Ajara Alghali, co-founder and Director of TéMaTé Institute for Black Dance and Culture, is a performance artist and thought leader at the intersection of dance and cultural representation. Drawing from her Sierra Leonean-American roots, her work highlights the connections among African people across the diaspora. The TéMaTé Institute, a social justice organization, uses dance as a tool for community engagement, focusing on dance justice and cultural equity. Inspired by the Temate dance of the Ya...
Oct 17, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 55
Furqan Mohammed, nephew of Elijah Muhammad, gives his first exclusive podcast interview to Detroit is Different, sharing the remarkable story of his life and family. Furqan opens up about how his family collectively joined the Nation of Islam, tracing their strong and self-determined beginnings from Georgia to Detroit's historic Black Bottom. He details how the teachings of WD Fard Muhammad in Black Bottom welcomed his family, and how his uncle Elijah Muhammad rose to leadership as the messenger...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Season 6Ep. 54
Restaurants often struggle in their first three years, but Yum Village, a fusion of African and Caribbean cuisine founded by Godwin Ihentuge, opened its doors on Woodward Avenue during the challenges of COVID-19. This venture was the realization of Godwin’s life vision, rooted in his upbringing on Detroit's Westside as the eldest son in a Nigerian family. Once an introvert, Godwin developed a skill set in empathetic listening that has been key to building a strong team. Yum Village, which began ...
Oct 10, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 53
In the 1970s, Toni McIlwain was drawn to Detroit by the promise of a thriving Black business community. Leaving Akron, Ohio, she set out with her four children in search of a fresh start. However, the road was not easy; for 18 months, she and her family were unhoused, grappling with feelings of hopelessness. It was during this trying time, while searching for food to feed her family, that Toni made a heartfelt prayer, vowing that if she could receive help, she would dedicate her life to helping ...
Oct 03, 2024•58 min•Season 6Ep. 52
Renika McQueen’s journey in managing a correctional facility and producing films reflects her understanding of structure, discipline, and leadership in both arenas. Her passion for writing, which began in childhood, has always been a way for her to express her emotions, thoughts, and talents. What started as a simple outlet has grown into a flourishing career in film. In this Detroit is Different feature, Renika discusses her latest TV series on Tubi, The Stranger in Our House. She shares the ev...
Oct 03, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 6Ep. 51
Evan Daugherty's journey in public service and public affairs began at an early age, rooted in the values of his politically and socially active family on Detroit's Westside. Growing up in the close-knit, walkable community of Rosedale Park, he developed a deep understanding of social justice and racial equity, which became central to his life's work. Alongside his passion for hip-hop and music, these influences shaped his artistic and professional path. Today, Evan serves as the project manager...
Sep 25, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 6Ep. 50
"A Day Without a Rhyme" is a song that captured the heart of the Hip-hop world, solidifying its place in Detroit's music legacy. Eminem's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame further underscores the song's profound impact on his career and the genre at large. Mersiless Amir, a DJ by origin, continues to make waves with his forthcoming release Legendhood, building on a deep-rooted background in Hip-hop. In this episode of Detroit is Different, we explore how Amir's family’s business vent...
Sep 19, 2024•1 hr 45 min•Season 6Ep. 49
Get ready for a truly unique and exciting experience at the Taste of Black Spirits: National Conference Cocktail Concierge! In this engaging podcast, we explore the role of Black ownership in the liquor industry and what it signifies. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious to discover new flavors, this event promises something special for everyone. On Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 6:00 to 11:00 PM (Eastern Daylight Time), join us at the elegant 525 West Lafayette Terrace Ro...
Sep 12, 2024•30 min•Season 6Ep. 48
Marshalle Favors leads the 5th annual Detroit Black Film Festival (DBFF), continuing its mission to showcase the voices and stories of Black independent filmmakers from across the nation. In this episode, we explore how film production plays a pivotal role in curating the festival and more. DBFF is committed to screening exceptional films from both seasoned and emerging filmmakers, offering a rich spectrum of stories that reflect African American experiences, narratives, and culture. Special tha...
Sep 12, 2024•22 min•Season 6Ep. 47
Shelby Love is pouring her passion for art and expression into the vibrant Detroit art scene. In this episode, we explore how her creativity was ignited through music and song from her mother, while her father’s love for sketching nurtured her talent for visual art. As the Head Artist and Director of Detroit Does It Better: Art Exhibition, Shelby is bringing the city’s artistic culture to life on September 21st. This event highlights Detroit’s incredible talent through graffiti, paintings, sculp...
Sep 12, 2024•41 min•Season 6Ep. 46
Miss Eva's is an upcoming speakeasy experience in the Grandmont Rosedale Park community, offering a unique blend of crafted cocktails inspired by the African diaspora, along with exceptional non-alcoholic options. This intimate venue will also serve as a destination for live neo-soul and R&B concerts, creating a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The venture is spearheaded by Jay Williams, a construction engineer who grew up in Rosedale Park and draws inspiration from his grandmother, Miss Eva, wh...
