Detroit Today with Stephen Henderson: Recent Episodes
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Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community leaders and issues that define our region. Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views and brings you into the conversation each day.
Created Equal is about the promise of opportunity and the challenge of inequality from the city that built America — Detroit. Exploring the strings of inequality that run through the American experience, each episode explores the question: How did we arrive at this moment in history? Stephen Henderson hosts, building on familiar themes from Detroit Today, which is now an archived show. Search for Created Equal from WDET Detroit Public Radio on your favorite podcast app or WDET.org. Or listen live weekdays, 9-10 a.m. on 101.9 FM in Detroit.
Much like I-375 in Detroit, cities around the US are undergoing highway removal projects. But what can we learn from how they engage with the communities who will be affected by the plans? Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, chief executive with the Ashé Cultural Arts Center in New Orleans, joins Stephen to share what it’s like for the community to be involved at the onset of a highway’s removal. Then, Regan Patterson, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of California, stops by to share if there is an effective process for highway removal that can repair and reconcile communities next to highways.
Continuing our Reckoning 375 series, Jonathan Loree from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) joins Stephen to explain why the department plans to build a road where I-375 currently exists. Then, former Detroit Free Press columnist John Gallagher explains how we got to this point in the project's existence.
On this re-aired conversation, we continue our mini-series "Reckoning 375" with a look at the history of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley. Stephen Henderson is joined by Detroit historian Jamon Jordan and researcher Emily Kutil to take a closer look at the history and culture of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley amid plans to replace I-375 in downtown Detroit with a six-lane boulevard.
Beginning with the voices of people who lived in or were connected to Black Bottom and were forced to move due to the construction of I-375, Stephen Henderson and Nick Austin re-air this Detroit Today miniseries — Reckoning 375 — every Friday until late November. In this episode, they listen to recordings from Bert Dearing, Jr. of Bert's Marketplace, Marsha Music, a voice narrator and artist, and Gloria Hopkins, a former resident of Black Bottom, and explore what the neighborhood mean to them and the consequences of dismantling it in lieu of constructing I-375.
From policy proposals to 80s music references, a lot happened at Gov. Whitmer's 2024 State of the State address. Zach Gorchow of Gongwer News Service, longtime political consultant Greg Bowens, and Lauren Gibbons of Bridge Michigan, join Stephen to break down the speech, including the specific policy proposals and what we should expect from Lansing ahead of the upcoming elections.
A new proposed tax credit from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer would provide up to $5,000 in relief to caregivers in the state. Advocates suggest the relief would be especially helpful for members of the 'sandwich' generation -- working adults who care for their minor children, while simultaneously serving as the primary caregiver for aging parents and the challenges they face with conditions like dementia. Danielle Atkinson, Founding Director of Mothering Justice, joins Stephen to discuss why her organization is supportive of the proposal. Then, Wayne State University Assistant Professor Amanda Leggett stops by to detail her research into the 'sandwich' generation, including what makes their caretaking challenges unique and ways we can help reduce the burden.
Detroit’s Reparations Task Force has had a bumpy road of late, with three vacancies and inconsistent meetings. So, what’s next with the task force? And, what are they doing to get back on track. Reparations Task Force Co-chair Keith Williams, and the founders of the African American Redress Network discuss the new efforts that are happening to study past harms done to Black Detroiters. Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit joins to offer context to the situation.
Half of Detroit’s residents are renters. On this re-aired episode of Detroit Today, Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City says to increase homeownership in the city, we need banks to support lending for homes priced under $100,000. Goss and Stephen also discussed the barriers to homeownership for Black residents and the importance of homeownership as a key way to build generational wealth.
Sports stadiums and teams get millions and even billions of dollars of tax breaks and that begs the question: Should Detroit and other cities be luring sports teams if they have to give up a lot of money in order to do so? Bill Shea, a sports business journalist and novelist, and David Berri, a sports economist and professor at Southern Utah University, join Stephen to discuss whether sports teams are worth it.
The Detroit Lions are going to the second round of the playoffs, and it has a lot of people really excited. Tim Alberta, best-selling author and staff writer for The Atlantic magazine, received national acclaim for his article, “The Thrill of Defeat”, which highlights how his life was shaped by watching the Detroit Lions lose. Tim joins Stephen to talk about what this moment means for them and Michiganders.
A new report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation highlighted a growing opportunity gap between African American students in the state and their white peers. How much of that is simply about poverty? And, how can we help close it? Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti joins Stephen to discuss. Then, Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Jon Valant explores what policies need to be implemented to close the educational opportunity gap.
Amusement taxes are common way for cities to capture revenue from sporting events, but not in Michigan. Could a new tax provide much-needed funding for city services? Eric Lupher, Robin Boyle and Charles Ballard join Stephen to discuss the renewed push for implementing amusement taxes in Detroit.
Why does America still have a problem with homelessness, and why has the issue been getting worse more recently in both the city and our country? Journalist Nushrat Rahman and Tonya Hogan, a formerly homeless individual in Detroit, explore the issue locally. Then, scholar and author Gregg Colburn joins Stephen to discuss why homelessness is fundamentally a housing issue.
Detroit's NAACP President Reverend Wendell Anthony joins Stephen to discuss Dr. Martin Luther King's impact in Detroit as well as his relationship to the NAACP. Then, we take a listen to Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech in Detroit, where he first gave it.
State lawmakers have done a lot to reform its juvenile justice system, but advocates want to see more done to help rehabilitate, rather than simply punish, young people who’ve done harm. Advocates from the ACLU of Michigan, in addition to a state senator and law professor join Stephen to discuss the reforms that have happened in this space, and what more needs to be done.
A court recently ruled that some of Michigan’s state House and Senate maps violated the Voting Rights Act and made it harder for Black Detroiters to achieve proper representation. The Michigan Independent Citizen’s Redistricting Commission -- the body that created the state's maps -- has voted to appeal this decision, but the claim suggests a lot of questions. What do fair political maps look like in Southeast Michigan? And, what should political representation look like? A local representative from Detroit, and those opposing and supporting the court’s decision join Stephen to discuss.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's Land Value Tax Plan would change the way the city values houses and the land. But is it a good idea? Nick Allen suggested the solution to the mayor and joins Stephen to make the case for the plan. Alex Alsup also joins the show to discuss if it will force land speculators in the city to behave any differently. This episode first aired on WDET on November, 16, 2023.
On Saturday, Michigan Republicans voted to oust party chair Kristina Karamo. While Karamo maintains the removal is invalid, what are the ramifications for the state ahead of the 2024 elections? Vance Patrick, chairman of the Oakland County Republican Party joins Stephen to discuss why he believes the vote occurred and what it means for the party. Next, political consultant Dennis Darnoi discusses the underlying turmoil in the party and the historic nature of the vote. Finally, American Enterprise Institute senior fellow Tim Carney stops by to discuss the significance of the vote and how it fits into the broader political trends occurring in the Republican party.
Stephen talks with David French about the disconnect between conservatism and the Republican Party. Originally published November 22, 2022.
A number of Democrats are running to take over for Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who decided to not run for reelection. In this re-aired episode of Detroit Today, Stephen talks with some of those candidates, in addition to Senator Debbie Stabenow.
Several Republicans have jumped into the race for Senate in Michigan. On this re-aired program, Detroit Today looks back at the candidates running for the seat made open by Sen. Debbie Stabenow's decision not to run for reelection.
Can a third party ticket like the one proposed by No Labels prevail in Michigan? Retired Michigan U.S. Rep. Fred Upton and political science professor Bernard Tamas joined Detroit Today to discuss the No Labels party and its chances to succeed in the 2024 election.
After 20 years of development, Detroit’s Riverwalk now spans 3.5 miles. Detroit Riverfront Conservancy president and CEO Mark Wallace joins Stephen to share the story of Detroit's riverfront development, and what they hope to accomplish in the future.
In December, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approved a rate increase for DTE Energy customers and greenlit the construction of a tunnel for Enbridge Energy's Line 5 fossil fuel pipeline under the Straits of Mackinac. Dan Scripps, Chair of the MPSC joined Stephen to explain why the 3-person committee approved both of the controversial and unpopular proposals. Rachel Gold, from the Rocky Mountain Institute also joined to discuss how other utility commissions operate elsewhere in the United States. Originally published December 8, 2023.
With Israeli military action accounting for more than 20,000 deaths in Gaza, the Israel-Hamas war is dividing Democratic representatives and voters here in southeast Michigan. Metro Detroit is home to 70,000 Jewish residents and the largest concentration of Arab Americans in the U.S. Stephen spoke with Dennis Darnoi and Greg Bowens about how both political parties are responding to the war and the consequences for future elections. Originally published November 1, 2023.
Half of Detroit’s residents are renters. Anika Goss of Detroit Future City says to increase homeownership in the city, we need banks to support lending for homes priced under $100,000. Goss and Stephen also discussed the barriers to homeownership for Black residents and the importance of homeownership as a key way to build generational wealth. Originally published December 5, 2023.
We’ve had some ups and downs in 2023 but we made it to Festivus! Following the holiday spirit, Detroit Today discusses things that drive us nuts to honor the fake holiday made famous by Frank Costanza on the 90s sitcom Seinfeld. Nancy Kaffer, the editorial page editor of the Detroit Free Press, Kim Trent, the Deputy Director for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, and WDET's Ryan Patrick Hooper, all joined to air their grievances with Stephen Henderson.
In 2016, Donald Trump won 81 percent of the white Evangelical vote. In the 2020 presidential election, that number went essentially unchanged. Over the last few decades, white evangelical Christians have become a critical part of the Republican Party. And because of that, they both changed American politics and the way the church operates. In a new book, “The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory: American Evangelicals in an Age of Extremism,” Brighton, Michigan native and author Tim Alberta explores this trend, and more.
Governor Whitmer created the "Growing Michigan Together Council" earlier this summer to reverse Michigan's sluggish population growth. In July, Stephen sat down with a group of young professionals to talk about choosing to live in Michigan (or not).
Detroit has lost 10 grocery stores since 2017. What does this mean for residents and how are community members working to reverse this trend? Malik Yakini of the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network joins Stephen to discuss the differences between food security and food sovereignty, and what he believes the city can do to increase access to healthy food and groceries. Then Winona Bynum from the Detroit Food Policy Council stops by to discuss the issue.
Detroit is nearing its lowest yearly murder total in almost 60 years. What is driving this reduction in crime? Detroit Police Department (DPD) Assistant Chief Charles Fitzgerald joins Stephen to discuss the collaborative efforts of city, county, and state officials under the Gun Violence Reduction Partnership he believes is critical to its success. Then, criminologist Ernesto Lopez joins to discuss nationwide trends in violent crime.
Detroit is now home to America’s first stretch of road that wirelessly charges electric vehicles. The inductive-charging roadway in Corktown was a collaboration between four primary agencies — the Michigan Department of Transportation, the City of Detroit, Newlab at Michigan Central and the company Electreon. Tim Slusser, the Chief of Mobility Innovation at the City of Detroit joined Stephen to discuss the road project and the potential future of infrastructure in the city. Then, Nick Nigro, Founder of Atlas Public Policy, joined to explore America’s growing electric vehicle infrastructure.
In the 1920s, Detroit considered replacing its streetcar system with a full blown subway system, but the city abandoned the idea. Jake Berman, author of the new book, “The Lost Subways of North America” joined Stephen to discuss why the public transit systems in American cities have been neglected and what it would take to create high-speed rail or subways in U.S. cities.
A new development proposal from Tom Gores, Henry Ford Health, the Detroit Pistons, and Michigan State University is seeking almost $300 million in tax subsidies from the city of Detroit. Three people with close connections to the project join Stephen Henderson to make the case for why the "Future of Health" project is, or isn't, a net positive for city residents.
