Surviving a Hurricane, Cancer and Homelessness

It’s been another incredible week at the Whitney Reynold’s show! On our last show we spoke with some amazing individuals who taught us that you can be the change this world needs if you just step up and try! Don’t forget: If you missed the episode you can catch it again on Sundays at 10:30 AM.

Our first guest on our show Survivor is Jaspen Boothe. She's a woman who, throughout all adversity, has remained strong. She survived Hurricane Katerina along with a vicious bout with cancer. As the creator of The Final Salute she has dedicated her life to helping veterans such as herself to find proper housing and employment after service.

Survival expert and professional stunt person, Ky Furneaux, will be telling us all about her thrilling career of performing stunts and may even give us some useful survival tips! Ky has appeared in over 80 films and tv productions including: The Avengers, Thor, and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

Talk about girl power! This survivor found her passions after almost completely loosing her mobility due to an injury she sustained from a horrible car crash. After a year of intense physical therapy she was back up and moving better than ever. She decided nothing was going to keep her from doing what she loved.

For all of you Survivor fans Ethan Zohn will be joining us! This man was the winner of the Survivor: Africa season. He’s also been seen on Survivor: All-stars and The Amazing Race. Ethan was previously a professional American soccer player and used his prize money to cofound an incredible charity called Grassroot Soccer. This charity uses soccer to educate and mobilize communities in order to fight the spread of HIV. Not only did Ethan survive in the wilderness he is also a cancer survivor! His story is one you won’t want to miss.

See you this Monday for a powerful episode filled with amazing stories of survival and inspirational guests!

Change Is A Good Thing

Well it has been an amazing week for us here at The Whitney Reynolds Show. On Monday we launched to weeknights here in Chicago and had a big watch party to celebrate. The party was hosted by Hubbard Inn, we had amazing food, drinks and great photos by Action Booth. We packed the 2nd floor with 120 of our most loyal viewers, TWRS Staffers and folks from our PBS Network. What a fun night! CLICK HERE for all the party pics

My Lakeshore Public Television Team

My number one supporter and best friend- David Heiner

If you would have told me a few years ago that I'd land a constant spot on a Chicagoland PBS station with a weeknight time-slot, I might have looked at you cross-eyed. I've always said, "I know where we are going. Just not sure how we're getting there." I believe our progress has a lot to do with hard work, but also in knowing how to handle and embrace change! Everyday brings new opportunities and it's up to us to take advantage or deal with what life hands us.

With that being said, this week's topic falls right in line with CHANGE. Our show is "Be The Change." We are talking with folks that have taken extreme measures to leave their mark here on earth. We have outstanding guests, who not only recognized a problem but do whatever it takes to see the solution through.

First on the show we’re going to have Jeremy Courtney. He’ll be talking to us about the Preemptive Love Coalition. PLC is a program that trains Iraqi doctors and nurses to preform life saving heart surgeries on children born with life threatening heart defects. Jeremy is the founder and Executive Director of PLC. He was born and raised in America, however now resides overseas.

After saving lives, Jeremy is a musician and songwriter in his spare time. He believes that music and storytelling can help bridge the gaps with reconciliation between cultures. Check out his song! http://www.jeremycourtney.com/2013/11/21/get-5-free-songs-from-the-preemptive-love-book-tour/

Next up we have Molly Thompson and Lauren Parsekian Paul (You may have seen her husband, Aaron Paul, on the hit TV series Breaking Bad) on the show to talk about the Kind Campaign. The Kind Campaign is an initiative to stop Girl on Girl crime in schools all across the country. It teaches young girls that KINDNESS is the key to stop the long lasting negative effects of girl on girl crime. This segment totally made my heart smile!

We will also have two local schools on the show, to talk about how they are giving back in a huge way! Get ready for a great show! Remember: Monday's 6:30 PM & Sunday's at 10:30 AM on Lakeshore Public Media (WYIN). LIVE OUTSIDE OF CHICAGO? Check your local listings for our show in your area! We launch next month in The Quad Cities.

I hope this show inspires you to be the change, you want to see! Have a great week y'all.

