S6E117 -Words Are Spells: Shaun Moore-Bey’s Journey from X-Men to Malcolm X

"Supporting your people isn’t always convenient—but it’s powerful.” That’s the gospel according to poet, author, and creator Shaun Moore-Bey. In this soul-stirring Detroit is Different episode, Shaun takes us on a journey from Conant Gardens to the Cass Tech classrooms, from Mississippi family reunions to standing-room-only poetry readings. “I was the nerd with a hundred X-Men toys, making up universes,” Shaun recalls. But his imagination and deep ancestral lessons from his grandfather—"Jesus is Black" being the first eye-opener—planted a seed that bloomed through hip hop, community activism, and the written word. From prison time to poetic purpose, Shaun's story is a testimony to transformation. He speaks candidly about internal healing, cultural pride, and why “words are spells” that can build or break a people. Tune in to hear how this Positive Poet uses storytelling to uplift Black women, honor elders, and create a legacy for the next thousand years. "To love me is to love Black women," he says. "We’re not separate—we’re two sides of the same coin."

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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