“I just grew up thinking that was normal.” For John Sloan III, a childhood surrounded by music, theater, and Detroit’s rich cultural traditions became the foundation for a life dedicated to using the performing arts as a tool for transformation. In this episode of Detroit is Different, John reflects on a career that has taken him from the stage as an actor to directing, producing, choreographing, and developing artists, revealing that theater is about far more than entertainment—it’s about building community. “Behind every actor who looks amazing on stage are writers, designers, technicians, stage managers, and directors,” he explains, highlighting the collaborative ecosystem that makes performance possible and the countless opportunities the arts create both onstage and behind the scenes. Drawing from his family’s legacy of educators and musicians in Detroit Public Schools, John shares how storytelling, performance, and cultural expression became gateways for leadership, mentorship, and social activism. The conversation explores how Detroit’s artistic institutions cultivate confidence, preserve Black history, and create spaces where difficult conversations about race, identity, and justice can unfold through creativity. From family stories about Detroit’s historic trolley system and the city’s legendary music culture to his own work developing productions like the Obsidian Theatre Festival, which platforms Black theatre. His journey reminds us that the arts are essential civic infrastructure—cultivating imagination, strengthening relationships, and organizing people around a shared vision for a more just and vibrant future.
- Latest episode: “Arts Are Essential, John Sloan III on Performance, Black Detroit, and the Power of Cultural Leadership”
- Latest episode: “Sports is a Vehicle, Leland Stein III on Detroit, Journalism, and Building Black Community”
- Latest episode: “I’m Putting out a Beacon Out So I Can Find My People, Lauren Hood on Belonging, Vision & Black Detroit”
- April 8, 2025
- 9:48 am
Arts Are Essential, John Sloan III on Performance, Black Detroit, and the Power of Cultural Leadership
“I just grew up thinking that was normal.” For John Sloan III, a childhood surrounded by music, theater, and Detroit’s
Arts Are Essential, John Sloan III on Performance, Black Detroit, and the Power of Cultural Leadership
Sports is a Vehicle, Leland Stein III on Detroit, Journalism, and Building Black Community
“Sports is not the only way for us to get through some of our problems, but it is a vehicle.”
Sports is a Vehicle, Leland Stein III on Detroit, Journalism, and Building Black Community
I’m Putting out a Beacon Out So I Can Find My People, Lauren Hood on Belonging, Vision & Black Detroit
“I’m trying to put a beacon out so I can find my people.” That powerful declaration from Lauren Hood captures
I’m Putting out a Beacon Out So I Can Find My People, Lauren Hood on Belonging, Vision & Black Detroit
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“Sports is not the only way for us to get through some of our problems, but it is a vehicle.” That lesson, shared with Leland Stein III by legendary Georgetown University coach John Thompson, anchors this compelling Detroit is Different conversation about journalism, legacy, and the power of Black storytelling. While his foundation was built in Detroit through institutions like the West Side Cubs, Stein’s career truly took shape after spending time in Los Angeles, where he entered journalism and discovered that covering sports opened the door to documenting Black history in real time. Through interviews and relationships with iconic figures including Magic Johnson, Don King, Al Davis, and Jim Brown, Stein witnessed how sports intersect with business, politics, culture, and community leadership. Working within the proud tradition of the Black Press, he came to understand that sports journalism is more than reporting scores or headlines—it’s about ensuring Black people tell Black stories with the depth, context, and humanity they deserve. Stein explains that authentic storytelling preserves history, challenges incomplete narratives, and inspires future generations. Returning home to Detroit with a national perspective, he dedicated himself to documenting the people, institutions, and cultural legacy that continue to define the city, making this episode a powerful reminder that the Black Press is not simply a record of events but a living archive of our voices, our victories, and our vision for the future.
“I’m trying to put a beacon out so I can find my people.” That powerful declaration from Lauren Hood captures the heart of this Detroit is Different conversation—a thoughtful exploration of belonging, leadership, and what it means to build community without sacrificing your peace. Recorded on the Fourth of July, this episode opens with reflections on Frederick Douglass and the enduring truth that many of the injustices he challenged remain with us today. Lauren shares how she has shifted from judging others to extending grace, reminding us that “everybody is doing the best that they can with the information they have available to them at the present moment.” Together, Khary Frazier and Lauren Hood unpack the importance of protecting your nervous system, embracing your unique path instead of forcing yourself into ideological camps, and recognizing that authentic relationships—not titles or status—are what truly move Detroit forward. Lauren reflects on being a visionary rather than a manager, the power of broadcasting your values so your people can find you, and why the city’s greatest resource has always been trust built over time. This conversation bridges the wisdom of Detroit’s past with the possibilities of its future, offering timeless lessons about culture, organizing, friendship, and finding the courage to become more fully yourself so that stronger, healthier communities can emerge for generations to come.
“The vision is bigger than the no.” Amber Ewing, Director and Executive Producer of Cooking with Comedians Challenge, brings a Detroit story rooted in family, art, womanhood, and the will to create anyway. In this Detroit is Different conversation, Amber shares how her imagination was shaped by Rosedale Park, Detroit schools she calls “the original HBCUs,” DSA, Oakland University, and the feeling she got watching the Bad Boys Pistons on VHS—realizing later that editing and video/film production made her feel that energy. As “the only Black woman in program” in her college, Amber had “a rough time.” She accepted that she had to “work harder than most” to earn respect. That reality still informs how she moves: “I come with my experience, I come with my work, I come with a proof of concept.” Cooking with Comedians Challenge became six years of persistence, borrowed cameras, personal checks, live audiences, chefs, comedians, hosting nerves, and hard-earned lessons. Amber’s journey reminds us that creativity is not extra—it is quality of life, community memory, and a future Detroit can taste, laugh with, and build from.
