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.
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.
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, 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.
