Daily Detroit

On today's episode, fall is in the air! From where to go to the news you need to know, we have you covered. The Rundown: Fall Outings in Metro Detroit - Devon makes the case for why you should take your family to the Heritage Park Petting Farm in Taylor, and Jer talks about his sneek peek of Elmwood Alight, a sensory light-mapping and art installation inside Detroit's historic Elmwood Cemetery.   Senate Passes the 'Protect College Sports Act' - We discuss what's in the bill, what's maybe good, what's maybe bad. But bottom line, do we trust Washington to actually fix the system? Or will it just make for a whole 'nother set of unintended consequences with major college teams and conferences leaving the NCAA altogether? Data center debate - The Wayne County Commission voted unanimously to override Executive Warren Evans's veto of $125 million in tax breaks for Google's proposed 1-gigawatt data center, "Project Cannoli," in Van Buren Township. We talk about the public pushback against data centers, local municipal moratoriums (including on Devon voted for in Dearborn), and the widening disconnect between elected officials, technology leaders, and the community.  What do you think? Hit us up, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

Detroit development, better bus stops, and a major manufacturing push lead today's show. Waka by Baobab Fare is now open in Eastern Market! Ferndale Pride moves to August 7, 2027, as West Nine Mile in Downton Ferndale gets resurfaced. Lee Plaza's first phase is on track for year-end completion, working on 117 affordable apartments to West Grand Boulevard. Arcterra, the 288-unit downtown apartment building at the former Statler site, sells in receivership for $75 million — despite reported 96 percent occupancy. What does it say about Detroit's apartment-development math? Transit update.. DDOT is adding hundreds of shelters and benches through 2027, with elevated boarding platforms also going in along East Jefferson. Ford, JPMorganChase, Michigan Central, Newlab, and the state launch MichiganLIFT to help Michigan manufacturers scale. We discuss why potential customers, and not just grants, matter. Detroit opens up 16 North Corktown parcels near Michigan Central for housing proposals and puts $2.5 million behind small apartment projects citywide. Plus: TechTown events coming in October, Norris has hot takes on Jalen Duren's contract standoff with the Pistons, and DCFC's playoff push. Daily Detroit is powered by members! Support local media at Patreon, and send feedback to dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211.

Detroit's budget picture continues to improve. But what does that mean for residents, city services, and the big redevelopment projects now under discussion? I sat down with expert Steve Watson of Watson & Yates to talk through the current situation and the financial logic behind why Detroit needs growth. We look into the proposed Renaissance Center redevelopment we talked about on the show last week, including the $548 million in requested public incentives tied to a proposed $2.2 billion investment by GM and Bedrock. We break down where that money would come from, how the Renaissance Zone and Downtown Development Authority structure works, and why a proposed payment-in-lieu-of-taxes (PILOT) agreement matters for the city and Wayne County. We also look at Detroit's updated revenue outlook. The city's estimates rose by about $50 million, driven largely by stronger-than-expected income-tax collections and investment-income projections. But that is not a blank check for new programs in the context of a roughly $1.5 billion general-fund budget. The additional revenue is more likely to help Detroit sustain current services, manage rising costs, and prepare for firefighter and police labor contract negotiations. To wrap up, Steve and I talk about the larger equation. The math behind why growing jobs, wages, businesses, and population matters for Detroit's ability to deliver the things residents want from city government. The city has significant economic potential, but only about one-third of Detroiters currently earn a living wage for their household. That makes inclusive growth as important as growth itself. What do you think? Hit us up, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

Big show to wrap up the week. Today we are on location at Jabal Coffee House on Mason Street in West Dearborn to kick off Dearborn Coffee Week! Norris, and Devon join me around the table to taste-test Yemeni lattes, Sanani coffee, and tasty cakes while talking about what to know and where to go in Metro Detroit. Topics: Dearborn Coffee Capital: How coffee shops have officially taken over as Metro Detroit's third space, the rapid rise of Yemeni coffee culture, and why local shops are expanding nationally. A $30 Million High-Rise Repair Bill: Routine facade work on Detroit's historic Water Board Building revealed serious structural issues. We debate the best future for this iconic 23-story tower. Expanding the People Mover: A new mobility study lays out three potential routes to expand the transit loop to Corktown, the Riverfront, and Eastern Market. What do you think? Dearborn x Detroit: Busting online myths about the border, historical context vs. lived reality, and the community block party happening this Sunday. Support our all-local work on Patreon. Got feedback or story tips? Email us at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at 313-789-3211.   

What do you do with 5.3 million square feet of concrete and glass when the world it was built for no longer exists? Built in the 1970s as a corporate fortress to keep the city out, the Renaissance Center in Detroit stands today as a monument to a mid-century urban planning thesis that has completely collapsed. RenCen office occupancy sits under 10%, construction costs are up 55% over the last decade, and downtown real estate demands an entirely new model. My guests are Jennifer Stallings Dewey, the Senior Counsel, Community Engagement at General Motors; and Jake Chidester, Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at Bedrock. In this episode, we dive into the multi-billion-dollar proposal by General Motors and Bedrock to demolish two 39-story towers, tear down the concrete podium, and turn an isolated corporate island into a connected, walkable riverfront district. We answer a ton of listener questions, as well.  The process is ongoing for community feedback. Here's a calendar of events at their East Riverfront Community Hub: https://detroit-riverfront.bedrockdetroit.com/events And here is a link to the project survey: https://detroit-riverfront.bedrockdetroit.com/survey What do you think? Let me know, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211.  Thanks for your support on Patreon! That's how we're able to fund this independent work.

