Daily Detroit

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. 

On today's Daily Detroit, we're doing a listener "office hours" — answering your questions about life in the city, from fireworks and politics to the World Cup and where to get a proper Detroit style pie. The Rundown: 00:38 Where Norris has been: Tigris 03:56 Why are no parks open along the riverfront when for the Ford Fireworks? 08:03 Norris and Jer's most surprising personal political takes 14:19 Where to watch the World Cup matches around town 16:48 Top three Detroit style pizza picks, each from Jer and Norris

I'm joined by Khalilah Burt Gaston of the Song Foundation to talk about who actually builds a tech economy — and why it's often the "geeks, freaks, and weirdos" who drive the biggest change. We get into the recent Tech for Tomorrow report, what it would take to add 20,000 tech and innovation jobs for Detroiters and $6.3 billion in wages, and how cities like Indianapolis and Columbus are pulling ahead of Detroit, Metro Detroit, and Michigan.  We also connect the dots between tax policy, education, nonprofits, and how Detroit can really seize this moment. As always, follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. Feedback as always - dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211, leave a voicemail. You can find a full transcript on our Daily Detroit website.

On today's Daily Detroit, Devon O'Reilly is back at the table after a family vacation in South Haven, so we start with some "Pure Michigan" talk about why that beach town has become a go‑to spot. Back in Detroit, I share a new Campus Martius retail experiment: a 20‑foot shipping container turned into a niche merch shop with Michigannia‑themed designs, custom Pewabic tile, and all the Camp Martius‑centric gear you could want. We also get into the lunchtime crowds, food trucks in Cadillac Square, and why it really feels like "IRL is back" in the city. Then we open the mailbag for smart note from a listener on exactly why Michigan's cannabis business is under serious stress. We wrap with a grab bag of very Detroit stories: Devon remembers swimming in the Detroit River off Belle Isle, I share the tale of Sheba the elephant buried near the island's giant slide (thanks Historic Detroit dot org!), and we kick around what a new Detroit City FC stadium needs to host beyond soccer. There's also a shout to a summer solstice member event at Henry and Clara Ford's Fairlane Estate, where Jens Jensen literally designed the great meadow to frame the solstice sunset. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever shows are found. Feedback as always - 313-789-3211 or dailydetroit@gmail.com is where you can shoot us a note.

On this episode of Daily Detroit, I sit down with returning guest Dr. Paul Thomas, CEO and founder of Plum Health Direct Primary Care, to talk about The Real Cost of Healthcare for Michigan Families (And How We Might Fix It). We get into why having health insurance so often feels like what. Dr. Thomas calls "financial anxiety wrapped in an insurance card," especially when families are facing huge deductibles before they see any real benefit. We talk about how little of our overall spending goes to primary care in the United States, what that means for people in metro Detroit, and how shifting more investment into frontline care could keep people healthier while lowering long term costs. Dr. Thomas also explains how direct primary care works in real life and how some Michigan employers and a local school district are already saving serious money by changing how they pay for care. We wrap up with the policy picture, from Lansing to the national Medicare for All debate, and preview his upcoming "Ripe for Change" event for employers, brokers, and clinicians who want to rethink healthcare in Michigan. More on the Ripe for Change event here.

On today's Daily Detroit, we start with big news for Detroit City FC fans and the future of Corktown. Jer and Norris recap their visit to the new Detroit City FC welcome center on Vernor and break down fresh details on AlumiFi Field, the club's planned new stadium next to Michigan Central. The opening date has officially slid to the 2028 season, and the guys explain why that's actually a smarter move given the complexity of the build, site cleanup, and surrounding development. They get into the latest renderings, from 14 traditional suites, 10 container suites, and pitch‑side boxes, to supporter sections staying proudly at midfield and design touches that lean into DCFC's identity and Detroit's skyline. Then, it's a look at a shifting nightlife landscape. The closure of UFO Bar's current concept in Corktown, the announced end of Spot Lite on the east side, and the original Fowling Warehouse in Hamtramck all spark a conversation about drinking habits, the economics of bars and clubs, and whether Detroit needs to "rewrite the contract" for going out. That leads into a bigger question: Should Detroit have a 24‑hour party district, and if so, where would it go?  Finally, we get into the CPA Building at Michigan and 14th hitting the market for $2.4 million, and what a smart redevelopment across from Michigan Central could look like. Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211. Find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