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Unexpected Conversations: The Most Interesting Talks
"In conversations, sometimes unexpected brilliance shines through those we least expect. This excerpt from our 500th podcast episode of `Detroit is Different` delves into one such dialogue with the legend from the Four Tops. Khary Frazier engages with the fascinating storyteller who’s been behind their tour wardrobe for years. Discover why these stories are so vibrant and unmissable. Watch to be intrigued by tales that promise more depth beyond what meets the eye.
From Grandma’s Bedroom to 500: The Pulse of Legacy Black Detroit
Detroit is Different episode 500 featuring Khary Frazier hosted by Khan Santori
#DetroitIsDifferent #UnexpectedConversations #PodcastMilestone
The Start of Detroit is Different in 2014
"Let me introduce people to the Detroit that I know." Khary Frazier shares the vision and story behind "Detroit is Different," a podcast that began at a small French restaurant and grew into a cultural hub. Uncover the early days featuring conversations with local icons like Malik Yakini and rockers like Carolyn Striho. This platform has brought together voices from all walks of life to tell Detroit`s unique story. As we commemorate the 500th episode, join us in this celebration of community and cultural dialogue.
From Grandma’s Bedroom to 500: The Pulse of Legacy Black Detroit
Detroit is Different episode 500 featuring Khary Frazier hosted by Khan Santori
#DetroitStories #CulturalConversations #KharyFrazier #DetroitIsDifferent
Authentic Detroit Story
"I`m glad that I`ve built what I built, how I built it." Celebrate a milestone with Detroit is Different`s 500th podcast, featuring founder Khary Frazier. Uncover the thought-provoking dialogue that sets this podcast apart, focusing on authentic storytelling rather than superficial stories. Khary Frazier`s commitment to genuine interviews ensures a deep connection to the heart of Detroit.
From Grandma’s Bedroom to 500: The Pulse of Legacy Black Detroit
Detroit is Different episode 500 featuring Khary Frazier hosted by Khan Santori
#DetroitIsDifferent #PodcastMilestone #KharyFrazier #AuthenticityInStorytelling #DetroitVoices
Building Dreams with Support of my Mom, God Mother, & Dad
"My mom really is liking it...this is the last memory of me and my mom interacting." Join Khary Frazier as he opens up about the personal and professional tapestry woven through his family ties in the 500th episode of Detroit is Different. Dive into the narrative that explores a deep connection to his parents and godmother, and how these bonds have shaped his path in Detroit`s creative scene. A touching reflection not to be missed.
From Grandma’s Bedroom to 500: The Pulse of Legacy Black Detroit
Detroit is Different episode 500 featuring Khary Frazier hosted by Khan Santori
#DetroitLegends #PodcastAnniversary #FamilySupport
Detroit, Thank You. From living-room brainstorms to citywide storytelling, your listens, shares, prayers, and pull-ups made Detroit is Different more than a platform—it’s a people-powered movement. We’ve felt the love through every high and every hurdle, and we’re still here because you show up. To our elders, youth, artists, activists, and everyday geniuses: you are the heartbeat. The work continues—louder, safer, and stronger.
In Love for your Support through the Growth of me to share collective Detroit stories
#DetroitIsDifferent #ThankYouDetroit #CommunityPower #BlackDetroit #StorytellingMatters #shorts
From Grandma’s Bedroom on Rosa Parks to a citywide archive: Khary Frazier sits with Kahn Santori for the 500th episode of Detroit is Different this Week! No clickbait—just the heartbeat of Legacy Black Detroit: My Natural Hair Show, Collard Green Cook-offs, & much more.
#DetroitIsDifferent #Episode500 #LegacyBlackDetroit #313
With hearts full of gratitude, we invite you to Legacy of Support: A Celebration of Thank You—honoring every guest, collaborator, listener, neighbor, collard green grower, natural hair stylist, podcast producer, elder, and all who’ve poured into Detroit is Different since our first podcast in 2014. What began as a concept has grown into a mission and a community of storytellers, culture keepers, organizers, artists, and everyday Detroiters. We’ll celebrate the love and labor behind our milestones, lift up the people who’ve built with us on air, online, and in community, and share what’s next—because the vision ahead is big and only possible with you. This is our way of saying thank you for your time, trust, testimonies, and ten-toes-down commitment to Detroit culture. Come be seen, be celebrated, and add your story to the legacy.
Invitations for RSVP coming very soon
#DetroitIsDifferent #LegacyOfSupport #DetroitCulture
Success Takes Time a 20-Year Journey
"It might not happen right there, but perseverance is key. Earl `E-40` Stevens remarked on his 11-year journey in the spirits industry, emphasizing long-term vision and adaptation. In his exclusive Detroit interview, E-40 delves into the importance of understanding market trends and staying healthy in business. Gain a fresh perspective on navigating challenges and staying ahead. Don`t miss this enlightening discussion on music, business, and personal growth.
The Game Ain’t Changed—Just the Product: E-40 Talks Ownership at Taste of Black Spirits Detroit
Detroit is Different episode 494 with Earl `E-40` Stevens
#E40 #BusinessStrategies #DetroitTalks #Perseverance #IndustryInsights