Guerdy’s Fight for Hope || With Whit
Whitney sat down with Guerdy Abraira to discuss her powerful story and the work she’s doing with the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation. Check out the blog to read more about Guerdy’s inspiring attitude!
A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of sitting down with Guerdy Abraira, who many may know from The Real Housewives of Miami, to discuss her incredible journey and the important work she’s doing with the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation.
Guerdy shared her emotional breast cancer journey, emphasizing how hope, strength, and resilience carried her through. From a routine mammogram to a tough series of treatments, Guerdy’s positivity never wavered. As she put it, “you have to take it second by second, minute by minute.”
In addition to sitting down and talking with me, she was in Chicago to attend the Lynn Sage Foundation’s Fall Benefit, An Evening of Hope which she described as a "cocktail chic" event designed to raise awareness and support women facing breast cancer. Guerdy’s passion for the cause is clear, and it was inspiring to hear how she’s now using her voice to raise hope and funds for others.
Her perspective on life after cancer is all about self-care and honoring her “new self.” It was an honor to speak with her, and I’m excited to see how she continues to inspire others.
Madison Bailey & Carlacia Grant
Whitney had the honor of catching up with two of the stars of the Outer Banks series, Madison Bailey and Carlacia Grant. These two women came on the show to talk about season 4 and their characters display of strength through out the show. But Whitney also had the chance to speak to them about the strength they have harness in their own lives.
Outer Banks has taken the world by storm with its thrilling blend of adventure, romance, and intrigue. The Netflix series follows a group of teenagers from the coastal town of OBX, navigating the highs and lows of life while uncovering mysteries that threaten to change their lives forever. At the heart of this chaotic world are two of the show’s compelling characters: Kiara, played by Madison Bailey, and Cleo, played by Carlacia Grant. While their on-screen personas are defined by adventure and resilience, the real-life stories of Madison and Carlacia also speak to the inner strength needed in day to day life.
Madison Bailey's portrayal of Kiara, the strong-willed and compassionate member of the Pogue crew, is one of the standout performances of Outer Banks. Off-screen, Bailey’s own journey is marked by her commitment to being true to herself, especially when it comes to her mental health. She has been vocal about how her diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder has impacted her life and her career. In Whitney’s conversation with her, she mentions that it is important to her to honestly share this part of her life with her audience. Madison goal with her candor is to take away the stigma around talking about mental health.
Check out Madeline and Carlacia’s performance on Season 4 of Outer Banks, out now on Netflix!
Carlacia Grant made her Outer Banks debut as Cleo in Season 3, bringing an empowering new energy to the show’s cast. Cleo, a tough yet compassionate character from the Bahamas, has her own deeply rooted story of survival and resilience. Behind the scenes, Carlacia channeled this strength when she moved to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming an actress. It was difficult to work up the courage to tell her mom that she was pursuing a career in the arts, but she knew that she had to stay true to herself. She bravely ventured into the unknown, and is now a strong addition to the Outer Banks cast.
In the end, both Outer Banks characters and the actresses who portray them are proof that resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about perseverance, compassion, and self-love. And if there’s one thing we can take from their stories, it’s this: no matter how rough the waters get, we all have the inner strength to survive, thrive, and heal.
Join Me at Andy’s Santa Brunch! || With Whit
Join me at the Metropolitan Club on Decemeber 7th from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm for Andy’s Santa Brunch! With exciting activities for youth, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the season together. So gather your toy friends and prepare for a brunch that’s truly out of this world!
Paging Star Command! Andy is inviting YOU to join him and his friends at The Metropolitan’s annual Andy’s Santa Brunch. This is the perfect holiday outing for the entire family with an array of delicious food, holiday cheer, and a chance to take photos with Santa! It’s sure to be an experience that is to infinity and beyond! 🚀
Come on over to the 67th floor of The Metropolitan on Saturday, December 7th from 11AM to 3PM! My family and I will be there and I hope you and yours will be too! Come join us for a day full of festive fun and the perfect way to kick off the holiday season!
Get your tickets here!
Blossom Fashion Show
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Domestic violence affects so many, doing nothing but damage to all generations. Breaking the cycle of domestic violence is key, and everyday, I make it my mission, to uplift an organization like WINGS, who gears all of their work in strive to make this cycle end for good.
Providing housing, integrated services, education, and advocacy to those who suffer from this violence, WINGS helps survivors build the strength, to overcome the difficult situation and livelihood they currently face. No matter the person, a child or an adult, all individuals who come to WINGS for support, are given the comfort, accessibility and love they need and more.
