Writer, content creator and ardent foodie Samantha Callender is a Chicago-based multimedia journalist whose passion for storytelling shines through her various work. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Samantha studied journalism at Miami University and has called Chicago home since 2017.
A people’s person by nature, Samantha’s ability to build deep and lasting relationships is her superpower. One that enables her to interview celebrities in various capacities, uncover heartfelt stories and garner an active following on social media.
She loves a great latte and enjoys exploring the art and culture scene in the city. From political and civic reporting at City Bureau to reporting on all things luxury, lifestyle and beauty at magazines like Essence and Harper’s Bazaar, Samantha’s stories catalyze honest dialogue and activism. She’s excited to join WBEZ’s digital news desk to bring more stories amplifying the voices of the people, places, and politics across Chicagoland.
Samantha Callender
Stories by Samantha Callender
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The James Beard Awards are in town. Here are seven events for foodies.
This weekend brings some of the nation’s top culinary professionals to Chicago. Here’s how to get in on the action.
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Beyond a landmark: WBEZ’s guide to Promontory Point and Hyde Park
Promontory Point, nestled between 54th and 56th streets along the lakefront, received landmark status last month to help preserve its limestone revetments and promenade.
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Taylor’s Tacos creates community beyond Taco Tuesday
Taylor and Maya Mason opened a standalone taqueria this month in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood where tacos are a conduit for community building.
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‘Englewood Barbie’ organizes sleep outs for the unhoused in Chicago
Aleta Clark, aka Englewood Barbie, organizes sleep outs for unhoused people known as ‘the Friends’ under a viaduct in Pilsen.
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West Side travel agent takes Chicago youth on field trips at home and abroad
Crystal Dyer helps kids who “don’t leave their community very often” expand their horizons by seeing their home city and Africa.
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CTA is launching an anti-grime campaign. Customers say it’s overdue.
Efforts include more janitors, more powerwashing and two dozen station upgrades, part of a bigger effort to boost public confidence in public transit.
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What to expect in Chicago’s Loop this weekend as security tightens on teen crowds
Fences around Millennium Park, limited entry points to the popular tourist destination and a curfew for minors will be in place this weekend.
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Take a walking tour of the free art popping up around the Loop
From virtual reality planets to unicorns, it’s high art season in Chicago. Here’s a guide to some of the fresh works that are free to the public.
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Chicago’s TikTok gardener wants to help you with your plants
Ebony Jamison, AKA Brownskinbeautiful, has her 70,000 followers hooked on seeds, soil, and the art and science of backyard plants.
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Mielle Organics promises Black women the company will stick to its roots
Some loyal Black women customers worry the Indiana-based natural hair care brand may lose its magic after being acquired by multinational Procter & Gamble.