Michigan's Republican Party is on the verge of bankruptcy, and many want to remove chair Kristina Karamo from her seat. What do Michigan Republicans see as the problems in their own party? And, what kinds of solutions are they putting forth? Vance Patrick, chairman of Oakland County Republican Party, and Bree Moeggenberg, committeewoman for District 2 of the state Republican Party, join Stephen to discuss. Then Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger offers more context for discord in the party.
Last Friday, the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approved a rate increase for DTE Energy customers and greenlit the construction of a tunnel for Enbridge Energy's Line 5 fossil fuel pipeline under the Straits of Mackinac. Dan Scripps, Chair of the MPSC joined Stephen to explain why the 3-person committee approved both of the controversial and unpopular proposals. Rachel Gold, from the Rocky Mountain Institute also joined to discuss how other utility commissions operate elsewhere in the United States.
Wednesday evening, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel delivered his “State of Macomb” speech to the public. Mark joined Nick Austin to share even more insight following the speech, including how he sees his role as County Executive, why diversity is important for the county, public transit, and what the county is doing to attract new residents to the state.
The United Automotive Workers settled with automakers in October, spurring ripple effects among non-union automotive companies. Many have preemptively offered wage increases following the settlement. David Straughn, an automotive journalist for Automoblog, joined Stephen Henderson to discuss how the UAW’s contract negotiations have affected the auto industry in both broad and deep ways.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan recently reached a tentative verbal contract agreement with their workers. Derrick Jackson, Vice President of UAW Local 2500, joined Stephen to discuss the finality of their strike, which had been ongoing since September. The agreement, which still needs to be ratified, promises substantial changes for the workers, including higher pay for workers earlier in their careers.
Half of Detroit’s residents are renters. Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City says to increase homeownership in the city, we need banks to support lending for homes priced under $100,000. Goss and Stephen also discussed the barriers to homeownership for Black residents and the importance of homeownership as a key way to build generational wealth.
Church attendance numbers are in decline for all Americans, and that’s also true of Black communities. How does this change the significance of the Black church in American life? Jason Oliver Evans, a PhD candidate at the University of Virginia, focusing on Christian theology and African American religion, joined Nick Austin to discuss the shifting role of the Black church and his own personal religious journey.
The Reverend Dr. Charles Adams passed away last week. He was a preacher who led one of Detroit’s Hartford Memorial Baptist Church. Kim Trent grew up listening to Rev. Adams’ sermons, and recently wrote a piece in the Detroit Free Press titled, “Rev. Charles Adams was more than a pastor. He was a legend.” Kim joined Nick Austin to honor Rev. Adams and explore what he meant to Detroiters.
This isn’t the first time Detroit is managing a transition from a six-lane highway to a road. Our "Reckoning: 375” series continues to look at the I-375 Reconnecting Communities Project’s proposal. Antoine Bryant, Director of the Planning and Development Department for the City of Detroit talked to Stephen about the city’s engagement in the project. Laura Herberg, reporter at 101.9 WDET also joined to share her investigation comparing the roadway flowing out of the M-8 Davison Freeway to the I-375 project.
On Saturday. Dec. 2, Midtown Detroit, Inc is hosting the 49th annual Noel Night. 100 venues, museums and cultural institutions are open to the public and are planning to host 80 live performances. Susan Mosey, executive director of Midtown Detroit, Inc. talks with Stephen about how the event has grown over the decades. WDET’s doors are also open from 5-10 p.m. Saturday. Stroll through at 4600 Cass Avenue.
Can we come up with a reasonable solution to high property taxes in Detroit? Eric Lupher, President of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, and John Mogk, a law professor at Wayne State University, discuss the challenges in reforming Detroit’s tax system and potential solutions that could be implemented.
Workers at MotorCity Casino and Hollywood Casino in Greektown have voted to ratify a new contract. Casino employees at MGM Grand Detroit remain on strike, holding out for a better deal. Marick Masters, Chair of the Department of Finance at Wayne State University and organized labor expert, joined Stephen to compare the Detroit Casino Council with the United Automotive Workers, the logistics of bringing together multiple unions, and the difficulties of multi-employer bargaining.
What is behind the rise in worker dissatisfaction? According to Sarah Jaffe, author and co-host of the podcast “Belabored”, there’s been a fundamental shift in how workers perceive their relationship with their boss. She joined Stephen to talk about the gains unionized workers in Detroit have seen in 2023 and what they mean for the future.
Stephen Henderson and Nick Austin focus on the theme of development in Detroit this year and make the case for your financial support of Detroit Today. Celebrate WDET and become a monthly sustaining donor at wdet.org. #GivingTuesday
Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint) has decided not to run for reelection after a cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. He spoke with Stephen about his accomplishments and how politics has changed since he became a congressman.
Michigan Ph.D. candidate Aya Waller-Bey explains what trauma narratives are and how they affect Black students. This episode originally aired on Detroit Today on August 30, 2023.
What is 'spatchcocking?" Should you wet brine or dry brine your turkey? Should tur-duck-en be on your Thanksgiving Day menu? WDET Essential Music hosts Ann Delisi and Rob Reinhart join Nick Austin to discuss Thanksgiving Day traditions, disasters, cooking tips and all things in between for Detroit Today's 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Eve extravaganza.
Detroit is in the process of changing its voting district boundaries. Yurij Rodensky, Senior Council at the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program, spoke with Nick Austin about the pros and cons of single-member and at-large districts. Sheila Cockrel, CEO of CitizenDetroit and former Detroit city council member, explored the history of Detroit’s district changes, and what should be made of the newly proposed district voting boundaries.
Congressman Dan Kildee, the longtime representative of Flint, will not seek reelection after a decade in office. Simon Schuster, senior political reporter at MLive, joined Nick today to talk about what this means for House Democrats and whether Republicans will be able to win the soon-to-be open seat.
Melanie Piana is finishing her final term as the mayor of Ferndale and transitioning as the latest Program Director for the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan. Melanie joined Nick Austin to discuss Ferndale’s Woodward Moves project, which aims at improving pedestrian safety, and to discuss RTA’s future transit plans.
Our "Reckoning: 375" series continues by asking the question -- what could a reparative or restorative process look like? Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City and Marcia Black, the Executive Director of Black Bottom Archives, join Stephen to discuss what they believe is lacking in the current process, as well as how a truly reparative process might look.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's Land Value Tax Plan would change the way the city values houses and the land, with the goal of reducing homeowner property taxes and decreasing speculation. But is it a good idea? Nick Allen, a PhD candidate studying city planning at MIT suggested the solution to the mayor and joins Detroit Today to make the case for the plan. Alex Alsup, Vice President of R&D at Regrid, a property data company, also joins Stephen to discuss how this tax could encourage development in Detroit and if it will force land speculators in the city to behave any differently.
November is National Youth Homelessness Awareness Month. Steve Berg, Chief Policy Officer at the National Alliance to End Homelessness joins Nick Austin to discuss the national perspective on stable housing and how important an affordable housing market is. Then, Shontae Hightower, Director of Children’s Services at COTS, Courtney Smith, Founder and CEO of the Detroit Phoenix Center, and Meagan Dunn, Executive Director at Detroit-based Covenant House of Michigan stop by to share the work they do everyday to help Detroit’s unhoused population.
The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy just unveiled the Uniroyal Promenade, a half mile expansion passing through the former Uniroyal site along the Detroit River. After 20 years of development, Detroit’s Riverwalk now spans 3.5 miles. What does that mean for the public access and development on the river, both now and in the future? Detroit Riverfront Conservancy president and CEO Mark Wallace joins Stephen to share the story of Detroit's riverfront development, and what they hope to accomplish in the future.
Following a recent settlement with environmental groups, DTE will double its spending on energy efficiency in low-income areas. But where does this fit into Michigan’s goal of 100% clean energy 2040? Jason Kupser, the manager of energy efficiency at DTE Energy joined Stephen to discuss what DTE’s settlement includes, specifically for customers in Detroit. Then, Nick Schroeck stops by to share his thoughts on what the state needs to do to ensure affordable energy for households and meet its clean energy goals.
Our "Reckoning 375” series continues with a deeper look at how MDOT's "Reconnecting Communities" project is being implemented at the street level. Megan Owens of Transportation Riders United and Todd Scott of the Detroit Greenways Coalition explain how pedestrians are being ignored in the project. Then, two urban planning experts, Harley Etienne and Bryan Boyer, discuss the importance of conducting a better process to potentially remove I-375.
Lots of eyes are on the University of Michigan's football team…but not for reasons reflecting the great start the program is having. The NCAA is investigating the team for an elaborate scheme that allegedly allowed the team to improperly steal opposing teams play call signals to get a competitive advantage. Tony Garcia, a Detroit Free Press reporter covering University of Michigan football team, joins Stephen to discuss the investigation and what it might mean for the season. Then, New York University philosophy professor Lee Igel and California State University philosophy professor Garret Merriam stop by to break down the ethics of rule-breaking in and outside of sports and what it says about our society.
Nearly 4,600 Michigan voters across 40 cities and townships participated in early voting for the first time during the November 7th elections. This was part of a pilot program to test the process ahead of statewide in-person early voting in 2024. Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown and Westland City Clerk Richard LeBlanc joined Stephen to discuss how early voting worked in their communities and why they believe the project was a huge success.
Macomb county featured two of the most hotly contested races for mayor as term limits barred longtime Warren Mayor Jim Fouts from seeking a fifth term and embattled Eastpointe Mayor Monique Owens failed to make it out the primary. Christina Hall, a politics reporter at the Detroit Free Press joined Stephen to discuss the results of the elections, and what they mean for the county moving forward.
Democrats lost their narrow two-seat majority in the State House of Representatives following wins by Reps. Lori Stone and Kevin Coleman in local elections. Colin Jackson, a reporter covering politics for the Michigan Public Radio Network joined Stephen to discuss what it means for statewide legislation and what Democrats will need to do to reclaim the majority moving forward.
The state House recently passed two House Bills strengthening penalties for threatening election workers and 5 more House Bills that aim to regulate the use of artificial intelligence as it relates to Michigan’s elections. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson joins Stephen to discuss these bills and the election security measures being taken for election day.
Former Congressmember and Republican Peter Meijer is hopping into the race for U.S. Senate in Michigan. Meijer was among 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump in 2021 following the deadly mob siege of the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. What does that make us his chances in the Senate race? He joins Stephen to discuss.
Former Congress member and Republican Mike Rogers is hopping into the race for U.S. Senate in Michigan. What are the biggest challenges Michiganders face and how does he hope to tackle those issues? He joins Stephen to discuss.
Electric vehicle sales are slowing down, bringing consumer concerns over EV's to the forefront. Stephen Henderson is joined by Jamie Butters, executive editor of Automotive News and co-host of the Daily Drive podcast, about the obstacles that automakers will need to overcome to speed up EV adoption. Plus, state senator Sam Singh (D-Lansing) joins Stephen to explain how proposed legislation that would create the "Community and Worker Economic Transition Office" would affect the auto industry in Michigan.
The neighbors of I-375 are critical stakeholders in the project to remove the highway. The “Reckoning 375” limited series continues with a conversation on how the neighborhoods and businesses in the area may be affected by these plans. Writer Ken Coleman explores the possibility of doing something reparative for Black Detroiters in the area where I-375 now sits. Damien Perry, a principal at Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School, and Jennifer Pascha, manager of the Bailey Park Neighborhood Development Corporation, speak with Stephen about the impact on their neighborhoods and what they hope will manifest from the project. Charity Dean, CEO and president of the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance, explores how the commercial portion of the project will be negotiated.
A group of Michigan voters filed a complaint alleging that former President Donald Trump should be prohibited from being on the Michigan ballot. What disqualifies candidates from being on a ballot? Mark Brewer, an attorney, joined Stephen to discuss why he believes Trump violated the U.S. Constitution. Professor David Orentlicher discusses his concerns with preventing Trump from being on the ballot. And Professor Richard Broughton lends his constitutional insights to the case.
