Daily Detroit

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**Daily Detroit**

What to know and where to go in Metro Detroit! We have conversations that push Detroit forward and share local stories about restaurants, business, development, local government, policy, technology, things to do, transit and more. All in about 22 minutes a day.

Latest Episodes:

Detroit's Motown Museum Grows, Early Voting News, and Lions Breakdown Sep 17, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Tuesday! Fletcher Sharpe is in and we're talking about:

Motown Museum Expansion: Jer went to the press event for a 50,000-square-foot project opening in summer 2026, featuring interactive exhibits and recording studios. It's been a long time coming.
Early Voting in Detroit: 16 days of early voting from October 19 to November 3, with 14 vote centers across the city. We discuss the impact.
Eastern Market Shooting: Tragic incident sparks discussions on public safety and conflict resolution.
Detroit Lions Update: Head coach Dan Campbell takes responsibility for recent loss, team faces challenges this season. Fletcher reacts.
Football Player Safety: Concerns over concussion rates in football, balancing safety with preserving with what people love to watch. Fletcher shares his experience as someone who played QB on a far lower level with multiple concussions.

Oprah Coming to Town, Michigan (Really!) Matters and Controversial Campaign Ads Sep 16, 2024

Show notes

In the latest episode of Daily Detroit, we talk about Michigan's pivotal role in the upcoming elections. As a swing state, Michigan is constantly under the political microscope, making it a hotbed for campaign activities, ads, and visits from key political figures.

Steve Friess, a seasoned freelance journalist for the New York Times, Newsweek, and the Ann Arbor Observer, provides invaluable insights into this dynamic political landscape. Steve kicks off the discussion by emphasizing Michigan's unique position as a swing state. He points out that residents here experience an inundation of political ads and campaign visits that people in more politically stable states might never see. This front-row seat to the election circus underscores the importance of every single vote in Michigan, making it a battleground state that can tip the scales in either direction. One of the highlights of this episode is we preview the interview between Kamala Harris and Oprah Winfrey. Scheduled for Thursday, September 16, 2024, this conversation is part of Oprah's Unite for America program and will be live-streamed across multiple platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitch.

Steve and Jer discuss the potential impact of this interview, especially in humanizing Kamala Harris and filling in the story gaps that many voters feel exist. The conversation also touches on the flood of political ads that Michiganders are subjected to. Some of these ads, targeting specific communities within Michigan, aim to stir up trouble and sway votes in subtle yet insidious ways. Polling and its impact on voter perception is another critical topic in this episode. Steve explains how polls, despite their frequent inaccuracies and wide margins of error, have become a crutch for both the media and the public. They create narratives that can influence voter behavior, even though they often change and are not always reliable. Jer also shares an interesting anecdote about the presence of political lawn signs and how they can create a false sense of majority opinion. He recounts a listener's experience in a community that voted predominantly for Biden but was visually dominated by Trump signs. This cognitive dissonance highlights the emotional aspect of political campaigning and the loudest voices often getting the most attention.

Art Meets Climate Change: A Conversation with Xavier Cortada Sep 13, 2024

Show notes

In our latest episode, we had the privilege of speaking with Xavier Cortada, an artist whose work transcends traditional forms of expression to tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time—climate change and social justice.

As part of the Arthur L. Johnson Urban Perspectives lecture series, Xavier will be speaking at Wayne State University on September 18, 2024. Xavier's journey is a testament to the power of art as a vehicle for change. He recalls his early influences, particularly his father, a Cuban refugee and artist who used his craft to build community and address social issues. This foundational experience shaped Xavier's belief that art must do more than just exist; it must provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire action. One of the most compelling aspects of our conversation was Xavier's ability to make the global personal. He emphasized that the climate crisis we face is not an abstract or distant problem but one that affects us all in tangible ways.

"What they are seeing isn't a natural phenomenon. What they're seeing is a human caused catastrophe. And if humans caused it, then humans can uncause it," said Cortada.

This belief is at the core of his work, which aims to engage people who might feel disconnected from the issue of climate change. Xavier's art serves as a bridge, inviting people into a conversation rather than preaching or admonishing. He uses his creative approaches to make complex issues more relatable and understandable.

The event at Wayne State is free, RSVP here: https://events.wayne.edu/2024/09/18/arthur-l-johnson-urban-perspectives-lecture-series-98410/

1500+ Episodes! Sep 12, 2024

Show notes

Hey! We made it! Episode 1,501 of your Daily Detroit! Your all-local daily news podcast.

Norris Howard and Devon O'Reilly join in with Jer at the studio in TechTown. Here's what we get into:

We reflect on 1500 episodes, highlighting the show's impact and the variety of guests we've had over the years. We also get into the changes in the cityscape of Detroit since we started, and the opening of new businesses becoming more common.

Devon crowns a new king of the Maurice salad in the city of Detroit!

Devon called out Norris for his opinion against SUVs, with opinions divided on their necessity and impact⁠. ⁠ A number of $320 million was floated for state support for demolishing part of the RenCen and investing in light rail. We get into it.

A huge thank you to our listeners, supporters, and sponsors over the years - as well as everyone who has ever helped behind the scenes.

We're not done yet.

Don't forget to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you listen to shows.

750 New Residences In Troy, Debate debrief, Chief White may leave DPD, and listener feedback Sep 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Wednesday - Norris Howard is in.

We do a little debate debrief, with an emphasis on the impact on Metro Detroit, particularly regarding immigration and community concerns.