Season Premier- Veterans

Hello and welcome to our season premier blog! I want to give you a little background on our guests for Monday’s show. We will have some familiar faces like Senator Richard Durban and Son's Of Anarchy Star, Theo Rossi on set, yet we will also introduce you to a new wave of Veterans that are dedicated to making an impact here at home.

First up in the studio we have Todd Connor who created the organization known as The Bunker. The Bunker is a start-up company that works to help veterans turn their experience and skills into entrepreneurship. They’ve already helped launch 19 companies! Todd's interview is full of "outside the box" ideas and packed with info for the entrepreneur in us all.

SSgt. Johnny Joey Jones and Meghan McDermott will be speaking to us about The Boot Campaign and Camp Southern Ground. The Boot Campaign is an organization that raises money for wounded soldiers and those returning with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). They provide assistance to military personal, past and present along, with their families. One of the ways they raise funds and awareness for the campaign is by selling combat boots. The Boot Campaign is known for having celebrities, athletes and more, lace up boots and show their support. Even I strapped some on-

SSgt. Johnny Joey Jones not only informs us about the campaign but his interview is a must see. The impact he made overseas and here at home is huge and I am super excited for you to learn more about his courageous journey!

Let’s talk BBQ. Have you tried Johnny Van Smoke House yet? If not, you’re definitely missing out!  Johnny Van and his wife, BK, started Johnny Van Smokehouse back in 2012 when they decided to share their love for barbecue with as many people as they can reach. And get this: Johnny Van is a veteran himself! On the show he shares how his military journey and passion for food collided to create a business that is now helping vets here at home. Johnny Van Smoke House has been kind enough to share a recipe with all of us. Don’t hesitate to try it out!

Does that not sound incredible?! That recipe has taken Johnny Van to the semi-finals of the World Championship of Food! Not only is it insanely delicious it’s a great recipe when you’re in a pinch. Just place the rolled up meat in a shallow baking pan and pop it in the oven.

Thank you for reading! I hope this little preview has made you all as excited about the upcoming episode as I am. Remember: the show has moved its time slot! Be sure to tune in Monday at 6:30 PM on Lakeshore Public Media (WYIN)

Channels

• Chicago| COMCAST 329 | RCN 4 | DISH/DIRECT/ATT 56
• The Quad Cities | WQPT CHANNEL 24

My Move To Weeknights

I am thrilled to announce we are moving to weeknights across Chicagoland! Starting April 6th our show is moving to Monday's at 6:30 PM CST on Lakeshore Public Television. (Comcast 239, RCN 4, Dish/Direct/AT&T 56).

This move comes with mixed emotions because my show has always played on the weekends. When we switched channels from NBC to PBS back in 2012 we became dedicated to tough topics. I decided to use our platform to shine light on subjects that sometimes get lost. Having a serious show air on Saturday afternoons was tough and we are extremely excited for our new night and time. The lineup on PBS that surrounds our show is amazing and we are thrilled to reach more viewers this season.

The switch to Monday nights did not happen overnight (No pun intended lol) in fact, it took some serious meetings and loyal viewers to make this change. I want to encourage you to have patience with your dreams yet work towards the end goal daily. Stepping out of your comfort zone is hard, but standing on this side of things, it is totally worth it.

THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for believing in and watching our show. I want to thank Chicagoland by throwing a launch party! Tickets are free but there's limited space. Email tickets@thewhitneyreynoldsshow.com for a fun night of: show watching, food and drinks! Our friends from Action Booth will be taking pictures and my first magazine cover will be revealed. If you live in The Quad Cities (our 2nd market/ WQPT) you also are invited so RSVP & COME!

Remember to set your DVR before the party and get ready for a fabulous season of fresh topics!

Coming up this season: Veterans, Be The Change, Puppy Mills, Survivor, Fears and A Life Story: The Holocaust.

Excited to be back in your living rooms next month!

