PITTSBURGH- New Market Alert
Get ready Pittsburgh, The Whitney Reynolds Show is headed your way. Coming this Spring select episodes of our show will be airing on PCTV. Below is a Pittsburgh native that came on the show to talk about being kidnapped by an online predator. Watch her powerful story:
We currently air on LAKE PBS in Chicagoland and Indiana, WQPT in The Quad Cities and NOW on PCTV in Pittsburgh. If you are outside of these areas, we hope to be in your market soon. Thanks for the continued support and it is with great joy to gain new viewers from The Steeler Nation. See you soon with our new season coming- APRIL 10TH!
NEW SEASON COMES TO WQPT
Watch Thursday nights at 7:30 on WQPT in The Quad Cities for our latest season of The Whitney Reynolds Show.
We are currently in production for our 2017 series that hits Chicagoland in April. Follow us on TWITTER for the latest updates.
Home For The Holidays
Happy Holidays from my home to yours! In the small town of Durant, Oklahoma where I grew up, they do a yearly holiday event called "The Parade Of Homes." It's where people open up their houses to neighbors for a look inside. This year I thought it would be fun to open our doors to you. After all, you welcome me in your home each week with our show, so why not do the same. We've added some additions to the house (even twins) this year and it will be exciting to show you around. Welcome to the The Heiner Home!
This year's holiday card with our new built-ins and fireplace.
Our main room decorated for the holidays!
My dream power room... FINALLY. This was our latest project that we did all on our own. This is the 3rd time in 2 years that this room has been redone.
The twins "Noah's Ark" Nursery (And two by two they came). I hand painted the signs.
Master Power Room. Complete gut rehab, down to the studs.
So many hours and so much love has gone into our house this year. The pictures above are all of the major projects we conquered in 2016! For more on all these renovation check out our show's PINTEREST PAGE.
Last but not least, I must leave you with my favorite additions of all:
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! And may 2017 be the best year yet!
XOXO - Whitney
Whitney's Wish List
It's that time of year again... where I share my top gifts of 2016. This year I have been introduced to so many more products because of our twins, so naturally we had to add a baby section! Welcome to Whitney's Wish List!
CLOTHING
My style really depends on the day... When I'm in studio, the look is down to business and at home it's something that you can easily rub milk stains out of (LOL). My favorite go to dress company is Teri Jon. They dress me in the studio and their looks truly are one of a kind. These dresses can easily transform from day to night with a simple change in shoes, shawl or accessories.
Teri Jon Dresses
FURNITURE
Welcome to my studio. When folks watch my show, I want it to be a discussion that people would like to join. I want our viewers and guests to feel right at home. With that being said, the look of my studio had to be professional and welcoming. We chose Modern Classics Furniture for our new set design in our spring 2017 season. When it comes to style and feel they are my choice. PS- free shipping for order over $2,500!
Modern Classics
THE COMPLETE LOOK-
Now time it's time for one of my favorite sections because the businesses below are all woman owned and have supported my show for years. GLOW GIRL GLOW- Celebrity Skin is offering 25% off all services this month. They spray tan me each week for the show and give me that constant vacation glow. Next up is EGA Salon & Spa for nails. You can't beat a $23.00 peppermint pedicure and a $26.00 no chip manicure. Visit them at 3009 Halsted in Chicago.
BABY-
We had to create a baby section this year for our new twins. My go to skin product, is the Leah Chavie Baby Line! She has safe products for babies that will leave you worry free and the babies smelling great. She's offering 20% off the baby kit of 4 products (shampoo wash, lotion, body oil, bottom balm).
GRAND FINALE-
This year I am so excited to top my wish list with VOLVO! When we found out we were pregnant we immediately thought of "safety" when we started searching for the perfect family vehicle. After a ton of research and a lot of test drives we landed at Volvo Oak Park. WE LOVE our V60 and are so excited to share this special with you. They are offering"We Make Your First 3 Payments" (excludes xc90 & s90). If you buy or lease a Volvo now thru February 2017, your first 3 payments are free. (See our special announcement with Volvo and our twins below).
We hope our Wish List is a great guide for amazing gifts this holidays season. It's so easy to get caught in the holiday hustle & forget to truly enjoy this special time. Remember the best gift to give is love!
