Bi-weekly podcast
Exploring Grass Valley
43min
2 years ago
Discover this Gold Country town with a Grammy-nominated musician, historic hotel manager, and hard kombucha entrepreneur
On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson gets to know this storied small town with three unique guests. First up, Johnson speaks with bluegrass musician Molly Tuttle, recently nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy. The Northern California-bred singer-songwriter breaks out her guitar for an exclusive performance of two songs off her new album, Crooked Tree. Tuttle shares details about her song “Grass Valley” as well as her love of the area and its rich music scene.
Next, Johnson chats with Sonya Krimsky, events manager at the history-laden Holbrooke Hotel. Krimsky details the colorful past of this former Gold Country saloon, a spot once frequented by the likes of Mark Twain, Jack London, and Black Bart. The two also cover the hotel’s recent restoration, rumors of ghosts haunting the halls, and the joys of preserving a slice of California Wild West past.
Lastly, Patrick Millar, co-owner of Gold Vibe Kombuchary, takes the California Questionnaire. The longtime Grass Valley local shares where he would go for the ultimate shopping spree, why a weekend getaway is his go-to splurge, and dispels a certain misperception about Californians.
GUESTS
Molly Tuttle, singer-songwriter and 2023 Best New Artist Grammy nominee
Sonya Krimsky, events manager at the Holbrooke Hotel
Patrick Millar, co-owner of Gold Vibe Kombuchary
RESOURCES
Molly Tuttle is a Grammy-nominated bluegrass musician, songwriter, and banjo player whose new album Crooked Tree was released in 2022.
“Grass Valley” feat. Jack Tuttle
Father’s Day Bluegrass Festival
Sonya Krimsky is the events manager at the historic Holbrooke Hotel.
Patrick Millar is the co-owner of Gold Vibe Kombuchary and taproom in Grass Valley.
ABOUT THE HOST
Soterios Johnson, formerly the local host of National Public Radio’s Morning Edition on radio station WNYC, moved from New York City to Davis in 2016. By combining his journalistic instincts with his personal curiosity, Johnson uses the California Now Podcast platform to develop a deeper understanding of his adopted home.
More Podcasts
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
Wine Tasting in California
49min
A Local’s Guide to Orange County
55min
3 California Podcasts You Should Know
42min
Rock Climbing, Best Campgrounds, L.A. Shopping
35min
Skiing and Snowboarding in California
39min
Ways to Play in California
52min
Exploring Tuolumne County
46min
The Pacific Ocean and California Coast
43min
California Curiosities, Architecture, East Bay
37min
Fascinating Road Trips
37min
Related Articles
Use keyboard arrow keys to move through items.
Unearthing Treasures in California’s Gold Country
Discover historic towns, farm-to-fork dining, and boutique shopping in this gem-filled destination
Exploring California's Gold Country by Car
Follow in the tire tracks of Bon Traveler’s Jessica Wright, who journeyed across this historic and foodie-friendly region
5 Classic Gold Country B&Bs
Spend a few nights in California’s prospecting past—while enjoying plenty of 21st-century comforts
Outdoors in Yuba Sutter Counties
Explore this Northern California region’s wild and natural side
So You Think You Know San Francisco?
You’ve been to Alcatraz, crossed the Golden Gate Bridge, and indulged in a Michelin feast. Now what?
California’s Most Haunted Hotels
Encounter a few friendly ghosts, or even celebrity spirits, during your next overnight stay
So You Think You Know Sacramento?
America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital is full of secrets and surprises—you just need to know where to look
California’s Highway One Road Trip
Drive the Coast Highway to Ragged Point to discover artsy towns, unique lodgings, and California’s iconic castle
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Get weekly travel inspiration, offers, contests, and more!
Plus, receive communications from California Grown and their exclusive ebook 'Iconic California Dishes to Celebrate California Wine Month' FREE.