We brought the mobile studio out to the Detroit Sandwich Party to talk with you about all things between two slices of bread. In this episode, we tackle the big questions. Matt from Detroit shares his grilled cheese mayo trick and explains why a sandwich needs to be a stable delivery system. Terry stops by to show some love for fried bologna and sweet tea.  Lauren breaks down her favorite New York deli creation and why horseradish is cathartic. Zena makes the case for where hot dogs sit on the food spectrum. Finally, Shelby from Corktown drops a hot take on why calzones, Uncrustables, and Pop-Tarts are dumplings.  Thanks to Carlos Parisi for putting together a wonderful event. I think this may be the beginning of a mini-series as we had so many good takes and only so much time.  Make sure to mark your calendars for Detroit Sandwich Week, between Christmas and New Years. Shoutout to our Patreon members for keeping local media strong. You can support the show at patreon.com/dailydetroit. Feedback is always welcome at dailydetroit@gmail.com

Hey friends, we're back in the studio talking through a big batch of local news today. First up, Comerica Park has been renamed "Fifth Third Park." Norris and I break down why this rebrand feels so flat, what it says about corporate naming rights, and why Detroiters are probably just going to keep calling it what they want anyway. Plus, there's already a Fifth Third Park in Spartanburg. Then, we jump into the fight over Michigan's bottle bill. Grocery retailers want out of taking back bottles and cans at stores, pointing to sanitation, pests, and labor. We talk through whether standalone redemption centers make sense and why the 10-cent deposit literally isn't worth anywhere near as much as it used to. More info: https://www.freep.com/story/news/environment/2026/09/21/bottles-cans-deposit-return-redemptions-stores-recycling/91812537007/ Next, Wayne County is looking to consolidate its court operations. They're evaluating moving scattered offices across four buildings into one or two central locations. Where should it go? More on Crain's Detroit. Finally, Detroit City FC grabbed a 1-0 win over Pittsburgh over the weekend. Norris puts his Football Furioso jersey on to talk about it quickly. Got takes? Email us at dailydetroit@gmail.com, and if you want to support local independent media, head to patreon.com/dailydetroit 

We're breaking down what's happening around Metro Detroit. From local lunch spots to rooftop reservation changes to a Midtown coffee shop closure, skyrocketing gas prices, and a debate on the future of our local sports franchises. Here's today's rundown: 01:33 — Where we've been: Uncs for Lunch. Devon checks out Uncs for lunch and breaks down the space, menu, and midday vibe. 05:19 — Pine Hall now requires reservations. What you need to know before trying to grab a drink or a table downtown this weekend. 11:03 — Red Hook Midtown is closing. The Woodward Avenue shop shutters September 26, ending a three-year run. What should go there next? 15:10 — In a thought experiment, would you sell the Tigers or Red Wings? With both franchises facing big questions, we debate whether it's time for new ownership for one of these historic teams so there's the ability for ownership to focus to make one thrive. 19:04 — Gas and diesel prices skyrocket. Prices across Michigan are creeping up toward $5 for gas and even higher for diesel. What's driving the surge, what it means for consumers, and what is the breaking point for Michiganders?  23:16 — The RenCen conversation. We have an interview planned next week, we'd love your constructive questions on the plans. Got thoughts on today's episode or questions? Drop us a line at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave us a voicemail at 313-789-3021. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

The Michelin Guide is bringing its Great Lakes ceremony to Detroit next April, and people have a lot of questions. What does a Michelin presence actually mean for our local food scene? How do diners, chefs, and journalists navigate the hype? To break it down, Detroit News restaurant critic Melody Baetens stopped by the TechTown studio. We talk about what those stars actually represent, what inspectors look for, and why the national spotlight is shifting toward the Great Lakes. Plus, Melody recently put together a list of 25 new and returning restaurants expected to open across Metro Detroit. We talk about some of the big highlights — from long-awaited returns like Cass Cafe and Highgrade Deli to fresh concepts like Agnes in West Village, Aurora Italiana, Slutty Vegan, Mike's Red Tacos, and Spiedo on West Canfield. Check out Melody's full list on The Detroit News: 25 Restaurants Expected to Open Soon in Metro Detroit Support the show: https://patreon.com/DailyDetroit

Norris and I sit down with Edmund Gray, CEO of Kissmet Music Group, for a conversation that I found completely fascinating in the context of today's fast-changing world.  Edmund is the creator behind Zhaion, an AI-hybrid R&B project grounded right here in Detroit, complete with a promotion online, free-to-play 8-bit game based on driving The Lodge. Rather than hiding the tech behind a curtain, Edmund is being entirely upfront about using generative tools to bring his music and world-building to life. We get into the ethics of the music business, the reality of creative tools, and why transparency matters as AI becomes, whether we like it or not, a part of our lives.  This is exactly the kind of smart, nuanced local discussion I love having on the show, and I think you're going to get a lot out of it. Check out Zhaion's new album No Clearance dropping this Friday. https://zhaion.com/ What do you think? Hit us up, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

A proposed Wayne and Oakland county millage could reshape access and provide ongoing sustainability to two of Metro Detroit's cornerstone historic institutions.  Jer Staes and Norris Howard are joined by Elana Rugh, president and CEO of the Detroit Historical Society, and Neil Barclay, president and CEO of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The proposal would support free admission for county residents, transportation help for students and seniors, teacher curriculum resources, and funding for smaller public historical museums across the two counties. We talk about why the museums say they need a long-term funding model, what visitors can expect this fall, and why preserving Detroit's past — while collecting the history being made today — matters. The measure is listed on the back of the ballot as the Southeast Michigan Historical Museums Authority proposal. You'll find a full transcript on our website. More info: https://www.yestoourstory.com/ Feedback as always, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. 

