Detroit, once home to nearly 2 million residents due to a bustling industrial age, became a focal point for the deindustrialization of America. As the city's industrial base declined, Black leadership emerged, with figures like Coleman Young, Erma Henderson, Bill Becham, Fannie Peck, and George Crockett striving to manage a city under-resourced and…

Mama Imara, a proud and confident gardener in Southwest Detroit, embodies the balance of one of the most poignant and strategic minds in community activism, always accompanied by a life-filled laugh and smile. As a member of Detroiters for Tax Justice, she advocates for her beloved city, driven by a lifelong love of books and libraries. As a child,…

The impact of Detroit politics on American politics, focusing on the upcoming August primary election featuring a Hollywood star. Hill Harper, who gained insights into community leadership and the Black power base in Detroit while studying at Harvard Law, has decided to run for office. Inspired by legends like Congressman Conyers, Congresswoman Car…

In this episode of Detroit is Different, we delve into the journey of Tepfirah Rushdan, Detroit's Director of Sustainability, whose love for camping blossomed into a career dedicated to sustainable land use for Detroiters. A Cass Tech graduate rooted in the 7 Mile and Wyoming neighborhood, Tepfirah shares her insights on self-sustainability and com…

Writing and storytelling are talents that Rocki Harris has passionately developed into professional skillsets. Raised on Detroit's Eastside, with a grandmother dedicated to teaching grammar, writing, and language, Rocki has been in love with words for a lifetime. Today, she hosts Rocki's Reality Podcast, which airs on Rocki's Reality YouTube and Fa…

In the 1990s, Detroit had a profound impact on Moudou Baqui and his entire family. They had moved from Tennessee to escape racism and limited opportunities, eventually establishing roots in Detroit. The Petty family began to settle in Detroit when the land beyond 8 Mile Road was still farmland, owned and cultivated by them. This included the area w…

Inkster, MI, became a suburban destination for Black families in the Metro Detroit region in the 1970s. Jason Turner's family moved there in the late 1960s. Today, Jason works within his community alongside his family, focusing on creativity and community initiatives. He is a founding member of Building Black Brick Masters, an intergenerational Bla…

Community engagement, advocacy, and social change are lifelong passions for Alexa and Johnnie Turnage. They share how a chance meeting on a flight to Detroit led to a friendship that blossomed into marriage. The Turnages' Black Tech Saturdays has evolved into a national effort. In this interview, they discuss how this initiative aligns with their s…

Collective enjoyment, live entertainment, dancing, and Prince music have made Detroit summers popular for years. On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, Build Institute will host an interactive and fun fundraiser at the Aretha Amphitheater, featuring the extraordinary drummer Sheila E. Regina Ann Campbell, CEO of Build Institute, will join us to discuss the…

David 'Hump the Grinder' Humphries, a pivotal figure in Detroit's Black culture of music and hair design, has been producing Hair Wars since the era when Mojo's radio shows kept people dancing through the night. Returning to Detroit is Different, Hump discusses the upcoming Hair Wars and his experiences traveling with Hip-hop's first tour, 'The Fre…

Crystal Bailey's advocacy for mental and behavioral health on behalf of young people in the juvenile justice center inspired her to run for the Michigan State Representative District 5 position. Her work in the juvenile justice system has given her profound insights into tragic realities, motivating her to take action. In this interview, Bailey sha…

The Collard Green Cook-Off was a cultural experience that connected with hundreds of Detroiters last year. This year, Detroit is Different will expand the experience by adding the Collard Green Cook-Off Playoffs. The Playoffs will be held this Thursday during the Juneteenth Jubilee Celebration, organized by Black Leaders Detroit and led by Sharea A…

Omari Barksdale’s roots in Alabama, Palestine, and Detroit’s Westside have instilled in him a profound understanding of resilience, strength, and creativity. Today, he advocates for men to build healthy and constructive relationships with women, shares the factual history of race relations in America through artifacts, and lobbies for equity for al…

Faith producing works is an adage often shared in conversation, and Drey Skonie has witnessed it throughout his life. As a soul singer, he adds the feel of hip-hop, funk, house, and dance to the legacy of legends like Eddie Kendricks (of the Temptations), Philippé Wynne (of the Spinners), and Ron Banks (of the Dramatics). Drey stands out with his u…

Managing people, personalities, and custom fashion stores came naturally to Constance Davis, who opens up about her can't-lose Homecoming Queen campaign and lifelong knack for people skills and smarts. Her son, Anthony 'Spice' Adams, applies similar creativity and genius to grow his brand after an NFL career. We delve into her experience managing h…

Louisiana is known for its great food and warm hospitality. Ederique Goudia grew up loving both cooking and tasting a variety of dishes, surrounded by a family deeply rooted in Louisiana culture, where everyone from her mother and father to her aunts, uncles, and cousins cooked. Discovering in high school that she could turn her passion into a care…

