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.
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.
Production & Scenic Design Lumumba Leon Reynolds II
Editor Baraka Elmadari
Associate Editor Rishi Gudduguriki
Music & Score Sterling Toles
Dai-Zhanie Plummer (Stage Manager) Suzanne Cleage (Associate Stage Manager) Sharde Crutchfield (Associate Stage Manager) Maulana Tolbert (African Drummer) Imani Jamal (African Drummer) Ry’Anne Tracey (Lighting) Baraka Elmadari (Camera) D’Mareae J Miller (Camera & Photography) Rishi Gudduguriki (Camera) Tyler Parker (Camera) Joe Black (Production Staff) Tiamat Dismuke (Sound) Jacob Woodward (Sound) Eboni Rousell (SC Design) Tene Dismuke (Model Instructor) Piper Carter (Photography)
Jeol Fluent Greene (Host) Scheherazade Washington Parrish (Spoken Word Artist) Kevlar (Spoken Word Artist) Drizzy Dria (Spoken Word Artist)
Hair Designer: Chika Morgan Payne (Chika Model) Dai Henderson (Chika Model) Alexis Carter (Chika Model) Juwan Graham (Chika Model) Taylor Purrell (Chika Model) Anthony Stewart (Chika Model)
Hair Designer: Endia Kayla Jones (Endia Model) Madison Cloud (Endia Model) Imani Jones (Endia Model) Nya Williams (Endia Model)
Hair Designer: Jacky B Tamara Toole (Jacky B Model) Sarayah (Jacky B Model) Boog Brown (Jacky B Model) Shakirra (Jacky B Model)
Hair Designer: LaDonna Sims Diamon Johnson (LaDonna Model) Jayne McGee (LaDonna Model) Hanifah Cannon (LaDonna Model) Ayinde Perry (LaDonna Model)
Special Thanks to Build Institute, the Andy Arts Center, Detroit City Distillery, Pegasus Entertainment, Foundation Management, N’Jore’s Love INC, Creative Differences Marketing INC, and Still Standing INC.
Michael Forsyth, Vicki Green, Kaylin Reynolds, and Legacy Black Detroit
Celebrate culinary excellence and community spirit at the 2024 Collard Green Cook-Off Championship! This free event, produced by Detroit is Different, promises a blend of culture and creativity as Detroit’s finest chefs compete for the coveted title of Best Collard Green Chef.
Last Year’s Champion: Chef Buddah, who captivated taste buds with his Vegan Gumbo Spiced Collard Greens, returns to defend his title. Will he emerge victorious again, or will one of this year’s challengers take the crown?
This Year’s Contestants: Our five playoff winners are ready to bring their A-game:
Tolani Anthony of Zella’s Bakery (Vegan) Chef Bee of Sisters on a Roll (Vegan) Sean Brumfield (Smoked Turkey) Chef Moe Vito of A Thoughtful Plate LLC (Vegan)
These talented chefs will battle against Chef Buddah, the 2023 Collard Green Cook-Off Champion.
Esteemed Judges: The Collard Green Cook-Off Championship judges include April Anderson of Good Cakes and Bakes and Detroit Comedian Howie Bell. Comedian Mic Larry will host the event once again.
Event Details: Date: Thursday, August 15, 2024 Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Location: Joseph Walker Williams Center, 8431 Rosa Parks Blvd, Detroit, MI 48206
Event Highlights: Locally Sourced Ingredients: All the delicious dishes are crafted using ingredients from Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund growers. Audience Participation: While expert and celebrity judges will be present, the ultimate decision rests with you, our valued audience. Your vote will determine the winner! Cultural Experience: Enjoy cornbread muffins provided by Good Cakes and Bakes, adding a delightful touch to this cultural celebration.
About Detroit is Different: Detroit is Different is committed to healing the community through culture, media, and events. This cook-off is more than a competition; it’s a chance to come together, celebrate our heritage, and enjoy some fantastic food.
Don’t miss out on this vibrant community event! Bring your family and friends to experience the flavors, fun, and fellowship.
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.
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.
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.
Writing and storytelling are talents that Rocki Harris has passionately developed into professional skill sets. Raised on Detroit’s Eastside, with a grandmother dedicated to teaching grammar, writing, and language, Rocki has loved words for a lifetime. Today, she hosts Rocki’s Reality Podcast, which airs on Rocki’s Reality YouTube and Facebook accounts on Thursday nights, podcasting live in the studio from Detroit is Different Studios. In this feature, she opens up about her understanding of the Mack neighborhood, her experiences at Cass Tech and U of M in the late 1990s, and much more. Learn how her writing and social work background have led her into journalism and beyond. Check out this Detroit is Different feature with Rocki Harris, host and producer of Rocki’s Reality Podcast.