Ending Fall Season With Mental Health
As we finish up our 2016 fall season, we are ending with a topic that EVERYONE watching is impacted by in some capacity. We are talking mental health.
With about 57.7 million people aged 18 and over suffering from a mental disorder each year in the United States alone, this health issue is one to take very serious. When you think of health we tend to go straight to our physical health however, as we learn it's vital to prioritize our mental health too. With numbers on the rise it's crucial that people receive the help they need. This week on The Whitney Reynolds Show we explore some of the options that are available out there and hear from real people opening up about the hope they've found.
No Shame on You
Dr. Scott Langenecker, is the Director of Cognitive Neuroscience and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Psychology at the University of Illinois at Chicago. His research focuses on mood disorders across one's lifespan. Specifically, he is involved in studies to understand the abnormalities observed in depression and bipolar disorder. His research has resulted in translational neuropsychological measures that can be administered in clinical settings. He talks about how he offers assistance in treatment, educational, and occupational plans to the adolescent and their families.
Next we talk with Mike Bushman, author of Suicide Escape, a memoir exploring teen depression. Mike also mentors at 360 Youth Services and volunteers for mental health groups. Hear what he has to say about mental illness and the role he plays in prevention and treatment.
We also speak with Miriam Ament, Executive Director of No Shame on U, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma associated with mental health. After suffering from depression herself and encountering stigma and isolation from many friends and family members, Miriam founded this organization.
Veterans have served our country and now it is time to offer them our support. Hear Veteran Justin Orick speak of his challenges with mental illness upon returning from war and how he has learned to adjust to life back home. Many veterans face the same problem as Justin and it is substantial that they or anyone who knows a veteran hear his story.
Justin Orick
A big THANKS to our guests for trusting us with their stories this season. To recap these shows visit www.whitneyreynolds.com and be sure to tune in tonight, November 21st at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television for Mental Health.
SPONSORS THIS SEASON- Volvo, Volvo Oak Park, American Foundation For Suicide Prevention, Respiratory Health Association, Pearls Southern Comfort, Whiting Law Group & Modern Classics Furniture. THANK YOU for supporting women in business!
Homelessness In Our Cities
More than 3.5 million people experience a state of homelessness each year in the United States. With 35% of this population being families with children, and 23% U.S. military veterans, help must be given. This week we explore an organization and the relief they are bringing to the homeless.
This week we meet a husband and wife team that found a personal connection to helping the homeless population. They walk us through what started an organization that is now helping thousands across Chicagoland.
Here's a little history on their organization- A Safe Haven is a nationally recognized social business enterprise model that partners with non-for profit and for profit entities to provide a community-based, integrated, continuum of care and housing for individuals and families in financial crisis, homeless and drug/alcohol impacted populations. Founded in 1995, A Safe Haven provides services to over 5,000 individuals annually and over 70,000 people to date. This organization provides supportive housing, treatment, job training, job placement, access to healthcare, independent living and affordable housing throughout the Chicagoland area. Today, ASH has expanded into the development of affordable housing to meet the needs of those completing programs particularly women with children and Veterans. The “A Safe Haven Model” is proven to be a reliable leader in the fields of addiction, recovery management, homeless services, job training and placement and has earned high marks for attention to providing quality programs, stable delivery systems and coordinated community based outreach and programming. The A Safe Haven Model focuses on changing chronic homeless, incarceration and/or addictive lifestyle behavior and establishing self-sufficiency and independence for ASH residents in a sustainable manner.
Be sure to tune in Monday, November 14th at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television to see how this organization is helping Chicago, one person at time.
Using Your Platform
It’s not all about tiaras in the pageant world and this week we explore a side of the title holders you don’t always see, the women & their platforms. We sit down with several past and present pageant winners and hear how they are using their status to help others. From autism awareness to anti-bullying, we take a look at these women and the mission they're on.
Ironic timing for this show to air, because this weekend The Whitney Reynolds Show is being recognized at the FAHF Awards as a Humanitarian Honoree. This award is being given to us for the work we do with the show and helping our community through the topics we pick. I always said that if I had the chance to follow my dreams and become a talk show host, we would use this platform to create positive change!