In Metro Detroit, it's not enough to talk about transit plans. There are tons of ideas out there. It's about action. I sat down with SMART General Manager and CEO Tiffany J. Gunter to dig into what it really takes to run a 2,000‑square‑mile suburban transit system that people can rely on. We get into the essential stuff: on‑time performance, keeping buses maintained and in service, and why Tiffany started by "going back to basics" while also upgrading shelters, adding Wi‑Fi, and insisting on more dignity for riders. We also also talk about the culture shift of running transit in a region dominated by the car, the 30% rise in ridership SMART is seeing, and how free student rides and better communication are building a new generation of riders who don't see the bus as "for someone else." You'll hear how Oakland County's all‑in vote opened the door for SMART's first new routes since the 1990s, why microtransit in places like Pontiac and Dearborn is exploding, and what's at stake as Wayne County voters consider going all‑in this August. Tiffany also explains why she rides the buses herself, why collaboration with DDOT and the Transit app matters, and where autonomous vehicles actually fit — as a last‑mile tool, not a silver bullet like many may think. If you care about where Metro Detroit's economy and talent go next, this one's worth the ride. As always, feedback welcome at dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or leave a voicemail at 313-789-3211.  If this is your first time here, be sure to follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 

Detroit's drink is turning 160, and there's a big Vernors party in Eastern Market to celebrate. Today, Jer heads into one of the largest Vernors collections anywhere with Keith Wunderlich, founder of the Vernors Club, to talk about how a Civil War–era pharmacy experiment became a Detroit icon. We get into the history behind "Detroit's Drink," from the original Woodward bottling plant to the family business days and beyond, and why the Vernors story still resonates with Detroit's legacy of manufacturing and great food. Then, we look ahead to Sunday's street celebration on Riopelle in Eastern Market, where the Vernors Club is marking the 160th anniversary. Expect a Vernors brunch at Marrow in the Market (yes, gnome waffles and Vernors barbecue), special cocktails, a Boston Cooler cream ale from Eastern Market Brewing, Vernors cream ale tastings, and Milk & Froth scooping Vernors ice cream and floats for the first time since the 1980s. It's family-friendly, too, with Henry the Hatter making gnome hats for kids, coloring tables, and even the Vernors gnome and James Vernor V on hand. If you love Detroit, this one's for you. More event details about Sunday: https://easternmarket.org/events/vernors-160th-anniversary-celebration/ Follow the Vernors club: https://vernorsclub.weebly.com/  

Detroit's only PGA Tour stop is ending, a landmark Detroit high school is coming down, and the Detroit River is getting a major cleanup — plus, we ask the question: Would you actually swim in it? In this episode, we break down the coming opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge and why its freeway connections and pedestrian path matter for trade, traffic, and everyday Detroiters.  We get into Rocket Companies ending its Rocket Mortgage Classic sponsorship after 2026, what that means for Detroit Golf Club, tourism, and the city's national image. Then we tackle the demolition of historic Cooley High, the plan for a new state-funded athletic complex, and the bigger fight over whether Detroit is really "full" — or if the city needs more people, more housing, and more creative land use. Finally, they talk EPA and EGLE's $10 million plan to pull toxic sediment from the Detroit River near Harbortown and Belle Isle, and ask listeners: are you Team Yes or No on swimming in the river? Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com, 313-789-3211, or on Instagram, Facebook or Threads. Look for Daily Detroit and Phezzy!

Airbnb is betting on Detroit as a destination — and the numbers back it up. On today's Daily Detroit, I'm at the Grand Hotel talking with Vince Frillici, Airbnb's policy lead for the Great Lakes, about how short-term rentals are reshaping travel in the city and across Michigan. We dig into the data: about 700 Detroiters hosting on any given day and just under 150,000 guests who stayed in Detroit Airbnbs last year, with nearly half of them staying 11–30 nights. That points to Detroit quietly becoming a long-stay city for remote workers and people here on temporary assignments. Vince also lays out how Airbnb is leaning into that demand, from curated Detroit "Experiences" and food tours to bringing independent hotels like Trumbull & Porter and the Siren onto the platform, plus new partnerships for Eastern Market groceries in your fridge and airport curbside pickup. Then we zoom out to Lansing and talk about Michigan's pre‑internet tourism tax laws, why Airbnb is backing bills to modernize them, and what a fairer system could mean for local communities that host all this new visitor activity. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever podcasts are found!  Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot -com or 313-789-3211. 