On today's show, Norris Howard and I dig into SMART's new Route 500, which restores service to Hamtramck for the first time in more than a decade. It's a new bus connection between downtown Detroit, the DMC, Hamtramck, the North End, and the Bel Air Center.  It matters for a city like Hamtramck where about one in five households does not have a vehicle, and it also gives fans another way to get to Keyworth Stadium and people visiting the city a way to get to Hamtramck without am Uber. Then, photographer Ryan Southen and I head to the Detroit Institute of Arts for a preview of Georgia O'Keeffe: Architecture, a first-of-its-kind exhibition that looks beyond the flowers and into the buildings, cityscapes, barns, and New Mexico spaces that shaped her work. We also talk with Ben Colman, the DIA's curator of American art, about why bringing this exhibition to Detroit matters and how O'Keeffe's New York paintings connect with the skyscraper boom that shaped Detroit in the same era. Finally, we check in on Detroit City FC as Le Rouge heads into the final stretch of the regular season, chasing a top-four finish and a chance to host a playoff match at Keyworth. Saturday's matchup against Pittsburgh is a big one, and DCFC will wear special green Capuchin Soup Kitchen charity kits. Feedback as always dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Cover photo by Ryan Southen. What do you think on any of these topics? Hit us up, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

Ahead of the weekend, Devon and I break down my visit to Cosm Detroit, the new high-tech venue in downtown that's gotten a ton of buzz. The tech and immersive dome are very impressive, but dynamic pricing means ticket costs can jump in a hurry depending on what you're seeing. We debate - is dynamic pricing the way to go?  Plus, we also dive into some great local news with Cass Cafe returning to Midtown, sample a Banana Bread Old Fashioned, and unpack MDOT's new pilot program testing a per-mile road charge. Timestamps: 01:31 - What We're Drinking: Banana Bread Old Fashioned 05:33 - Cosm Detroit: Super Cool, But Might Be Costly  17:49 - Cass Cafe in Detroit returning 19:51 - Charge for roads per mile driven instead of the gas tax? Cover photo by Ryan Southen. What do you think on any of these topics? Hit us up, dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Sorry for the late posting this week. We still don't have internet at home on the east side and are digging out of the power outage. Regular schedule next week. Thanks for your support on Patreon!

After severe storms and a tornado swept through Detroit over the Labor Day weekend, leaving many across the region without electricity for days (including yours truly for a second holiday weekend this year, totaling nearly two weeks without power), Norris Howard and I break down the Detroit City Council's unanimous vote to explore alternatives to DTE Energy. We discuss the council's decision, look at the broader implications of utility monopolies in Metro Detroit, and share our personal experiences dealing with frequent power grid failures across the area. Link to report discussed via the Detroit News. Key Topics & Timestamps 00:45 – Gratitude: Shoutouts to everyone who came out to see us at the Detroit Sandwich Party at Eastern Market, plus a special thanks to new Patreon members! 02:00 – Weekend Highlights: Norris recaps his experience at the Detroit Jazz Fest, highlighting a performance by the Low End Quintet at Dee Dee's / The Valade. 03:45 – News: Detroit City Council vs. DTE: Details on Councilwoman Gabriela Santiago-Romero's unamiously passed measure directing the legal department to research ways to diversify the city's energy sources and reduce dependence on DTE Energy. 05:30 – Monopolies & Utility Accountability: A discussion on rate hikes, service reliability, grid hardening, and a lack of competition. 09:15 – Public Power Alternatives: Looking at how nearby communities like Ann Arbor and Wyandotte's relationship to public utilities and what that might mean for Metro Detroit. Listen & Connect Follow the Show: Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. Support the Show: Join us on Patreon to help keep independent local coverage going at patreon.com/dailydetroit. Feedback & Listener Stories: Send me an email at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail on our line at 313-789-3211.

Before we get started, apologies as this episode is about a day behind. My neighborhood was the one in Detroit that was hit by an EF2 tornado, bringing 115 mph winds, downed trees, and damage. Apologies, and we'll talk more about what happened next week. Main show: As it's Labor Day weekend, we thought we'd bring the fun. Devon O'Reilly joins me as we review Ray's Hometown Bar, the retro-inspired, wood-paneled new spot taking over the former Mr. Dips space in Parker's Alley.  Plus, Devon takes us on a tour of his child-free getaway up north, sharing why he prefers the Little Traverse Bay area — including Petoskey and Bay Harbor — over Traverse City, along with a standout meal at Spring & Porter. Then, we debate the definitive boundaries of where "up north" actually begins in Michigan. Finally, Jer did a bit of a staycation with a rare day off at Greenfield Village, getting into what makes its newest additions like the Stand 44 eatery, the Jackson House, and the reconstructed 1860s Detroit Central Market... must-visit add ons to an old favorite.  Support the work on Patreon: https://patreon.com/DailyDetroit Feedback as always - 313-789-3211 or email us, dailydetroit@gmail.com 

Today, we're learning about the massive capital investments heading to Detroit's East Side — specifically around Gratiot, 7 Mile, and Denby-Whittier.  To do it, Norris Howard and I sit down at our TechTown studio with Kala Gibson, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer for Fifth Third Bank.  Kala shares his personal story growing up in Detroit, how a neighborhood bank closing shaped his career, and why Fifth Third is committing hundreds of millions of dollars to housing, workforce development, and small business grants across the city. Plus, we talk about straight-talk banking, supporting local entrepreneurs, and a little local debate over Detroit pizza and classic Coney spots. In this episode: The origin story behind Fifth Third's Neighborhood Program and the expansion from G7 (Gratiot and 7 Mile) into Denby-Whittier. How $5,300 grants and low-interest loans are helping local neighborhood businesses grow without taking on massive debt. Why physical bank branches and community capital are critical to rebuilding neighborhood corridors. Kala's favorite homecoming food stops in Detroit (and a hot take on Coney Island spots). For the full, unedited transcript of this conversation and past show archives, head over to our Daily Detroit website. As always, feedback - dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211. And be sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

We're kicking off September with our ultimate preview of what's happening and what we're keeping our eyes on across Metro Detroit this month. Norris Howard joins me to talk about the most interesting events on the calendar, including the month-long Detroit Month of Design, Labor Day festival traditions like the Detroit Jazz Fest and much more. We also break down the major local stories and trends shaping our region heading into the fall, from last-minute possible mail-in voting changes you need to keep an eye on that could impact Michigan... to food safety recalls... to our upcoming look at the RenCen's future and how national economic shifts impact our city and region. Plus, thank you for making us the number one podcast in Detroit. You can listen to Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or wherever you get your favorite shows. Feedback as always - dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211.  