The conversation then shifts to a significant local development project: The transformation of the former Kmart headquarters in Troy into Somerset West, a mixed-use development planned with 750 residential units, office space, retail, and a University of Michigan health facility. They discuss the potential impact on Oakland County and the broader Metro Detroit area.

Additionally, they address the potential departure of Detroit Police Chief James White for a mental health agency role, speculating on the future of the Detroit Police Department and the city's leadership.

Listener feedback agree with Norris on his feelings about pickup trucks, and highlights the importance of branding to raise awareness of nonprofit initiatives.

Lions win, Michigan rebuilding, and the Tigers have a chance at playoffs Sep 10, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Daily Detroit, Fletcher Sharpe joins and kicks off with a deep discussion on the Detroit Lions' promising start to the NFL season, highlighting key players like David Montgomery, and the team's newfound offensive and defensive competence.

We also touch on the Michigan Wolverines' challenging season, examining their recent game against Texas and the adjustments needed in the NIL era. The conversation shifts to the Detroit Tigers, celebrating their over .500 performance and the potential for a wild card spot as the MLB season wraps up.

Main topics:

Detroit Lions' season opener and key performances
Michigan Wolverines' struggles and NIL adjustments
Detroit Tigers' over .500 season and playoff hopes

Don't miss this engaging episode filled with sports insights and local pride. Share your thoughts with us at dailydetroit@gmail.com. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast app of choice.

Questioning the polls, Michigan Dems sued by their own, and more (ft. Steve Friess) Sep 09, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Daily Detroit, Steve Friess joins us to dive into the complexities of political polling, the upcoming presidential debate, and local Michigan politics.

We dissect the reliability and value of national polls, discuss the implications of Kamala Harris's campaign strategies, and explore the contentious University of Michigan Board of Regents race.

Tune in for a deep dive into the current political landscape and what it means for Michigan and beyond.

Main topics:

The Unreliability of National Polls
Kamala Harris's Campaign Strategies
Local Michigan Politics and Fundraising
University of Michigan Board of Regents Race

As always, you can follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you download shows.

Making A Detroit Dog Bucket List // Devon's Favorite Downtown Deli // Inside The Love Building Sep 06, 2024

Show notes

Devon and Jer are back for a Friday edition of the podcast. A heads up, the last segment of this one is pretty emotional.

To start, they dive into the vibrant Detroit dining scene, highlighting Ladder 4 Wine Bar, and the only downtown deli, La Pecora Nora, emphasizing the importance of revisiting and supporting local favorites.

Devon shares his experience at Mezcal Express Eatery in Dearborn, perfect for quick, delicious Mexican meals without the booze.

Jer explores the newly renovated Love Building in Detroit' Core City, a hub for several nonprofits including Allied Media Projects and Detroit Justice Center, focusing on collaboration and community impact.

They also discuss the unique Periodicals store, a curated magazine shop also in Core City, celebrating the resurgence of the written word among younger generations.

We finish the show talking about the ultimate dog bucket list in Detroit. Jer opens up about his dog Gabby's recent cancer diagnosis, sharing plans for her bucket list and inviting listeners to suggest the best dog-friendly spots in Metro Detroit.

Don't miss this engaging episode filled with local insights, heartfelt moments, and community spirit. Share your thoughts with us at dailydetroit@gmail.com. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast app of choice.

Why Don't More People Know About The Co-op? (Plus 3 Things To Know Around Town) Sep 05, 2024

Show notes

Here's what's on today's all-local podcast agenda:

800 Teamsters Local 283 members at Detroit's Marathon Oil Refinery have gone on strike, demanding better pay and schedules. Despite Marathon's assurances of continued operations, the strike underscores ongoing labor tensions.

Workers at a GM and LG battery plant in Tennessee have joined the UAW, marking the second battery plant in the U.S. to unionize. This move is part of a broader trend of growing union influence in the electric vehicle sector.

Chick-fil-A is expanding in Metro Detroit, adding new locations and creating around 2,500 jobs. Despite controversy, the chain continues to find business success, highlighting the region's complex relationship with fast food brands.

We dive into the Detroit People's Food Co-op in the North End, a project 14 years in the making aimed at promoting Black food security. Despite its mission, many locals are unaware of its existence, raising questions about community engagement and awareness - and how to bridge that gap.

Don't miss this engaging episode as we navigate the intersections of labor, community, and commerce in Detroit.

Share your thoughts with us at dailydetroit@gmail.com. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast player of choice.

Jazz Fest Vibes, Hamtramck Yacht Races, and Lions Game Preview Sep 04, 2024

Show notes

We're back after the Labor Day holiday, and talking about Fletcher's racing in the Hamtramck Labor Day Yacht Festival, an event filled with human sized soap car derbies and water balloons. Despite making it to the finals for the fifth straight year, his team, Whiskey in the Jar, fell short again.

We also dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Metro Detroit's recent events, including the Jazz Fest and Arts, Beats & Eats. Jer recounts his bike ride along the Dequindre Cut and the need for better connectivity for cyclists during major events. The conversation shifts to the aesthetics and logistics of fencing off Hart Plaza for festivals, balancing safety and accessibility.

As the Detroit Lions gear up for their first game against the Rams, we debate the idea of honoring former quarterback Matt Stafford. We also preview the game.

Finally, we touch on the marijuana market in Michigan, where prices have hit historic lows, sparking significant sales. We discuss the impact of neighboring states' laws and the evolving perception of marijuana use for both recreational and medicinal purposes.

Don't miss this engaging and insightful episode. Share your thoughts with us at dailydetroit@gmail.com. Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your podcast player of choice.

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