Did you know Metrop Detroit now has five innovation districts? MICHauto executive director (and new Southwest Detroit pub co‑owner) Glenn Stevens joined us to talk about why Michigan needs a 'moonshot' for innovation. Plus, we get into why he's personally excited about helping open the Regal Eagle, a soccer bar in the shadow of Michigan Central and the new stadium.  They get into what the next governor's roadmap should look like, how autos, AI, and China are reshaping Michigan's economy, and why places like TechTown, Michigan Central, Black Tech Saturdays, and the Ann Arbor–Detroit innovation corridor matter for founders across the state. More on MICHAuto: https://michauto.org/ Thanks as always to our members on Patreon for supporting us: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit  

Busy episode today on your Daily Detroit. Here's your rundown of nine stories we talk about today with timestamps: 0:55 - The new New High Société restaurant in Dearborn 05:08 - Revisiting Republica in Berkley 06:18 - Is there a law of diminishing returns on a burger? 08:04 - Wright & Co in downtown Detroit is part of a big trend of restaurants switching to private event venues 12:11 - Atwater is back under local ownership  15:49 - The popular Midway in Downtown Detroit might return 19:29 - University Boards in Michigan Stay Elected, despite Matt Hall and Gretchen Whitmer agreeing 21:29 - Road funding from marijuana money runs short, this could be a big issue 23:52 - Do Michiganders actually want better roads? Do we want to pay for them or deal with the construction? Or would we really rather have potholes? Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211.

Three stories we talk about today on your Daily Detroit, finished as finalist in Hour Detroit's Best of Detroit (thank you!) Detroit's beloved Dutch Girl Donuts is back in the headlines, and we start today's episode with the sweet news: a free donut sneak peek of their new East Grand Boulevard location this Friday morning. We talk through what the second shop means for the growing Milwaukee Junction / New Center corridor that's picking up steam. Federal prosecutors allege a former Detroit People Mover procurement director and a contractor steered more than $300,000 to a company for work that was never done, using a string of phony invoices. We dig into what that kind of money could have meant for real projects, why oversight failures keep eroding public trust, and why Detroiters are rightfully tired of people stealing from the city. And lastly, a response to a listener question about Governor Gretchen Whitmer's support for the massive Stargate AI data center in Saline Township.  Instead of another hot take, we lay out a "steel-man" case for why state leaders might say yes: jobs, tax base, Michigan's long-term economic challenges, and the reality that AI isn't going away.  We also get into the other side and wrestle with the environmental concerns, local democracy blowback, township vs. city power, and what it means for a small community that loudly said "no" and was overruled anyway. Feedback as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211. Make sure to follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows.

Detroit sits under two major migratory flyways, making it one of the best places in North America to see birds on the move. Gretchen Abrams from the Detroit Bird Alliance joins us to preview the first Pheasant Flock Party coming up this weekend, talk spark birds (the birds that first get you into birding), and share how vacant lots turned meadows are helping wildlife across the city. Detroit Bird Alliance: https://www.detroitbirdalliance.org Pheasant Flock Party event listing (Eventbrite): https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pheasant-flock-party-tickets-1987392430258 As always, feedback is welcome - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211.  Follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Daily Detroit is on the porch at the Mackinac Policy Conference, and Jer and Devon have a wide‑ranging conversation about Michigan's political future and Detroit's urgency problem. From Governor Gretchen Whitmer's emphatic "no" on a presidential run to the very real possibility she ends up as the top choice for vice president, they unpack what her popularity says about the broader electoral landscape and 2024's lessons for Democrats in a swing state. (That said, after we recorded, she hedged her bets later in the day). On the island, the 2026 governor's race was present (but not in a debate), and we talk about it. Then, they zoom in on one of the most revealing moments of the week: A years‑long legislative delay on the RenCen brownfield deal, even with a billion‑dollar offer on the table and no profit motive. What does it say about how Michigan makes decisions, and we talk about why "maybe" is often worse than "no." The conversation closes with a look at the dysfunction of elected university boards in Michigan in the wake of the resignation of the MSU president, the talent pipeline, and the physical glow‑up on Mackinac Island — from the Grand Hotel to Lake View and Mission Point — as Michigan lives up to its billing as a top national destination.

