Baba Ari Shen has been cutting, sculpting, and celebrating natural Black hair for over 56 years, from the 1970s to now, witnessing the transformation of Black hair culture through different eras. His journey began in Indiana, where he learned from legends in Black hair care and became a master of his craft. His work has taken him across the country to cities like Seattle and Los Angeles, but it was Detroit that captured his heart. Since the early 1980s, Baba Ari Shen has embraced Detroit’s rich Black culture, expression, and history, finding it to be the most profound Black experience of his life. In this dynamic Detroit is Different episode, he reflects on his roots, the influence of Gary, Indiana, including stories of the Jackson 5 before Motown, and his love for natural hair that continues to inspire his work today.
From Airbrush to Bars: The Unfiltered Artistry of Mr. Cliffnote
“I just want to add creativity and let it be okay to be your damn self.” Detroit’s own Mr. Cliffnote
From Airbrush to Bars: The Unfiltered Artistry of Mr. Cliffnote
Rest Like a Queen: Dr. Demarra West on Self-Love, Detroit, and Breaking Barrier
“When you set out to heal the world, you realize that you yourself have healing to do.” In this Detroit
Rest Like a Queen: Dr. Demarra West on Self-Love, Detroit, and Breaking Barrier
Power of Independent Media: Unfiltered Truth from Detroit with Sam Robinson
“Detroit is more than a city—it’s a movement, a rhythm, a story waiting to be told.” In a media landscape
Power of Independent Media: Unfiltered Truth from Detroit with Sam Robinson
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What Detroiters Should Expect if Mary Sheffield Becomes Mayor
Carolyn Baker of the General Baker Institute shares her passion for preserving the legacy of her father, General Gordon Baker, Jr., and her mother’s advocacy while also honoring other legends in the fight for Black social justice. The General Baker Institute (GBI) is dedicated to providing educational courses, programs, and activities for the community, with a focus on young people. It examines the revolutionary life of General Baker (September 6, 1941 – May 18, 2014), his contributions to human rights struggles, and his co-founding of transformative organizations. As a center for teaching the history of Detroit and Highland Park, GBI critically explores their connection to global social movements while addressing contemporary issues. In the interview, Carolyn reflects on how her father’s love of basketball shaped her own passion for coaching, and she highlights GBI’s innovative educational approaches, such as their first Educational Fashion Show, which combines fashion and political education to make bold statements and inspire change.
Ajara Alghali, co-founder and Director of TéMaTé Institute for Black Dance and Culture, is a performance artist and thought leader at the intersection of dance and cultural representation. Drawing from her Sierra Leonean-American roots, her work highlights the connections among African people across the diaspora. The TéMaTé Institute, a social justice organization, uses dance as a tool for community engagement, focusing on dance justice and cultural equity. Inspired by the Temate dance of the Yacouba and Whêbe people from the Ivory Coast, the institute honors the joy and relationship between people and the land. The 4th Convening for Dance and Culture, featuring dance and drum workshops on October 19 and 20 at SAY Detroit Play Center and a concert with Afriky Lolo and Detroit’s House of Jit on October 19 at Detroit School of Arts, embraces the theme “Rooted in Rhythm,” symbolizing our shared rhythm and interconnectedness, much like the roots of a tree. This grassroots, artist-led, and self-funded organization works to uplift diaspora arts, and in this Detroit is Different feature, Ajara shares insights into her roots, family, and the geopolitical role of dance as a tool for tradition, spirituality, and resistance against colonialism.
Restaurants often struggle in their first three years, but Yum Village, a fusion of African and Caribbean cuisine founded by Godwin Ihentuge, opened its doors on Woodward Avenue during the challenges of COVID-19. This venture was the realization of Godwin’s life vision, rooted in his upbringing on Detroit’s Westside as the eldest son in a Nigerian family. Once an introvert, Godwin developed a skill set in empathetic listening that has been key to building a strong team. Yum Village, which began as a smartphone app, has evolved into a full cultural experience, blending food with fashion and more. This Detroit is Different feature explores how defining and committing to a vision can lead to extraordinary growth.
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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
Shocking Reality of College Tuition Costs
"Full tuition is due. Wow. Whoa." From that overwhelming moment to finding a path forward, Mindful B Anthony shares a deeply personal journey of resilience and determination. This interview delves into the sacrifices made by family and the unyielding spirit that fuelled his success. Tune in to discover how a last-minute band audition paved the way for a partial scholarship and an inspiring story of perseverance.
From Van Dyke to Hampton to Healing: The Journey of Mindful B Anthony
Detroit is Different episode 491 with Mindful B Anthony
#DetroitIsDifferent #HigherEducation #CollegeTuition #MindfulBAnthony #Resilience
Stay Focused the Key to Success
"Detroit`s energy is electric, much like Oakland," reflects Earl `E-40` Stevens in his interview with Detroit is Different. Drawing parallels between these vibrant cities, E-40 shares anecdotes from his influential music career and insights from his 11-year journey in the spirits industry. Tune in to discover how these experiences shape his entrepreneurial spirit.
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 #DetroitIsDifferent #Entrepreneurship #MusicAndSpirits
Perseverance the Only Way Out is Through
"When you change the words you use, more worlds and opportunities open up." Join us in the latest Detroit is Different episode as Mindful B Anthony unveils their journey of overcoming obstacles through spiritual practice and artistic expression. Explore how leveraging energy art with copper and crystals became a catalyst for transformation and empowerment. Gain insights into the resilience needed to forge a new path when life demands change. Watch to discover how language, mindset, and creativity can open new doors.
From Van Dyke to Hampton to Healing: The Journey of Mindful B Anthony
Detroit is Different episode 491 with Mindful B Anthony
#DetroitIsDifferent #MindfulBAnthony #Resilience #EnergyArt #PersonalGrowth