While major downtown developments often capture the headlines, neighborhood parks across the city of Detroit's 139 square miles are getting critical investments driven directly by community feedback, with funding support from the philanthropic community. In this episode, I sit down at our TechTown studio with JJ Vélez, Senior Director of Public Space for the Gilbert Family Foundation. We dig into how a $1.2 million commitment across neighborhood parks — including Dorais Park, Eliza Howell Park, and Hass Emery Park (currently in the process of being renamed Keith Slappy Park) — is helping bring community-driven visions to life, as well as how they help on the ground with community organizations. As he says: "Detroiters just want to be heard... What I've learned in this position is bringing that mentality: underpromise and overdeliver, and just being an opportunity for residents to speak and listen. There's a reason why we have two ears and one mouth. We need to do a lot more listening and a lot less speaking." Feedback as always by email: dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail: 313-789-3211. Be sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, or wherever you listen to shows. 

Norris Howard and I tackle a packed Wednesday edition of Daily Detroit. We break down the mounting tensions in the U.S.-Canada trade dispute and respond to political rhetoric proposing to rename Lake Ontario to "Lake America." Plus, we pay tribute to the late, great Dolly Parton. Then it's a recap of our weekend trip to see Detroit City FC win over Tampa Bay with one of the best keeper saves we've seen in a long time. In local development news, a vacant historic YMCA building in Mexicantown across from Clark Park gets a $10 million redevelopment lifeline, Midtown sees progress on West Willis, and local favorite Bev's Bagels sets its sights on Birmingham. As always, feedback - dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on your favorite podcast app!

The Detroit Sandwich Party is back and bigger than ever, doubling its footprint at Eastern Market on September 6th with 50 vendors, kid-friendly games, and even... carbonated pickle juice. Organizer and sandwich lover Carlos Parisi joins the show to walk us through this year's massive expansion into the Shed 5 parking lot, share pro tips for getting the most out of the event, and we tease some of the top-tier bites on the lineup. Grab a friend (or a foe, why not), map out your game plan, and get ready for what's become one of the must-see local food events of the summer. More: https://www.instagram.com/detroitsandwichparty/?hl=en Full transcript on our website. Local media needs local support to survive and thrive! Be sure to support our work on Patreon: https://patreon.com/DailyDetroit  

The U.S.–Canada trade situation took a wild turn over the weekend. We thought we had an agreement, but now we're suddenly facing a full-scale trade war with our closest neighbor.  Glenn Stevens from MICHAuto joined me to break down what went wrong and what this uncertainty actually means on the ground for Michiganders and Michigan companies.  From auto supply chains, to materials, to local jobs, to healthcare workers and tourism, Michigan has more to lose than most anywhere else in the United States as this may drag on. Michigan residents have already been impacted by thousands of dollars since the disputes started in 2025, whether it's in increased prices or decreased wages and profit-sharing. We dig into why unraveling this more than century-long economic partnership makes little sense and why getting both sides back to the table. That yes, friends always have disagreements, but blowing everything up isn't the thing to do. Give it a listen, and let me know how these potential tariffs are impacting your work or family across the border. Email us at dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211.

We've got a full studio today. Devon O'Reilly gives us an inside look at what it was actually like inside the Henry Ford Centennial Library during Tuesday night's Dearborn City Council meeting while far-right agitators and local counter-protesters gathered outside.  We talk about how the Dearborn community stood together and stood strong, why hate-driven political stunts ultimately fail to gain traction here, and how local solidarity continues to win out. Plus, Jer and Norris talk some Michigan politics to analyze Jocelyn Benson's pick of Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks for Lieutenant Governor — and why West Michigan representation and legislative experience matter on the 2026 ticket.  And, if you abandon your longtime political party over one thing, forgetting everything else — did you ever believe in it? Or were you really a one-issue voter the whole time? As always, be sure to share the show with a friend. Feedback dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or leave a voicemail at 313-789-3211.

On today's show, Norris and I are diving deep into the high-stakes redevelopment plans for the Renaissance Center and the nearby east riverfront, looking to transform 35 acres that has been sitting mostly quiet for many years.  After going to their preview center and attending the first of a number of weekly CBO meetings, we ask and react honestly the big question on everyone's mind: what do you actually do with a massive waterfront complex that's currently only 5% occupied? What vibes did we get from the community? And what's next? You can also learn more about the project here, and give your feedback to them: https://detroit-riverfront.bedrockdetroit.com/ Also as Metro Detroit's one of America's greatest news towns: We also quickly talk through the disturbing Christian nationalist march targeting Dearborn's Muslim community. We'll dig into it more on the show in a future episode. Plus, I break down a press event I attended at the Wright Museum outlining a proposed regional millage to keep Wayne and Oakland County's core historical institutions funded for the next decade.  It's a packed episode of your Daily Detroit covering the economic, political, and cultural shifts shaping Metro Detroit right now. Feedback as always: dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211. Just $3.13 keeps this coverage going from the 313: https://patreon.com/DailyDetroit  

Today we're digging into the results of our recent Daily Detroit audience survey to see where our community actually stands on key political issues and values. Using Pew's excellent and long-standing political typology framework of nine groups, I look at the data and break down how our listeners and readers compare to the rest of the country, and what issues where we find a ton of common ground, no matter what party you may have voted for. Per Pew: "Pew Research Center's political typology sorts the American public into nine political groups based on responses to questions about social and political values. The goal of this long-standing project is to go beyond people's partisan leanings or vote choices to provide a deeper understanding of the American political landscape. This is the ninth version since 1987." While our audience spans a wide range of perspectives, the data shows a clear shared commitment to respect, local engagement, and smart, solutions-focused debate. Listen to see where you land in the numbers and how our community fits into the broader national picture. Thanks to our supporters on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit If this is your first time, be sure to follow us on Apple Podcast, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

