Samantha Callender

Samantha Callender is a multi-hyphenate multi-media professional with a passion for storytelling, culture,
and all things digital.

With a background in journalism, social media strategy, and brand communications, she’s worked across
industries—from radio and digital newsrooms to luxury retail and hospitality—bringing fresh, engaging narratives to life. She thrives at the intersection of media, culture, and connection.

Her career has lots of layers. Locally, she’s worked at Chicago’s NPR station, WBEZ, where she profiled small business owners and folks driving the culture of Chicago forward. She had a large hand in revitalizing their social media strategy and created editorial content, radio spots, podcast editing, and more.

She’s also been reporting on beauty trends and profiling beauty tastemakers at Essence Magazine for nearly a decade. As a freelancer, she’s also worked with publications such as Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Architecture Digest, and more.

When not writing and reporting, she’s led brand and business strategies for luxury brands such as Alexis Bittar, Aesop, and more. Whether directly on the sales floor or in the office, Samantha specializes in connecting creating consumer experiences that drive sales.

As a Taurus, she loved nothing more than creating beautiful and peaceful environments for people to experience and be inspired by.

At her core, Samantha is passionate about amplifying voices that deserve to be heard and creating spaces where people feel inspired, educated, and enlightened.

Her love of culture and elevated experiences extends beyond her professional life: she’s an avid supporter of local Chicago culture culture.

Whether it’s sourcing furniture at a local antique store, attending the ballet or experiencing local theater,
or grabbing a latte at the latest coffee shop in town, Samantha loves exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

She believes that great storytelling happens everywhere—from a well-brewed espresso to the conversations sparked by a thoughtfully written Instagram caption. You can connect with her across socials at @OnYourCallender