Episode 22: California – “Eureka”

Episode 22

14th April 2026

Prospector Janet Varney and John Hodgman are ready to talk about all the GOLD in them thar hills! That’s right; the show is back on the west coast, to spotlight California; everything from gold, bears, and even a cryptid or two. In fact, California is on its way to having an official cryptid– Big Foot. […]

Episode notes

Prospector Janet Varney and John Hodgman are ready to talk about all the GOLD in them thar hills!

That’s right; the show is back on the west coast, to spotlight California; everything from gold, bears, and even a cryptid or two.

In fact, California is on its way to having an official cryptid– Big Foot. But this is a monster that other states may feel a stronger claim to, even if the legislation is completely pushed through.

But no matter how that shakes out, let’s appreciate that amazing motto. Whether you’ve just pulled a shiny nugget or you’re just feeling good, it sure is fun to shout, “Eureka!”

Produced by Julian Burrell.

Senior Producer at MaxFun is Laura Swisher.

For all things E Pluribus Motto, visit maximumfun.org/mottos-info.

Want to tell Janet & John something about an upcoming state? Or send a voice memo, photo, or cherished memory? There are lots of options:

Email – Emailpluribusmotto@maximumfun.org

Voice Message  – speakpipe.com/epluribusmotto.

Social Media: Instagram and TikTok.

And if you want to purchase Bulletin Board as a small business in any state this season, you can do so here.

 

In this episode...

About the show

Listening to E Pluribus Motto is like taking a road trip with friends Janet Varney and John Hodgman. In each episode, they spotlight one state and chat about its motto, bird, beverages, songs, and–occasionally–muffins. Plus, you’ll hear from residents and guests whose lives or work have been inspired by that state. This podcast is a celebration of regional culture and an homage to the love we all seem to have for the place we call home. Pack your snacks and jump on in!

Get involved in the show here!

Cover art by Paul G. Hammond
Music by Zach Burba

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