In today's episode, Devon O'Reilly and I dive into some exciting developments across Metro Detroit, starting with my firsthand look at Unc's Detroit-style pizza in downtown Detroit. We also talk about our recent visit to Fair Lane Estate for a media preview, where the team is making huge progress restoring Henry Ford's powerhouse, garage, and new welcome center ahead of its full opening. Plus, we discuss reports that Henry Ford Health is considering redevelopment options for Cadillac Place — the historic former GM World Headquarters in New Center, currently occupied by the State of Michigan. Finally, with the Detroit Lions kicking off their preseason, Devon shares his thoughts on the upcoming season and what to expect from the Honolulu Blue this year. Don't forget to join us this Saturday morning for our Summer Studio Open House at TechTown for free coffee, donuts, and great conversation! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator

On today's show, Norris Howard and I are talking about the massive debate over data centers sweeping Southeast Michigan. From moratoriums to legal battles to recall efforts, local communities are raising real questions about energy, water, and land use. We also talk through the University of Michigan selecting an Ypsilanti Township site for a $1.25 billion supercomputer project with Los Alamos National Lab, the response from longtime Rep. Debbie Dingell, and why the city of Detroit's power grid makes hyperscale data centers a tough sell without huge infrastructure investment. Plus, we address the large amont of listener feedback we received after our recent primary election coverage. We hear you, and we discuss how we're bringing on more guest voices ahead of November to make sure the full range of local viewpoints is represented — as the state of Michigan as a whole voted one way, but Metro Detroit clearly voted another. Finally, we toast a Detroit journalism legend: WDET News Director Jerome Vaughn, who is retiring after many years of guiding local public radio. Norris shares what Jerome's mentorship meant for his own career. REMINDER: Our Summer Studio Open House is this Saturday, August 15, from 10a to 1p at TechTown! Come by for free coffee, free donuts, and great conversation with the Daily Detroit crew. Please RSVP on Eventbrite if you can so we have a headcount. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/studio-summer-open-house-and-detroit-community-coffee-tickets-1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator Feedback or thoughts? Drop us a line at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at 313-789-3211.

Today on Daily Detroit, photographer and urbanism enthusiast Ryan Southen joins me to share what it's actually like to walk the newly opened Gordie Howe International Bridge. We admire the architecture, the breathtaking views of the river and skyline, and what the experience is like going from the American side to the Canadian side — and the huge difference between the two. Plus, Ryan shares a few practical tips on parking near and navigating the span if you're planning to check it out yourself. Thanks to our members on Patreon for supporting the show! Join our new $3.13 tier to support work in the 313. Don't forget our Saturday Summer Studio open house! 10a-1p, free coffee, free donuts, free conversation. Please RSVP so we know how much food to get. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator  

Greektown has been a staple of downtown Detroit for generations. I have so many great memories as a kid, and it's one of the most "city-feeling" areas of Detroit, and has a litany of great restaurants, bars, and more. Now, a major transformation has made Monroe Street more flexible, pedestrian-friendly, and vibrant for the future. Norris Howard and I sat down with Lori Singleton, landscape architect and design director at SmithGroup, to break down the vision behind the new Greektown streetscape. We dive into: The Shift to Pedestrian-First Design and why sacrificing some on-street parking allowed for expanded outdoor dining, curbless walkways, and flexible plaza spaces. How clever systems and underground engineering keep street trees healthy without destroying sidewalks or drowning roots. And how incremental public space improvements — from the Dequindre Cut, to Beacon Park, to Capitol Park, to Grand Circus Park — are reshaping how people experience downtown Detroit. There are more images in our newsletter going out tonight. Sign up here: https://www.dailydetroit.com/ Remember that our Summer Studio Open House is SATURDAY MORNING! It's free, but please RSVP on Eventbrite so we know how much coffee and donuts to get. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator Make sure to follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. Thanks to our members on Patreon! We have our new $3.13 tier to keep local media alive in the 313.

Writer and director Larry J. Sanders joins the show to discuss his upcoming documentary, Shockwave, which explores the legacy of the three-time champion Detroit Shock. We dig into why one of the WNBA's most dominant early dynasties seemed to abruptly vanish from the city — and why their story deserves way more credit in league history. Plus, with a new WNBA franchise set to arrive in Detroit in 2029, we break down what it takes to honor the past while building the future of local sports. You can check out the teaser here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GEXSRJ44hDo More information: https://bio.site/shockwavefilm Our Summer Studio Open House is Saturday, August 15! Come join us for free coffee, donuts and conversation: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator  

In this special post-election edition of Daily Detroit, we break down the high-stakes results from Tuesday's primary elections across Michigan. In this episode: How Abdul El-Sayed pulled off a razor-thin victory over Haley Stevens despite massive outside spending, driven by strong overperformances in places like Kent and Ingham Counties. The failure of heavy television spending and why multi-million dollar ad blitzes failed to deliver wins for Stevens and Perry Johnson over on the Republican side. Wayne County voters overwhelmingly approved a regional transit expansion, powered by strong turnout from voters under 30. Downballot, Donovan McKinney defeated Shri Thanedar in the 13th Congressional District to restore Black representation in Detroit, plus updates on victories for Justin Onwenu, Joanna Whaley, and others. Why the polling was hot garbage. Plus, we get into listener questions on general election strategy, messaging, and unifying moderate and progressive voters against Mike Rogers. Support the Show: Keep Daily Detroit fearless, independent, and free! Join our brand new $3.13 Patreon Tier today! https://patreon.com/DailyDetroit  