Xx -Whitney

Season Preview

Ready. Set. It's Preview Time! Season 4 of The Whitney Reynolds Show is coming out soon. This season the topics are tough: Veterans, A Life Story (Holocaust Survivor), Be The Change, Fears, Puppy Mills and Survivor . We dive into issues that matter and have stacked each show with the best of the best. Here's a sneak peek at what's to come.

Early Detection: Full Circle Show

I had one of those full circle moments on The Whitney Reynolds Show after finding a lump in my armpit last December. Going into a new season of The Whitney Reynolds Show this lump has left me with a new viewpoint & understanding on what it's like to open up about a life changing moment. Big thanks to my editor and friend Carrie Williams for this article. I've always loved sharing stories and now here's my own.

WHITNEY REYNOLDS' HEALTH SCARE   [By Carrie Williams]

I met Whitney Reynolds over a year ago when TCW was featured on a special episode of her talk show, The Whitney Reynolds Show, on WYCC. She’s one of the hardest working women I know…bright, bubbly and a good friend. So when I saw some alarming news on Facebook one day, I was worried about her.

Whitney first noticed the lump in her armpit one night before bed in December: “I was in my pajamas and happened to look in the mirror while stretching my arms up. It immediately caught my eye because it was like a small golf ball poking out of my right armpit.” She then Googled what she saw.

“Don’t do this,” urges Whitney. “After seeing the article that popped up, I panicked. I sent a picture of the lump to my best friend who’s a nurse. She normally tells me all is fine but, this time she said to make an appointment. I waited around three days and polled everyone I saw. I started feeling pain in my arm and that’s when I knew it was time to go in.”

Whitney first met with her woman doctor who then sent her to an expert. “I knew the seriousness of what was at hand and needed some motivational, yet real advice,” she explains. “I watched my ‘Early Detection’ show once, then twice and found myself in tears and taking notes from my guests.”

At first there was a small chance the lump could have been hormonal. “So on Christmas, when it had not gone down, I was devastated,” says Whitney. “I already had the ultrasound on the books, so after the holidays I knew it was time for answers. The night before the appointment I was terrified of the unknown. However, I put my faith into action.”

Through it all, Whitney wasn’t alone. She had her husband, David, and her parents by her side. “He was my rock and handled it like a boss,” she says. “He said no matter the results, we would look it in the eye and take care of it. And my parents both offered up tons of family history on bumps that had surfaced on both sides over the years.”

After seeing a few doctors, the final results came the day of the ultrasound. “Having had a friend pass away this year from cancer my nerves were a little more on edge and my prayers turned into more of a lengthy conversation with God during the ‘waiting’ time.”

The day of the ultrasound, Whitney met with the doctor and a radiologist. “They started the ultrasound and then compared it to my other armpit,” she recalls. “They then went and looked at the results a bit closer. This 20-minute wait seemed like a lifetime. They let [my husband] David come back before they gave us the results.” Posting to Facebook once again, Whitney wrote…

With tears of joy in her eyes, Whitney gave the doctor “the biggest hug.” She really wanted to celebrate, but the reality hit her that many other women in that same doctor’s office were not getting the same results. “I went from joy to compassion and overall a spirit of thankfulness,” she says. “This experience has changed me as a person and as an interviewer. I have an amazing respect for health and a renewed sense of compassion for others. I now know what it’s like to have something very personal and sensitive come up. This experience has left a forever mark on my heart.”

Climb The Mountain & Learn From The Valley

Welcome to 2015. When a new year is approaching I like to take a second and reflect on how far we have come, lessons I've learned and goals for the future. With each new year, I seek joy in the journey, gratitude in my heart and love in my steps (But this wasn't always the case)...

In my early 20's when I started the show, I wanted to be older, wiser and know it all. On my 24th birthday this internal struggle came to a halt. I realized in order to make it to the top of the mountain, I must acknowledge and learn from the valley. It started with baby steps like adding my age to facebook, seeking mentors across the board and surrounding myself with the best team around. I found that being a cheerleader for others felt so much better than being competitive. I learned to listen more and to truly think before I speak. I started trusting my expert team instead of micromanaging and in the process of all this self change it happened.... I found a healthy work/life balance, I had the best team around, I met my soul-mate, gained a weekly time slot on PBS and grew to more markets than I could have imagined.

