Chicagoans to Watch

ChicagoTalks is proud to feature the work of Columbia College Chicago’s Magazine Editing and Magazine Profile Writing classes that highlights creative and up-and-coming Chicagoans.

“Chicago Podcasters” tunes in local podcasters who have joined the audio revolution, from two guys who dreamed up their own Wild West town to a pair of women who can’t stop talking about the city.

“Keeping it Colorful” highlights a group of inspired and inspirational women of color in the arts and entertainment, such as two Latina comedians who poke fun at stereotypes and an African-American writer/filmmaker who taps into her ethnicity to tell stories.

“Crowdfunded Chicago: Five dreams, one city” rounds up entrepreneurs and artists who got a kickstart from crowdfunding. They include two inventors dedicated to greener technology, an artist who uses spray-paint to make people smile and a designer who found inspiration in a flower shop.

Also, check out these websites from semesters past:

“They Speak Geek: Cracking the code of a male-dominated field”

“Women of Taste: Chicago entrepreneurs carve out their culinary niches”

And the vibrant illustrators of “Wonder Women”

The editors conceived of the project, edited the stories, shot the photos and designed the three websites, while the writers did the reporting and writing, with direction from Associate Professor Betsy Edgerton and adjunct professor Karen Titus, from the journalism program of the Department of Communication and Media Innovation.

Follow us on Twitter, @CCCMag2, and Chicago Profiles on Facebook, Columbia College Chicago Profile Gallery. For more information, contact Betsy Edgerton,