Just like the guests from this week's show, we all have landed in a special place & have a unique way we can help others. I hope this episode motivates you can dig deep and identify the platform you've been given. Watch as our guests explain how we can go about helping others with the voice we have! I'll see you tonight at 6:30 on Lakeshore PBS.
Ironic timing for this show to come out because over the weekend, The Whitney Reynolds Show is being reconized a
We first talk with the Executive Director of the Illinois International Pageants, Beverly Turkowski. Her titles include Mrs. Illinois International 2005 and the “Supermodel with Style Award” just to name a few. She values education and spends her time helping young girls and women on their path to achieving their dreams.
This week we meet several pageant goers including Mrs. Illinois 2016, Nicole Zwiercan. She explains winning her title has helped her spread her message of anti-bullying.
We also sit down with Miss Teen America winner Lindsey Pearlman and Miss Illinois International winner Jessica Kumpula to discuss their success and accomplishments in their recent pageants. These girls proudly represent Illinois and without their hard work it would not have been possible. Be sure to tune in Monday, November 7th at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television.
Everyday SUPER Heroes
You don't need X-ray vision or a cape to be a superhero. This week on The Whitney Reynolds Show we salute everyday heroes and discuss their life saving acts.
We first meet James Vernon from Morton, Illinois who saved a group of children from an attacking knife-wielding assailant. James managed to rescue sixteen children visiting the Morton Public Library on October 13, 2015. A man armed with two large knives burst into the room, threatening to kill the children. James, an Army Veteran fought back and subdued the attacker with his bare hands. He explains how his quick thinking helped avoid what could have been a tragedy.
Eric T. Washington
We then talk with Eric T. Washington who raised over $17,000 in an effort to bring the residents of Flint, Michigan clean water. High levels of lead had previously been found in their drinking water, making it impossible to cook, drink, or bathe with. Through a GoFundMe page, Eric raised awareness and abundant funds for this community but, he didn't stop there. After the success from his fundraising, he took six semi trucks filled with water to Flint. He tells us how his job as a firefighter helped fuel the mission to help the people of Flint.
Our next hero is- Kaitlin Roig-DeBellis, a first grade teacher who saved her entire class during the devastating attack that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School. While the massacre was occurring on the other side of her classroom wall, Kaitlin piled her students into a single occupancy bathroom. Despite the unimaginably painful experiences she endured, she has chosen to share her experience with others, in hope that that they too can find light in dark moments.
Dr. Justin Levisay
Doctors are who we run to when we are injured or sick but that was not the case when Dr. Justin Levisay. He happened to be in the right place at the right time. Being a doctor from Evanston Hospital who specializes in cardiology, Dr. Levisay knew exactly what to do when a nearby restaurant goer had a heart attack. He was quick to assist the victim and managed to save her life. Just wait until you here this story!
Last but not least we have a cancer survivor who is blazing the trail for patients that go after her. Amy Lyons opens up about the type of cancer she has and how her journey is helping other patients. You will be in awe of her fight for herself and others.
We owe it to our everyday heroes who are brave enough to intervene in life threatening situations. The courage these guests have is amazing & must be shared! Be sure to tune in Monday, October 31st at 6:30 PM on Lakeshore Public Television to hear these amazing stories.
Unique Talents- Following Your Dreams
How many music prodigies, acrobatic tumblers or human suction cups do you know? This week on the Whitney Reynolds Show we are highlighting special and unique talents.
We meet Chris Errera, a musician, composer and motivational speaker who defies his rare growth disorder known as diastrophic dysplasia. Since learning piano at the age of 3 Chris has studied under Grammy nominee Robert Ian Winston, and even performed at the 2000 Sydney Olympics with the band Sine. Learn how Chris helps families and their children born with disabilities and how he defies every challenge thrown his way.
We also have Secretary of State, Jesse White and The Jesse White Tumblers. A staple to Chicago culture, founded in 1959, these tumbling acrobats are known for their frequent half-time performances for the NBA, NFL and MLB. Created by Jesse White, the team now involves over 10,000 children aged 6 and up.