WINGS is hosting their BLOSSOM Fashion Show next year, on April 24th, 2025 at the 21c Museum Hotel Chicago. Every donation made at this event, goes to growing the counseling, support, and education facilities for domestic violence survivors. I will be featured on the runway and standing as the “honoree,” leading the moment of honor for all survivors. All year round, WINGS continues to build the foundation for survivors to redirect their lives into ones aiming for peace and success.
You can do your part for this cause as well, by joining me at the show next year. More information on the event date and location can be found on our calendar page.
Playing It Forward With The Jackson Chance Foundation
Swinging into the fall season with the colder Chicago winds, it’s always an adventure to discover more fun, indoor activities! One of those I’ve found, and that I’ve been practicing is ping pong! And it’s all been in preparation for the 10th Annual Celebrity Ping Ping Tournament that my friends at The Jackson Chance Foundation and SPIN Chicago hosted last Friday, November 8
To share with you all more about The Jackson Chance Foundation, I wanted to share Jackson’s story, which I’ve had the honor to learn more about from the foundation’s founders and Jackson’s parents, Terry and Carrie Meghie.
Jackson Chance was born 10 weeks premature and spent nearly his entire 10-month life in the NICU, bringing his family immense joy despite the challenges. His parents, the Meghies, supported by family and resources, made the hospital a second home, cherishing every moment with him. Jackson had Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD), a chronic lung condition common in premature infants. Though they always believed he’d come home, though unfortunately, he passed away on September 7, 2012. Wanting to support as many NICU families as they can, the Meghies launched the foundation in his memory, to make families going through this challenge, to be as close to their child as they can possibly be, just as they did with Jackson.
This accessibility, for parents to be near their children currently in the NICU, is the forefront mission that the foundation upholds. No parent should ever be separated from their child because of the financial burden, especially when their child is in the NICU. That’s where the foundation provides support, aiding parents to have access to be in the room with them.
It’s touching to watch Terry and Carrie’s dedication, in continuing the legacy of their son, through this beautiful foundation and it was an honor to play in this tournament for Jackson, and every NICU child.
Happy Halloween
Happy Halloween from my family to yours! With the leaves changing and the air getting crisp, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the magic of the season. I hope you’re all gearing up for some festive fun and as well as enjoying our brand new season, which premiered on October 15th and hits the nation at the same time this weekend on WORLD CHANNEL!
I had the pleasure of kicking off the festivities by hosting this year’s 900 Shops Trick-or-Treat event! We kicked off the festivities with a lively Halloween-themed sing-along concert led by Bubbles Academy, followed by a spectacular costume parade. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to showcase their creative costumes while enjoying some Halloween tunes!
But the fun didn’t end there! After the kickoff, we enjoyed trick-or-treating at all the amazing retailers on all seven floors of the building. Families dived into spooky activities like Halloween cookie decorating at Sur La Table and explored the Musical Petting Zoo with New Music School.
This year’s event was a resounding success! Thousands of kids joined in the fun, and together, we raised over $2,000 for Lakeshore Public Media, an incredible organization dedicated to enriching our community through lifelong learning and civic engagement.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event so special. We can’t wait to celebrate Halloween with you again next year and I wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!
Marielle Heller | WITH WHIT
The Chicago International Film Festival is wrapping up this Sunday, and it was such a highlight earlier this week to chat with incredibly talented screenwriter and director, Marielle Heller. Known for her thoughtful, nuanced approach to storytelling, Heller has made a name for herself with films like A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, capturing the essence of Mr. Rogers’ gentleness and depth. Which of course as apart of the PBS family, I had to ask her about!
However, it was her latest project, Nightb*tch, that premiered at the festival, marking another bold move in her already impressive discography.
Nightb*tch, starring Amy Adams and based on Rachel Yoder’s novel, delves into the raw, unfiltered experience of motherhood, particularly the hormonal shifts and emotional whirlwinds that come with it.
Heller, a mother of two, channeled her own experiences into writing this screenplay, bringing authenticity and vulnerability to the story. As she shared with me, the film captures the intense, often chaotic emotions of motherhood, from the hormonal rage to the quiet moments of self-reflection, finding both humor and relatability in the madness. Being a mother of twins, we bonded over these feelings no doubt.
For many women, Nightb*tch is a movie that Marielle hopes make women feel seen. Through the lens of the surreal, it tackles the pressures and frustrations of being a mother in a way that feels empowering. Heller’s ability to translate these complex emotions into cinematic form is nothing short of masterful!