Understanding where you have come from is a key component to where you are going. Learn from your missteps, acknowledge your reality and seek the joy in your journey!

People love authenticity, be true yourself this year and trust me... The best is yet to come.

Happy New Year! xoxo -Whitney

Whitney's Wish List

This week, my special ‘Whitney’s Wish List’ will start airing on My Deal TV in Chicago and Miami. Just by mentioning "Whitney," you will be able to catch some great deals like, 25% off products at K Paige Salon with purchase of a service.

Maybe your face looks great but you want that summer glow? Then watch as I talk with Celebrity Skin Couture Air Tan. Celebrity Skin is offering our viewers Half off Full Body Tan, Eyelash Extensions and Brazilian Waxing. Offer Valid for first time clients only and can not be combine with any other offer. Valid through Feb. 28th 2015.

That’s just the half of it. We also have Concierge Med Spa. They’ll tell how to give or get "the gift of youth" this holidays season. They are talking Botox, micro peel facial service and more. Plus with certain purchases they are throwing in FREE services. Visit their website and ask for their "Whitney" specials.

Finally, I talk about the Accessory Mercado AM-bassador Campaign. Shop and raise money for your favorite non-profit! Accessory Mercado is giving 10% back to ALL non-profits. Click the AM-bassador tab and follow the instructions on how to sign up. Also make sure to check out the jewels while your there, everything is under $50.00. 'Whitney's Wish List' will run December 17th- NYE on My Deal TV in Chicago and Miami. Check your local listings for exact playback information.

For all you reading at home, I have a special treat. We have more deals listed below. Here are my 5 extra specials for my blog followers.

1. Leah Chavie Skin Care Boutique:$50.00 off mint facial. Only $75.00 Holiday Mint Facial. Peppermint essential oils help to stimulate, rejuvenate, and purify the skin. The facial includes an exfoliation with a cranberry mint scrub from Leah's skincare line, extractions, a spearmint mask and massage.

2. Salitas Salsa- (My favorite Salsa) $3.00 off website orders
code: Whitney 

3. Dynamic Salon- $35.00 No Chip manicure & pedicure

4.KS Style Consulting Take $50 off a Closet Clean-out Session or Personal Shopping Session when you mention "Whitney's Wish List."

5. FREE personal training session at Fit Lincoln Park- Mention Whitney!

Remember to check out WYCC and WQPT for episodes of 'The Whitney Reynolds Show.' Check me out on Facebook for up to date information. Follow my Twitter @W3Whitney.

Happy Shopping!
 

Leah Chavie Skin Care Boutique

Salitas Salsa

The Holistic Holiday

"Ask Aimee"

This week, we wanted to prepare our readers for the stress that comes with the season, by going holistic for the holidays. To give you some great tips on managing stress and finding some peace of mind this holiday, we talked to Aimee Orta of Balance Healing Center. She's been helping people heal holistically for the last twelve years and has some great insight on strategy for a natural approach to relieving the burden of stress.

In your years of observing clients, what do you think is the biggest stressor during the holidays? I think the biggest stress people have is the expectations of themselves and of others. From parties to families to relationships, people load it on all at once and it's too much.

That's very interesting. How do you feel people can combat those stressors? Get plenty of sleep. The more tired you are the less tolerant you'll be of your crazy great aunt Bernadette and the person who took your parking space at Marianos. It's amazing how refreshed and in control you feel on a full night of sleep. 

Take a walk. Have a dance party. Meditate. Yes, it is harder to exercise when you have three parties on the same day or there's a wind chill of 5 below. But taking the time to get some fresh air or to be intentional about moving your body and quieting your mind is an important step to help melt stress.

People should be mindful in everything they do. From approaching food choices, how much they eat, or shopping, people should slow their mind and make conscious choices. That said, mindfulness can be a service like a massage or simply meditating before you go to bed at night.

Remember to have fun. Laugh. Keep a positive attitude. The holidays should be a time for celebrating. An optimistic outlook will help you take it all in stride. After all, your party plans may not turn out perfectly and that's ok. It's usually in those moments that the best memories are made. 