Football was the gateway that took Keith Williams to Eastern Michigan University, where his knack for sales soon took hold. In the 1980s, he was selling business forms and starting a printing company. We explore his transition from the Republican Party to help develop a farmers market of the Lodge Service Drive and Livernois. His love for Black peo…

Serving the people was a mission instilled in Tarence Wheeler at a young age by his grandmother. Today, he channels his passion, talents, and skills to inspire everyone, especially young Black individuals, to take initiative in empowering their communities. The Southwestern and Arizona State University basketball star opens up about how basketball …

Before he was born, Kirk Mayes' great-aunt inspired his mother to serve their community in the hills of Jamaica. Decades later, Kirk Mayes has fed hundreds of thousands of families during a pandemic, driven by his mission to be a resource for his community. In this dynamic episode of Detroit is Different, Kirk opens up about his journey of learning…

Black designers in fashion, furniture, and even aluminum cans are changing the world from Detroit. Keir Worthy returns to Detroit is Different to discuss his role as the Executive Director of the Organization of Black Designers. We explore the significant contributions Black people have made in establishing style and coolness globally and delve int…

Sabrina Nelson is embarking on a transformative journey to Africa, driven by her passion to learn, teach, and immerse herself in the world of art. With a rich history of creativity showcased during her original appearance on Detroit is Different, Sabrina has dedicated her life to sharing her artistic talents. Today, her artistic expression flows in…

American Street was a cherished emblem of family, love, and community for Kenyatta Stephens. Her grandparents paved the way, instilling a legacy of service as stewards, dedicated to empowering their community with access to opportunity, success, and an enhanced quality of life. Today, at the helm of Black Family Development, Kenyatta channels her f…

Stephanie Fazekas stands as a beacon of cool, her roots intertwined deeply with Detroit's Eastside and Westside. Seamlessly blending her innate understanding of the city's culture with her passion for art, Stephanie is poised to debut her inaugural art exhibition alongside her son Tory, a fitting celebration for Mother's Day 2024. Together, we emba…

Dr. Bill Lovejoy boasts a distinguished 30-year tenure as a professor at the University of Michigan, where his expertise spans the realms of academia and business. His academic journey, rooted in a background in mathematics, has been enriched by extensive travels around the globe, affording him unique opportunities to showcase the alignment of his …

Detroit kids navigate life in uniquely dynamic ways, shaped by the city's distinct signature. However, the tragic under-resourcing of Detroit's institutions profoundly impacts their experiences, amplifying the challenges they face. For these children, the reality is intensified, underscoring the crucial role of organizations like Friends of Childre…

Finding purpose for Isaiah Orton-Bey was discovered in his quest for deeper understandings of life. Along the stretch of West Seven Mile between Greenfield and Southfield in Detroit, a vibrant scene unfolds outside Moor Herbs—a health market specializing in vitamins, alkaline water, wholesome foods, and healing literature. In a revealing Detroit is…

When Malcolm X delivered his historic 'Message to the Grassroots Speech' at King Solomon Baptist Church, a young Malik Shelton had the opportunity to meet him, igniting within him the roots and understanding of self-determination and Pan-Africanism. As a teenager, Shelton organized a series of Black organizing and militant actions to safeguard thei…

Chef Buddah's journey sounds fascinating, especially with his deep roots in Detroit and his culinary adventures spanning from the Brewster Projects to various esteemed restaurants like Hudsons and the Summit Restaurant. Winning the 2023 Collard Green Cook-Off must have been a proud moment for him. His Vegan Gumbo sounds like a unique culinary exper…

The longstanding business relationship between Detroit's municipal government and corporations traces its roots back several decades. Theo Pride, of Detroit People's Platform, offers insightful analysis, delving into both macro and micro perspectives on the historical trajectory and current dynamics. Through examining entities like the Downtown Dev…

Katrina Watkins was spurred to action by the sight of grass towering over people in her neighborhood, propelling her to instigate change. Transitioning from passive waiting for city intervention to proactive engagement, she founded the Bailey Park Neighborhood Development Corporation, now a beacon of hope on Detroit's Eastside. A true Detroiter, Ka…

Embark on a journey to Southwest Detroit with Luis Ali and Tanya Saldivar-Ali on Detroit is Different, where Mexican American culture thrives and community empowerment is at the heart of everything. Through decades of experience and observation, Tanya witnessed the resilience of her mother as she owned and operated a neighborhood bar, sustaining th…

Join Collin Mays on Detroit is Different as he delves into the transformative power of philanthropy within the Black community. With a focus on inclusivity, Collin explores how Black philanthropists have long been instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for their fellow community members, whether through supporting education, churches, food b…

Feodies Shipp III, hailing from Detroit's Bagley neighborhood, holds a deep appreciation for both the vibrant culture of the University of Michigan and the rich tapestry of Detroit. With roots entrenched in family ties to Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and the Great Plains, Feodies' journey encompasses his formative years at U of M in the 90s to …

The Queen Hip-hop Poetry is from Detroit, jessica Care moore. A true embodiment of the city's spirit she puts forth a Blue Collar attitude towards poetry. From her roots in blue-collar Detroit to her diverse talents spanning poetry, music, activism, and art, jessica Care moore is a force to be reckoned with. Join her as she delves into her deep con…