As the conflict escalates, the Israel-Hamas war is dividing Democratic representatives and voters here in southeast Michigan. With the Metropolitan Detroit area home to 70,000 Jewish residents and the largest concentration of Arab Americans in the country living in Dearborn, the division hits close to home. Stephen spoke with Dennis Darnoi, founder of Densar Consulting, a political consulting firm and Greg Bowens, a political reporter and consultant, about how both political parties are responding to the war and the consequences for future elections.
Henry Ford Health, Michigan State University and the Detroit Pistons' development project in New Center is seeking $273 million in Detroit tax subsidies. This is not a new trend when it comes to development in Detroit. But are tax incentives the best way to encourage residential and commercial development in the city? Director of Citizens Research Council, James Tatum joined Stephen to discuss Detroit’s ongoing relationship with tax abatement programs and who they really benefit.
Henry Ford Health, Michigan State University, and the Detroit Pistons are proposing a development that will expand Henry Ford Hospital and transform a section of New Center. The project invests $3 billion, including $273 million in tax subsidies. Denise Brooks-Williams, the Henry Ford Health Executive Vice President & Chief Executive Officer for Care Delivery System Operations joins Stephen to discuss Henry Ford’s goal of advancing health care on the West side of the city.
Ford became the first Detroit automaker to strike a deal with the UAW earlier in the week, a deal that UAW leadership is describing as historic. Phoebe Wall Howard, an automotive reporter for the Detroit Free Press joined Stephen to break down the significant details of the agreement and the progression of the negotiations with other automakers. Scholar Marick Masters also spoke about the effect this historic deal may have on other labor unions and future worker sentiment.
Much like I-375 in Detroit, cities around the US are undergoing highway removal projects. But what can we learn from how they engage with the communities who will be affected by the plans? Asali DeVan Ecclesiastes, chief executive with the Ashé Cultural Arts Center in New Orleans, joins Stephen to share what it’s like for the community to be involved at the onset of a highway’s removal. Then, Regan Patterson, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of California, stops by to share if there is an effective process for highway removal that can repair and reconcile communities next to highways.
Historically Michigan has subsidized corporations for the promise of jobs, but have these investments been beneficial to our communities? State Sen. Mallory McMorrow joins Stephen to talk about a bill package she’s introducing to modify the way we offer corporations tax incentives. The proposal would require companies to make direct investments in the community in addition to creating jobs. Then Lauren Gibbons, a reporter for Bridge Michigan and Chad Livengood, a politics editor at the Detroit News stop by to explore the different ways Democrats in the Senate view corporate incentives and the best way to create jobs in Michigan.
Medical debt is expensive and is the primary cause of personal bankruptcy. 115,000 residents in Oakland County, Michigan have medical debt. Chris Cavell, an Oakland County Commissioner joins Nick Austin to talk about an Oakland County program that plans to partner with a non profit that purchases and erases medical debt and will be available for residents early next year.
Hospital mergers can affect more than care and quality for patients. Detroit-based Henry Ford and Ascension Michigan recently announced a new joint-venture. Christopher Garmon, an Assistant Professor of Health Administration at the University of Missouri joins Nick Austin to discuss why hospital system mergers are so common, why bigger isn’t always better, and the fallout for patients.
The “Institutional Desecration Act”, which passed the state House, to enhance penalties for vandalism on cultural space. The legislation aims to reduce prejudice-related crime and help people feel safer in religious spaces. Democratic State Representative Ranjeev Puri joins Stephen to explain the potential consequences of the bill, and how it might affect different religious communities.
Watching violence play out in the Middle East has intensified fears here in Michigan. Scientists say our brains react to danger the same regardless of where that danger occurs. The conflict between Hamas and Israel, though far away, feels to many like a conflict endangering the lives of people here in Southeast Michigan. Arash Javanbakht, a psychiatrist and director of the Wayne State University Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC), joins Stephen to discuss why people are afraid right now, and how to manage that fear.
How can we regulate the use of A.I. in campaign ads? MI House Representative Penelope Tsernoglou joins Nick Austin to discuss why she recently introduced a bill package that regulates the usage of A.I in political advertising. Nick also speaks with Jovana Davidovic, a Professor of Philosophy and Josh Goldstein, a Research Fellow at Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) about how A.I. can shape public opinions and what our best defense against misinformation is.
Continuing our Reckoning 375 series, Jonathan Loree from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) joins Stephen to explain why the department plans to build a road where I-375 currently exists. Then, former Detroit Free Press columnist John Gallagher explains how we got to this point in the project's existence.
How has capitalism changed since the 1980s and where is it heading now? Elizabeth Anderson, a professor of public policy at the University of Michigan, joins Stephen to discuss the breaking points of our current capitalist system, what makes a healthy economy, and what a fair corporate world looks like for workers.
Detroit casino workers from MGM Grand, Hollywood Casino at Greektown, and MotorCity Casino Hotel are on strike this week. MGM Grand Detroit says it has made a counteroffer which includes the single largest pay increase in the history of the casino. Nia Winston, president of UNITE HERE Local 24, joins Stephen to discuss casino worker demands and how long workers are prepared to wait it out.
Does Michigan's new election map violate the Voting Rights Act of 1965 or does it create fairer elections? Next month, a federal court will determine whether the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission diluted the Black vote in Detroit-area districts. Stephen is joined by Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, a former Detroit state representative and Joshua Douglass, a voting rights professor at the University of Kentucky College of Law, to talk about the Voting Rights Act and whether Michigan’s political maps are fair.
Should Detroiters vote to value land more than structures? Detroit City Council member Gabriela Santiago-Romero joins Stephen to discuss why she delayed that potential vote. Then, data housing expert Alex Alsup explores what a Land Value Tax does, and why he thinks it would be better for city residents.
It's been a month and the UAW strikes are still ongoing. How long will they go for and what kind of deal may the UAW workers negotiate with the auto companies? Detroit Free Press writer Phoebe Wall Howard and Wayne State University Finance Chair and labor expert Marick Masters join Stephen to discuss.
We continue our mini-series “Reckoning 375" with a look at the history of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley. Stephen Henderson is joined by Detroit historian Jamon Jordan and researcher Emily Kutil to take a closer look at the history and culture of Black Bottom and Paradise Valley amid plans to replace I-375 in downtown Detroit with a six-lane boulevard.
Scott Shane joins Stephen Henderson to talk about his new book, “Flee North: A Forgotten Hero and the Fight for Freedom in Slavery’s Borderland,” which tells the story of Thomas Smallwood, a former slave who purchased his own freedom and coined the phrase 'Underground Railroad.' Then, Stephen is joined by Dr. Roy Finkenbine, director of the Black Abolitionist Archive, about Detroit and Windsor's role in the Underground Railroad.
The things that scare us define the boundaries of our imaginations and adventures and can hold us back from achieving peace of mind and life balance. But, can we turn our fears into a source of strength? Stephen Henderson spoke author Arash Javanbakht, psychiatrist and director of the Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic (STARC) at Wayne State University. His new book is “Afraid: Understanding the Purpose of Fear and Harnessing the Power of Anxiety.”
Stephen Henderson speaks with Ishaan Tharoor, foreign affairs columnist for the Washington Post, about what’s actually happening on the ground in Israel and Gaza. He then speaks with members of metro Detroit’s Arab American and Jewish communities to share their perspectives on the week’s events.
For the first time ever, Detroit has a Department of Agriculture, but what does that mean for the city? Tepfirah Rushdan joins Stephen Henderson to discuss land use, equitable access to food, the importance of growing produce in Detroit, and what she plans to do in her new role as the City of Detroit's first director of urban farming.
Beginning with the voices of people who lived in or were connected to Black Bottom and were forced to move due to the construction of I-375, Stephen Henderson and Nick Austin kick off a new Detroit Today miniseries — Reckoning 375 — every Friday until late November. In this episode, they listen to recordings from Bert Dearing, Jr. of Bert’s Marketplace, Marsha Music, a voice narrator and artist, and Gloria Hopkins, a former resident of Black Bottom, and explore what the neighborhood mean to them and the consequences of dismantling it in lieu of constructing I-375.
Do you use plastic bags at the grocery store? Currently in Michigan, local governments aren’t allowed to place restrictions on plastic bag use, but a new bill is seeking to change that. Nick Austin spoke with Andrea Bitely, VP for Marketing and Communications at Michigan Retailers Association, Christy McGillivray, the Legislative Director for the Sierra Club of Michigan, and State Senator Sue Shink about the arguments for and against plastic bag bans, including the impact and unintended consequences of a plastic bag ban in Michigan on consumers and businesses.
Union members across the country have been accumulating wins this year. Benjamin Sachs, Professor of Labor and Industry at Harvard Law School, joins Detroit Today to discuss the historic nature of the current labor climate, and what's behind America's support, and what it may mean for the future.
While the UAW and the Big 3 automakers continue to debate what a fair deal looks like for workers, others are raising concern about what the work stoppage could mean for the economy. Sandy Baruah, President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce, joins Detroit Today to discuss why his group wrote an open letter to Michigan business, government, labor and civic leaders calling for a "speedy resolution" with "fairness and long-term viability for all."
Workers at three Detroit casinos have voted to authorize a strike by mid-October if they cannot negotiate a new contract. Stephen Henderson and Nick Austin spoke with Nia Winston, president of Unite Here Local 24, and Terri Sykes, a dealer at Motor City Casino and president of UAW Local 7777 to talk about the workers' strikes at three Detroit casinos.
Over 1,000 members of Blue Cross Blue Shield have been on strike since mid-September. Stephen Henderson is joined by Derrick Jackson and Andante Valentine of UAW Local 2500 to discuss why their members are on strike, and what they hope to accomplish with the negotiations.
Stephen Delie, Director of Labor Policy at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, a free market think tank, joins the show to discuss why he believes the UAW strikes might "drive the Big Three off a cliff."
Auto supply trade groups report that the industry is struggling as UAW strikes continue. They are now anticipating a lot of potential layoffs. Auto supply attorney Daniel Rustmann joins Stephen alongside Laurie Harbour, President & CEO of Harbour Results, to discuss what people in the industry anticipate.
City University of New York Art Crime Professor Erin Thompson joins the Detroit Today podcast to discuss America's tradition of creating monuments, and why we decide to honor particular people. Then, City of Detroit Historian Jamon Jordan explains who Viola Liuzzo was, and why a new memorial was unveiled yesterday of her and her friend, Sara Evans.
Political science professor Wendy Schiller joins the show to discuss what the Republican presidential primary debates say about the evolving Republican Party. Then, former labor reporter Steven Greenhouse talks about what it means for President Biden and former President Trump to try courting favor from union members in Michigan.
UAW Region 1 Director LaShawn English joins Stephen to discuss the priorities of the UAW, and how the strikes have changed over the past two weeks since they began. Then, a new free training program beginning today in Detroit highlights the need for electric vehicle charging station workers.
Thomas Abt, director of the Center for the Study and Practice of Violence Reduction at the University of Maryland, joins Stephen to discuss the need for a multi-pronged, and multi-faceted approach to reducing crime. Then, District U.S. State Attorney Dawn Ison discusses her work with the City of Detroit this past summer to reduce crime in two city precincts.
How we talk to each other is a question, now more critical than at any point in America's political history. Polarization has been with us from the beginning, but the bitter, nasty, bond-breaking differences that are on display in our politics are… well, an existential threat to our democracy. On the Detroit Today podcast, we talk about how polarization is impacting the role of government with Professor of Political Science at Georgia State University Jennifer McCoy. We also talk about an upcoming event with Stephen Henderson, Detroit News Editorial Page Editor Nolan Finley, and the Great Lakes Civility Project on having civil conversations.