Great insight. So, in your practice, do you think there's a service that best helps relieve stress? Yes, the most successful modality we have is craniosacral therapy. Using a soft touch, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system to improve the functioning of the central nervous system. The heart of it is stillness which is the ultimate in calming nerves.

Sounds soothing! Now, what makes a service or membership at Balance Healing Center such a great holiday gift? People struggle to make themselves a priority. That's why the gift of self care is priceless. It's perfect for someone who can get everything else. It also can open a new door in their life to exploration.

What other advice do you have for those preparing for the upcoming festivities? Being holistic for the holidays is great but people should start incorporating little things throughout the year, whether it's a weekly or monthly service or membership to our center. Also, people need to be forgiving of themselves.

That said, New Years is a great way to start fresh. So forgive yourself so you can buckle down in the new year. We offer some great detox programs.

Thanks Aimee! Be sure to check out Balance Healing Center as a gift for yourself or those around you. It will be well worth it.  You can receive her newsletter here. (http://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin/ea?v=001kkqO0FxDKZTpgRk_fmuHmQ%3D%3D)

Be sure to check you local listings for 'Whitney's Wish List' on MyDealTV. As always we'd like to thank WYCC and WQTP where you can find 'The Whitney Reynolds Show'. Follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney for up to date on everything me. You can like us on Facebook. If you liked this post, share it on Pinterest.

Have a great week!

The Gratitude Attitude

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Some of us are blessed enough get to spend it with family and friends. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case for everyone. That’s why this week on ‘Whitney’s Women’ on KISS FM I’m spotlighting Co-Founder of the Chicago Basket Brigade Liliana Salazar Jaramillo. She joined with her friends just four years ago to donate baskets filled with Thanksgiving supplies to fifty local families and churches. In just a few short years, they have far exceeded that by donating last year a total of eight hundred and eighty baskets. This year, they’d like to reach as many as fifteen hundred families. Learn more at www.chicagobasketbrigade.com.  Here's the full interview on KISSFM- http://www.1035kissfm.com/media/play/the-weekly-show-w-jordan-whitney-25593016/

Her organization’s wonderful story has helped me reflect just how much I am thankful for in my own life. This past year I have been blessed to spend with my husband and dog child, Puffy Doo-Little. With the help of my team, we launched an all new season of the ‘Whitney Reynolds Show’ on PBS’ WYCC and WQPT. I gave insight into what went into my nuptials on I DO: Chicago Style on CAN TV Channel 19. I also launched my brand new jewelry line Accessory Mercado. I realize without the help of others, my successes wouldn’t have been possible. Every day we must put on the gratitude... attitude!

I’d like for everyone reading at home to take the time to think on what you are thankful for. It is a simple way to remind yourself how lucky your life is compared to those struggling. That’s what is so wonderful about this time of year. We get to take the time to count our blessings and remember how far we’ve come. 

Be sure to listen in to KISS FM for Whitney’s Women to hear more of Liliana’s story. Like our page on Facebook to keep up to date with news and events. You can follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney. Also, be sure to pin stories like these and more on your Pinterest. Be sure to check local listings of ‘The Whitney Reynolds Show’ on PBS stations WYCC and WQPT. Have a great week everybody and Happy Thanksgiving!

Dogs and Doritos? Puffy Goes National

The cold has come through, but that doesn't mean you can't warm your heart with our Doritos commercial starring the adorable Puffy Doo-Little (our dog). You can watch the video here. (http://youtu.be/A3PbkW4OGo8) Please be sure to share this with your friends and cast your votes. That way our little girl can make her national TV debut.

This has been quite the year for Miss Doo-Little! Early this year she had extreme back surgery and we weren't sure if she would make it. Luckily she not only pulled through, but has recovered all her old tricks. Her story constantly reminds me that we are not promised tomorrow and to live each day to the fullest!