Then we learn about Handicap This, the dynamic duo who motivates and inspires audiences, while raising awareness about people living with a physical disability. Started by Mark Berkson and Tim Wambach they created "The Keep On Keeping On Foundation" to help families meet the costs of living with a child with cerebral palsy. Suffering from the disability him-self, Mark Berkson understands the limitations it has on his life, but that has not stopped him from helping others. Their two-man show “Handicap This!” premiered in 2010, and Mark and Tim have been telling their story nationwide ever since.
Last but not least we have Jamie Keeton, who found his unique talent by accident. He is on the show to explain how a chain of unbelievable events has now led to his full-time career. He's known as "Can Head" and you won't believe his talent.
This week's show is an inspiration for anyone looking to follow their dreams. Our amazing guests are showing the world that there is no limitations when it comes to talent. Be sure to tune in October 24th at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television.
FALL SEASON- Stories That Must Be Heard
Season 6 of The Whitney Reynolds Show kicks off in Chicago Monday October 17th at 6:30 PM on Lakeshore PBS. This season we start with an extremely powerful show on Domestic Violence. Did you know that a woman is assaulted or beaten every 9 seconds in the United States? Domestic violence is rampant and the affects it has on individuals are long lasting. The guests on this show are brave and want people to know they are not alone.
We first meet Karli Butler, a domestic violence survivor who was beat, kidnapped and even doused in acid. This, a tragedy that should have killed her, somehow left her with a surprising new appreciation for life. Her remarkable story is guaranteed to make you reconsider the way you value existence.
Domestic Violence Survivor
People being abused often feel alone, like there is no way out. Organizations like the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago offer victims and their families support to ensure long-term success. On the show, CEO of the program, Dorri McWhorter explains the different ways that people in these type of situations can get out. It is crucial that victims know they have options and that there are steps to take to leave their situation. She explains, one of the reasons most people cannot leave abusive relationships is often due to financial issues. The purple purse challenge provides women with the economic needs they require to leave abusive relationships. By donating you can raise awareness to this issue, while offering victims the services they need.
With it being "Domestic Violence Awareness" month, the importance of this message is substantial. Domestic violence is happening all around us and a social awareness can lead victims to the aid they require. Be sure to tune in October 17th at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television for this show.
Join the conversation and LIVE tweet with us during this episode for a chance to win ticket to Pat Green in Chicago. DETAILS HERE!
Adding An Additional Title To My Bio
Well it's official! This week I will be adding an additional title to my bio... TWIN MOM!
As a kid I always dreamed of being a talk show host, yet also had the desire to one day be a mother. I am so thankful we live in a time, where I can do both! Having started my show at 23 years old, I feel most of my viewers have grown up with me. You've seen me through going from online to prime time, getting married, our first Emmy Nomination and now twins! I could not be more thankful for my support group... YOU!
This blog is an exclusive look at my journey to motherhood and the questions I've been asked along the way.
Photo: Andrea Plecko, Chicago Andrea Creative/ Hair: Kristen LaMorte, Robert Jeffrey Salon Wicker Park/ Makeup: Lillian Toma, Starlight.
FAQ-
- Twins, do they run in your family? YES- my maternal grandfather's mother was a twin, my maternal grandmother was a twin and my paternal grandmother had twins. #DESTINED
- Fraternal or Identical? We are having fraternal boy/girl twins
- Biggest Struggle With Pregnancy? The first trimester you just hope and pray all is well. Pregnancy is a true test of faith.
- When did you know you were pregnant? Right before the holidays. We found out with twins, after the New Year.
- City or Burb family? We are staying in the city! Last year we bought a house in Lakeview and decided to plant our roots in the city.
- Twin Names? Boy- David Acheson Heiner III "Acher" and Marlowe McKinley Heiner.
- Maternity Leave? I will be taking a few months off in between seasons.
- Nursery Theme? Noah's Ark "And Two By Two They Came."
- Biggest Craving? Starbucks Bacon Gouda! I've had it every morning for 9 months
- Best Parenting Advice? It will all be okay!
- Mommy Van or SUV? I guess you could say a mix... The Volvo V60, Station Wagon
These last nine months have grown me immensely (In more ways than one LOL) and I look forward to what this week brings. Thank you again for all the encouragement and support. The best is truly yet to come.