Two bills introduced in the Michigan Senate, if passed, could require businesses to provide employees with 15 weeks of paid leave for family and medical issues. Danielle Atkinson, Founding Director of Mothering Justice, and Wendy Block, senior vice president of business advocacy with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, join Detroit Today to make the arguments for and against the proposed legislation
As the United Auto Workers strike against the Big Three automakers nears a full week today, many are wondering how long it will last and how the labor shortage will affect both parties, as well as the economy at large.
University of Michigan economist Gabe Ehrlich joins Detroit Today to discuss the short term and long term impacts of the strike on the economy. Then, Josh Bivens, chief economist for the Economic Policy Institute and Luke Shaefer, associate dean for research and policy engagement at the University of Michigan, stop by to discuss the rise of income inequality and its effect on our society.
On the Detroit Today podcast, Automotive News journalists Jamie Butters and Jake Neher join the show to talk about the North American International Auto Show. It’s an interesting time for the NAIAS with its second year taking place in the fall, UAW strikes that started the same day and an industry transitioning to a zero carbon future. Butters and Neher also talk about Automotive News’ latest podcast “Driving to Zero” that digs into this changing industry.
Michigan State University fired its head football coach, Mel Tucker, after sexual harassment allegations were made by a consultant educating football players on sexual misconduct. This issue and how it’s being investigated by MSU raises questions about governance at state university’s in Michigan. Senior writer at The Chronicle of Higher Education David Jesse joins Detroit Today to discuss what’s happening at MSU. Later in the show, experts Bradley Dizik and Demetri Morgan talk about the role boards play at universities.
The UAW strike against the Big Three automakers did not get resolved over the weekend, so picket lines and negotiations continue here in Detroit and around the country. On Detroit Today, we talk with Paul Eisenstein, senior contributing editor of Headlight.news, about ongoing contract negotiations and the UAW's demands. Then Steven Greenhosue, senior fellow at The Century Foundation and author of the book “Beaten Down, Worked Up: The Past, Present, and Future of American Labor” joins the show to talk about what makes the UAW strikes historic and different from strikes in the past.
WDET’s fall fundraiser wraps up today, and there’s still time to support the conversations important to Detroiters we have on Detroit Today. Visit www.wdet.org to give and thank you for your support.
On the podcast, Bill McGraw joins Detroit Today to discuss the start of the UAW strike and his career as a Detroit Free Press reporter.
It’s WDET’s Fall On-Air Fundraiser and we’re doing things a little different on the podcast. We’re bringing you some of our favorite conversations from Detroit Today. With your help, we can continue to bring you thought-provoking shows, soulful tunes and the local news that matter most. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the WDET family, your contribution is vital to our success. By joining Team DET during our fall fundraiser, you're not just supporting public radio — you're becoming a part of a community that values diverse voices and meaningful discussions. Photographer and filmmaker Stephen McGee talks about what it's like to capture Detroit, and the beauty Detroiters hold for one another.
It’s WDET’s Fall On-Air Fundraiser and we’re doing things a little different on the podcast. We’re bringing you some of our favorite conversations from Detroit Today. With your help, we can continue to bring you thought-provoking shows, soulful tunes and the local news that matter most. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the WDET family, your contribution is vital to our success. By joining Team DET during our fall fundraiser, you're not just supporting public radio — you're becoming a part of a community that values diverse voices and meaningful discussions. Phd sociology candidate Aya Waller-Bey joins Stephen to discuss why Black students are often encouraged to write a trauma narrative in their college essays, and why that hurts both them and the people reading those essays.
It’s WDET’s Fall On-Air Fundraiser and we’re doing things a little different on the podcast. We’re bringing you some of our favorite conversations from Detroit Today.With your help, we can continue to bring you thought-provoking shows, soulful tunes and the local news that matter most. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the WDET family, your contribution is vital to our success. By joining Team DET during our fall fundraiser, you're not just supporting public radio — you're becoming a part of a community that values diverse voices and meaningful discussions. For many, Detroit IS the river... and the riverfront has long been intertwined with Detroit's identity and growth. Could it be central to revitalizing the region again? Stefan Gruber, Director of the Remaking Cities Institute joins Stephen to discuss how other cities around the world have tackled this question. Then, Mark Wallace, President & CEO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, and Amy McMillan, Director of Huron-Clinton Metroparks, join Stephen to discuss how Detroit's riverfront is changing and how it could develop in the future
It’s WDET’s Fall On-Air Fundraiser and we’re doing things a little different on the podcast. We’re bringing you some of our favorite conversations from Detroit Today. With your help, we can continue to bring you thought-provoking shows, soulful tunes and the local news that matter most. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the WDET family, your contribution is vital to our success. By joining Team DET during our fall fundraiser, you're not just supporting public radio — you're becoming a part of a community that values diverse voices and meaningful discussions. In this episode, Nandi Comer explores her various influences and why Detroit has a rich poetry scene.
It’s WDET’s Fall On-Air Fundraiser and we’re doing things a little different on the podcast. We’re bringing you some of our favorite conversations from Detroit Today. With your help, we can continue to bring you thought-provoking shows, soulful tunes and the local news that matter most. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the WDET family, your contribution is vital to our success. By joining Team DET during our fall fundraiser, you're not just supporting public radio — you're becoming a part of a community that values diverse voices and meaningful discussions. In this episode, Kat Stafford, national investigative reporter for The Associated Press, joins the show to discuss her five-part series "From Birth to Death" — a look into the disparities Black Americans face in health outcomes compared to their peers. Then, Dr. Phil Levy, Wayne State University's Health Chief Innovation Officer, stops by to discuss the university's mobile health unit and how the group works to increase access to care by meeting Detroit residents where they are.
It's GAMEDAY. Could this be the Lion's year?! Nick Austin talks with Lions fans about their past experiences with the team and hopes for the upcoming season. WDET's Quinn Klinefelter also sits down with KCTV5 Sports Director Scott Reiss to discuss the Lions matchup tonight against the Kansas City Chiefs.
It has been a big summer for labor organizing. SAG-AFTRA is on strike, the Teamsters reached a contract with UPS, and the UAW and Big 3 are at the negotiation table. A part of many labor conversations is the impact artificial intelligence will have on industries, workers and people's lives. Wayne State Professor Marick Masters and Brookings Senior Fellow Darrell West discuss AI’s growth in industry. Later in the show, Detroit’s Deputy Chief Mobility Officer Tony Geara joins to talk about the city’s new self-driving shuttle pilot.
Sierra Club's new executive director Ben Jealous joins Detroit Today to talk about the organizations advocacy for renewable energy and protecting the environment. Senator Sam Singh and Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Director Liesl Clark also discuss a series of proposals aiming to make Michigan carbon free by 2035.
This episode of the Detroit Today podcast originally aired on May 3. May is mental health awareness month, and to honor that, Detroit Today sat down with Death, Sex and Money Podcast host Anna Sale to talk about how our conversations around mental health have changed.
Creating resilient kids. Description: Young students are struggling with depression, anxiety, loneliness, and suicide. Phyllis Fagell, author of the book, Middle School Superpowers, joins the show to discuss how to create more resilient students. Then, Elizabeth Koschmann of TRAILS joins Stephen to discuss how mental health programming has expanded in Michigan schools, and what both students and teachers need in order to feel more supported and balanced.
Phd sociology candidate Aya Waller-Bey joins Stephen to discuss why Black students are often encouraged to write a trauma narrative in their college essays, and why that hurts both them and the people reading those essays.
A slate of residents from Jefferson Chalmers, the "Venice of Detroit, join Stephen to discuss how climate change and gentrification are changing the neighborhood, and what residents need to collectively protect themselves from flooding.
A slate of guests from Detroit's East Side join Stephen to discuss the problems storms and tornadoes from last week caused local residents. Then, University of Detroit Mercy scholar Nick Schroeck explores why our infrastructure is not prepared for a changing climate, and what we need to do to change that.
Three Michigan conservatives, Jeff Timmer, Michael Seltzer, and Hassan Nehme join Nick Austin to share their reactions to the Republican primary debate, how they felt about Donald Trump not being on stage, and what they make of the future of the Republican Party.
It's been about a year since people stopped wearing masks and social distancing, and that leaves us with a question: How are Detroiters doing? Do they feel more connected or isolated? A local bishop and director of counseling services at Wayne State University joins Nick Austin to discuss.
Sarah Kendzior joins Detroit Today to explain why misinformation and mistrust around vaccinations is so prevalent in the United States. Kendzior is the author of "They Knew: How a Culture of Conspiracy Keeps America Complacent," and the co-host of the podcast Gaslit Nation. Also in this episode, Macomb County Public Health Director Andrew Cox joins Nick to discuss why vaccination rates among kindergarteners are so low in Michigan and what the public health department is doing to change that.
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter joins Nick Austin to discuss why the county is pouring money into Pontiac's downtown. Then, the podcast explores why it's important to invest in downtowns.
Several people with the economic committee on the Growing Michigan Together Council join Nick Austin to discuss how to boost the state's economy and attract more people.
Political consultant Dennis Darnoi, who tracks Republican voter data, discussed what Donald Trump's latest indictment means. Then, Michael Seltzer, a Michigander from Franklin Village who voted for Trump twice, talks about what the indictment means for him as a voter.
As Detroit introduces a self-driving car program, scholars Missy Cummings and Cliff Winston join Detroit Today to discuss the challenges and opportunities that autonomous vehicles provide Detroiters and Americans writ large.
Since the Detroit police shootings of Porter Burks and Ki’azia Miller, Detroit Police Chief James White restructured the department. To discuss why and what the impact has been, two leaders in the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, which coordinates with the local police, discuss what Crisis Intervention Team training is, and why behavioral health technicians are being deployed into the field.
To reflect on the death of Sixto Rodriguez, we re-air this episode of Stephen talking about life, music and Detroit with the acclaimed artist.
In light of the third lawsuit against the Detroit Police Department for a false arrest that comes from facial recognition technology, Stephen talks with an attorney, activist, computer science professor, and congresswoman about what facial recognition software is, how it operates in Detroit, and the broad ways we can address safety in the city.
Ohio State University Professor Hasan Kwame Jeffries joins Stephen Henderson to discuss the brawl in Alabama and what it tells about racial violence in the United States.
Today is an election day in some Michigan cities. Arab American News Publisher Osama Siblani joins Stephen Henderson to talk about the demographic and political changes taking place in Hamtramck, Michigan.
Matthew Naimi and Oren Goldenberg sit down with Stephen to discuss their new affordable housing project, Dreamtroit. Then, Breck Crandell, director of design for Three Squared, Inc, discusses why housing can be affordable, nice and unique.
On this replayed episode of Detroit Today, Stephen sits down with several Detroiters working to make Detroit a more inclusive, expansive space for tech entrepreneurs.
Reporters Craig Mauger and Jonathan Oosting join Stephen to discuss why Michigan is integral to the recent indictment of former president Donald Trump. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson discusses what precautions the state took in 2020 and today to protect the vote in Michigan. And a Trump voter from Michigan talks about what he makes of the recent indictments.
Last weekend, 3143 Cass Avenue — a 140-year old building that had once provided resources for Chinese immigrants — was demolished. The building was destroyed by the Ilitch's Olympia Development real estate company, which now plans to redevelop that area as part of their District Detroit project. Roland Hwang, president of American Citizens for Justice, Carolyn Chin, who grandparents owned Shanghai Cafe, a restaurant that had sat in the 3143 Cass Building, State Senator Stephanie Chang, a Democrat representing Michigan’s 3rd state Senate district, and Richard Mui, a history and civics teacher at Canton High School, all join Stephen to discuss the historical significance of this moment, the history of Detroit's Chinatown, and their efforts to preserve Chinese-American history.
