Introduction - page 25

T Barb’s laugh, smile, and joking style have been a beckon of light in tough times and a gateway for business opportunities. The lifelong Detroiter groomed in the Mackenzie neighborhood is now a national brand. The Vegan Chef, Author, Business Consultant, and Comedian are hats she wears, but her personality anchor her in any things. Learning about her journey through a rougher childhood connected her to becoming a social worker. See what an invitation to a comedy night connected her to a new passion and more. T Barb is a creative offering the feel, energy, and thought of making the irony of Detroit life into comedy.

The original interview with Charlie Becham was fun, engaging, and eye-opening. Today he is back to talk more about his life story. The one-man stage play is now a film shown on Thursday, November 11, 2021, at 7 pm at the Charles H Wright Museum. His story opens up about the targeting of leaders and public officials under a microscope from the FBI. This interview explores in more detail the roles public officials play in Detroit politics. This is another piece of the puzzle into the wit, character, and savvy of being smart while honoring public service. Charlie Becham is a Detroit signature in 6 Mayoral administrations, and one of the best Detroit is Different interviews.

Steffany Washington is a self-proclaimed “whole vibe” and interviewing her was a joyous experience. Frustrated with the city’s approach to economic development, this local Detroiter decided to do something about it. Not only did she put in her bid as a mayoral candidate, but she has also been helping community members understand the ins and outs of home improvement, homeownership, and navigating policy jargon. Along with Steffany’s community efforts, she also discusses her goals to change the narrative around professional dress for female millennials and create a safe space for women to confront important issues affecting their mental and physical health.

Tia Ervin is a legitimate hustler, social media influencer, and young parent-turned advocate. She works in the field of education and community outreach. Although she has a number of projects that she’s working on, her priority is supporting her children to cultivate their goals into businesses. In this interview, we explore the background of this Detroit native, what makes her different, and what her mantra “I Am for My Four” truly means. Join me as we talk a little trash with Tee!

Steve Spreitzer of the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion joins me in a deep discussion on race in America and Detroit. Steve opens up about the current collaboration with MRDI and Dr. Carl Taylor. This was a deep conversation where I share more on the history of race in America and why race is so important. Learn about the leadership initiative with MRDI and ways the organization is assisting institutions to recognize and make progressive equitable changes against systemic racism.

Darren Brown is a visionary. In this interview, we explore how he began filming with the dream and learned the rest through experience. We talk Sibley’s Shoes, Rap videos in the 2000s, and today’s Detroit movie industry. Friday, October 29 Darren’s new movie Dymez premiere’s at the Bel Air Luxury Cinema. Check out this interview to learn more about Detroit films as a director and executive producer.