Candid Candace Jordan-The Podcast!

Episode #67-Tuxedo Man!

Welcome to the latest episode of Candid Candace – The Podcast with host and producer John St. Augustine! First up, we interview charming author Patti Guzak and learn of her fateful “Rowling-like” journey to publication of Tuxedo-Man. We follow up with a tasty deep dive into the relaunch of Mariano’s Tastemaker Kitchen benefiting Common Threads, where culinary stars like Bill Kim, Tony Priolo, Dominique Leach, Brian Jupiter, Lamar Moore and Sarah Stegner are taking center stage. The episode also covers the Bally’s Corporation topping-off ceremony buzz, commentary on billionaire Ken Griffin, highlights from the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center event that featured powerful remarks from Epstein survivor/thriver Jess Michaels while honoring John Robak and Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, plus a preview of Taste of the Nation for No Kid Hungry and SO much more -- a fast, fun roundup of the city’s tastiest and most talked-about moments.

Episode #66-Windy City Wrap Up!

The latest episode of Candid Candace – The Podcast just dropped, and I’m thrilled to be joined, as always, by my fabulous co-host/producer John St. Augustine for a whirlwind tour of Chicago’s buzz-iest events. We preview Yasmin Levy live at the Studebaker Theater, dish on ArtEdge at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago featuring Macy Gray and drummer Matt Sorum, celebrate Michael Kutza and run through a packed spring calendar with highlights from the Chicago History Museum, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, Joffrey Ballet, Service Club of Chicago, the Driehaus Museum fashion show, Lookingglass Theatre Company, The Chicago Lighthouse , Misericordia, Randolph Street Market and Amdur Productions. It’s your fast, fun insider guide to what’s happening around town that’s not to be missed!

Episode #65-Linda Yu!

Big names, bold stories, and a little cosmic sparkle! This episode of Candid Candace – The Podcast has it all. Co-hosted with producer John St. Augustine, we sit down with the iconic Linda Yu, Chicago’s first Asian American broadcast journalist and a beloved anchor for over 30 years. She shares unforgettable newsroom stories, hard-earned wisdom, and yes… life as a brand-new grandma to twins. Plus, we’re buzzing about meteor sightings, celebrating Michael Kutza, diving into plans for a Cultural Stadium and a new AI school in Chicago and spotlighting must-attend events like PAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism and Giordano Dance Chicago’s return to the Harris Theater. Fast, fun and very Candid Candace. Take a listen!

Episode #64 Going Green!

Hi everybody, and welcome back to Candid Candace – The Podcast! I’m here with my terrific producer and co-host, John St. Augustine, and Chicago’s social scene has been buzzing like a murder hornet. From a delicious new restaurant discovery to glamorous galas, inspiring events, and a St. Patrick’s celebration or two, we’ve got plenty to dish about—plus a look at some of the city’s most exciting upcoming happenings. So, hang onto your shamrock and join us for a little taste of the fun, food, fashion, and philanthropy that make Chicago the greatest city in the world!

Episode #63 Happy Valentine's Day!

Welcome to Candid Candace – The Podcast! I’m Candace Jordan, here with my co-host and producer, John St. Augustine, and we’ve got an action-packed show for you! From the Service Club’s Valentine’s Day party co-chaired by Maria Vathis, Cheryl Coleman and Donna Flynn (with The Bear’s Chris Witaske in the mix!) to celebrating Neal’s exclusive 60th at the casino, honoring Harold Ramis Day and the Chicago Auto Show with a thousand cars, local charities, puppy adoptions, craft beer and more — this week has been a whirlwind. We’ll talk about the record-breaking First Bites Bash that kicked off the largest Chicago Restaurant Week ever, spotlight Richard Boykin at punch 39 on March 17, and share thoughts about Nancy Guthrie. Plus, we’ll preview Giordano Dance Chicago’s Studio 63 gala, Tickled Pink and the exciting news that Navy Pier is now the official starting point of Route 66. So, buckle up, let’s dive into all the buzz around town!

 

Episode #62-Frozen Friday & First Bites!

Candid Candace – The Podcast! delivers a lively, insider look at Chicago’s food, culture, sports, and social scene. In this episode, producer/co-host John St. Augustine and Candace Jordan recap the buzz from the 14th annual First Bites Bash at the Field Museum, where 1,800 guests and 70 restaurants kicked off a record-setting Chicago Restaurant Week in support of No Kid Hungry and the James Beard Foundation, with perspective from Choose Chicago President and CEO Kristen Reynolds. The conversation jumps from Bears pride and a Caleb Williams highlight to Chicago’s standout showing among the 2026 James Beard Foundation semifinalists, among many other exciting topics and insights, offering a fast, fun snapshot of what’s happening across the city right now. Stay warm and thanks for listening!

Episode #61- Politics, Holiday Pop Quizzes & More

Welcome to Candid Candace – The Podcast! with me, Candace Jordan, and my fabulous co-host/producer, John St. Augustine.

It’s the holiday season in Chicago, and we’ve got a packed episode: from attorney Richard Boykin’s run for Congress (he’s my pick!) to the festive sounds of Music of the Baroque and from Chance the Rapper’s bike giveaway to celebrating Darvin’s support of Lurie Children’s.

We’ll reflect on Millie Hefner’s remarkable life and share joy with John’s brand-new grandbaby. Plus, plenty of holiday sparkle from the Service Club’s luncheon and Sherry Holson’s Christmas party, with a touch of reflection on the Reiner family tragedy, too.

And just when you think you know what’s coming… stay tuned for a pop holiday quiz you won’t see coming!

So, grab your cocoa, get cozy and join us for Chicago stories, holiday spirit and a whole lot of heart, right here on Candid Candace – The Podcast.

Episode #60-Windy City Wonderland: The Holiday Scoop

“Welcome to Candid Candace – The Podcast” with your hosts Candace Jordan and John St. Augustine, where we serve up the hottest happenings in Chicago with a side of sass! This week, the city is pure holiday magic: the Harry Potter Shop in Chicago has transformed into a festive wonderland, Navy Pier is introducing Local Soul makers, Santa is trading his sleigh for a speedboat, and Santa’s Secret Chicago experience is checking IDs for its adults-only show!  From sold-out galas and “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” hitting our time zone, to the Randolph Street Holiday Market this weekend, Lightscape at the Botanic Garden, and The Joffrey Ballet’s “Nutcracker” dazzling audiences, we’ve got all your seasonal must-dos. Plus, don’t miss out on Armando’s turkey giveaway, text him to get your hands on one of 100 tasty birds (listen to the podcast for details - wink, wink!) Now, grab your cocoa, pull up a comfy chair, and join us for the ultimate Chicago holiday roundup, naughty, nice, and everything in between!”