explore must-see attractions like the iconic Catalina Casino—home to a rooftop ballroom, mini golf course, and roller skating rink—and dive into top things to do on Catalina Island, including snorkeling, scuba diving, ziplining, and horseback riding.

Derrik also highlights cultural spots like the Catalina Museum for Art and History and local favorites like the famous Buffalo Milk drink, as well as his recommendations for the best restaurants and under-the-radar gems in Avalon.