Detroit Is Different

"When you set out to heal the world, you realize that you yourself have healing to do.” In this Detroit is Different episode, Dr. Demarra West, founder of Rest Like a Queen Retreat & Day Retreats in Detroit, shares her journey of self-discovery, purpose, and community impact. Having moved to Detroit just eight months ago, she reflects on how the city called her to do deep healing work, both personally and for others. As a licensed therapist and holistic healer, Demarra unpacks trauma, resilience, and systemic barriers, discussing how poverty and racism block access to true healing. She and Kari dive into the complex dynamics between Black men and women, the shifting power structures in Detroit, and the need for reciprocity and respect. “Joy, prosperity, peace, and purpose are birthrights,” she declares, emphasizing self-love and community-driven solutions. Of course, no episode is complete without classic Detroit questions—Demarra recalls her first Ford Focus, picks Glorilla and Usher for the Detroit

"If You Don’t Own Land, You Don’t Own Power." Ownership is the key to generational wealth, but in Detroit, that power is constantly under attack. From over-assessed property taxes to deed fraud and predatory real estate schemes, Black Detroiters are losing land—and with it, the foundation of community stability and wealth-building. In this powerful discussion, Anthony Adams, a legal and political mind with deep experience in city government, breaks down the policies, politics, and legal maneuvers that determine who truly owns Detroit. From the impact of the Land Bank and Community Benefits Agreements to the controversial shifts in Detroit’s tax structure, Adams lays out the real game being played with our neighborhoods. Host Khary Frazier challenges Adams to make sense of how we fight back—whether through land trusts, cooperative economics, or radical restructuring of city policies. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who cares about Detroit’s future and their own financial empowerment. Do

"Detroit is more than a city—it’s a movement, a rhythm, a story waiting to be told." In a media landscape where legacy outlets are losing their grip and independent voices are rising, Detroit is Different brings you the raw, unfiltered stories that shape the culture and politics of the city. This episode features journalist Sam Robinson, a writer who doesn’t just report on Detroit—he lives it. From covering state politics in Lansing to exposing community challenges in Cass Corridor, Sam brings a fresh and fearless perspective on what’s really happening in the D. We talk about the shifting landscape of independent media, the power of storytelling, and why voices from the margins deserve the mic. Get ready for a deep dive into the intersections of journalism, activism, and Detroit’s ever-evolving cultural heartbeat. Tune in for a conversation that’s insightful, engaging, and unapologetically Detroit. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering people adding to the culture of an

"My grandmother died when I was four months old. From the stories I got, she just had the gift of gab. One, she was beautiful. Two, she was also a hairstylist." The world of hair artistry, entrepreneurship, and cultural storytelling with Kristina the Glam Tech, a Detroit-born stylist and artist whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. From braiding hair in her basement as a teen to making waves in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, Kristina’s passion for hair has transformed into a thriving career. Raised by a lineage of strong women—including her grandmother, a self-made hairstylist and property owner, and her mother, the first in the family to attend college—Kristina was immersed in the entrepreneurial spirit of Detroit. Her career took off with Hair Wars, where she showcased elaborate, gravity-defying designs, and later with "My Hair, My Story, My Glory" at the Charles H. Wright Museum, an event celebrating the artistry and history of Black hair. Now in LA, she is shifting h

“I believe in my heart and in my core, it’s all because I had to get me together. So this right here, this is what I am on the inside. What you see in here, what you feel when you walk in—this is what I feel on the inside.” In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Detroit is Different, we sit down with Mikiah Glynn, the visionary owner of Brix Wine, to explore the journey that led her to create one of Detroit’s most inviting and community-centered wine spaces. A third-generation Detroiter with roots stretching back to Alabama and Tennessee, Mikiah grew up in a household of 13 siblings, surrounded by music, community, and entrepreneurship. Watching her mother run a successful daycare business while cooking unforgettable meals for the family, she learned early on that building something of your own requires passion, resilience, and love. Her introduction to wine at age 21 sparked a curiosity that grew into a full-fledged passion, leading her to launch Brix, a place where wine, culture, and community com

