Detroit is Different

Finding purpose for Isaiah Orton-Bey was discovered in his quest for deeper understandings of life. Along the stretch of West Seven Mile between Greenfield and Southfield in Detroit, a vibrant scene unfolds outside Moor Herbs—a health market specializing in vitamins, alkaline water, wholesome foods, and healing literature. In a revealing Detroit is Different interview, Isaiah Orton-Bey shares his journey into the world of health-co...

When Malcolm X delivered his historic 'Message to the Grassroots Speech' at King Solomon Baptist Church, a young Malik Shelton had the opportunity to meet him, igniting within him the roots and understanding of self-determination and Pan-Africanism. As a teenager, Shelton organized a series of Black organizing and militant actions to safeguard their Southwest Detroit neighborhood from intimidation by motorcycle gangs and police. To...

Chef Buddah's journey sounds fascinating, especially with his deep roots in Detroit and his culinary adventures spanning from the Brewster Projects to various esteemed restaurants like Hudsons and the Summit Restaurant. Winning the 2023 Collard Green Cook-Off must have been a proud moment for him. His Vegan Gumbo sounds like a unique culinary experience, combining flavors and spices in a way that reflects his love for Detroit and i...

The longstanding business relationship between Detroit's municipal government and corporations traces its roots back several decades. Theo Pride, of Detroit People's Platform, offers insightful analysis, delving into both macro and micro perspectives on the historical trajectory and current dynamics. Through examining entities like the Downtown Development Authority and the significance of Community Benefits Agreements, alongside c...

Katrina Watkins was spurred to action by the sight of grass towering over people in her neighborhood, propelling her to instigate change. Transitioning from passive waiting for city intervention to proactive engagement, she founded the Bailey Park Neighborhood Development Corporation, now a beacon of hope on Detroit's Eastside. A true Detroiter, Katrina lives and breathes the transformation of her community, epitomizing grassroots ...

Embark on a journey to Southwest Detroit with Luis Ali and Tanya Saldivar-Ali on Detroit is Different, where Mexican American culture thrives and community empowerment is at the heart of everything. Through decades of experience and observation, Tanya witnessed the resilience of her mother as she owned and operated a neighborhood bar, sustaining their family against all odds. Meanwhile, Luis's military service provided him with inv...

Join Collin Mays on Detroit is Different as he delves into the transformative power of philanthropy within the Black community. With a focus on inclusivity, Collin explores how Black philanthropists have long been instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for their fellow community members, whether through supporting education, churches, food banks, or public spaces. Drawing from his own Detroit roots and family background—his ...

Feodies Shipp III, hailing from Detroit's Bagley neighborhood, holds a deep appreciation for both the vibrant culture of the University of Michigan and the rich tapestry of Detroit. With roots entrenched in family ties to Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and the Great Plains, Feodies' journey encompasses his formative years at U of M in the 90s to his current roles, including spearheading operations at the University of Michigan De...

The Queen Hip-hop Poetry is from Detroit, jessica Care moore. A true embodiment of the city's spirit she puts forth a Blue Collar attitude towards poetry. From her roots in blue-collar Detroit to her diverse talents spanning poetry, music, activism, and art, jessica Care moore is a force to be reckoned with. Join her as she delves into her deep connection with hip-hop, literature, and community activism, offering unique insights in...

Embark on a journey of empowerment and resilience with Latrice Delgado-Macon, the founder of Detroit Fashion Community and a passionate advocate for Black Mental Health, as she shares her remarkable story on Detroit is Different. With a rich family history in fashion design and modeling, Latrice's mission is to foster creativity and innovation within the fashion community, empowering individuals to discover their unique voice. From...

Behind the scenes of the film industry, where meticulous planning and coordination precede the glitz and glamour of Lights, Camera, and Action is where Rachel Simone thrives. Hailing from generations entrenched in Detroit, she embodies the spirit of Detroit, having grown up embracing the Dexter Blvd neighborhood as one of the many Broad Street Parade kids (like me and so many others). Now, her expertise in production spans globally...

Attorney Jeff Edison radiates the essence of African style and grace, setting a remarkable tone upon meeting him. With a warm smile and infectious laughter, he captivates attention effortlessly, revealing himself as one of the most adept and eloquent communicators one could encounter. Rooted in Detroit, his journey began amidst the fervent struggle to integrate Black history, literature, and studies into the high school curriculum ...

Feodies Shipp III, hailing from Detroit's Bagley neighborhood, holds a deep appreciation for both the vibrant culture of the University of Michigan and the rich tapestry of Detroit. With roots entrenched in family ties to Hartford Memorial Baptist Church and the Great Plains, Feodies' journey encompasses his formative years at U of M in the 90s to his current roles, including spearheading operations at the University of Michigan De...

Join Authentically Detroit as they venture into the heart of Detroit is Different for an enriching conversation delving into the profound legacy of Donna Givens Davidson's family in Black activism, organizing, and the pursuit of freedom and justice. Hosts Orlando Bailey and Donna Givens Davidson delve into the essence of community empowerment in Detroit's Black community, drawing upon Donna's revelations about her father's struggle...

For over two decades, Teen Hype & Ambra Redrick have challenged the age-old notion of children being seen and not heard. Ambra candidly shares her journey co-founding Teen Hype on Detroit is Different, tracing back to her upbringing by her nurturing grandparents in a Leave it to Beaver style household. Transitioning into motherhood as a teenager in high school, Ambra's reality took a significant turn, leading her to discover he...

Good Cakes and Bakes is more than just a bakery; it's a cornerstone of community spirit, innovation, and delectable treats along the Avenue of Fashions. With its recent expansion into downtown Detroit in 2023, Good Cakes and Bakes now offers an array of savory delights, artisanal coffees, and unique sweets that are exclusive to each location. For April Anderson, this expansion marked a realization of her dreams and prompted a reeva...

Learn about KUA and much more from Dr. Shelley McIntosh, an educator who has dedicated decades to shaping young Black minds in empowerment and community. From her roots as a preacher's kid on Detroit's Eastside to her education at Southeastern HS and Wayne State University, Dr. McIntosh shares her journey and how it led her to find purpose within the Shrine of the Black Madonna. As one of the founding members of the Houston TX Chur...

Christianne Malone is deeply rooted in Detroit, having spent her childhood just blocks away from Belle Isle and regularly visiting her grandparents' house in the Westside Linwood neighborhood. Today, as the Chief Program Officer at TechTown Detroit and Assistant Vice President for Economic Development at Wayne State University, she plays a crucial role in providing significant opportunities for local entrepreneurs and fostering cre...

Dean Beanz, the visionary behind EVRY Media, serves as its owner and creator. EVRY Media is a dynamic content creation firm specializing in crafting cinematic pieces across various media platforms. Dean wears multiple hats as the host, director, and producer of the LateAF talk show, as well as the director and producer of the EVRY Woman Talk Show. His creative journey ignited from a deep love for hip-hop, evolving into an explorati...