To stay up to date with our journey follow us: TWITTER- @WhitneyReynolds/ INSTAGRAM- @Whitney_Reynolds/ FACEBOOK @Whitney Reynolds- The Whitney Reynolds Show on PBS.
A Good Excuse (TWO) Relax
Well I've held the title "Talk Show Host" for the last 7 years and in January I found out I'll be adding an addition title to my bio... TWIN MOM! Becoming a mother has been an amazing journey, the last 9 months have brought new challenges, joys and adventures to my days. Owning my talk show and pushing it to more markets, while carrying twins has made me the ultimate balanc(ER)ina! Creating a work/ life balance is something you hear entrepreneurs struggle with and in my case, I am constantly working on. Work is something that becomes routine and once we find our groove it is like second nature. For me life happens when I take time to slow down and appreciate all the blessings that surround us. So when choosing a babymoon destination (our last getaway before the twins come)... I wanted a place where we could unplug, be surrounded by beauty and enjoy each other.
WELCOME TO CATALINA ISLAND!!!!
Catalina Island (Avalon) is officially one of the most beautiful places I've seen. You can only get there by water or air. It's been the backdrop to many movies and a getaway spot for decades for celebrities. It's just over an hour boat ride from L.A., yet feels like you are in one of the most tropical places. This island has darling shops, delicious restaurants & beautiful beaches.
Catalina Express
We started our venture on a Thursday, taking The Catalina Express from Dana Point to the island. We spent a few days prior with family prior in San Diego and this was the closest port. It was fun boarding the boat, seeing all the sun dresses, fishing poles and smiles from visitors just like us. On the ride over we saw dolphins, enjoyed coffee and talked with other passengers about the island.
Pulling into the island was a scene I will remember forever. The landscape of Catalina Island is truly beautiful with the houses tucked away on the hills, surrounded by the ocean. Once we arrived we checked into our hotel and got ready for stop #1- The Glass Bottom Boat Tour.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
This boat tour is exactly what it's name says... A glass bottom boat. We departed from the central pier and then went out to sea and saw everything below. This was such a nice tour because you didn't worry about dropping your phone in the water while trying to take pictures. It was around 45 minutes in total and midway through the Captain stopped and explained some history of the island and what we were seeing below.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
After the tour we walked over to the Casino (the island's main historic theater building) and went to The Catalina Island Museum. This was actually the last weekend the museum was located in the Casino, because it is moving into a much bigger space. I'd recommend stopping by the museum on the first day like we did, because you will learn so much about the island. It was fun to see who's been there, how it was founded and special memories the island holds. I personally loved discovering that Catalina is owned by The Wrigley Family who formerly owned the Cubs. Being from Chicago, I love my Cubbies and felt extra at home.
Before dinner we went back to the hotel to relax. We had a fireplace in our room which was perfect because at night the temps dropped down to the mid 60's. For dinner we went to Blue Water Grill- Avalon, a newly constructed restaurant in the center of town and right on the water. This was my favorite night out because we saw the most amazing sunset, while eating local bites.
Blue Water Grill Avalon
I'd recommend the scallops and as you and can see from the picture above, we tried a little bit of everything (IT WAS TASTY)! That evening was so special because while we eating, we had a chance to talk about our twins and the adventure ahead, including choosing godparents. This setting really helped me unplug and enjoy the moment.
The next morning was every preggo's dream come true... The Taste of Catalina Food Tour. Six amazing stops around the island and all good food. This gave us a great sample of the cuisines Catalina had to offer. Our guide was perfect and not only knew a lot about food, but also the island's history. It was great because, you are walking in between the stops, so you don't feel guilty about all the outstanding food along the way.
Taste of Catalina Food Tour
My personal favorite was Steve's Steakhouse and the dish they served up (picture above) This tour gave us a blueprint of the reservations we needed to make for the rest of our trip.
The next day I kicked things off with my first prenatal massage. David and Puffy (our dog) wondered around the island and grabbed coffee, while I was being spoiled. After the massage we went to the Casino for The Island's Annual Silent Film Festival. This is a yearly fundraiser and fun time for all, we were glad to be there that weekend.
