Candid Candace Jordan-The Podcast!

Episode #14-Amanda Puck

In this "Candid Candace - The Podcast!" I had the thrill of chatting with longtime friend and beloved Chicagoan, Amanda Puck. As a known foodie (her nickname is "Foodarazzi") and Director of Strategic Brand Development for Mariano's, she has a unique view of the city's chef and restaurant communities. Here, she shares some of her favorites; a go-to recipe from a supermodel; some not-to-be-missed new spots; and where she thinks our restaurant scene is headed. John St. Augustine, co-host/producer, shares his amazing experience inside the Rickett's suite during a very special game at Wrigley. And, as always, I share some event news: the Adler Planetarium's out-of-this-world "Celestial Bash"; the amazing keynote speaker at the Navy Seal Foundation's "Midwest Evening of Tribute"; and the unbelievable drone show at Navy Pier's "ExPIERience" gala! So, grab your calendars (for upcoming event listings), and a nice, chilled glass of Mezzacorona pinot grigio and enjoy the show!

Episode#13-Bally’s Casino!

In this week’s “Candid Candace – The Podcast!” I take you behind the scenes at Bally’s Casino and share all the fun news from one of their rehearsal nights. My producer/co-host/friend John St. Augustine and I also discuss the Baton's Miss Continental Pageant; the upcoming Chicago Lighthouse FLAIR fashion show; Eversight’s 25^th anniversary celebration; a special innovation from the Lyric Opera Company; the Adler Planetarium’s Celestial Ball and so much more. And, we get to hear John’s informed take on sports in Chicago. So, listen in and may lady luck be with you!

Episode #12-Chef Art Smith

In this episode of “Candid Candace – The Podcast!” we interview award-winning Chef Art Smith. His cooking skills and down-to-earth personality have connected him with Lady Gaga, the Dalai Lama and five presidents, to name a few. And, as impressive as his kitchen skills are, his life as a humanitarian is equally inspiring. He shares what’s next on his to-do list, what makes his fried chicken so damn special, and some valuable advice Johnny Carson’s pianist told him. My producer/co-host John St. Augustine and I also chat about a VERY big book launch, Chance the Rapper’s private party, some of my favorite events and so much more! So, grab a piece of Hummingbird Cake, find an easy chair, and enjoy the show!

Episode #11- Amy Amdur & Catie Keogh

Welcome back to “Candid Candace: The Podcast!" If you’re a fan of art festivals, (and who isn’t) you won’t want to miss my Q&A with Amy Amdur, the QUEEN of art festivals, having founded Amdur Productions 40 years ago! Her company produces over 1000 art festivals a year. She shares tips for navigating shows and what to expect this weekend for her Printers Row Art Fest! Then, we explore the world of travel with my dear friend, two-time Emmy Award-winner Catie Keogh! Her “Let’s Go with Catie Keogh” shows are well known throughout the media world, including on National Geographic Travel, her own travel show on WLS radio, her popular podcast, as a travel expert for WGN TV, as a digital travel writer for Chicago Star and many others. She shares the best spots to go for day trips and weekends from Chicago for those of us who are time-challenged and a very, very special Honor Flight she took with her dad, a Vietnam vet. It’s something you won’t want to miss. And, as always, I share my top event picks and memories of the recent Service Club fashion show! Thankfully, my friend/producer/co-host John St. Augustine pops in with his always insightful comments and makes my podcast world go-round. You won’t want to miss this- so sit back, relax and pop a top!

 

Episode #10-Capt. Chris Cassidy | Astronaut, Navy SEAL

In our 10^th edition of “Candid Candace: The Podcast!” I share an interview that’s out of this world! Hear what NASA Astronaut/ Navy Seal Captain Chris Cassidy has to say about UFO’s, his scariest and most memorable moments in space and the hardest part about being an astronaut. I also share some exciting news about “Candid Candace,” the ULTIMATE event listings, a LOLLA update, thoughts on the late, great Jim O’Connor, and why this year’s PAWS Chicago Beach party was so special. As always, special thanks to my producer/co-host John St. Augustine for keeping the wheels on the bus. Grab your beach chair and a refreshing Aperol spritz and ENJOY!

Episode #9- Bill Kurtis & Donna La Pietra

In this Legends Podcast, I have the privilege of interviewing Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra, the King and Queen of Chicago Media and Philanthropy. Their accomplishments are legendary including Donna’s unique knack for creating the most memorable nonprofit events in our history (she shares some secrets). Bill chats about his star turn in Will Ferrell’s “Anchorman” film, which is hysterical, and how he landed the coveted role. Both avid conservationists, they also share their passion project as well as tips on succeeding in journalism and how you can give back without breaking the bank. And, as always, I offer my top event picks to put on your social calendar plus my take on the Lincoln Park Zoo Ball and the Ravinia Festival Gala. Special thanks to my producer/co-host, a legend in his own right, John St. Augustine, who just became a grandpa of twins! So much to celebrate in this edition! Tune in, sit back, and enjoy the show!

Episode #8- NASCAR in Chicago!

In this week’s  “Candid Candace: The Podcast!” NASCAR drivers (that's me with Kyle Busch!) share their tips for viewing the race, who they will be looking out for on the track, and what concerns they have about driving on a city street for the first time. My talented producer/co-host John St. Augustine and I also chat about The Joffrey Ballet’s surreal celebration and its highlights, my review of Goodman Theatre’s “The Who’s Tommy,” architect Lucien Lagrange’s well-deserved honor and so much more! It’s action-packed and informative with some very special events to put on your calendars too.

So, take a pit stop and enjoy the show!

Episode #7-Tom Dreesen

I hope you enjoy my latest “Candid Candace: The Podcast!" This week, we chatted with the one and only Tom Dreesen. Not only is he a world-renowned comedian but he’s a helluva great guy too. He shares intimate stories of his friendship with Frank Sinatra, growing up in Harvey, Illinois, how being in the Navy changed him, and some great advice about how to create a better life experience, that made the hairs on my arms stand up. And, of course, we chat about upcoming, not-to-be-missed events and why the MCA’s ArtEdge gala was so spectacular. As always, thanks to my steadfast producer/co-host, John St. Augustine, for being the yin to my yang!