Dr. Velonda Anderson’s journey from military service to health-focused entrepreneurship is a testament to resilience, purpose, and community impact. Originally from Washington D.C., she lived in cities like Oakland and Atlanta before making Detroit her home in the 1980s. With a background in nursing, data processing, and personal training, she pursued a doctorate in nutrition, eventually founding Sweet Potato Delights, a company specializing in vegan, sweet potato-based baked goods. “I think the biggest thing is about having the conversation with folks,” she says, highlighting the importance of community dialogue in her work. A firm believer in financial literacy, she stresses, “You have to get friendly with your financials,” crediting programs like the Goldman Sachs Black in Business cohort for sharpening her business acumen. Through partnerships with local organizations like the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network, she not only promotes food access but also mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, ensur

Gale Henderson’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and deep-rooted community values. A third-generation Detroiter with family ties to Alabama, she grew up on the west side of the city, where her family owned multiple homes and businesses, fostering a strong sense of connection and support. Her journey took her from journalism to corporate communications in the automotive industry, where she learned firsthand the challenges of being a young Black woman in a male-dominated field. “If you incorporate right, you're going to go in there and you're going to be undervalued for sure,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and support in navigating corporate spaces. When she lost her job, she took a bold step into software development through a coding bootcamp, ultimately launching her own digital communications firm. Now, she’s a leader in Detroit’s tech scene, advocating for diversity and teaching coding to youth. Through it all, her foundation has remained unwavering: “I am my sister’s keepe

The legacy and wisdom of Detroit’s own Helen Moore, a trailblazer in community organizing and education advocacy, as she shares an inspiring journey spanning nearly nine decades. From surviving the racial tensions of 1940s Detroit to her pivotal role in shaping the city's educational landscape, Moore reflects on her family’s migration story, Detroit’s history of rebellion, and her relentless fight to empower Black children through equitable education. Listen as she weaves stories of courage, strategy, and collective action—taking on systemic racism, advocating for African-centered education, and mobilizing parents and communities to keep the vote and protect Detroit’s schools. This episode is a masterclass in resistance, resilience, and the power of a united community to create change. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering people adding to the culture of an American Classic city. Visit www.detroitisdifferent.com to hear, see and experience more of what makes Detroit different. Fol

Journey into the heart of Detroit's vibrant culture as we welcome Ber-Henda Williams to the Detroit is Different podcast. In this powerful and introspective conversation, Ber-Henda reflects on her journey as an educator, poet, and community leader rooted in the legacies of Detroit’s Black history. From the resilience of her family’s migration story to her father’s dynamic contributions as a Southfield volunteer, Ber-Henda weaves tales of artistry, hope, and transformation. A bilingual poet and Spanish educator, Ber-Henda shares how embracing the Espanol has expanded her world, built bridges across cultures, and added a unique layer to her artistry and community work. Whether performing bilingual spoken word or teaching poetry in schools where she speaks Spanish from the time she enters until she leaves, Ber-Henda’s journey highlights the power of language to create connections and deepen understanding. Together, we explore themes of healing through community, the role of creativity in navigating life’s transi

Unapologetic conversation with political strategist Brandon Jessup, who’s on a mission to ignite Black political power and transform grassroots organizing in Michigan. In this episode, we dissect the frustrations fueling voter apathy, explore how systemic disenfranchisement has left Black communities politically homeless, and chart a bold path forward. As a national leader in advancing equity and a candidate for chair of the Michigan Democratic Black Caucus, Jessup delivers an inspiring blueprint for building community power, from empowering precinct delegates to mobilizing around reparations. He unpacks how Detroit’s unique political and cultural landscape can spark statewide change while emphasizing the importance of intergenerational leadership, economic justice, and staying grounded in community values. Whether you’re a seasoned activist or new to organizing, this conversation will leave you informed, energized, and ready to take action. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering p

