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 to establish a Black studies department, honoring esteemed professors like Dr. Gloria House, affectionately known as Mama Aneb.

This period of activism and advocacy set Asandi on a path of leadership, which later saw her contributing to the Nsoroma Institute and eventually stepping into her current role. A dynamic and thoughtful creative, Asandi reflects on how her life's work has always been about amplifying voices, inspiring change, and championing equity.

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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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 the corporate world. Her journey through business has seen her develop successful ventures while also understanding the consequences of unmet expectations. This episode of Detroit is Different highlights the valuable knowledge, wisdom, and lessons that Crystal has accumulated and now shares through her work.

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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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 for teaching and empowerment, and his years of experience in entrepreneurship and wealth building. On this episode of Detroit is Different, Kamau delves into college organizing, the significance of cigar meetings, and the political dynamics shaping Detroit's Black 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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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 exceptional skills and talent in communication. Her understanding of the intricacies of sender, receiver, response, and feedback sets her apart, turning what many find exhausting into her area of expertise. In this episode of Detroit is Different, we explore how Karen navigates the intersections of business, politics, and public attention, discussing both the benefits and challenges. Meet Karen Dumas on Detroit is Different.

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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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 to cultivate deep-rooted relationships in these iconic Black cultural centers. In 2008, Chris launched The Chris Massey Show, focusing on the Divine 9 and the Black community, quickly capturing a loyal audience on internet radio that continues to thrive. Chris shares his intentional path and journey, emphasizing his dedication and purpose. Meet Chris Massey on this episode of Detroit is Different.

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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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 comedic voices, Josh Adams now brings a fresh perspective to the stage as a 40-year-old, offering insightful and humorous observations on life. He joins Detroit is Different to discuss his upcoming Birthday Shows at the Detroit House of Comedy on Friday, August 9, and Saturday, August 10. Don't miss out on Josh Adams' unique comedic flair on Detroit is Different.

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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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 critical question, "What to do with Detroit's vacant land?" Tepfirah and I explore this question in this discussion. We discuss the Solar Farm initiative, supported by the executive administration, with Tepfirah speaking as the leader of the Office of Sustainability. Our conversation delves into topics such as forests, urban agriculture, and much more, offering a rich dialogue intended to provoke critical thought and analysis.

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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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 her cherished branch closed for years, fueling her commitment to the cause. Her work continues the legacy of the League of Revolutionary Workers, movements for Black Studies in high schools and colleges, the Republic of New Afrika, and the Shrine of the Black Madonna. Discover more about Mama Imara and her vital contributions to the community.

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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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 he raises his son, Harper has chosen to move to Detroit and aims to empower Michigan if elected. We delve into his vision for Detroit and why he believes it's crucial to advocate for the city.

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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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 access, advocating passionately for Black people to join her in this journey. Tune in to hear Tepfirah's inspiring story and her vision for a more sustainable 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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