Defiant By Nature, Heller’s production company, embodies these themes that Heller strives to tell in all of her work. Even the name, Defiant By Nature, perfectly hones in on the idea of human nature and imperfections, and how in every film, Heller makes it vital that the stories and characters she takes on, bring this to the forefront.
Whether it’s the quiet grace of Mr. Rogers or the untamed energy of Nightb*tch, Heller’s work reminds us of our shared humanity, flaws and all, and celebrates the beauty in it.
Take a look!
New Season Inspiration!
In the interview between Whitney Reynolds and Anthony Robles, Anthony shares his inspiring life story as a disabled athlete. Born without a right leg, he faced numerous challenges, including bullying and self-doubt. However, his determination and passion for wrestling propelled him to success. He discusses how he transformed adversities into motivation, ultimately winning the NCAA wrestling championship. Whitney highlights Anthony's resilience and positive mindset, emphasizing how his journey serves as a powerful message about perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself. The conversation is uplifting, showcasing Anthony's role as a motivational speaker and advocate for those facing similar struggles.
Today Is The Day!
SEASON 8 OF THE WHITNEY REYNOLDS SHOW is OUT TONIGHT!
October 21st has arrived! The newest season of the Whitney Reynolds Show, Season 8, premieres TODAY! Ways to watch our premiere, Owning Your Lane, highlighting guests Dan Aykroyd, Brad Keselowski, Amber Rangel, and Keanon Kyles, can be found on our WATCH page. This fall, I am overjoyed to share the variety of moving and motivational stories from Chicago and beyond. There is lots to come - make sure you are tuning in every Monday!
35 Years of the Chicago Philharmonic!
Last weekend, it was so special being in the presence of world-class musicians, and the Chicago Philharmonic Society never fails to deliver the magic. Hosting the 35th Anniversary Gala and Concert, it was an evening that celebrated immense talent, dedication, and passion for the classical arts. Truly, I felt so much gratitude as well as awe, of the music playing on stage, to be part of an evening that celebrates such immense talent, dedication, and passion.
The Philharmonic stands out as something truly extraordinary, and my wonderful friend, Terell Johnson, Executive Director of The Chicago Philharmonic Society, led the night with such poise and creativity. It was a privilege to get to share the night with him and this incredible orchestra, an orchestra that doesn’t just perform—they use their music to inspire, to heal, and to elevate the spirits of everyone in the room
It was a night that couldn’t have been more perfect. Witnessing multiple live orchestral pieces, from solos to the infamous orchestra performing, Sleeping At Last, and enjoying a meal with my friends at the society, boosted my love for this city even more.
Female is The Future! GIRLSTRONG x Girls on The Run || WITH WHIT
This week was hustling for our team and I at the Whitney Reynolds Show! Back to back emcee gigs, season premiere preparation (which is THIS Monday), and our live taping for Wishlist 2024. It’s been busy, but an incredible week!
Just a few days ago, I was in Atlanta, it was a tight turn-around, but the people I met along the way as well as familiar faces I got to see in person again warmed my heart.
I made it onto Atlanta & Company, known as ‘atl&co’ spreading the word of GIRLSTRONG’s initiative and outstanding brand, Being on the news brings me back to my day as an anchor, but this time it was a relaxing twist. Our conversation boosted me positively into the day attending “The Happy Healthy Hour'“ - which so SO fun!
This event left me with so much hope and excitement for the future. The work being done by Girls on the Run Georgia is truly changing lives, and it was an honor to witness such an outpouring of support for their cause. I left not only with some new friends but a renewed sense of purpose—ready to continue lifting up young women and encouraging them to shine as brightly as they can.
“When we feel good as women, the world benefits. The female-empowered brand and movement, GIRLSTRONG is all about showing up in our best capacity,” says my friend, and founder Lisa Crossley. This statement resonates deeply with me, as I've seen firsthand the transformative power of embracing my strength and confidence in different aspects of my life.
GIRLSTRONG is a fitness apparel and accessory brand that celebrates the power of women coming together. Lisa mentions how “fashion has been a powerful tool for female empowerment throughout history, allowing women to express themselves authentically, challenge stereotypes, and redefine what it means to be both feminine and empowered.” And GIRLSTRONG does just that! Through their fashion, fused with functionality that makes the women who wear it feel fabulous and amazing!
Lisa’s journey in growing GIRLSTRONG has been very inspirational! Starting in 2015, the idea of functional fitness wear catering to all women sparked in her mind during an exercise class, where Lisa, during it, felt cautious and slightly intimidated. She couldn’t shake the idea out of her head! Now, I am so glad that the world is able to see her and her brand’s brilliance! “There are so many forces that divide us, as women, rather than aligning us. I wanted to create a brand that emphasized that women can be both inspired and empowered,” Lisa says. GIRLSTRONG strongly embodies this mission, innovating fashion to include and connect all women in the community.