As Michigan's latest budget significantly increases spending for public defenders in criminal cases, some prosecutors are concerned about the resources they have for their offices. Kalamazoo County Prosecutor Jeffrey Getting joins Stephen to discuss his concerns with the latest budget. Then, Kristen Staley, Executive Director of the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission joins the show to discuss what her office does and why she believes the increase in spending is important. Also, Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), Assistant Majority leader in the state senate, stops by to discuss Michigan's historic new education budget and how he believes it will help schools and students in the state.
For many, Detroit IS the river… and the riverfront has long been intertwined with Detroit’s identity and growth. Could it be central to revitalizing the region again? Stefan Gruber, Director of the Remaking Cities Institute joins Stephen to discuss how other cities around the world have tackled this question. Then, Mark Wallace, President & CEO of the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy, and Amy McMillan, Director of Huron-Clinton Metroparks, join Stephen to discuss how Detroit's riverfront is changing and how it could develop in the future.
Jacy Reese Anthis, sociologist and statistician at the University of Chicago, stops by to discuss what "Artificial Intelligence" means, how its developing, and some concerns behind its rapid development. Then, Greg McGuire, managing director at Mcity, a test site for automated vehicles, joins the show to discuss how AI fits into projects his group is working on.
This week, a resolution to rename Hart Plaza in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr was introduced in Detroit City Council. But just who was Phil Hart? Should the city rename Hart Plaza? John Shaw, Director of the Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University, joins Stephen to discuss the life and legacy of beloved Michigan senator. Next, Congresswoman Mary Waters discusses why she proposed the name change and her current thoughts on the proposal. Then, Detroit's official historian, Jamon Jordan, and cultural and historical geography expert Derek Alderman round out the show with a discussion on when and why we choose to rename landmarks.
No Labels, a political organization created to support centrism and bipartisanship, plans to create a “unity ticket” in each state for the presidential election for what they believe is “America’s growing commonsense majority.” Former U.S. Rep. Fred Upton stops by to discuss his support for No Labels, and frustration with gridlock in Washington. Then, political science professor Bernard Tamas joins the show to discuss the history of third-parties in America, including how they affect elections, and whether they are poised for a return in 2024.
In Michigan, debt collection lawsuits make up the 2nd largest percentage of cases in District Court. Angela Tripp, Co-Director, Michigan Statewide Advocacy Services and Director of the Michigan Legal Help Program + Lester Bird, a Manager at Pew Charitable Trusts who manages Pew's civil legal system modernization project, join the show to discuss why debt collection cases are on the rise, how they affect our courts, and potential solutions to help improve access to justice throughout the state. Then, Detroit Right to Counsel Coalition project leader Tonya Myers Phillips stops by to discuss Detroit's 36th District Court's decision to allow virtual first hearings in eviction cases, including how it helps improve outcomes for individuals facing evictions, access to justice, and other efforts the legal system can make to provide Michigan residents with access to counsel.
Author Jonathan Rosen joins the show to discuss the public policy problems around how we care for those with severe mental illness, and why that has had tragic consequences in his own life
The Concert of Colors music festival is back for its 31st year. Ismael Ahmed and Don Was join Stephen to discuss what the festival means to them, and how it began. Then, Nargis Rahman of WDET and Professor Melissa Borjas of the University of Michigan discuss Asian American experiences in Detroit and the Metro region in light of Warren's upcoming Bangladeshi-American Festival.
Does technology improve our lives? Technology is undoubtedly embedded in our daily experiences — but it hasn’t necessarily led to higher wages, stable retirement accounts or a better collective wellbeing. MIT economics professor and author of the new book new book, “Power and Progress: Our 1000-Year Struggle Over Technology and Prosperity," Daron Acemoglu, joins Detroit Today to discuss how he believes we can ensure technological progress moving forward. Then, Detroit News auto reporter Kalea Hall stops by to discuss how labor negotiations between the UAW and Big Three automakers are progressing ahead of their September 14 contract deadline.
Ten years ago, Detroit made notorious history as the largest city in the nation to ever declare bankruptcy. Stephen looks back at the event on its 10th anniversary, with help from economist Eric Scorsone, journalist Anna Clark, and Detroit Active and Retired Employee Association president William Davis, to reflect on what occurred, how it happened, the role the state's Emergency Manager law played in the events, and how Detroit has progressed financially and as a community a decade later.
Do corporate incentives provide high-paying jobs for Michiganders? It's a prominent plank of the Democratic majority and the Whitmer administration, but it's an idea that is hotly debated. An economist and local think tank director join the show to discuss. Then, we dive into a new guaranteed income project in Ann Arbor.
Sharon McMahon is a former government teacher who has amassed over 970,000 followers on Instagram because of the warm, open community she’s created. On her online channels, people of different political beliefs come together to investigate certain topics, but also to better connect with Sharon. She joins Detroit Today to discuss what she has learned and how we can best reduce misinformation and alleviate partisan divides.
City of Detroit CFO Jay Rising joins Stephen to discuss the mayor's new Land Value Tax Plan, and why he believes it will help lower homeowner's taxes while reducing blight in the city. Then, WDET's Ryan Patrick Hooper and Darren Findling of the Probate Pro law firm stop by to discuss the trial over Aretha's estate, including the two wills at the center of the controversy, which will prevailed, and how the story has captivated the country.
Actor and author Hill Harper, best known for his role in The Good Doctor, discusses why he's running for Michigan's U.S. Senate seat. Then, reporter Sierra Clark and Michigan Department of Natural Resources's Ron Olson explore why the department has been removing offensive slurs made against Indigenous people from Michigan landmarks.
Two of the candidates hoping to succeed Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D) in Congress, Tom Barrett (R) and Curtis Hertel Jr. (D), join Stephen to make their initial case for why they should represent Michigan's 7th District. Then, Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger stops by to discuss the growing chaos in the state's Republican party, including a recent physical alteration that occurred at a Michigan GOP committee meeting.
Over the past five decades, Michigan has fallen behind other states in population growth, jobs, earnings, health, educational achievement, and the quality of public services at the state and local levels. Part of the problem is that too many young Michigan residents are leaving the state. On this edition of Detroit Today, Stephen checks in with young professionals who have left, stayed, returned, or migrated to the state, to find out what factors influenced their decisions. Then, Detroit Regional Chamber President and CEO Sandy Baruah stops by to discuss his recent appointment to Governor Whitmer's Growing Michigan Together Council, a group tasked with, among other things, making recommendations regarding how the state can retain and recruit more young talent.
Wayne State University associate professor Kidada Williams joins the show to discuss her recent book “I saw Death Coming: A History of Terror and Survival in the War Against Reconstruction,” and her research into African Americans' experiences with racist violence.
Last week, Michigan just unveiled its new budget. The state allocated a lot of money toward education, public infrastructure, and other social services. What does this say about Michigan's values and priorities? Two reporters, state House Republican John Roth, and Michigan League of Public Policy CEO Monique Stanton join Stephen to discuss what it all means.
Whitmer for president? Two recent profiles released in the Atlantic and Vanity Fair seem to think so. The author behind one of the profiles, Mark Leibovich, joins Detroit Today discuss the recent buzz behind the Michigan Governor's potential prospects in a national campaign. Then, Megan Owens, Executive Director of Transportation Riders United, stops by to make her case for improving regional transit to increase the state's population.
Psychiatry professor Robert Waldinger and clinical psychologist Dr. Marc Schulz join Stephen to explore the findings found in their new book “The Good Life: Lessons From the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness.”
Professor Reuben Miller returns to the program to discuss his award, the ongoing challenges of those returning from prison, and what reforms he thinks are happening to the criminal justice system.
Those working in higher education and a reporter on the topic join Stephen to discuss what the recent Supreme Court case on affirmative action means, and why college admissions processes across the nation may come to reflect those in Michigan.
Detroit's Acting Chief Public Health Officer Christina Floyd and Dr. Carly Phillips explain why Michigan's air quality has been so poor, and what the City of Detroit is doing to try to keep people safe. Then, Rep. Debbie Dingell discusses a new proposal to hold gunmakers accountable for their products.
In Michigan, the minimum wage for tipped workers is significantly lower than for everyone else. Danielle Atkinson of Mothering Justice, Sarah Coffey of One Fair Wage, and Justin Winslow of the Michigan Restaurant Lodging Association join the show to discuss the arguments for and against raising the minimum wage for tipped workers to match all other employees, and how such a change could impact workers, employers and consumers.
Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City, and Chase Cantrell, founder and executive director of Building Community Value join the show to discuss rising home sales in Detroit, African American homeownership demand, and the issues related to supply in the city.
Michigan is shaping up to be a key battleground state for the GOP in the upcoming election. Detroit Today examines what Republicans in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb County are concerned about heading into 2024 including what lessons they should take from their defeats in 2022, whether Donald Trump represents the policy preferences of the party in the state, and how they think they can win in the election. Political consultant Dennis Darnoi, political communications strategist Bill Nowling, city of Troy mayor Ethan Baker, city of Gibralter councilmember Cody Dill, and Macomb Daily managing editor Jeff Payne all join the show by to provide insight from in and around southeast Michigan.
Tech work has traditionally been dominated by white men. And that has had consequences for the industry and for Americans writ large. Johnnie Turnage and Jeseekia Vaughn join the show to discuss how they are trying to make tech spaces more inclusive in Detroit. Then, Danielle Boyer, an Indigenous woman who grew up in Troy, talks about how she's trying to attract girls and students of color into the science, engineering and technology fields.
The Detroit auto show hasn't been performing well in recent years. Automotive News' Jamie Butters joins the show to explain why. Then, state Representative Tyrone Carter (D-Detroit) discusses his new distracted driver bill and why traffic fatalities have increased over the past few years in the state.
Nearly 40% of the nurses in Michigan plan to leave their jobs in the next year, according to one survey. If that happens, an already brewing shortage will boil over. But what is behind the shortage? And are their any solutions? University of Michigan School of Nursing Professor Christopher Friese, State Senator Ed McBroom (R-Waucedah), Michigan Health & Hospital Association CEO Brian Peters, and Michigan Nurses Association board member, Jessica Lannon join Stephen to provide insight into the challenges facing the nurses, the reasons behind staffing shortages, and potential solutions to the issue.
First, state House Speaker Pro Tem Laurie Pohutsky, a progressive Democrat from Livonia, discusses how she won her district as a progressive, and some of the new bills that have passed the state House. Then two experts from the Center for American Progress join to talk about how Michigan has bolstered its democratic institutions and why a new flood of public and private dollars will change the state's infrastructure.
On this special Juneteenth edition of Detroit Today, we take a look at celebrations around southeast Michigan, first learning how husband and wife duo Kevin and Keliela Wright started an annual event in their city of Madison Heights, and the importance of community and conversations. Then, Yolanda Jack from the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History stops by to discuss what the museum is doing for the holiday and why Juneteenth is important in the city. Finally, Ronald Zweig, Professor of Israel Studies at New York University and author of “German Reparations and the Jewish World: A History of the Claims Conference," joins the show to share how German reparations to Israel occurred, the lessons others can learn, and how the process actually helped both countries recover following World War II.
Two Michigan professors and one out-of-stater join Detroit Today to discuss how ChatGPT is changing work, knowledge, and the learning process in the classroom. Then, we discuss "Robots Through the Ages," and interrogate the question: What exactly is a robot?
A new city of Detroit ordinance will require food and retail businesses in the city to accept cash payments from customers beginning in September. Detroit City Councilmember and sponsor behind the new law, Angela Whitfield-Calloway joins the show to explain why the council unanimously supported the proposal and why she believes its important to protect Detroit consumers. Then, Detroit Black Business Alliance members Charity Dean and Danielle North join the show to explain why some in the business community are concerned about what the proposal will me for small business in the city.
Canadian wildfires have been spreading in that country for weeks, and that's led to smoke and poor air quality in the United States, and specifically in Michigan. We talk with Michigan meteorologist Stephanie Hengesbach, Natural Resources Canada wildfire expert Dr. Chris Stockdale, and Detroit City Councilwoman Gabriela Santiago-Romero about wildfire smoke and creating cleaner air in Michigan. Then, we discuss how to make solar technology more accessible with environmental law expert Nick Schroeck and Ann Arbor state Senator Jeff Irwin.