Later that afternoon we decided to hit Descanso Beach and just chill.
Descanso Beach- Catalina Island
Talk about a scene from a movie, this beach is a must see/do in Catalina! We sat out, watching the waves roll in and again dreaming about our future family.
The rest of the vaca was full of R&R and soaking in our last trip as a family two! This little island holds a very special place to my family. Now that I am back to the grind in Chicago, I understand the phrase... California Dreaming!
Downtown Avalon, Catalina Island
NEW SEASON-Hits WQPT PBS The Quad Cities
The Whitney Reynolds Show on WQPT
Our new season is in full swing in our second market, The Quad Cities. Make sure to check us out on WQPT every Thursday at 7:30.
Coming up this season-
- Sex Trafficking
- Life and Laughter
- Women Entrepreneurs
- Coaching Off The Court
- Open Adoption
- Following Your Intuition
Following Your Intuition
Stephanie Arnold & Dr. Julie Levitt
“The day my son was born, I died. I had premonitions it was going to happen, but no on believed me. Even more unbelievable is what I would see when I flatlined....””
Tonight our show is "Following You Intuition." Stephanie Arnold (in picture above) not only died while giving birth, but lives to tell the story. Join us, as we look at the chain of events that happened leading up to that day and why following her intuition saved her life.
Chicagoland tune it at 6:30 PM on Lakeshore PBS!
Talking Open Adoptions
This week we are talking Open Adoption on The Whitney Reynolds Show. Hear from an agency that is changing the way adoptions are done and two moms impacted by this issue. We also have Illinois State Representative Sara Feigenholtz on to tell us why she's gotten personal with this topic.
Make sure to tune in tonight at 6:30 on Lakeshore Public Television.
A Life Story- Black Lives Matter
Meet Dr. Reverend Wayne Gordon. This outstanding man and his wife have exchanged comfort for making their mark in a community that desperately needs help. Their amazing journey to helping thousands in a dangerous neighborhood in Chicago started years ago and it's not over yet. Watch as we talk through why black lives matter, gun violence and the desperate need for change. He's one that's not sitting on the sidelines and just weighing in on these tough issues, he's actually in the thick of it. He is a true example of, "Being the change you want to see."
His story is one that leave you motivated and ready for change. Chicagoland make sure to tune in Monday May 16th at 6:30 PM to Lakeshore PBS.
As you know if you've followed our show over the seasons, we are dedicated to tough topics. All the issues we feature are real life stories that must be heard. If you have show idea or topic close to heart let us know by clicking the "Contact Us Page."
Women Entrepreneurs- Class Of 2016
The Whitney Reynolds Show presents our 2016 Class of WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS! This is a yearly show we do FOR WOMEN, WITH WOMEN & ABOUT WOMEN! We love featuring new talent, infamous faces and outstanding ideas. This year's lineup includes-
- PBS President and CEO- Paula Kerger
- Former Playboy Bunny and Tribune Contributor- Candace Jordan
- A Drink With Founder- Hillary Sawchuk
- Famous Chef, Author and Entrepreneur- Lidia Bastianich
- The Windy City Blogger Collective
Each of these ladies opens up about their struggles, victories and unique path to success. Make sure to tune in to Lakeshore PBS Monday at 6:30 to hear their stories.
Paula Kerger
Candace Jordan
Hillary Sawchuk
Lidia Bastianich
Windy City Blogger Collective
If you think you have what it takes to make next year's class- CLICK THE CONTACT US!
How Life and Laughter Go Hand In Hand
Coming up on The Whitney Reynolds Show we are talking a lighter topic- Life and Laughter. This week we look at how laughter overall makes life better.
Little did I know, when I was taping this show just a few week's later we would find out I was pregnant. Becoming a mom of twins and hosting a show leaves a lot of room for things to go wrong, major stresses to pop up and nerves to be shot, however I have learned that life is so much better with a smile. In life we can dwell on our problems or learn to laugh through our lessons.
This week's show is all about just that, LIFE AND LAUGHTER. Make sure to tune in on Monday May 2nd on Lakeshore PBS at 6:30 PM as talk through this topic with experts, celebrities and folks that have worked firsthand with this topic.
SNL Alum- Tim Kazurinky