The positive and inspiring impact of GIRLSTRONG continues through its global outreach, connecting with a multitude of brand ambassadors and influencers. I am lucky to say I am a part of this team! I LOVE working with GIRLSTRONG! Being an ambassador and a part of the advisory board, advocating for their female empowerment movement has been a wonderful experience throughout our partnership.
GIRLSTRONG is hosting their “Healthy Happy Hour” event benefiting their charitable partner, Girls on The Run, at Stellar Bodies fitness studio in Atlanta. I’ll be there as a special guest on October 15th, joining the cause in raising awareness and funds for Girls on The Run Atlanta. Even your event ticket, only $35, counts as a direct donation! (You even get a GIRLSTRONG x Girls on The Run t-shirt if you attend)! These donations contribute to the Atlanta branch’s programming, supporting these girls, who navigate various life experiences, and their emotional, social, and physical well-being. The reception is a beautiful space where we are bonded by the same goal to make a positive difference in these girls’ lives.
The merge of missions is the greatest partnership, especially when it’s for women! If you’re interested, click “GIRLSTRONG” here on my site to learn more about Lisa’s empowering apparel and the brand’s collaboration with Girls on The Run! I’m excited to see you there!
Whitney Coming To WGN
As the holiday season approaches, I’m excited to share some excited updates you won’t want to miss! Wish List will be airing on December 15th on WGN! This sold-out show will feature a live audience and promises to bring plenty of holiday cheer!
Adding to the excitement, I’ll be hosting my pop-up shop at the annual Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago on December 15 from 12 to 2 PM and (even more exciting new) I also got a sneak peek at their new mugs for the 2024 market!
If you’re a Chriskindlmarket regular, (or even if you’re a first-timer), you know how iconic these mugs are! This year’s collection is sure to become a fan favorite with two standout mugs, each designed to capture the spirit of the season—the infamous Boot Mug and the Nutcracker Mug. Drinking a warm cup of cocoa from a boot I must say, is life changing to the tastebuds!
These mugs, along with the rest of the 2024 pop-up shops, will be available at both Christkindlmarket locations in Chicago and Aurora starting on November 22. For more details, you can check out the Christkindlmarket website here.
Be sure to mark your calendars for December 15—not only for Wish List, but for my pop-up shop at the Christkindlmarket!
Upcoming Stories!
Surprise! I returned to my southern stomping grounds, Waco, Texas, where I got to fulfill a secret assignment for our upcoming season. I can’t give too much away, but it was wonderful getting to sit down with the leading creators and crew, on He Rules The World!
What is He Rules The World? It’s a captivating family-friendly concert event that beautifully tells the Nativity story through song, narration, and stunning imagery. This immersive experience, brings a fresh perspective to the timeless story of Christ’s birth and the events that unfolded after.
Sitting down with the team that makes it all possible was a highlight of my Texas return, where we discussed their careers, roles in making the show happen, and how they feel inspired by their theatrical masterpiece and their passion in sharing its spiritual message!
If you find yourself in Texas this Christmas, check out their show dates!
Catch more of our interview later this fall!
Jordan Spieth || WITH WHIT
Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Jordan Spieth during his inaugural Crush It! Cup tournament in the Farmers Branch suburb of Dallas. Hosted by Spieth, this event aims to support youth golf initiatives by providing junior golfers with the chance to showcase their skills and passion for the game, attracting fans and participants from across the country eager to join in this exciting event.
During our conversation, Spieth shared powerful insights about his formative years and the mentorship that has shaped his golf career. He fondly recalled his time at Jesuit College Preparatory School in Dallas, where giving back was an integral part of the community and a value that became even more prominent as he transitioned into his professional career.
He recounted how the relationships he built early in his career laid the foundation for his professional success. He mentioned Zach Johnson and Ryan Palmer as key figures who welcomed him to the tour at just 19 years old, providing invaluable guidance during that overwhelming, yet exciting transition. These relationships not only influenced his professional path but also instilled in him the importance of community involvement—an essential value embraced by many professionals on the PGA Tour.
Jordan’s philosophy is clear: golf has the ability to foster competition while cultivating values like resilience, teamwork, and community. As he continues to inspire young players through his foundation, he stands as a testament to the power of mentorship in shaping both careers and character, reinforcing the idea that the game of golf is about much more than just the score.
Full interview coming soon on PBS!