On today's episode, I talked to Norris Howard about why he moved back to Detroit. We wanted to take a minute and talk honestly about why he did it — and what we both would tell anyone else thinking about doing the same. Norris was nominated by his fellow residents and named a Move Detroit ambassador, and so we figured this was a good time to share a bit of the backstory. That said, his opinions are his own and don't necessarily represent everyone else or the organization itself. This episode is part personal reflection, part practical advice. We get into the reasons people come back to Detroit, what to know before you move here, and how to think about neighborhoods, culture, and building a life in the city. If you're considering a move to Detroit, or just curious about what it takes to make it work here, I think you'll get something out of this one.  More on Move Detroit: https://www.movedetroit.com/ Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942

In this episode, I sit down with parent Brandi "BrandiTheeMillennialManager" McGill and sociologist Dr. Ayah Waller‑Bey — along with my regular co-host Norris Howard — to talk about what started when one parent trying to get a soccer program at Denby that has snowballed into a saga that has started a lot of conversations around the Detroit Public Schools Community District. We dig into class, charter flight, black flight to the suburbs, exam schools versus neighborhood schools, and much more. It's one of the most important conversations to be had in the city of Detroit, as it's going to be very difficult to make Detroit's comeback stick without open conversations about the schools. The Detroit Public Schools Community District has undoubtedly made progress. For instance, a recent Chalkbeat Detroit report says DPSCD's high school graduation rate of 83% is now almost on par with the state average, and the highest since 2008. But a number of parents feel frustrated with what they see: a lack of equity of programs, facilities, and outcomes across the district's schools. That there feels to be a wide gap between the district's elite schools that you test into, and those in the neighborhoods for everyone else. Complicating all of this? Less than half of Detroit's children go to the Detroit Public Schools Community District. According to a Detroit PEER report in 2025, a group out of Wayne State University, only about 78,000 of the 106,000 public school students who live in Detroit (about 73%) go to school in the city. Of those, about 48,000 attend school in the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) and about 30,000 attend a Detroit charter school. The remaining 29,000 students or so (that's about 27%) go to school outside of the city, attending either a traditional public school in the suburbs through inter-district choice or a charter school located in the suburbs. There's a lot of talk about Detroit's comeback, but in order to make it stick, schools are crucial. This real conversation also includes Norris sharing his own experience with Detroit schools as a graduate, and what he's seen as an adult. We also get into the upcoming DPSCD school board election and candidates, upcoming meetings, and how showing up in person can change the direction of the district. Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211.  Make sure to follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts.

I've been watching Michigan politics for a long time, and this Abdul El-Sayed vs. Haley Stevens primary feels like the front line of a bigger national reckoning. With Norris Howard and Devon O'Reilly, we unpack the pissed-off electorate, Whitmer's data-center problem, and how PAC money and billionaire money are backfiring with voters.  Many think that Michigan is a purple state, full of moderate ideas; and we talk about how voters are more angry than anything else. We talk about Trump's underwater numbers, Mike Rogers' vulnerability, and why running against the Democratic establishment might be the only way Democrats win in November. If you're trying to read the Petoskey stones on where American politics goes next, Michigan is a good place to start. Follow the show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942  

Norris and Jer sit down with Detroit News restaurant critic Melody Baetens to talk about the city's post‑COVID dining boom, why consistency is key to winning, and what's driving all the new global flavors around town.  Then they dig into the Greater Detroit Music Census, how local venues are struggling to keep live shows on the calendar, and what it would take for Detroit to lean into being a music city for working musicians and locales. Read Melody's work here: https://www.detroitnews.com/staff/2647007001/melody-baetens/  

In this episode, I sit down with Transportation Riders United executive director Megan Owens to unpack Wayne County's transit millage and what it could mean for riders in Detroit and the suburbs. We get into how countywide service could end "opt‑out" communities, bring buses and microtransit to places like Livonia, Canton and Plymouth, and better connect rural townships to trunk lines. I also talk with Megan about a new $25 million BUILD grant for Gratiot, Macomb County's renewal interest in SMART, and how to actually find the transit question at the bottom of your ballot. More on TRU: https://www.detroittransit.org/ Our studio open house on Saturday, August 15: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1995592904096?aff=oddtdtcreator Make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows.

Today's Daily Detroit is a little different. I've got two shorter conversations that are too good to leave behind, so we're stitching them together into one episode for you. First up is American Arab Chamber executive director Bilal Hammoud. We talk about just how big Arab American economic power has become in Michigan, with more than 150,000 businesses and an estimated $100 billion in economic contribution over the last decade. We get into how that connects to a more globally minded, relationship‑driven approach to economic development. Bilal makes the case for de‑siloing Michigan's innovation ecosystem, learning from places like Dubai and New York, and treating immigration as a core growth strategy between now and 2030. Then we shift gears to the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center with Detroit Zoological Society executive director and CEO Dr. Hayley Murphy. She walks us through the new Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails, a seven‑acre "outdoor living classroom" with everything from goats to stingrays. Plus, we talk about the zoo's $185 million projected annual economic impact. We also get into free programming at the Belle Isle Nature Center, special evenings for families in shelters and with medically fragile kids, and a millage renewal later this year that keeps the whole operation going. As always, I'd love to know what you think of this format, or anything else about the show. Drop me a line at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at 313‑789‑3211.

On today's Daily Detroit I kick things off in "prime Negroni season," and on the heels of a new zero proof gin debate with Devon whether zero-proof gin and spirits are actually a thing we need or just marketing chasing vibes without the buzz. Then we dive into how different wings of the Demcoratic party actuall agree on about 88% of things, and how junk polls and click-chasing headlines warp our sense of what's really at stake, or who feels what way. Plus, turnout in the city and what it would take for under-40 Detroiters to actually flex the power they have instead of letting politics stay a 60-plus sport. We close on the RenCen and riverfront remake, breaking down the impending double tower demolition, and why losing some concrete might finally mean gaining the riverfront Detroit deserves.

