Detroit is Different

S6E71 -Planting Seeds of Change: Hip-Hop, Urban Gardening, and Brent Smith’s Vision

Detroit is Different episode 401 Bren 'Blaksmith' Smith

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 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.

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S6E69 -From the Kitchen Table to Hollywood: The Laughter and Legacy of a Comedy Visionary, Howie Bell

Detroit is Different episode 399 with Howie Bell

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.detroitisdifferent.com to hear, see and experience more of what makes Detroit different.

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S6E68 -From Hip-Hop to Healing: The Detroit Storytelling Journey of Kahn Davison

Detroit is Different episode 398 with Kahn Davison

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 what makes Detroit different.

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S6E67 -Eric Cook: Rooted in Detroit's Legacy, Running for Community Change

Detroit is Different episode 397 with Eric Cook

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 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.

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S6E66 -MaBus Bettis: The Heart of a Champion, a Family Legacy, and Detroit’s Super Bowl Story

Detroit is Different episode 396 with Glays 'Ma Bus' Bettis

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 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.

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S6E65 -Reimaginings in Verse: Jason “Squeeze” Ford on Creativity, Culture, and Community

Detroit is Different episode 395

In this episode of the Detroit is Different podcast, host Khary Frazier welcomes Jason Ford, widely known as “Squeeze,” a Saginaw-born and Detroit-rooted writer, poet, actor, performer, and producer whose spoken word artistry and theatrical writing have transformed stages and sparked dialogue across the city. Squeeze reflects on the journey that led him from Eastern Michigan University’s cultural organizing spaces to the heart of Motown’s creative scene, including the honor of becoming a Motown Mic finalist. Along the way, he delves into his book, The Sub American Dream, and previews forthcoming work that continues the series, illuminating the intersections between art, activism, and everyday life. From strolling through Detroit’s Fitzgerald neighborhood and engaging community members on foot, to capturing truth in verse and performance, Squeeze explores how staying visible and present can nurture deeper connections, leaving listeners with inspiration for their own paths of cultural enrichment and community building.

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.

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S6E64 -Rooted in Vision: Alexis Smith’s Journey to Mentorship and Creativity

Detroit is Different 394

"Cultivating Queens of Creativity": In this enlightening episode of Detroit is Different, host Khary Frazier welcomes Alexis Smith, whose radiant passion for nurturing young Black girls’ artistry beams as bright as a mural on a summer day in the city. Smith, shaped by the rich history and legacy of Malcolm X Academy and guided by the vision of Dr. Watson, reflects on being among the first female students and one of Nefertari’s mentees to carry forward this spirit of empowerment. With vivid recollections of singing in choirs, honing her culinary artistry, and exploring a world of visual expression, Alexis shares how these early experiences inspired her to pay it forward. Today, she’s creating a girls’ program that braids together the cultural threads of African-centered mentorship with a deep appreciation for culinary, visual, and performing arts, weaving a supportive tapestry that honors the past while uplifting the next generation of creative Black girls in Detroit.

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.

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S6E63 -Building Futures: Shalece Daniels on Detroit, Business, and Community

Detroit is Different episode 393

Discover how dreams, community, and history intertwine in the heart of Detroit with Shalece Daniels. Listen to our conversation about transformative community initiatives and personal journeys on the Detroit is Different podcast.

Transitioning from personal history to present endeavors, Shalece and Khary delve into the significance of community work and homeownership in Detroit. Shalece's involvement in two dynamic initiatives—Renewed Homes and Black Leaders Detroit—highlights her commitment to serving the community by providing opportunities for financial literacy and homeownership education.

Renewed Homes focuses on rehabilitating properties for individuals who might otherwise struggle with creditworthiness, offering pathways to ownership below market value. This initiative is not just about real estate; it’s about nurturing a sense of pride and responsibility in homeownership, fostering stable and sustainable communities.

CommunityInitiatives #DetroitHistory #PassionAndPurpose

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.

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S6E62 -Detroit's Hip Hop Roots: A Conversation with P Gruv from Da Enna C

Detroit is Different episode 392 with P Gruv

Dive into the heart of Detroit hip hop history with P Groove! From the legendary Rhythm Kitchen era to today's scene, discover the beats and stories that shaped it all. Through thick waves of artistic evolution, P Gruv grows his skill set during his school years, embodying the diversity of hip hop culture. Highland Park High School becomes a breeding ground for networking and artistic exchange, leading to influential connections with names like DJ Butter, Super MC, and others who share his passion for the craft. During this time, he also earns a reputation in both production and engineering, navigating Detroit’s studio scene and innovating within hip hop's sonic framework. P Gruv, a figure rooted in Detroit's hip hop scene, shares his journey in the industry, starting from his early days influenced by Run DMC, breakdancing, and forming his first group in high school. The conversation delves into the formation of his group Da Enna C, their early projects, and their DIY approach to music production. P Gruv discusses his family's migration from Alabama to Detroit, his father's influence and entrepreneurship, and the pivotal role of iconic Detroit figures like DJ Dez and J Dilla in his musical growth. The interview also touches on the changing landscape of music production from analog to digital and the importance of creativity over competition.

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.

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S6E61 -Nourishing Detroit's Future: Organizing & Food Justice with Malik Yakini

Detroit is Different episode 391

Detroit is Different welcomes back Baba Malik Yakini for the 10-year anniversary episode of the Detroit is Different podcast. As both a witness and a catalyst for change, Baba Malik shares his personal growth over the years. Understanding the importance of vision, institutional resilience, and community engagement, he reflects on the challenges and triumphs of building a sustainable movement. His commitment to creating spaces where Detroiters can reclaim agency over their food systems stands as a testament to the city's enduring spirit of ingenuity and self-determination.

Baba Malik was the first guest on the podcast, which initially began at Le Petit Zinc restaurant without a formal studio. Over the years, the podcast has evolved, and Baba Malik, an influential mentor and community leader, returns to reflect on Detroit's Black community. Baba Malik also shares updates about the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network and the Detroit People’s Food Co-operative, which opened a community-owned grocery store on May 1st. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the significance of sustained community effort, the importance of organizing, and his own journey towards self-care and balance after stepping down as Executive Director. The episode delves into history, personal growth, relationships, and the evolving roles and rites of passage at different life stages.

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.

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