Life as a New Mom

Getting to know WTOL’s Zeinab Cheaib

By Emily Remaklus

When we tune in to local TV news, we see familiar faces we’ve grown to trust. While we recognize the newscasters and maybe even feel we know them, there’s a lot more to learn about these local journalists. Zeinab Cheaib, a reporter for WTOL, Channel 11, shares a bit more about herself, her role as a journalist and her newest role as a mom.

Living her dream in her hometown

While some TV reporters have to move across the country to find a position, Cheaib was fortunate to find a job in her hometown. Born and raised in Toledo, Cheaib graduated from Whitmer High School, and then attended college at The University of Toledo, where she studied communication, focusing on broadcast journalism. She has since fulfilled her dream by becoming a local reporter at WTOL. “That’s the beauty of Toledo. You don’t have to leave to live your dream,” explained Cheaib.

Her favorite part about being a journalist is meeting new people.“Everyone has a story, and I’m blessed to be in a position where I can share unique and interesting stories with the world. That’s what got me into journalism. I love meeting people and getting to know them,” Cheaib said.

Life as a mom

This past fall, Cheaib took an absence from the television screen. In September, she gave birth to her first child, a daughter named Elissar (Elise for short). This newest role is one that Cheaib adores. “I absolutely love watching my baby grow. She looks completely different from when she was first born, and I get to be there through all her firsts.”

But the job of “mom” naturally comes with challenges, Cheaib said. “The biggest challenge is figuring everything out. She’s my first baby, so it was hard, but I think I’m getting the hang of it…I hope,” she laughed.

Cheaib shared that the best piece of advice she has for other new moms is to not be afraid to ask for help. “There’s no way I would be able to do everything by myself without the help of my family, especially my mom.”

Thursdays, May 11th through September 21st from 4-8pm in the Perrysburg Historic

Q&A with Zeinab Cheaib

What is your favorite thing about living in Toledo? My family! Toledo is a great place to live, raise a family, find a job and get a good education.

What is your favorite dinner spot in the area? I have to pick one? I would say J. Alexander’s, but if you want a dinner with a view, definitely Real Seafood at The Docks. Oh wait! There’s also The Heights! I just can’t pick one!

If you could change one thing in this world right now, what would it be? For everyone to have access to clean water.

What’s your favorite way to spend a free day? Believe it or not, the perfect day would be relaxing at home and watching a good movie!

Do you have a favorite TV show? love watching TV. There are so many good shows, so if you have Netflix recommendations send them my way!

What type of music is your favorite? I love all kinds of music, but I can’t get into country.

What was the last really good book you’ve read? Does poetry count? If so, try 2am Thoughts

What do you enjoy the most about being a mom? Endless cuddles and hugs!