Today we talk about how Michigan slipped from a top‑tier state into the bottom 10 on key measures like education, income and population — and why acknowledging the crisis is the first step to fixing it.  Today's conversation is with Detroit Regional Chamber president and CEO Sandy Baruah gets into this year's urgent theme at the Mackinac Policy Conference: "The house is on fire." Sandy explains why he thinks more common ground between business and policymakers, and between Democrats and Republicans, is the only way to reverse those long‑term trends. We get into how constant partisan whiplash on policy, from electric vehicles to economic development, makes it nearly impossible for Michigan's signature industries to plan long term.  They close on what success at Mackinac would look like over the next one to five years — from educating a whole new wave of elected officials to locking in 70‑percent solutions instead of all‑or‑nothing showdowns. And, despite the alarms, Sandy lays out why Michigan's quality of life, workforce, and higher‑ed system still give the state a real chance to win. Feedback as always, dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Transit in Metro Detroit is at an inflection point. We talk with Transportation Riders United executive director Megan Owens about the new Wayne County‑wide transit millage, what an extra eight bucks a month could unlock, and how our region invests less in buses than almost any big metro in America. The vote is crucial for the future of transit as it would finally opt-in all communites in Wayne County to transit, similar to how most places nationall work. If it fails, we could lose what service we do have.  They dig into Lansing's latest budget "switcheroo," how Oakland County's all‑in vote reshaped service, and TRU's upcoming Round‑the‑Mitten tour to prove you really can ride public transit from Detroit to Marquette.

On today's Daily Detroit, we start the week with a conversation with State Senator — and Democratic U.S. Senate hopeful — Mallory McMorrow. It's the third in our series of Democratic Senate candidate interviews, and we're focused squarely on what federal power could actually mean for Detroit, Metro Detroit, and Michigan. McMorrow talks about why she first Googled "how to run for office" after the 2016 election, and why she frames governing as a design challenge to build policy that improves people's lives. She talked about an approach to ieconomic development that feels less like "Lucy and the football" and more like real, ground‑up regional growth — including transit as economic development, and keeping young people from leaving the state. From there, the conversation moves to the auto industry and EVs, competition from China, and why she wants incentives that grow talent and clusters of jobs instead of focusing on chasing megaprojects. We also touch on affordability: gas prices, housing, childcare, and McMorrow's push to scale ideas like universal pre‑K, free school meals, more housing production, paid leave, and cracking down on scammy online ads. You'll also hear her vision on healthcare access, expanding Michigan's red flag law approach to the federal level, and supporting Detroit‑grown community violence intervention. And because this is Daily Detroit, they close with some city love — from classic Michigan license plates helping fix roads to her favorite spots around town.  We'll be at the Mackinac Policy Conference all week, so be sure to check your podcast feeds and inboxes for updates.  Constructive feedback as always: 313-789-3211 or dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com. And make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get shows. 

Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has abruptly ended his independent run for governor, blowing up Michigan's 2026 race less than six months before voters head to the polls. In this emergency episode of Daily Detroit, Jer, Devon and Norris break down why Duggan says "the numbers just aren't there," how national headwinds shifted after Trump's second-term agenda, and why independents are stampeding away from the GOP this cycle. We get into what Duggan's exit means for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson's path to the governor's office, the clown car situation on the Republican side, and how this all reshapes the map heading into the Mackinac Policy Conference. We also kick around some speculation on Duggan's next move — including strong rumors about the presidency of the University of Michigan — and why his "fixer" skill set might be headed from city hall to collegiate head.  As always, be sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to shows.

The Pistons' playoff run ends in heartbreak. A teen takeover shooting in downtown Detroit forces hard conversations about blame and perspective — as well as holding multiple thngs to be true at the same time. Plus, the Business of Food Summit reveals how Metro Detroit's food scene really works. And we ask the question - what counts as metro Detroit? When it comes to dining out, in reality, it's a really big map. Feedback on the podcast as always - dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211. And follow the show on Apple Podcasts to wherever you get shows!