Kat Stafford, national investigative reporter for The Associated Press, joins the show to discuss her five-part series "From Birth To Death” -- a look into the disparities Black Americans face in health outcomes compared to their peers. Then, Dr. Phil Levy, Wayne State University’s Health Chief Innovation Officer, stops by to discuss the university's mobile health unit and how the group works to increase access to care by meeting Detroit residents where they are.
Author Michael Bronski and Ruth Ellis Center’s Mark Erwin joined “Detroit Today” to discuss the rapidly evolving LGBTQ+ culture in America.
POLITICO congressional reporter Kyle Cheney joins Stephen to discuss the Department of Justice's historic decision to charge former president Donald Trump criminally in Federal Court as a result of its classified documents inquiry. Then, Michigan Law professor Richard Primus stops by to discuss the charges and why this is a significant moment for the rule of law in the United States.
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel and Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter join Stephen on Mackinac to discuss the biggest challenges -- and most exciting opportunities -- in Southeast Michigan.
Stephen shares more insights from the Mackinac Policy Conference, including why former lieutenant governor is now focusing on entrepreneurship and the changes foundations have made in Detroit.
Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud joins the show to discuss his plan to continue growing the city. And an economist talks about what it means to lose population, and how Michigan can reverse that trend.
First, state Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing) joins the show to discuss her bill, the CROWN Act, which bans natural hair discrimination in the workplace and recently passed the state Senate. Then, Nefertiti Harris, a Detroit salon owner, and Associate Professor Kate Manne discuss the intersection of beauty, status and power.
First, State representative and House Speaker Joe Tate discusses what was accomplished during the policy conference, and his big takeaways. Then, WDET's Russ McNamara, West Michigan reporter Rachel Just and Bridge Michigan's Jonathan Oosting discuss the big changes that may come from the conference.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Secretary of State Joceyln Benson, state Senator Mallory McMorrow and others join the show to discuss the biggest concerns facing Michiganders as well as some of their most promising solutions.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrest, Michigan state Senator Winnie Brinks and Armen Hratchian of Teach for America discuss Michigan's population decline, how to grow it, and all the policies Michigan state legislators have passed this year.
Detroit techno legend Kevin Saunderson discusses what techno is, how it's changed, and how it's been shaped by the City of Detroit. Then, Movement festival director Jason Huvaere talks about what the festival is all about, how it's changed, and what's on tap for this year's event.
For many, jobs take on more meaning than simply getting paid for ones labor. Author Simone Stolzoff and several Metro Detroit Generation Z workers explain what work means to them, and how they want it to shape their lives.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison joins the show to discuss why police violence occurs time and again, and how to more effectively hold police accountable. Washtenaw County Community Health Executive Director Trish Cortes discusses the many alternatives to only-police responses to safety or mental health issues.
First, an expert on collaboration and bipartisanship talks about why these two values are so important in our politics, especially as they become harder to find. Then, the leaders of the upcoming Mackinac Policy Conference join Stephen to discuss the upcoming topics that will be explored on the island.
Poet, staff writer at The Atlantic and author Clint Smith joins the show to discuss his new book, "Above Ground," which explores what it's like to be a parent during times of political and cultural chaos.
Sociologist Matthew Desmond returns to Detroit Today to discuss his new book, "Poverty, By America," and why he believes poverty persists in America. Then, Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha and Professor Luke Shaefer join to discuss Kids Rx, a new cash transfers program set to begin in Flint by 2024.
Stephen discusses why Grand Rapids and Flint schools banned backpacks in the wake of gun violence with state board of education president Pamela Pugh. Then, Bishop Daryl Harris and WDET reporter Eli Newman discuss what gun violence looks like in Detroit, and the new programs instituted to prevent it.
Dr. Lara Brown, expert on national elections, candidate strategies, and political scandals, and Jennifer Jacquet, associate professor of environmental studies at New York University, and author of the book "Is Shame Necessary," join guest host Nick Austin to examine how shame, guilt and embarrassment fit into our political history and current society.
Vox senior policy reporter Rachel Cohen and Republican political consultant Dennis Darnoi join the show to examine why there is an increased push to relax child labor laws in several Republican led legislatures across the country. Then, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) stops by to discuss why she founded the Congressional Mama's Caucus and how she believes the federal government can improve its support of caregivers across the country.
Maya Barak, an associate professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, stops by to discuss how migrants interact with the U.S. immigration system including whether ending the use of Title 42 will impact immigration, the differences between how migrants and lawyers view our immigration court system, and what changes are needed to improve America's immigration system overall. Then, Detroit City Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero joins the show to discuss the present challenges and future policy solutions she sees for her district in Southwest Detroit.
Wendy Edelberg from the Brookings Institution think tank joins to discuss the controversy about raising the debt limit, and what defaulting on the debt would mean for the market and American workers. Then, Capitol Reporter Colin Jackson explores what a new distracted driving bill would mean for Michigan drivers.
Jacy Reese Anthis, sociologist and statistician at the University of Chicago, stops by to discuss what "Artificial Intelligence" means, how its developing, and some concerns behind its rapid development. Then, Greg McGuire, managing director at Mcity, a test site for automated vehicles, joins the show to discuss how AI fits into projects his group is working on.
Jacob DiMartino, founder and CEO at RAADR, joins the show to discuss why he believes social media platforms are having harmful effects on young people in society. Then, William Shinoff, attorney at the Franz Law Group, stops by to discuss why several Michigan school districts are suing several large social media companies, and why how he believes the platforms are harmful for children.
Stephen Henderson takes a look at a host of stories happening in state politics including why Michigan roads earned a 'D' grade in a recent report with Jonathan Oosting of Bridge Michigan, why Fmr. Speaker Rick Johnson's plea agreement with federal prosecutors could just be the tip of the iceberg in an ongoing political bribery and corruption investigation with M.L. Elrick of the Detroit Free Press, and the push to eliminate child marriage in the state with political reporter Rachel Louise Just of WWMT-TV.
New York Times reporter Emily Flitter joins the show to discuss her new book, "The White Wall," and the way present-day racism holds Black bank employees and customers back. Then, Detroit Community Wealth Fund co-founder Margo Dalal joins the show to discuss how it is trying to create wealth for Black residents in Southeast Michigan.
Sheila Liming, author of the new book “Hanging Out: The radical power of killing time,” stops by to discuss why wasting time with friends (instead of planned events) may not be as much of a waste as it seems.
First, political reporter Rick Pluta joins the show to discuss the politics behind Michigan's budget negotiations. Then, state Senator Stephanie Chang and Detroit city councilmember Mary Waters explore different policies that are being proposed at the state and local level.
May is mental health awareness month, and to honor that, Detroit Today sat down with Death, Sex and Money Podcast host Anna Sale to talk about how our conversations around mental health have changed. Death, Sex and Money will be hosting three live call-in shows the first three Thursdays of this month from 8-10 p.m. You can stream those episodes at wnyc.org
E.J. Dionne, a syndicated columnist for the Washington Post, stops by to discuss President Biden's 2024 re-election bid, including the pros, the cons and the questions surrounding the decision. Then, Detroit Free Press investigative reporter and "M.L. Soul of Detroit" podcast host M.L. Elrick stops by to discuss why he believes Detroit City Council and the Mayor's office should provide space dedicated space for journalists inside city hall and the role of the press in government oversight.
Historian Dr. Peniel Joseph joins the show to discuss what Reconstruction was, why it's come up in the 1960s and again today, and what that theory means for what could be achieved in our politics.
Pat Batcheller steps in for Stephen Henderson to discuss the NFL Draft, playoff hockey, and why the Tigers are off to a poor start.
Michigan Central CEO Josh Sirefman joins the show to discuss the Michigan Central campus, Newlab and all the innovative projects coming out of Corktown. Then, photographer and filmmaker Stephen McGee talks about what it's like to capture Detroit, and the beauty Detroiters hold for one another.
Detroit Today looks at a roundup of local news stories. First, Nasser Beydoun discusses his Senate bid. Reporter Malachi Barrett explores possible changes to public transit in Detroit. Finally, WDET's Eli Newman discusses a new lawsuit filed against the Wayne County Medical Examiner's Office.
A Highland Park city councilman discusses why he voted "yes" in favor of requesting bankruptcy. Then, Nandi Comer explores her various influences and why Detroit has a rich poetry scene.
Detroit Reparations Task Force Co-chairs Keith Williams and Lauren Hood join Stephen to discuss the task force's role, what reparations are, and what reparations for Black Detroiters could look like.
New York Times reporter Katie Robertson joins the show to discuss the Fox News settlement with Dominion Voting Systems. Then, two professors discuss how our media environment has changed, how to navigate it, and what can be done to hold untrustworthy actors accountable.
Beth LeBlanc of the Detroit News joins the show to talk about the new psychiatric facility that will be built in Northville. Then, native Detroiter and Pulitzer-Prize winning poet Tyehimba Jess discusses his work, Detroit's influence on him, and what poetry offers the world.
Senator Gary Peters joins the show to discuss his bill supporting firefighters, the debt ceiling, and how he manages partisanship in Washington. Then, Wayne County Health Director Dr. Abdul El-Sayed discusses how generational poverty, segregation and discrimination have led to poor health outcomes for Wayne County residents.
Public opinion of the U.S. Supreme Court is at a three-decade low ever since the Dobbs decision by the 6-3 conservative court. CNN legal analyst Joan Biskupic stops by to discuss the court's drive to the right and its historic consequences. Then, former chief White House ethics lawyer Richard Painter joins the show to discuss ethics in the Supreme Court including why he believes Justice Clarence Thomas violated ethics rules and what it says about the current court.
Derek Thompson, staff writer at The Atlantic and the author of the Work in Progress newsletter. stops by to discuss what he learned through his years of writing about work, including why he coined the term "workism," and what it means for America. Next, organized labor expert and chair of the Department of Finance at Wayne State University, Merrick Masters, joins the show to unpack today's labor movement including how it compares to past efforts, how union efforts involving Starbucks and Amazon are faring, and the struggles he sees labor facing in their bargaining efforts. Then, University of Michigan graduate student and the president of the Graduate Employees’ Organization union Jared Eno joins the show to discuss why graduate students went on strike in March and why he believes the students should received additional compensation for their work from the university.
Wendy Schiller, co-author of "Inequality Across State Lines" and April Zeoli, associate professor of Health Management and Policy at the University of Michigan, join Stephen Henderson to discuss how policymakers should rethink domestic violence in America.
Second chances don’t come along all the time - but this week in Michigan, there’s a really significant one that’s unfolding. This week, Michigan began automatically expunging certain criminal misdemeanor and felony convictions for eligible residents. Michigan law professor JJ Prescott and Safe & Just Michigan CEO John Cooper joined Detroit Today to discuss what this means for the state and how it fits in the context of the overall push for criminal justice reform.
Author Jonathan Rosen joins the show to discuss the public policy problems around how we care for those with severe mental illness, and why that has had tragic consequences in his own life.
Statewide political reporter Rachel Louise Just and Michigan Campaign Finance Network executive director Nick Pigeon join Stephen to discuss the push to make Michigan government more transparent through tools like expanding public records requests for state lawmakers, including the arguments for and against expansion. Then, Bridge Michigan reporter Lauren Gibbons stops by to discuss former Michigan House Speaker Rick Johnson's recent admission to accepting bribes while chair of the medical marijuana licensing board, why it's important, and what it says about the history of government oversight in Michigan.
Shikha Dalmia, visiting fellow with George Mason University’s Mercatus Center and author of “The Unpopulist” Substack, Joins Stephen to discuss why some are calling for a separation of red states and blue states.