Sep 05, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 6Ep. 45
Asandi Conner's journey with the Detroit Equity Action Lab and Wayne State University is one that unfolded in ways she never anticipated. Growing up in the historic Conant Gardens on Detroit's Eastside and proudly graduating from Osborn High School, Asandi's early years were steeped in writing and fueled by a dream of becoming a newscaster—a dream that naturally transitioned into a passion for journalism. As a student at Wayne State University, she chronicled the Black student movement's efforts...
Aug 30, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 44
Crystal L. Gunn is a Financial Strategist and Women's Empowerment Coach who has built a career dedicated to empowering others with the knowledge she has gained from her own experiences. Raised in a home where reading and writing were emphasized, she now uses these talents to inspire, collaborate, and uplift others. From her early business education at Cass Tech and Michigan State University to becoming the youngest vice president of a Credit Union in Michigan, Crystal has successfully navigated ...
Aug 22, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Season 6Ep. 43
Kamau Inaede is a unique blend of roles seldom seen together: Cigar Social and Networking enthusiast, Life Insurance Sales Agent, Curator, Musician, and Board Chairman. His journey of creativity and initiative began at an early age as one of the founding members of the internationally touring Spain Elementary Marching Band, which grounded him in structure and discipline. Music and rhythm have always aligned with his sense of purpose. Kamau shares insights on his community upbringing, his passion...
Aug 22, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Season 6Ep. 42
In high school, running cross country provided Karen Dumas with a competitive edge that she carries with her today. Growing up on the lower Eastside by the Detroit River, where she still resides, Karen found clarity in her career path after one year at Michigan State University, realizing her passion for business. She founded Ideas and Images, a communications firm that has thrived under her leadership. Karen excels at helping clients connect their messages to people, demonstrating her exception...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Season 6Ep. 41
Detroit is Different, started in 2014, is often regarded as an original podcast from Detroit, but it is part of a broader legacy that began with Chris Massey and The Chris Massey Show years earlier. Chris, born on Detroit's Eastside to two hardworking parents who provided a strong foundation, has woven a rich tapestry of music, storytelling, and discussions throughout his career. His life journey, which includes significant time spent in New Orleans, Washington D.C., and Detroit, has allowed him...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 6Ep. 40
Last NFL season, the Detroit Lions made a significant achievement by reaching the playoffs and winning two games, marking their first playoff run since 1991. This momentous occasion was captured on NFL Hard Knocks, where comedian Josh Adams played a key role in boosting the team's morale. Just like the Lions, Josh Adams embodies resilience and dedication, having hosted the "Josh Adams Podcast" on Detroit is Different After Dark for the past five years. As one of Detroit's most distinctive comedi...
Aug 01, 2024•44 min•Season 6Ep. 39
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 neglected by both the American nation and the state of Michigan. This shift in leadership marked the beginning of an exodus of residents and raised a...
Jul 25, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 38
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, Mama Imara saw libraries as castles full of fairy tales, information, and more. However, the tax captures from the executive administration have left...
Jul 25, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 37
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 Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, and Congressman Charles Diggs, Harper learned about their significant contributions to the city from two classmates. Now, as h...
Jul 25, 2024•47 min•Season 6Ep. 36
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 community reliance through farming. As a founding member of the Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund, she has become an expert in urban agriculture and land ac...
Jul 18, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 6Ep. 35
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 Facebook accounts on Thursday nights, podcasting live in studio from Detroit is Different studios. In this feature, she opens up about her understanding...
Jul 18, 2024•1 hr 34 min•Season 6Ep. 34
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 where the Kroger at 8 Mile and Wyoming now stands, which was seized through eminent domain, resulting in the loss of 200 acres of farmland. Moudou's fa...
Jul 11, 2024•2 hr 14 min•Season 6Ep. 33
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 Black men's community organizing group. Jason shares his experiences of navigating two realities after his parents separated, reflecting on how street li...
Jul 04, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Season 6Ep. 32
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 shared passion for using technology to unite communities around social change. They also delve into how their family roots have inspired them to build ...
Jun 27, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Season 6Ep. 31
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 fundraiser and much more. Discover how Build Institute is expanding its business development services to help businesses grow! We'll also explore the...
Jun 27, 2024•46 min•Season 6Ep. 30
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 Fresh Fest' from 1984 to 1986, and street team promotions. On July 20, 2024, join Hump and the hair designers at Artist Village for the Hair Wars Party a...
Jun 20, 2024•59 min•Season 6Ep. 29
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 shares how her involvement in organizing a fashion show helped her forge deeper community bonds. From being a parent volunteer at her daughter's school t...
Jun 13, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 28
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 Ayers. In this Detroit is Different interview, Khary Frazier is interviewed by Sterling Toles, who explores the idea, concept, and energy of the Collar...
Jun 13, 2024•1 hr 34 min•Season 6Ep. 27
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 all people. His extensive work began with organizing initiatives during his teenage years. Omari discusses the lessons learned from his grandparents and...
Jun 05, 2024•2 hr 9 min•Season 6Ep. 26