In today's episode, Norris and I hit pause on the doomscroll and talk about simple joys and summer adventures around Detroit. We talk about everything from Belle Isle walks and Southwest soccer nights to Chinatown block parties, rooftop bars, and getting lost on the scenic route instead of the freeway. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows! If you've got feedback, including what you plan on doing this summer, let us know - dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211

I sit down with communications pro Matt Friedman to talk about what happens when the basic stuff in media breaks — from lettuce recalls and weather alerts to non-partisan, important voting information.  We get into algorithms, broken trust, and why it's harder than ever to get simple, accurate information. And that information is crucial for a stronger local Detroit community.  If you care about how you actually find out what matters, this one's worth a listen. Matt Friedman's latest post: https://tannerfriedman.com/blog/ive-done-food-recall-crisis-communications-the-parasite-situation-is-a-mess/ Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Today, I sit down with Highland Park mayoral candidate and Avalon Village founder Shamayim "Mama Shu" Harris.  We dig into how she's turned one of the city's most notorious blocks into a grassroots hub with streetlights, a homework house, basketball courts, and shipping-container retail. We also talk about what that experience taught her about transforming blight into beauty, rebuilding housing and neighborhood businesses, and why she believes Highland Park can stand strong as its own city. More information: https://www.mamashuformayor.com/ As always, if you've got feedback - 313-789-3211 or email us, dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com.  For a full transcript, visit the Daily Detroit website.  As always, thanks to our members on Patreon for supporting work like this.

Today we're coming to you from a very smoky studio in Detroit as Canadian wildfire haze pushes Detroit's air quality off the charts. Should we Blame Canada? (With all apologies to South Park) From there, Norris delivers last rites for the "Yzerplan" and we talk through why the Red Wings have now slid to the fifth of five sports team in a city where the Lions, Pistons, Tigers – and now Detroit City FC – are commanding the spotlight. Speaking of DCFC, I was at the groundbreaking for their new stadium at Michigan and 20th. We unpack what a nearly $200 million means for Corktown, Mexicantown, small businesses, and the club. We close with an update on the Democratic Senate primary between Haley Stevens and Abdul El-Sayed – digging into new polling, the massive outside money advantage, Obama's importance in the politics of black voters and Detroiters, and the real enthusiasm and messaging gaps shaping this race on the ground. Full Rundown: 00:39 - Insane Canadian Wildfire Smoke in Detroit 04:22 - The Steve Yzerplan is Dead 08:37 - Detroit City FC Stadium Groundbreaking 16:40 - Stevens vs. El-Sayed Democratic Senate Primary Update As always, I'd love to hear what you think: DailyDetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your pods. 

We start with a very cool story about Jack White, "Seven Nation Army," and how seven little notes turned into one of the biggest chants in global sports. Then we get into something a lot closer to home: A cyclospora outbreak that has Taco Bell locations pulling lettuce and cilantro off the menu, and what that says about cuts to CDC surveillance and how we think about food safety in Michigan. From there, Norris and I dig into Lansing's proposed "quiet cars" bill aimed at loud exhausts up and down Woodward, why noise is part of living near big thoroughfares, and how enforcement can too easily slide into pretextual stops for Black drivers and folks just trying to get to work with a busted muffler. More: https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/2026/07/13/michigan-bills-law-loud-cars-modified-exhaust-woodward/90472088007/ We close with some good news: Concert of Colors kicks off in Midtown, honoring the late Ishmael Ahmed and bringing multi-generational, global sounds to the DIA and surrounding venues — one of those "if you live here, you really should go at least once" Detroit events. https://www.concertofcolors.com/ I encourage listeners to take the Daily Detroit political topology survey at dailydetroit.com/9 and send your topic ideas to dailydetroit@gmail.com. Full Rundown: 01:33 - Seven Nation Army video and Daily Detroit political topography survey 06:22 - There's a growing Cyclosporiasis outbreak throughout Michigan, including taking lettuce of the menu of a number of restaurants include Taco Bell at some Metro Detroit location 11:43 A bill pushing for quieter cars working it's way through the Michigan legislature 17:10 Concert of Colors is back this week

After the pandemic, downtown Detroit underwent a massive shift. Many left their offices to come back just a couple of times a week, and people looking for dining and entertainment on weekends flooded in. And the data shows they like what they see. On today's show, I'm sitting down with Sofia Song, Global Cities Lead at the Gensler Research Institute, and Antoine Bryant, Managing Director of Gensler's Detroit office, to unpack their massive 2026 City Pulse study. The big takeaway? Detroit ranks number one nationally for downtown "stickiness." That means residents aren't just coming down because they have to for work. They're choosing to hang out, eat, and linger at double the national average for discretionary visits. There's a huge shift from an office-centric commuter hub to an 18-hour destination. And Detroit residents, according to the survey, are into it, too. If you want to understand how intentional planning, better lighting, and activated spaces are changing our streets into a space with national-level urban design, you won't want to miss this conversation. Then, we send you out the door with some stories to know around town. Don't forget our most recent audience survey: https://www.dailydetroit.com/9/ Feedback as always: dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211. If you don't already, follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Fairlane Town Center is back in the headlines, and not for the right reasons. In this episode, Devon and I dig into the latest on Dearborn's struggling mall. From receivership and a possible sale to what its eventual "second life" could mean for desperately needed housing and better transit. It's our candid, locally grounded look at what happens when a once‑buzzy regional mall becomes a long‑term liability instead of an asset. Downtown, we're telling a very different story at Gratiot and Randolph. We walk through Detroit's new pedestrian plaza being billed as a "gateway to Greektown," and talk about how shifting the street, widening sidewalks, and new patios. We hope that a new and thoughtful streetscape can drive more retail and residential life into legacy blocks. To open, we head north — in spirit (and spirits) to Lexington.  Devon shares what's new in the "First Resort to the North," Detroit City Distillery's outpost inside Foley's Market, and Carlos Parisi's sandwich counter bringing some Eastern Market energy to vacationers. Rundown:  01:41 - Visiting Lexington, MI 07:55 - Gratiot Randolph Plaza opening - big opportunity for Detroit 12:46 - What should happen next with Fairlane Mall? Make sure to follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you download shows.