Writer Matt Hongoltz-Hetling joins Detroit Today to discuss why trust in traditional medical care has fallen, giving rise to fringe medicine in America.
Stephen sits down with senior Vox tech reporter Sara Morrison to discuss the recent changes happening on Twitter, including why it matters, and how it fits into the wider narrative about the role social media plays in our culture. Then, Jim Townsend, director of the Levin Center at the Wayne State University Law School, stops by to discuss the State Oversight Academy -- a new program dedicated to promoting effective bipartisan fact-finding and oversight by state legislatures.
University of Michigan law professor and former United States Attorney Barbara McQuade joins Stephen following the arraignment of Donald Trump to analyze the criminal charges filed against the former president, including the merits of the case, what to expect, and what the prosecution means for the country moving forward.
Patrick Cooney, vice president of Michigan Future, a Michigan-based think tank, and a senior advisor with Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan, joins Stephen to the discuss the case for Universal Basic Income, and direct cash payments to citizens. Then, Kofi Kenyatta, senior director of policy & practice at UpTogether, stops by to discuss why his organization proposes Detroit give $1,200/month in guaranteed income to qualified residents in the city.
Alissa Quart, executive director of the Economic Hardship Reporting Project and author of the new book “Bootstrapped: Liberating Ourselves from the American Dream,” joins Stephen to discuss how American life was captured by the myth of self-reliance, the harm it causes, and how new approaches like collectivism could help communities.
Azi Paybarah of the Washington Post and Brown University political science professor Wendy Schiller join guest host Nick Austin to discuss the New York grand jury's vote to criminally indict former President Donald Trump, its implications for the country, and what it says about the rule of law in the United States of America.
Oak Park HS junior Amier Nelson, Birmingham Seaholm HS junior Xavier Choussat, Cass Tech HS sophomore Isaac Hunter III, and Oak Park HS social studies teacher Bill Boyer join Stephen to provide insight into how students, teachers and schools are reacting to the rise of mass shootings and gun violence in schools.
This month, the Atlantic released a new podcast called "Holy week," exploring how the week following King's assassination and how it altered the course of social change. The podcast's host, Vann Newkirk II, joined Stephen Henderson to discuss how the event diverted the course of a social revolution.
US Ambassador to NATO and Michigan native Julie Smith stops by to discuss the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, including its mission, history, and how she feels it fits into global security. Then, Century Foundation fellow Dahlia Scheindlin and Washington Post columnist Ishaan Tharoor join the show to discuss the protests and civil unrest occurring in Israel amid their right-wing government's attempt to severely restrict the country's judiciary, and what the move means for democracy and authoritarianism in the region.
Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement joins the show to discuss the Michigan Resolve Family System, a free, online platform implemented by the Court, aimed at helping families resolve parenting time and other domestic relations matters. Then, WDET's Eli Newman stops by to discuss Detroit's new Shot Stopper initiative, and the latest on anti-crime initiatives in the city.
Dan Charnas, author of the 2023 PEN Literary Award-winning biography of Detroit music icon J-Dilla, joins Stephen to discuss music sampling - the art of one artists sound recording in another piece of music - and how he would expand protections for sampling artists. Then, Northwestern law professor Peter DiCola stops by to discuss the current law surrounding music sampling, followed by entertainment and intellectual property attorney Richard Busch, who makes the case for the current laws protecting original creators.
A smattering of health experts and an addiction specialist join the show to discuss how America came to stamp out smoking, and why e-cigarettes and vaping are popular among young people.
Jamie Butters, Executive Editor of Automotive News, joins Stephen to discuss why GM decided to offer buyouts to its white-collar workers, the contentious UAW presidential election, and all things auto in Detroit. Then, Annalise Frank, Detroit reporter for Axios, stops by to discuss what occurred at the most recent city council public hearing regarding funding for the District Detroit development.
With the pandemic upending traditional working patterns, downtowns across America are struggling and Detroit is no exception. Heather Long, a columnist and member of the Washington Post’s Editorial Board, joins the Stephen Henderson to discuss why she thinks mixed-use zoning could be the answer. Then, Brownstown Downtown Development Authority director and co-chair of Destination Downriver, Sue Trussell, stops by to discuss how the 18 cities and townships that make up her community are working to revitalize their riverfront.
A new study into the 4-day work weeks suggests reducing the work week to just 32 hours, while keeping the same pay and benefits, can benefit both workers and industry. A researcher with study, Boston College sociology professor Wen Fan, and behavioral scientist and business administration professor Dr. Jeffrey Sanchez-Burks of the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, both join Nick Austin to discuss the research, the potential benefits, and drawbacks of the plan across industries.
Psychiatry professor Robert Waldinger and clinical psychologist Dr. Marc Schulz join Stephen to explore the findings found in their new book “The Good Life: Lessons From the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness.”
State Sen. Mallory McMorrow joins Stephen to discuss the legislation being proposed and set to pass in Lansing this term. Then, Wayne State University Provost Mark Kornbluh stops by to discuss Wayne State University's recent announcement to cover the tuition of eligible students in family's earning less than $70K per year.
First, Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter joins Stephen following his State of the County address to discuss how Oakland County is changing, and what it means for the county's residents and southeast Michigan. Then, former U.S. Congressman Andy Levin sits down with WDET's Russ McNamara to reflect on his career in congress and plans for the future.
New York Times reporter Stacy Cowley, Cornell Law School professor Robert Hockett, and Brown University professor Wendy Schiller joined Stephen Henderson on Detroit Today to discuss how it happened, the current state of financial markets, and where regulation fits into these concerns.
Scholars Katherine Newman and Elisabeth Jacobs join the show to discuss their book, "Moving the Needle," and to explain why a tight labor market is good for low-income workers.
Peter Sagal, host of NPR's “Wait Wait Don’t Tell Me,” joins Nick Austin to discuss his recent piece in the Atlantic "What Older Dads Know," and shares wisdom he has learned as an older parent.
Francois-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Federal Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, joins Nick Austin on Detroit Today to discuss the importance of the U.S./Canada relationship, and how it benefits Michigan and his country. Then Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II stops by to discuss what Democrats are hoping to accomplish in the new term, including his thoughts on tax reform, gun legislation, repeal of Right-to-Work, and criminal justice reform.
Economist Adrian Moore stops by to make the case for private utilities and why he thinks they are best for consumers. Then, environmental law expert Nick Schroeck joins the show to make the case for public utilities, including why he thinks they are best for consumers, as well as his thoughts on how our changing climate is causing more outages, and how the infrastructure bill and Inflation Reduction Act may help.
Boston Globe senior opinion writer and columnist Kimberly Atkins Stohr joins Stephen to discuss cases pending in front of the U.S. Supreme Court, including tech company liability for speech on internet platforms, the student loan debt relief plan, and affirmative action, as well as how the Court has changed since its ruling in Dobbs.
Filmmaker, activist and writer dream hampton joins Stephen Henderson to discuss her latest projects and some the things she's thinking about, including the evolution of hip-hop and its issues with misogyny, her award winning work for Lifetime's "Survining R. Kelly," and her upcoming short film, "Freshwater," where she explores themes like water and memory in her hometown of Detroit.
32-year-old Oakland County Commissioner Charlie Cavell (D) and 31-year-old Livonia City Councilman Rob Donovic (R) join Stephen to discuss their perspective on running for politics as young people, including why they ran and the challenges they face. Then, Sara Hadad of the nonprofit Run for Something, joins the show to discuss how her organization recruits and trains young people to run for office.
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor), Ian Duncan, a member of the Washington Post’s transportation team focused on the U.S. Department of Transportation, and Keith Matheny, environmental reporter with the Detroit Free Press, join the show to discuss the fallout from the Norfolk-Southern train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, and how its impacting Michigan.
Representatives for the developers behind District Detroit -- Rian English-Barnhill, the vice president of government and community affairs for Olympia Development, and Andrew Cantor, the Executive vice president for Related Companies -- join Stephen to make the case for their latest project, including the $797 million in public subsidies and associated community benefits package. Then, Malachi Barrett of Bridge Detroit stops by to discuss his latest reporting on the project.
On Monday, Rep. Elissa Slotkin announced her bid for U.S. Senate in 2024 following the retirement of Sen. Debbie Stabenow. Slotkin joins Stephen Henderson in her first radio interview since the announcement to discuss why she chose to run. Then, Rep. Rashida Tlaib and environmental law expert Nick Schroeck stop by to discuss the recent power outages in southeast Michigan and whether we should move to a public utility model.
Megan Garber, staff writer at The Atlantic joins Stephen to discuss society's constant need for entertainment, and how she feels it has blurred the line between fiction and reality—on television, in American politics, and in our everyday lives.
Vox's Jonathan Guyer reports on the state of the war in Ukraine one year after Russia's 2022 invasion. Then, Dr. Olena Danylyuk discusses how the war is affecting Michigan Ukrainians. Finally, economist Christine McDaniel and author Simone Constable join to share the pros and cons of economic sanctions and whether they are an effective tool in this conflict.
Vox's Jonathan Guyer reports on the state of the war in Ukraine one year after Russia's 2022 invasion. Then, Dr. Olena Danylyuk discusses how the war is affecting Michigan Ukrainians. Finally, economist Christine McDaniel and author Simone Constable join to share the pros and cons of economic sanctions and whether they are an effective tool in this conflict.
First, Craig Mauger of the Detroit News discusses how Kristina Karamo came to chair the Michigan Republican Party. Longtime Republican strategist Bill Nowling discusses why the Republican Party is in a bad spot. Then, state Rep. Steve Carra discusses why he voted for Karamo at the state convention.
Retired Michigan State University economics professor Charles Ballard joins the show to discuss what our tight labor market means for us all. Then, Anika Goss of Detroit Future City discusses a new report on where people should be looking to get the best jobs in Detroit and its suburbs.
Vox correspondent Jonathan Guyer, University of Chicago history professor Kenneth Pomeranz, and Cato Institute foreign policy expert Justin Logan join Stephen to discuss what we know about the Chinese spy balloon discovered over the United States, America's response, and the ever-evolving relationship between the two countries.
A professor who was near the shooting, a political editor, and a firearms expert join the show to discuss what may be happening to prevent the MSU shooting from happening again.
Washington Post columnist Ishaan Tharoor joins Stephen first to discuss the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, including why it was so devastating, each country's response, and the issues complicating the recovery. Then, Syrian American Medical Society president and Michigan resident Dr. Amjad Rass discusses what he has seen on the ground in Syria, and his organizations efforts to provide medical treatment. Finally, Mercy-USA's Abdulrahman Al-dahhan stops by to discuss his organizations decade's long humanitarian effort in the area, what people in the affected regions need, and what to look for when making a humanitarian donation to help the people on the ground.
Ferndale Mayor Melanie Piana joins Stephen to discuss the city's recent antiracism declaration and how she believes her city can become more equitable and inclusive. Then, New York University history professor Thomas Sugrue stops by to discuss how racial and discriminatory intent played a critical role in the creation of suburbs.
Monday night a 43-year-old gunman conducted a mass shooting on Michigan State University's campus. MSU graduate Emily Lawler of the Detroit Free Press joins the show to provide the latest reporting on what we know from East Lansing. Then, Wayne State University professor and psychiatrist Arash Javanbakht stops by to provide insight into the psychological effects of mass shootings. Finally, state senator Mallory McMorrow joins discuss how Democrats in the legislature are looking to curtail gun violence.
MacArthur Award winner Dr. Emily Wang, joins the show to discuss her research into healthcare and health outcomes of incarcerated and returning citizens, including how affects the society as a whole.
Acclaimed Philosopher Martha Nussbaum joins the show to discuss why non-pet animals deserve more justice in the world, and why a better life for them can mean a better one for us, too.
Stephen sits down with author, historian, and history professor Danielle McGuire, former Detroit police chief Ike McKinnon, and retired journalist Jack Kresnack to discuss the history of violent policing in Detroit, including Danielle's research into the Algiers Motel murders in 1967.