T.Barb, a powerhouse comedian and entertainer, proudly represents the Detroit is Different family, bringing laughter and light to the heart of Detroit and beyond. A natural-born performer, T.Barb’s talent is rooted in her family’s rich legacy of creativity, with her father and great-grandparents blazing trails in entertainment before her. She has taken the stage by storm with her comedy album, Retired Hood Rat Podcast, and her newest venture as executive producer of the hit Tubi series Only in My Hood. Through triumphs and challenges—including the profound losses of her brother and sister—T.Barb remains resilient, turning personal pain into creative inspiration. Boldly declaring herself one of the best stand-up comedians in the nation, she is unapologetic about her greatness and passionate about elevating Detroit’s incredible talent. T.Barb also embraces her role as a mentor, grooming her son Reggie to continue the "family business" and championing the importance of community and collaboration. With

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Maria Franklin, a powerhouse leader committed to uplifting Detroit’s youth and community. A fourth-generation Detroiter, Maria’s journey from a military upbringing to becoming Executive Director of the non-profit Life Leaders is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and purpose. She shares how losing her father at 16 shaped her work ethic, and how teaching nutrition in Detroit schools exposed her to systemic challenges like poverty, food insecurity, and limited opportunities. Fueled by these experiences, Maria now leads efforts to empower young people through leadership and entrepreneurship training, offering them mentorship, resources, and a vision for success. In this candid discussion, Maria delves into the importance of youth voices in decision-making, the transformative power of exposure, and her unwavering commitment to fostering opportunities for Detroit’s next generation. With her eye on the future, Maria Franklin proves that when young people are empowe

Detroit’s legacy breathes through the lives and voices of those who’ve carved pathways of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, and Mama Lohnren’s journey is a testament to this spirit. Lohren Carter-Nzoma story is a vivid tapestry of cultural preservation, family legacy, and transformative education rooted in Detroit’s Black community. A second-generation Detroiter with familial ties to Alabama’s rich agricultural heritage, she embodies a connection to both the South’s resilience and the North’s industrial promise. Her mother’s fearless advocacy for justice and her father’s unyielding discipline instilled a foundation of excellence that shaped Lohren's Pan-African identity. From navigating racially divided schools in Waterford to leading Montessori classrooms in Pontiac, Lohren’s journey is a masterclass in bridging gaps and fostering unity. Her discovery of African dance and drum at Oakland University, sparked by a chance meeting with the legendary Mama Safiya Tsekani, unlocked an immersive understand

Every Detroiter carries a tapestry of stories woven from history, resilience, and boundless creativity, and Loke’s narrative is a masterclass in how place shapes purpose. Detroit native Loke embodies the vibrant intersection of culture, creativity, and community that defines the city. Rooted in generations of storytelling, from his grandmother's migration from Eufaula, Alabama, to Detroit for opportunities during the Great Migration, to his mother's Parisian roots as the daughter of a veteran, Loke’s lineage is as rich as the Detroit soil that nurtured him. Growing up between Midtown’s cultural corridors and suburban enclaves, he absorbed a dynamic worldview shaped by both struggle and progress. His educational journey began at Flix, an immersion school where language and cultural diversity built his foundation of global awareness. At U Prep, he explored ancient Egypt and grassroots organizing, experiences that now resonate in his multifaceted artistry. From freestyle ciphers to poetry inspired by the Last Po

Step into the Detroit is Different studio for a dynamic conversation with the legendary Miles Dixon, a trailblazer in Detroit's podcasting and hip-hop scenes. From humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of Motor City storytelling, Miles's journey is as vibrant as the city itself. Raised in a family rich with resilience and creativity, Miles’s roots span from a father who worked with jazz legend Miles Davis to a mother with ties to Philly soul, including a deep connection to Teddy Pendergrass. His upbringing on Detroit’s west side shaped his commitment to community and culture. In this episode, we explore Miles's groundbreaking work in Detroit hip-hop, from being one of the first MCs to perform with a live band to his production work in legendary Detroit studios alongside artists like George Clinton. His story is steeped in a love for music, innovation, and a commitment to the grind, from performing to producing and now pioneering Detroit’s podcasting space. Learn how Miles has carried his family’s legacy