Also, there is still time to catch our wedding special at "I DO: Chicago Style," on TV 19. In addition to being a beautiful display of our love, it is a great resource for information on how to plan for that all important day. Check date and times here:

-Thu, Nov 13, 2014        08:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Fri, Nov 14, 2014          03:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Sat, Nov 22, 2014         05:00 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt1 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Sat, Nov 29, 2014         05:00 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style

Be sure to bundle up! Love the ones your with! Follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney. Check out what's happening by liking our Facebook. Pin me to your Pinterest. Just three ways to get all the great content from 'The Whitney Reynolds Show.' Have a great week!

My Secret Jewelry Stash

The secret is out, last week we launched our jewelry line: Accessory Mercado By Whitney Reynolds. Now you can get the looks I rock on air and in everyday life. Nothing on the site is over $50.00 and as welcome gift we are giving everyone 10% off (code: hello10).

xoxo,

Whitney

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago Talk Show Host, Whitney Reynolds Acquires Jewelry Line, Accessory Mercado

Power Couple Whitney Reynolds and David Heiner to Heighten Well-Known Jewelry Brand

(Chicago, IL) - October 30th, 2014 - Whitney Reynolds, Host and Executive Producer of PBS’ The Whitney Reynolds Show officially launches jewelry company, Accessory Mercado by Whitney Reynolds with husband, David Heiner. The Chicago starlet embarked upon the jewelry business because of her love of jewelry and the desire to bring easy stylish pieces reasonably to women everywhere. The line features collections of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings serving in both fashion and function.

The husband and wife team acquired Accessory Mercado because everyone loves jewelry. AM by Whitney Reynolds will provide style, ease and confidence at a reasonable cost. High style shouldn’t be unaffordable and it’s the accessories that can accentuate a look. The goal for AM is to continue its excellence and grow collections for every occasion - day, night and even bridal. Whitney will be showcasing the jewelry on and off the air. "My talk show is all about making a difference in the lives of my viewers. It was time to take that one step further. Why not launch a jewelry line that's affordable and can help grow confidence and style? Now women can get the looks I wear on set at an affordable price. Being raised in the South and planting my roots in the Midwest, I understand that all women have different styles and taste. We want to be the go-to destination for something wonderful to suit every personality" -Whitney Reynolds

Whitney is passionate about women in business. Now with two operations, she will be even more inspiring. “Whitney looked beautiful wearing the jewelry over the last year, so it was logical for us to get more involved with the brand…And, knowing Whitney and I, it made more sense for us to really take it over and grow the brand even more. The pieces are colorful, fun, classy and really versatile for different uses. My personal goal is to make it “man-friendly” to help enable people like me to buy special gifts for their wife, friends, Mom and Grandma. What’s better than making those important people feel special while keeping it affordable and cost conscious? Being a software guy, I am going to work to develop a “jewelry as a service,” I call it JaaS. It would be a monthly delivery of jewelry to your recipients homes. Kinda like if I received a 6-pack of beer every month and didn’t know what day or what kind was coming.”-David Heiner

Accessory Mercado by Whitney Reynolds is available online today at http://accessorymercado.com. Accessory Mercado’s Preview Party will be October 30th, 2014 at K. Paige Salon (956 Webster, Chicago, IL) from 7:00 to 9:00PM. Media attendance and coverage confirmation can direct to janiece@jnoelpr.com. Mark calendars for unbelievable early Black Friday deals starting on November 14th, 2014.

Whitney's Wedding Hits The TV Circuit

Whitney and David's spread in TCW Magazine

This week I'm all about the love. David and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary on November 2nd. In honor of this incredible event, we're giving you a peak inside the ceremony on "I DO Chicago Style" airing on CANTV Channel19.

This beautiful display of the events and planning leading up to our big day is in two parts. I sit down and interview all the wonderful people involved, giving you future lovebirds ideas on how to effectively plan and budget for your wedding day. You can find the listings below.

David and I also had an amazing write up on our first year as newly weds by The Nest Blog. They asked us about our best moments this past year. It's a great read. You can find it at the interview by click the link. (http://blog.thenest.com/2014/10/29/happy-first-anniversary-talk-show-host-whitney-reynolds-heiner/)

Be sure to check both of those out. You can keep up with me on Facebook. Follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney. Share this fabulous occasion on Pinterest. Most importantly, remember to make time to value the love that comes in your life. It will build you up to greater heights.