Lights were out, bills are up, and a lot of folks around here are just done with it.  On today's Daily Detroit, Norris and I talk through the long Fourth of July weekend that turned into days without power for hundreds of thousands of people across metro Detroit — including me. As it seems like every year living in a Detroit neighborhood, I deal with 3 to 4 days in a row without electricity. From there, we zoom out. We talk about DTE's grid, why it seems like storms knock out power every year, and the growing conversation around a ratepayer bill of rights and the Michigan Money Out of Politics (MMOP) petition. We ask what would it look like if major state contractors couldn't pour money into campaigns? A We also kick around whether our politics could work differently (although we know the change would be hard legally to pull off): calendar windows for campaigning like other countries have, hard caps on campaign cash, and even making Election Day a holiday.  In the back third of the show, we answer listener questions about what to do with your ballot now that Mallory McMorrow is out of the race, including how and when you can spoil a ballot and get a new one. As always, I'd love to hear how you're experiencing all of this. The outages, the bills, and the politics around it. Email me at dailydetroit@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at 313‑789‑3211. And follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

There's a ton of useful information in today's Daily Detroit, and you'll walk away with a better understanding of how our state works. I'm joined by longtime budget expert Steve Watson of Watson & Yates to unpack Michigan's new state budget and what it actually means for our lives. We get into why "flat" funding can feel like a cut once inflation hits, what's in the budget for schools and public transit, and a handful of key earmarks here in Detroit — from the Auto Show to free bus rides for students and Right to Counsel. We also talk about new and renewed tools to keep people in their homes, including the Pay As You Stay program and a state-level low-income housing tax credit. Then, our conversation turns to economic development and the transformational brownfield deal that could help reshape the Renaissance Center. Plus, why development math is getting harder to make work, and the hard financial truth about why housing here requires state and local subsidies and incentives to get done. Finally, Steve and I dig into what real, practical reform around property taxes could look like in the years ahead to help get Michigan's residents back on economic track.  As always, check out his Substack: https://watsonyates.substack.com/ And of course, follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Mallory McMorrow just suspended her campaign for the Democratic U.S. Senate primary here in Michigan, and the nation is watching. We break down why her run felt off from the start, how a messy CNN interview and a fuzzy message alienated both progressive and establishment voters, and why stepping aside now may actually protect her future options. Then Norris Howard and I get into what comes next: the party's clear preference for Haley Stevens, Abdul El-Sayed's anti-establishment path, harm-reduction voting, generational splits, and why sit-outs (if they happen) from key voters no matter who wins could suddenly give Republican Mike Rogers a real lane. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you download podcasts. 

Today I'm joined by artist and entrepreneur Trice Clark, the creative force behind Kraftologie, to talk about building a new creative space in Detroit's West Village, life after Joann Fabrics, and how better infrastructure can help more local makers actually make a living here. You can find a full transcript on our website here. Make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

I've got a three‑parter for you today! First, Norris and I headed down to Little Caesars Arena for Big3. It's a three‑on‑three traveling basketball league. We talk about why it might be one of the more accessible ways to see good hoops in town this summer as they're coming back in about a month. Then, we unpack why Michigan's Attorney General went to court to pause Kalshi's sports contracts here, and what that says about the blurry line between "prediction markets" and gambling. T Finally, we dig into new Rocket data showing the Detroit area at the top of the list for how quickly first‑time buyers can save a down payment — and what that means if you already own, or you're trying to get your foot in the door. As always, it's about making sense of what's happening in and around Detroit — and giving you a couple of ideas for what to do next. Feedback as always: dailydetroit at gmail dot com, or 313-789-3211.  Rundown: 03:38 Big 3 Basketball 09:48 Kalshi has been issued a temporary restraining order by Michigan judge 15:27 Detroit area among the top of the list of most affordable for home buyers

Detroit Future City CEO Anika Goss joins me to dig into a recent report on career-connected learning and the future of work for young Detroiters. "Career-Connected Learning: Investing in Detroit's Future Talent," is grounded in the perspectives of almost 200 Detroit youth, along with input from parents, practitioners, employers, and policy makers around where things are working and where improvements need to be made in setting out future up for a bright tomorrow.  We talk about which sectors are most likely to grow and survive automation, how tech and health care show up in kids' real aspirations, and why exposure and role models matter from grade school on.  Anika gets into the regional picture across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb, the stigma around community college, and how employers and community colleges can help build a smarter pipeline from classroom to career.  We also talk about AI — and being clear-eyed on what it will actually change, and why young people are already using it without the fear many adults have. If you care about Detroit's next generation and the jobs they'll hold, this one's for you. Full transcript on our website, Daily Detroit. As always, follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows.   

On today's Daily Detroit, we start with why District Detroit still looks like a sea of parking lots instead of the neighborhoods we were promised — and why that matters for the city's "front lawn" everyone in Michigan sees. We talk about our thoughts on this article in the Freep: https://www.freep.com/story/money/business/2026/06/25/district-detroit-construction-slow-pace/90594507007/ Then we dig into the Democratic U.S. Senate primary: Haley Stevens, Mallory McMorrow, and Abdul El-Sayed, their strengths, their blind spots, and what a "change election" could mean for Michigan and Detroiters on the ground.  Along the way, we hit some lighter notes: summer lunches at old favorites like Tony V's, Checker Bar, and pho at Pho Lucky, plus a nod to Jobbie Nooner and a goodbye from the Pistons to Beef Stew. As always, follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get shows.