In this episode, Jer and Norris sit down with Ian John Solomon, better known as Ian Outside, an outdoor reporter, artist, and one of the Midwest's most powerful voices for environmental storytelling. Ian has become a champion for Black outdoor recreation in Detroit and MIchigan through his work, involved in everything from policy to organization to journalism — on top of a great social media presence.  We get into the 300+ parks in the city, the fact that Detroit is a maritime city, and so, so, so much more.  Ian John Solomon is an interdisciplinary artist-journalist and organizer. He holds a B.A. in broadcast journalism from the Walter Cronkite School with a minor in political science. After a stint as a congressional reporter in D.C., Ian returned to Detroit to combine his journalism background with his passion for the outdoors. Amplify Outside - Founder of this Detroit-based organization dedicated to amplifying Black outdoor recreation, increasing representation, access, and infrastructure for Black Michiganders seeking outdoor experiences. The organization recently launched as a podcast on the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in April 2026. Detroit Parks Coalition - Communications & Engagement Manager, where he works to highlight the city's 300+ parks and green spaces.  PBS Great Lakes Now - Emmy Award-winning host of the "Ian Outside" segment. He has received two Emmy nominations and one Emmy Award, plus a First Place award from the Society of Professional Journalists. Planet Detroit - He has a series of reports you can find on their website. If you love this conversation, be sure to follow Daily Detroit wherever you get shows - on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, YouTube, or anywhere else.  Also, we're supported by our members on Patreon. 

Detroit has posted population gains for the third consecutive year, adding more than 5,000 residents and leading the entire state in growth. Two city residents and a former resident discuss the Census Bureau data showing Detroit now has nearly 650,000 people.  The conversation explores what's driving the comeback — from intentional investments in housing and small businesses to the city's unique culture and identity that makes people want to stay. They also discuss retention strategies, the importance of building diverse housing stock, and predictions for Detroit's future growth, including the possibility of climate migration bringing even more new residents to the Great Lakes region. As always, feedback - dailydetroit@gmail.com or 313-789-3211. Make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

A black bear near Flat Rock, a massive water main break in northern Oakland County, and one of Detroit's most talked‑about restaurants changing course all add up to a busy epsiode. We start with Norris History Month updates and a few fun picks, from Deluxx Fluxx and SPKRBOX to a Mother's Day dinner at Bar Pigalle in Brush Park. Then we dig into reports of a possible black bear sighting in southern Wayne County, what the DNR says to do if you see it, and why "you cannot knock out a bear" no matter what social media tries to tell you. There's a days‑long water outage and boil advisories after a 42‑inch main ruptured in Oakland County, what it says about aging infrastructure across Metro Detroit — and why sprawl is making the bill for repairs so steep for a region that hasn't actually grown in population since the 1970s. And finally, news that Marrow is consolidating into its Eastern Market location and leaving West Village and Birmingham, what that means for the restaurant scene, and the business reason why some "regional play" concepts end up gravitating to greater downtown. If you're dealing with the outage, seeing the development shifts up close, or just have thoughts on where this region grows next, let's hear from you! Leave a voicemail at 313‑789‑3211 or send a note, dailydetroit@gmail.com.

Ferndale Pride executive director Julia Music joins us to preview this year's mile-long joyous celebration on West Nine Mile – from a new creamsicle Pride beer to drag, street waffles, stages, and a sensory-friendly zone.  Find out where all the fun and connections are for this free festival on 5/30/26. And be sure to say hey at our Pride arch and get a special edition sticker! More: https://ferndalepride.com/

Lifelong Detroiter Jerrylyn Cope Howard joins us to share what it's really been like to grow up, raise a family, and stay rooted in the city for decades. From Hudson's and Kresge's ice cream waffle sandwiches to the 1967 uprising, STRESS and the Big Four, legendary nightclubs, Gantos at Northland Mall, and today's rooftop bars, she traces how Detroit has changed — and why she still loves it. We get stories about Brightmoor, parenting a kid with a big vocabulary (our own Norris Howard), and what it means to move beyond Motown nostalgia and look to the future... while still holding on to the good memories. This is the beginning of an occasional series on Detroiters, focusing on those not always lifted up in the media.  Feedback as always — dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or leave a voicemail, 313-789-3211.

Jer and Devon are back at the table, kicking things off with Devon's recent trip to Pittsburgh and what Detroit can learn from its dense, walkable core, lively riverfront, and reuse of historic buildings. Then they swing back home as Jer heads up to the rooftop at The Godfrey to check in on the views, vibes, and espresso martini trees lighting up the night crowd. Devon pushes back on the idea that Dearborn is losing people, arguing the city is quietly adding residents, building housing, and skewing younger than most of Michigan — and he previews the upcoming Dearborn Night of Innovation and Bet on Dearborn business expo. Finally, the pair break down plans for a new 600-room convention hotel connected to Huntington Place, why downtown still needs more rooms, and how the project fits into the post-office, hotel-vs-residential debate in Detroit's core. As always - feedback dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211.