WATCH I DO Chicago Style on the following dates and times.
-Thu, Nov 06, 2014        08:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt1 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Fri, Nov 07, 2014          03:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt1 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Thu, Nov 13, 2014        08:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Fri, Nov 14, 2014          03:30 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Sat, Nov 22, 2014         05:00 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt1 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style
-Sat, Nov 29, 2014         05:00 pm          TV19    I DO Chicago Style: pt2 How to Plan a Wedding Chicago Style

DEADLY- Pain Pills, Football & Sleep Apnea

This week on 'The Whitney Reynolds Show' we're tackling sleep apnea. We welcome to the show former NFL players Roy "Jetstream" Green and Archie Roberts. Together they discuss their advocacy for sleep apnea awareness. They talk about the correlation between pain pill and sleep apnea. They open up about their personal experiences and also the pain it's caused in their own lives.  Roy discusses his involvement with the Pro Player Health Alliance along with famed Dentist David Gergen .

Roy "JetStream" Green

Then we talk to a sleep apnea expert Dr. Robert Wolf DDS. He informs us on the potential harms of this common sleep disorder and also his advice and solution to help people who struggle with it. Finally, we chat with renowned neurologist Dr. Todd J. Swick. He will be discussing how drugs can impact the sleep cycle.

Pro Player Alliance/ Sleep Apnea

This will be a highly informative episode. You will learn the symptoms, testing and treatment of this often lethal disorder. Be sure to check your local listings.

You can follow us on Facebook to find all up to date information on the show. Tweet me @W3Whitney. Pin us on Pinterest. And of course remember to watch every Saturday at 4 PM on WYCC PBS Chicago! (Live outside of Chicago? We got you covered. Check your local listings or our website for episodes near you)!

Have a great week everyone!

The Gift That Keeps Giving

Gift Of Life

This week on 'The Whitney Reynolds Show' we're all about saving lives. I'll be exploring the Gift of Life, an incredible program that matches bone marrow donors with those in direct need of a transplant. In studio, for the first time, I will introduce a recipient with his gracious donor.

Later in the show, I sit down with CEO of Gift of Life Jay Feinberg to talk about the company's mission. Then we catch up with previous Gift of Life donors and recipients to see where they are now.

Along this journey, we have Dr. Mayim Bialik from CBS' 'The Big Bang Theory' in the social sizzle. I also explore one women's story and her surviving family member's continued involvement with Gift of Life. This is sure to be an emotional ride.

Check your local listings for upcoming airings. If you miss any of 'The Whitney Reynolds' episodes, you can catch up on our YouTube channel. Find up to date info on our Facebook page. Pin our posts on Pinterest or follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney.

Be sure to have an incredible week. And remember to appreciate your personal Gift of Life.

Taking The "DIS" Out Of Disability

What an exciting week! They say, "third time's a charm," and that couldn't be more true of our upcoming third episode of The Whitney Reynolds Show.

We're all about the charming Miss You Can Do It pageant. It's a national non-profit pageant for girls and women with special needs. I'll be sitting down with founder Abbey Curran, who was Miss Iowa 2008 to discuss her mission.

I talk to world famous autism activist, author and professor of animal studies, Temple Grandin. She will discuss her life's work and how she helps those living with autism. Then, to cap it off, I'll be talking to director and producer, Ron Davis who made an HBO film on the pageant.

Abby Curran- Founder Miss You Can Do it

This is sure to be an inspiring episode. It promotes growth and confidence for girls living with disabilities. Don't miss out. Be sure to check your local listings for show info in your area! You can also find the episode on our YouTube page after it airs. Remember to stay up to date with the show on our Facebook page. Follow me on Twitter @W3Whitney. Pin my posts on you Pinterest to share these hopeful stories to your community. 

SPEAKING OF UNSTOPPABLE- Join me Sunday, October 19th at Highland Park Country Club, as I emcee the fourth annual fundraiser “Soar to New Heights!” for Aspiritech.