WGN Radio+ Whitney
With the first episode airing tomorrow, I’m thrilled to announce my brand-new segment, "Wednesdays with Whitney," on the beloved WGN Radio show hosted by John Landecker!
As a television host, I’ve always had a passion for storytelling and connecting with people. I feel so lucky to be embarking on this new endeavor with John and to create a space together where important narratives can thrive by diving into inspiring stories of individuals and communities making a difference, all while fostering a sense of hope and positivity.
Combining my passion for highlighting social issues, personal triumphs, and community efforts with John’s entertaining style, we will explore everything from local heroes and charitable initiatives to stories of persevering against the odds. "Wednesdays with Whitney" is more than just a new segment; it’s a commitment to uplifting voices by encouraging us to reflect on our own lives and the impact we can have in our own communities. Whether it’s a story of resilience in the face of adversity or a celebration of community spirit, I’m excited to bring something meaningful to the forefront in each episode.
Make sure to tune in tomorrow at 7:30 PM CST and be part of this exciting new chapter on WGN Radio!
New Season
Get ready, talk show enthusiasts! This October, the highly anticipated new season of Whitney Reynolds Show is set to make waves on PBS, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. We are back with a fresh lineup that promises to deliver powerful narratives and thought-provoking topics that resonate with viewers.
This season, we have curated a stunning roster of guests that include influential figures from various fields. Expect to see artists, musicians, chefs, and everyday heroes sharing their personal journeys, struggles, and triumphs. A few guests you can expect to see include Dan Aykroyd, legendary actor, comedian, and writer, Brad Keselowshi, professional NASCAR driver, and Janet Singer Applefield, a Holocaust survivor and autobiographical novelist of “Becoming Janet”. Our warm and inviting studio and interview style allows guests to open up, creating an intimate atmosphere where powerful stories can unfold. Each episode is sure to inspire and entertain, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking motivation and connection.
One of the hallmarks of the Whitney Reynolds Show is our ability to tackle important and relevant issues. This season will cover a variety of topics that are timely and impactful. From not being defined by your labels to going back to your roots, the show aims to shine a light on the challenges many face while also celebrating success and resilience. Our commitment to addressing these subjects ensures that viewers not only receive entertainment but also engage with critical conversations that matter.
As the new season premieres, I am inviting you to join the conversation. Through social media platforms, viewers can connect with the show, share their thoughts about the episodes, and engage with a community that is passionate about the same themes of hope and empowerment. This interactive elements creates a fuller experience, encouraging everyone to participate in the meaningful discussions sparked by the show. You can also listen more in my interview with NPR by clicking on the link below!
-Whit
A SEASON 8 Sneak Peek on WLS!
It was a Wednesday worthwhile! It was wonderful getting to be on WLS this week to promote our upcoming season, Season 8, of our show! I was beaming with pride getting to share with Tom and all of you, what’s in store!
This fall, we’re bringing a strong set of new, engaging, and incredibly moving stories to the nation! We’re touching on the triumphs, perseverance, hard-work, and selflessness of the many guests I had the honor to have on, as well as some partner organizations I work with that bring such inspiration to communities all across our home market and the nation. It’s truly everything our show strives for, reminding you all that YOUR STORY MATTERS! Even though it was just a sneak peak, I was thrilled to shout out these Season 8 moments and how YOU can tune in!
Whether you know our mission or not, always know that there’s hope in your story! Thank you, Tom & WLS Chicago, for having me, and to all our viewers and supporters—this season is for you!
Mission driven media with Jessica Alba & Lizzy Mathis
Whitney interviews Jessica Alba and Lizzy Mathis, the powerhouse team behind Honest Renovations, about their shared mission to help others. They explain how their work goes beyond transforming homes—it touches lives and fosters personal growth. From balancing motherhood to business, they share insights on making a lasting impact with authenticity in every project.
Click the PBS App Link to watch this sneak peak! Checkout Honest Renovations exclusively streaming on Roku.
Back to My Roots || With Whit
Last week, I had the chance to return to my roots at KTEN, which was truly a full circle moment. While in town for the Crush It! Cup with Jordan Spieth, I was reminded of the incredible community that shaped my early career. Sitting down with Bailey Vaughn on Good Morning Texoma, I reflected on my time at KTEN, where I started as a reporter and producer, learning invaluable skills both behind-the-scenes and in front of the camera.
Those formative years taught me everything from anchoring to executive producing, laying the groundwork for my journey to becoming the executive producer of The Whitney Reynolds Show. It was a heartwarming reminder of how far I’ve come and the lessons that will always stay with me. Here's to the experiences that shape us and the homes that welcome us back!