In this dynamic episode of Detroit is Different, we dive deep into the rich, multifaceted journey of Brent Smith—a hip-hop artist, urban gardener, and community builder. Raised in a family steeped in the legacy of Detroit and Flint, Brent’s narrative threads through generational agriculture, black artistry, and grassroots organizing. Discover how his early days performing in local open mics and forming the rap group "Cold Men Young" shaped his artistry and how the hustle of music tours and urban gardening ignited a new vision. From growing collard greens for downtown restaurants to activating spaces for hip-hop in Detroit’s urban gardens, Brent reflects on balancing creativity, culture, and community. This conversation is a vibrant tapestry of resilience, innovation, and Detroit pride, showcasing the power of hip-hop and agriculture to transform spaces and inspire growth. Tune in for a story about breaking molds, growing roots, and cultivating legacy. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khar

Find out what does a tunk strategy, family humor, and the perfect collard greens have in common? In this episode of Detroit is Different, we’re joined by Howie Bell, a comedic force whose story is as inspiring as it is entertaining. From his roots in Detroit’s Mumford neighborhood to graduating from King High School, Howie shares how his family built a legacy of laughter. We delve into the art of tunk, exploring how this beloved card game reveals strategies and perspectives on life. Howie takes us on a journey to Hollywood, where he found success, hosted legendary house parties known for incredible food, and became a fan-favorite judge in the Collard Green Cook-Off. With humor, heart, and a dash of culinary wisdom, Howie Bell’s story is a testament to perseverance, family, and creativity. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation that blends comedy, cooking, and culture. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering people adding to the culture of an American Classic city. Visit www.detro

Step into the vibrant world of Detroit hip-hop and cultural storytelling with Kahn Santori Davison, a writer whose work has become the heartbeat of the city’s artistic narrative. From losing his parents in a tragic incident and being raised by his grandparents, to building a legacy as a columnist for The Michigan Citizen and Metro Times, Kahn has spent over 20 years chronicling the evolution of Detroit’s rap scene and community resilience. In this captivating episode of Detroit is Different, Kahn shares powerful reflections on his time with Grace Lee Boggs at Detroit Summer, his contributions to the Detroit Institute of Arts, and how hip-hop has transformed into a cornerstone of American culture. Don’t miss this intimate and inspiring conversation with a voice that has shaped the stories of a city that refuses to quit. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering people adding to the culture of an American Classic city. Visit www.detroitisdifferent.com to hear, see and experience more of

Eric Cook’s story is a testament to Detroit’s spirit of perseverance and innovation. With roots in the historic Number Streets on the Westside, Eric’s journey is woven into the fabric of the city, where he’s built a thriving presence along the iconic West McNichols corridor. As the proud owner of Raw Space, located at 8420 W McNichols Rd, Detroit, MI 48221, Eric has transformed this venue into a hub for creativity, connection, and community. From high school days in New York to earning a history degree at Eastern Michigan University, his path reflects a deep commitment to education, culture, and community building. Now a logistics professional and community advocate, Eric invites you to join him for a 5K walk, jog, and run on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 11 a.m., starting from Pillar and Pride to Raw Space. This event symbolizes his dedication to blending Detroit’s past, present, and future into a movement for health, unity, and empowerment. Detroit is Different is a podcast hosted by Khary Frazier covering

In the summer of 1967, as Detroit was embroiled in one of its most transformative moments, Glady's Bettis found herself halfway across the globe in Germany, where her journey as a trailblazer began. In this inspiring episode, Glady's—known affectionately as "MaBus"—shares her incredible story of leadership as a big sister, her role as a guiding force for siblings, children, and NFL moms, and her unwavering commitment to family. Discover how she initially resisted her son Jerome's passion for football but became his biggest supporter, never missing a game. Dive into the Bettis family's deep love for bowling, their fierce dedication to one another, and the heartwarming tale of how her husband, John Bettis Sr., literally swept her off her feet. Their enduring love and legacy laid the foundation for one of the greatest Super Bowl stories in NFL history, culminating right here in Detroit. Don’t miss this captivating episode of Detroit is Different, featuring Glady's "MaBus" Bettis! Detroit is D