Aspiritech helps adults with autism soar to new heights by living fulfilling, independent, and meaningful lives. Aspiritech trains and hires adults with Asperger’s syndrome and other forms of high functioning autism to be software testers, a job well-suited to their unique talents, such as attention to detail and an exceptional ability to focus. The organization has earned praise from across the nation as a pioneer in creating jobs for adults with autism. To purchase tickets please visit: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/845145. Hope to see you there!

Very Important- Early Detection

Week 2- Fall Series

In this week's episode, I sit down with Lindsay Avner, Founder and CEO of Bright Pink, a national non-profit focusing on prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women.  We get into the social sizzle with infamous electric guitarist Harvey “The Snake” Mandel. We learn about the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund and see how their YouTube video has been impacting millions.

Lindsay Avner CEO Bright Pink

Flashes of Hope's Chicago Development Director Barrie Dekker tells us how photography is helping kids with pediatric cancer smile.
This is sure to be one of our best episodes yet. Cancer is such a heartbreaking disease that affects the lives of those diagnosed and their families.  The Whitney Reynolds Show wanted to stress the importance to our viewers of taking preventative measures. The earlier you know, the better your options of treatment.

Be sure to check your local listings for viewing times and follow up with our new season on Facebook.  You can follow me on Twitter. Pin us on your boards on Pinterest. Most of all watch, enjoy and learn.

Women Entreprenuers- Fall Series Launch

WATCH THE WHITNEY REYNOLDS SHOW ON WYCC SATURDAY'S AT 4 PM

Just a few days away until the fall premiere of 'The Whitney Reynolds Show' on PBS station WYCC. We are anxiously counting down the days at Studio Whitney until October 4th, which is the date we launch a powerful new season. Up first, I highlight some seriously driven women on our 'Women Entrepreneurs' special.

I sit down with actress, author and women's advocate Marlo Thomas to gain insight into her diverse career. I talk shoes with CEO Emy Mack of Emy Mack LLC.  I get creative with Interior Designer and HGTV host Meg Caswell. Then we explore the fashion industry with eDrop-Off's Corri McFadden and Yummie's CCO Heather Thomas. To wrap things up, I get the social sizzle with my friend and colleague Jordan from KISS FM.

This is just a taste of a very savory season. This fall we get serious about cancer prevention. We tackle sleep apnea with an NFL legend. Then I talk to some inspiring little ladies in 'Little Miss I Can Do It'. Finally we explore truly what a 'Gift of Life' is, in a touching episode on organ donation.

We are in multiple PBS markets so if your not in Chicago, check your local listings. Be sure to stay connected on Facebook for up to date information and giveaways. Follow the journey on Twitter @W3Whitney. Pin me on your Pinterest. And remember, every season has it's reasons!

Giving Back And Giving Thanks

Hey everyone!

This past week we found that our Autism special that aired on WQPT in The Quad Cities, helped increase support to a local organization! This amazing news made me want to further discuss my thoughts on giving back and helping those in need.

I am a huge proponent of charitable deeds. When I can, I volunteer my efforts towards enriching various causes. The more you give the more you receive. Volunteering time to a great cause is empowering because it is a small way we personally can assist in profound change. If time is a limited resource and you have the financial means, donating is equally beneficial. After all, many organization operate on a mix of grants and individual contributions.

On October 17th, I'm emceeing Reach Out Community Center's annual gala. I have been heavily involved with this organization for the last year. ROCC's goal is to help Chicago's youth ages 7 to 17 on the west side by offering skill based programs that develop, educational and life goals. It is an amazing initiative that has a direct impact on nurturing change throughout their community. Be sure to check them out http://reachoutcc.org and get your tickets to this event.

I am very excited to help such a wonderful cause. I also am so grateful for the premiere of our fall season on PBS Channel WYCC. Follow our updates on Facebook. Engage with me on Twitter @W3Whitney. Then pin us on Pinterest. It's going to be an incredible season with so many great topics and guests.

Enjoy your week,

Whitney