Embark on a journey of empowerment and resilience with Latrice Delgado-Macon, the founder of Detroit Fashion Community and a passionate advocate for Black Mental Health, as she shares her remarkable story on Detroit is Different. With a rich family history in fashion design and modeling, Latrice's mission is to foster creativity and innovation with…

Behind the scenes of the film industry, where meticulous planning and coordination precede the glitz and glamour of Lights, Camera, and Action is where Rachel Simone thrives. Hailing from generations entrenched in Detroit, she embodies the spirit of Detroit, having grown up embracing the Dexter Blvd neighborhood as one of the many Broad Street Para…

Attorney Jeff Edison radiates the essence of African style and grace, setting a remarkable tone upon meeting him. With a warm smile and infectious laughter, he captivates attention effortlessly, revealing himself as one of the most adept and eloquent communicators one could encounter. Rooted in Detroit, his journey began amidst the fervent struggle…

Feodies Shipp III, hailing from Detroit's Bagley neighborhood, holds a deep appreciation for both the vibrant culture of the University of Michigan and the rich tapestry of Detroit. With roots entrenched in family ties to Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and the Great Plains, Feodies' journey encompasses his formative years at U of M in the 90s to …

Join Authentically Detroit as they venture into the heart of Detroit is Different for an enriching conversation delving into the profound legacy of Donna Givens Davidson's family in Black activism, organizing, and the pursuit of freedom and justice. Hosts Orlando Bailey and Donna Givens Davidson delve into the essence of community empowerment in De…

For over two decades, Teen Hype & Ambra Redrick have challenged the age-old notion of children being seen and not heard. Ambra candidly shares her journey co-founding Teen Hype on Detroit is Different, tracing back to her upbringing by her nurturing grandparents in a Leave it to Beaver style household. Transitioning into motherhood as a teenager in…

Good Cakes and Bakes is more than just a bakery; it's a cornerstone of community spirit, innovation, and delectable treats along the Avenue of Fashions. With its recent expansion into downtown Detroit in 2023, Good Cakes and Bakes now offers an array of savory delights, artisanal coffees, and unique sweets that are exclusive to each location. For A…

Learn about KUA and much more from Dr. Shelley McIntosh, an educator who has dedicated decades to shaping young Black minds in empowerment and community. From her roots as a preacher's kid on Detroit's Eastside to her education at Southeastern HS and Wayne State University, Dr. McIntosh shares her journey and how it led her to find purpose within t…

Christianne Malone is deeply rooted in Detroit, having spent her childhood just blocks away from Belle Isle and regularly visiting her grandparents' house in the Westside Linwood neighborhood. Today, as the Chief Program Officer at TechTown Detroit and Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University, she plays a crucial …

Dean Beanz, the visionary behind EVRY Media, serves as its owner and creator. EVRY Media is a dynamic content creation firm specializing in crafting cinematic pieces across various media platforms. Dean wears multiple hats as the host, director, and producer of the LateAF talk show, as well as the director and producer of the EVRY Woman Talk Show. …

Toby Tansil discusses the documentary he helped executive produce, "Walk Through the Valley." This compelling film emerged from a student's challenge to empower their community, shedding light on Detroit's history with Black people and the iconic Paradise Valley. Set to premiere at the Detroit Historical Museum Theater on February 11, the documenta…

The dynamic world of Lawrence 'LoDeez' Burnside, a seasoned hip-hop artist whose journey in music has taken him to new heights. I share my personal connection rooted in high school rap battles with him, LoDeez's trajectory has soared with the release of his latest album, 'Dope House Gone Mad.' In this engaging podcast episode, delve into the artist…

Detroit is Different invites you into the soulful world of Beverly Johnson, known to Detroit as Bevlove. Born into a family steeped in music, Bevlove's journey from her mother's lullabies to becoming a soulful sensation is a tale of love, passion, and unfiltered honesty. In this podcast, Bevlove shares the profound impact of years of journaling on …

Dr. Charles Simmons graces 'Detroit is Different' with Khary Frazier, unveiling a life steeped in honor, community, and a relentless pursuit of truth. Through his odyssey, Simmons found solace and purpose within the embrace of the King Solomon Baptist Church community, a sanctuary that resonated amidst his global sojourns. His worldview expanded ex…

Nefertiti Harris of Textures by Nefertiti speaks on her journey through the Shrine of the Black Madonna to engage in the mission of empowering Black people by recognizing the beauty of our natural hair. This year Nefertiti is being honored at Detroit is Different’s My Natural Hair Show. Nefertiti shares her how she’s moved with purpose to create an…

In this episode of "Detroit is Different," the spotlight is on Scheherazade Washington Parrish, a multi-talented individual with a diverse background in writing, art, psychology, and community engagement. Scheherazade's artistic journey is deeply rooted in her exploration of various forms of expression, from personal narratives to formal verse. She…