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 unique style, and his music reflects the vibe of his band, the Klouds. In this episode of Detroit is Different, we explore how he saw his grandparents ...
Jun 05, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 6Ep. 25
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 high-end fashion stores, working in the Renaissance Center when it first opened, and the faith and realities required to serve as a drug counselor, tru...
May 30, 2024•1 hr 40 min•Season 6Ep. 24
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 career, Ederique has been in the culinary industry ever since. For over 20 years, she has lived in Detroit, witnessing many changes in the city's culture ...
May 30, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 6Ep. 23
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 people was his motivation. Keith opens up about a decision he regrets and discusses how politics is fundamentally about interests. He sees Black business...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 34 min•Season 6Ep. 22
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 was a gateway to opportunities, but his true passion has always been the community. Tarence shares his experiences with the 1980s Detroit PSL team (ex...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 6Ep. 21
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 how a Non-Profit Organization can support a community. Friendship, family, education, and culture have all shaped Kirk's character and guided his pat...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Season 6Ep. 20
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 into the cultural dynamics of Detroit and New York. Tune in to this episode of Detroit is Different featuring Keir Worthy. Detroit is Different is a podc...
May 23, 2024•40 min•Season 6Ep. 19
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 sync with the rhythm of her spirit, seamlessly blending music, fashion, painting, sculpture, and beyond. As she prepares for her upcoming adventure t...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 6Ep. 18
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 familial affection and experiential passion, recognizing the transformative power of robust mental health support in uplifting humanity. Delving into h...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Season 6Ep. 17
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 embark on a journey through the origins of Crockett High School, the vibrant tapestry of Detroit's salon culture, and the transformative impact of Wayne S...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 16
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 talents with both scholarly pursuits and practical business applications. Currently, Dr. Lovejoy leads a pivotal survey study at the University of Mic...
May 23, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 6Ep. 15
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 Children in our city. Derschaun Brown, a proud DPS graduate and former teacher, epitomizes the transformative power of support. Her journey from exploring fa...
Apr 25, 2024•1 hr•Season 6Ep. 14
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 Different interview, Isaiah Orton-Bey shares his journey into the world of health-conscious living, supplements, and holistic practices. He delves in...
Apr 25, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 13
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 their Southwest Detroit neighborhood from intimidation by motorcycle gangs and police. Today, Shelton is a journalist and political activist delving into ...
Apr 25, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 6Ep. 12
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 experience, combining flavors and spices in a way that reflects his love for Detroit and its diverse food scene. Exploring his story through food is surely...
Apr 18, 2024•1 hr 38 min•Season 6Ep. 11
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 Development Authority and the significance of Community Benefits Agreements, alongside considerations of resident empowerment, we gain a comprehensive un...
Apr 11, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 6Ep. 10
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, Katrina lives and breathes the transformation of her community, epitomizing grassroots empowerment and community-driven change. In this insightful Detro...
Apr 11, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Season 6Ep. 9
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 their family against all odds. Meanwhile, Luis's military service provided him with invaluable insights beyond the borders of Southwest Detroit. As thei...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 35 min•Season 6Ep. 8
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 banks, or public spaces. Drawing from his own Detroit roots and family background—his father an architect and mother an attorney—Collin offers a person...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 6Ep. 7
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 his current roles, including spearheading operations at the University of Michigan Detroit Center. Having traversed the nation while representing the ...
Mar 28, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 6Ep. 6
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 connection with hip-hop, literature, and community activism, offering unique insights into justice, culture, and family dynamics. This feature highlight...
Mar 21, 2024•1 hr 52 min•Season 6Ep. 5
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 within the fashion community, empowering individuals to discover their unique voice. From organizing confidence-boosting fashion shows at Wayne State Uni...
Mar 21, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 6Ep. 4
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 Parade kids (like me and so many others). Now, her expertise in production spans globally, as she shares her journey from humble beginnings to working wit...
Mar 20, 2024•1 hr 26 min•Season 6Ep. 3
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 to integrate Black history, literature, and studies into the high school curriculum in the late '60s. Witnessing the transformative impact of activis...
Mar 20, 2024•1 hr 50 min•Season 6Ep. 2
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 his current roles, including spearheading operations at the University of Michigan Detroit Center. Having traversed the nation while representing the...
Mar 20, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 6Ep. 1
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 Detroit's Black community, drawing upon Donna's revelations about her father's struggles as a Black physician during times of inequality, and her grandm...
Feb 29, 2024•1 hr 36 min•Season 5Ep. 25
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 high school, Ambra's reality took a significant turn, leading her to discover her purpose in connecting with people and giving back to her commun...
Feb 22, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Season 5Ep. 24
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 April Anderson, this expansion marked a realization of her dreams and prompted a reevaluation of the business's operational strategies. In this Detroit...
Feb 15, 2024•1 hr 18 min•Season 5Ep. 23
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 the Shrine of the Black Madonna. As one of the founding members of the Houston TX Church, she delves into her commitment to the church's mission as a s...
Feb 08, 2024•1 hr 37 min•Season 5Ep. 22
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 role in providing significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs and fostering creativity in business. Her professional journey commenced at the De...
Feb 01, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Season 5Ep. 21
