Set-Jetting in California

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson takes listeners on a set-jetting tour of California, exploring the state’s notable TV and film locations with three knowledgeable experts.

First up, Johnson chats with Bryan Rice, owner of San Francisco Movie Tours, who reveals how the city’s unique landscapes have played host to countless classic films. Rice takes Johnson through some of San Francisco's most famous movie spots, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. “We go to all the major neighborhoods of San Francisco, and as we go by these locations we’re showing 70 clips from 55 movies filmed all over [the city],” says Rice. He also dives into the local filming locations of Mrs. Doubtfire and Hitchcock's thriller Vertigo, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what makes San Francisco a film-fan favorite.

Next, Johnson is joined by Samantha Gonzalez, PR and social media representative for the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. For fans of Friends, Gilmore Girls, The Big Bang Theory, and many other TV shows and films, it’s a must-stop attraction that showcases actual sets, props, costumes, and more. Celebrity spotting is also a distinct possibility: “This is where plenty of actors, directors, and writers work,” Gonzalez notes, “so it is very common to just be riding on a tour cart and suddenly you see an actor from Ted Lasso pass by.”

Finally, Johnson connects with Charlie Hartsock, cofounder of the SetJetters app, which helps film lovers track down the real-world locations from their favorite movies and TV shows. Hartsock talks about the growing trend of set-jetting, especially across California’s diverse landscapes. “I moved out to California for my acting and film career, and when I finally got settled and was able to venture out into the state, it made me realize everything's not just done in Hollywood,” says Hartsock. He also shares practical tips for navigating these filming locations and how to use the app to better plan your own cinematic itinerary.

GUESTS

Bryan Rice, owner of San Francisco Movie Tours

Samantha Gonzalez, PR and social media rep for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Charlie Hartsock, cofounder of the SetJetters app

RESOURCES

Bryan Rice is the owner of San Francisco Movie Tours, where he leads guided tours to the city's most famous film locations.

San Francisco

San Francisco Movie Tours

Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz Island

Lombard Street

Painted Ladies

San Francisco City Hall

Palace of Fine Arts

North Beach

Oakland

Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Geyserville

Petaluma

Sonoma

Samantha Gonzalez is a former tour guide turned PR and social media representative for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood in Burbank.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Burbank

Studio Tour Plus

Deluxe Tour

TCM Classic Films Tour

Holidays Made Here

Charlie Hartsock is the cofounder of the SetJetters app and website, which helps film lovers track down the real-world locations from their favorite movie and TV shows.

SetJetters

San Diego

Hotel del Coronado

Balboa Park

Los Angeles

Hollywood

Death Valley National Park

Sacramento

Lady Bird Tour

Pasadena

Healdsburg

Cayucos

Auburn

Foresthill Bridge

American River

Palm Springs

Palm Springs Midcentury Architecture

Salton Sea

Buttercup Sand Dunes

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

Editorial Director, John Godfrey

Producer, Kate Eplboim

Technical Producer, Jessica Marshall

Theme music, Aaron Taos