Candid Candace Jordan-The Podcast!

Episode #51 D-Day Remembered

On this episode of Candid Candace – The Podcast, my co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I reflect on the 81st anniversary of D-Day with a powerful tribute and John’s memories from his visit to Omaha Beach. Then we dive headfirst into a whirlwind of Chicago’s hottest happenings—from the Joffrey’s $3 million Mad Hatter–style gala and the dazzling debut of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, to the Goodman Theatre’s 100th with Leslie Odom Jr., and an opinion piece on the future of the White Sox. We’ve got some historic news on “Candid” Candace’s inclusion (!!) in the Chicago History Museum; fashion going furry at the River North Pet Gala;  summer’s biggest festivals; the James Beard Awards; PAWS upcoming Beach Party, why you won’t want to miss the Pope’s celebration in Rate Field and so much MORE!—This is one episode you don’t want to miss. Have a great weekend! (Patriotic artwork by Rosemary Fanti)

THE BIG 5-0!

Welcome to the milestone 50th episode of “Candid Candace – The Podcast”! I'm your host, Candace Jordan, joined by my dynamic co-host and producer, John St. Augustine. This week, we're taking you on a whirlwind tour through Chicago's most dazzling events and an exclusive conversation you won't want to miss.

First, we step behind the scenes at Steppenwolf Theatre's 50th Anniversary Gala, don our finest attire for Brookfield Zoo's 44th annual Whirl Gala and share insights about the Service Club of Chicago's fabulous Spring Hat Luncheon at the Ritz, where philanthropy met fashion in a vibrant display of community spirit.

Looking ahead, we're excited about the Joffrey Ballet's upcoming "Celebration" gala on May 31 at Cinespace, promising an evening of daring opulence inspired by the company’s production of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (June 5-22).

But the highlight of this episode is our exclusive interview with Chicago White Sox legend Ron Kittle! Ron shares candid insights into his career, thoughts on Jerry Reinsdorf and the current Sox team and even a surprising story involving a certain magazine appearance. His passion for the game and community shines through, making this a conversation you won't want to miss.

So, grab your favorite beverage—be it a cold one or a smooth bourbon like Ron and John prefer—and join us for a celebration of Chicago's vibrant culture and the people who make it extraordinary!

Episode #49- Happy Easter!

Easter weekend is upon us, and Candid Candace – The Podcast is here to hop right into the celebration with you! With my ever-charming co-host and producer, John St. Augustine, we’re chatting about the Who, What, Where and WOW of the Windy City — from the spellbinding new Harry Potter store (wands at the ready!) to why you can’t miss The Joffrey Ballet’s glamorous “Celebration” Gala to the secret ingredient in Portillo’s chocolate cake (we think!) and so much more! We’ve got the scoop on past and upcoming events and our thoughts on the “Ladies in Space.” So, whether you’re dying eggs, brunching in bunny ears or just enjoying a little spring sunshine, we hope you have an egg-stra special weekend — and we’re so glad you’re spending part of it with us!

Episode #48- Spring in Chicago!

Spring has sprung, and we’re back with another exciting and informative episode of Candid Candace – The Podcast! Join me and my producer/co-host, John St. Augustine, as we dive into Chicago’s must-see events, past and present. We’re breaking down the best art fairs and vintage festivals, dishing out the latest celebrity buzz, and revealing the heartwarming reason why you can’t miss Giordano Dance Chicago’s upcoming Soaring concerts. Plus, find out how Music of the Baroque will move your soul on April 6/7 and how to snuggle up with a robot at Griffin MSI. And we take a look back at some unforgettable memories that have lasted a lifetime and the real reason John is totally off the grid this weekend. Buckle up for a thrilling ride down podcast lane!

Episode #47- The Best of Chicago!

Get ready for an all-access pass to the best of Chicago on this week’s “Candid Candace – The Podcast”! My co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I are bringing you inside the city’s most buzz-worthy events—from Chef Tony Priolo’s star-studded fundraiser for World Central Kitchen to the breathtaking magic of The Joffrey Ballet’s Golden Hour. But that’s just the beginning! We dish on some favorite restaurant gems, a Blue Origin rocket launch that’s close to home and a mischievous pup with a sock obsession. Plus, we’re celebrating 30 years of Girls in the Game, Jahmal Cole’s epic Hoodie Ball, Make-A-Wish’s unforgettable soirée, PAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism and an electrifying and inspiring Giordano Dance Chicago performance coming up at the Harris Theater. And just wait until you hear about one surreal Saturday night. So, buckle up—it’s going to be a wild, fun-filled ride through the Windy City!

Episode #46-The Bunny Bounces Back!

After five long years, Playboy Magazine is back in print—and I’m holding history in my hands! The moment that glossy, iconic cover arrived; I knew this wasn’t just a magazine, it was a moment. No one thought Playboy would return to the newsstands—least of all me—but here we are! My producer and co-host, John St. Augustine, and I crack open the first issue of this long-awaited revival, dissecting what makes it so irresistible (besides the obvious allure).

But that’s not the only exclusive scoop I’m serving up—I’ll also take you inside a lavish dinner party where nine of Chicago’s top chefs came together to support LA wildfire victims.

And before we go, a little love note to you—wishing you a Valentine’s Day filled with passion, sweetness and maybe even a little Playboy magic!

Episode #45-Frigid Friday!

“Candid Candace – The Podcast!” We’re BAACKKK! My co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I are so excited to share the who, what, where, and WOW from the Windy City. January has been a little slow after the holidays, but the city is picking up steam and we have so much fun news to share with you. Hear from the Mayor and Rich Gamble, Interim President/CEO of Choose Chicago, about the largest First Bites event EVER and what the coming Chicago Restaurant Week looks like. I share event news from Lookingglass Theatre Company, Service Club of Chicago, World Central Kitchen, Harry Caray’s Groundhog Day celebration, Giordano Dance Chicago’s Studio 62, Tickled Pink, Israel Idonije’s new hotspot, Fashion Group International’s brand-new fundraiser, a great (men’s only) place to relax, and SOOO much more! So, sit back, stoke the fire, mix up a nice Manhattan and take a listen.

 

Episode #44 Snow Day!

“Candid Candace – The Podcast”: Is the perfect way to spend a snowy day! My co-host/producer John St. Augustine and I go down more than a few rabbit holes talking about the horrific fires, a corny, must-see musical, what the heck happened at the Golden Globes, a phone call to the wrong Art and the lowdown on ALL the upcoming events you won’t want to miss! Tune in, nog up and take a listen!