U.S. Reps. Elissa Slotkin, Debbie Dingell, and New York Times correspondent Katie Rogers join Stephen to react to the highlights and lowlights from President Biden's 2023 State of the Union Address.
Kate Wells of Michigan Radio joins the show to discuss her reporting on why nurses are concerned about a nursing staff shortage at hospitals. Then, Wayne County Commissioner Raymond Basham discusses what a jobs shortage means for Wayne County, and how the county is trying to hire more people.
Dr. Benjamin Abramoff, director of Penn Medicine’s Post-COVID Assessment and Recovery Clinic, stops by to explain what we know about long-haul COVID and the latest on what we're doing to treat it. Then, Dr. Salam Kabbani, an infectious disease pharmacist and author of “COVID Long-Hauler: My Life Since COVID,” joins the show to discuss her personal experience with long-haul COVID.
Wayne State University associate professor Kidada Williams joins the show to discuss her recent book “I saw Death Coming: A History of Terror and Survival in the War Against Reconstruction,” and her research into African Americans' experiences with racist violence.
Bridge Detroit reporter Malachi Barrett joins the show to discuss his coverage of the District Detroit development, the sports and entertainment district created around Little Caesars Arena, including the details behind the proposed $800 million for an expansion, its likelihood of happening, and how it fits into the overall narrative of the way Detroit is changing.
Bridgette Carr, the founding director of the Human Trafficking Clinic at Michigan Law, and Andrew, executive director of the Detroit Crime Commission, former FBI special agent in charge for the Detroit division, join the show to discuss human trafficking and how it affects southeast Michigan by dispelling myths and providing insight into what we can all do to help protect those who are trafficked.
ChalkBeat reporter Koby Levin joins Nick to breakdown the surprising complex question of what is a charter school in Michigan, including why they exist, their goals, and the arguments for and against them in the state. Then Bridge Michigan's Jonathan Oosting stops by to discuss the state's proposed $1 billion budget and the latest discussions around spending in Lansing.
John Sloan III, co-lead organizer with Black Lives Matter Detroit and founding member of The Detroit Safety Team, and Greg Bowens, a political and communications consultant, join Stephen to discuss the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols by police in Memphis. Then, state Senator Stephanie Chang stops by to discuss legislative proposals aimed at improving to public safety response outcomes.
Professor Reuben Miller returns to the program to discuss his award, the ongoing challenges of those returning from prison, and what reforms he thinks are happening to the criminal justice system.
Bridge Michigan's Ron French joins the show to discuss what a new AI program, ChatGPT, is and how it's impacting Michigan schools. Then, Washington Post reporter Will Oremus discusses what the AI program does, and how AI is quickly changing.
Gongwer News Service executive director Zach Gorchow and Detroit Free Press state politics and government editor Emily Lawler join the show to preview Governor Gretchen Whitmer's State of the State address. Then, State Sen. Ruth Johnson stops by to discuss her views on what Republicans should prioritize this term, the common ground her party has with Democrats, and what she hopes to hear from the address.
Jamon Jordan, the City of Detroit’s official historian, Nicole Trujillo-Pagan, an associate professor of Sociology at Wayne State University, and Cary Junior II, an audio producer and podcast host, formerly with the Detroit Free Press, join the show to discuss the eternal question of what it means to be a Detroiter, why we care, and how these questions impact communities across southeast Michigan and beyond.
Wayne State University Law School associate professor Jalila Jefferson-Bullock joins the show to discuss how involuntary manslaughter charges work in our society in the wake of the prosecutor's decision to charge Alec Baldwin following the accidental shooting and death occurring on the set of "Rust." Then, Stephanie Hartwell, the Dean of Wayne State University's College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, joins the show to discuss gun violence in society based on her team's research following the tragic shooting that killed 10 people in Monterey Park, California on Saturday.
Washington Post reporter Jacob Bogage stops by to discuss why America is once again pressing against the Federal debt ceiling, and how Congress is responding to the issue. Then, Brookings Institute economist Wendy Edelberg joins the show to discuss all things debt ceiling including, how the federal debt limit works, why it's important to Americans, and whether it should even exist in the first place.
Nick Austin sits in for Stephen Henderson to cover the meteoric rise of sports and online betting, beginning with Vox correspondent Emily Stewart, discussing her piece “Sports betting: Pretty fun, probably terrible,” to discover what's behind the trends nationwide. Then, Bridge Michigan reporter Lauren Gibbons joins the show to discuss how sports and online betting became legal in Michigan, and how it's impacting the state. Finally, Michael Burke, the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Problem Gambling, discusses his personal history with gambling, the position of his organization, and what he thinks the industry and state should do to assist individuals harmed by gambling addiction.
Detroit City Council president pro tem James Tate joins the show to discuss city council's goals in licensing recreational marijuana use as retail sales began for the first time this month. Then, Al Williams, president of "DaCut" recreational and medicinal marijuana dispensary, stops by to discuss his experiences with the start of recreational cannabis sales in the city.
Former police officer and Colby College professor of sociology Neil Gross joins the show to discuss his experience as a police officer and research into how to change it for the better, as highlighted in his new book “Walk The Walk: How Three Police Chiefs Defied the Odds and Changed Cop Culture."
Dr. Randal Jelks, professor of African and African American Studies and American Studies at the University of Kansas and author of the book “Letters to Martin: Meditations on Democracy in Black America,” joins the show to discuss MLK's legacy. Then, Detroit Today re-airs King's Walk to Freedom speech performed in Detroit on June 23, 1963, the precursor to the iconic "I Have a Dream" speech delivered at the March on Washington two months later.
Education reporter Lori Higgins and new state board of education president Pamela Pugh join the program to discuss how Michigan K-12 students are doing, and the priorities of the state education board. And Rick Pluta discusses the agenda of the state legislature.
President and CEO of the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance, Charity Dean, joins the show to discuss her views on why and how the I-375 reconstruction project should work to reduce racial wealth gaps. Then, Peniel Joseph, founding director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy at the LBJ School of Public Policy at the University of Texas, and author of the new book “The Third Reconstruction: America's Struggle for Racial Justice in the Twenty-First Century,” stops by to discuss what he believes people get wrong about Martin Luther King, Jr's legacy, and ways to celebrate his birthday ahead of MLK Day.
Michigan Supreme Court Justice Richard Bernstein recently criticized his newest colleague, Justice Kyra Harris Bolden, for hiring a clerk who had been incarcerated. That clerk, Pete Martel, had served 14 years after robbing a Flint-area store and shooting at police officers. Once Bernstein made his criticism public, Martel resigned from the position.
Bernstein has since apologized for his comments about Bolden’s hiring decision, but his initial statements raised questions. Namely, why do Americans have such a hard time accepting someone back into their communities after they paid their debt to society? How long should those who commit crimes have to pay for what they’ve done? And are there some crimes that are just so heinous that they should prevent offenders from certain jobs or opportunities in the future?
University of Nottingham associate professor of philosophy Zachary Hoskins joins the show to discuss why we punish and how it effects society. Then, Safe & Just Michigan community engagement specialists Ronnie Waters and Rick Speck stop by to discuss their experiences as formerly incarcerated members of society, what they wish people knew, and whether redemption is even possible.
Last month, Wayne State University announced its plan to create the Detroit Center for Black Studies as part of its efforts to prioritize faculty and research centered on the Black experience. The university will recruit and hire 30 new humanities faculty, made possible by a $6 million grant from the Mellon Foundation. Wayne State University president M. Roy Wilson stops by to discuss the plan, including the goal of connecting scholars who work in African American, African and African Diaspora studies across southeast Michigan. Then, Johns Hopkins University political science and Africana studies professor Lester Spence joins the show to discuss his views on Black scholarship in Detroit.
We finally got a break from the incessant voting for Speaker of the House over the weekend, and Kevin McCarthy will now lead the chamber for, well, at least a little bit. But the strange circumstances that produced his speakership will have implications for his ability to get things done. And it’s also entirely possible he won’t last very long in the position. To help explore these issues and more, Catie Edmonson, a Washington bureau reporter covering Congress for the New York Times, joins the show to discuss why it took so long and what it means for our politics moving forward. Then, Wendy Schiller, professor and chair of political science at Brown University, stops by to break down the historical nature of this moment and what it can tell us about the 118th Congress.
Stephen Henderson hosts a new BridgeDetroit podcast recorded at WDET called "What Had Happened Was," exploring how Detroit lost Black representation in Congress. Shri Thanedar moved to Detroit just two years ago and was immediately elected to represent the city in the Michigan Legislature. He beat nine African American candidates in the 2022 congressional race and broke a near 70-year streak of Detroit’s Black representation in Washington. He tells Stephen his background and the connection he feels with Detroiters will make him a strong advocate for the city’s residents.
Stephen Henderson hosts a new BridgeDetroit podcast recorded at WDET called "What Had Happened Was," exploring how Detroit lost Black representation in Congress. Rashida Tlaib grew up in Detroit, and policy-wise, probably embodies Black Detroit politics more than any other elected official. But she's not African American — she's Palestinian and Muslim — and is one of two people who represent Detroit in Congress. She tells Stephen what Black representation means to her, and how it influences her work.
Stephen Henderson hosts a new BridgeDetroit podcast recorded at WDET called "What Had Happened Was," exploring how Detroit lost Black representation in Congress. Wayne County Executive Warren Evans — Detroit’s top ranking Black public official — saw the likely difficulty electing a Black candidate in the redrawn congressional districts, and tried to unify advocates behind a consensus candidate who would be strongest. He failed, and in this episode, tells Stephen about why and what it means for Black representation.
Stephen Henderson hosts a new BridgeDetroit podcast recorded at WDET called "What Had Happened Was," exploring how Detroit lost Black representation in Congress. Since the late 1970s, Detroiters have had a particular preference for sending Black womenfolk to represent them in Congress. Portia Roberson, CEO of FOCUS:HOPE, and a former Obama administration official, hoped to be the next, but placed third in the 2022 Democratic primary. She tells Stephen why she ran and what the loss means.
Stephen Henderson hosts a new BridgeDetroit podcast recorded at WDET called "What Had Happened Was," exploring how Detroit lost Black representation in Congress. In the series premiere, Stephen takes a look at how it happened, and has a conversation with State Sen. Adam Hollier, the Black candidate who came closest to winning, about why Black representation matters.
Sen. Debbie Stabenow talks about why she's not running for re-election and her legacy. Then, a Republican and Democratic Party strategist join the show to discuss who may run for the Senate seat in 2024.
American football is a tremendous source of entertainment and a key part of our culture - but we were reminded again this week of the extreme danger the game poses to those who play following the traumatic injury sustained by Buffalo Bills wide defensive back Damar Hamlin. Patrick Hruby, deputy editor at Washingtonian magazine and author of the Hreal Sports newsletter joins the show to discuss the state of the game - from a health and safety perspective, yes, as well as a cultural one. What are we to think about big-time football? And is it time that we retire this joyous, dangerous game, from our entertainment menus?
Detroit Free Press reporter Dave Boucher stops by to discuss some of the new laws taking effect in the state in 2023. Then, the University of Michigan's newest president Santa Ono joins the show to discuss the university, the role it plays within the state, and his vision for the school's future.
When the 118th U.S. Congress begins its session today, for the first time in nearly 70 years, Detroit will not have at least one African American representing the city in Washington. But what does this change mean in a city like Detroit, the nation’s blackest big city?
Bridge Detroit's Catherine Kelly and Orlando Bailey join Stephen to discuss their latest project "What Had Happened Was," a new podcast that takes a deep look at the state and future of Black political representation. The series features interviews with some of the key voices in the 13th congressional race last year, including primary candidates Adam Hollier and Portia Roberson, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, Representative Tlaib, and Representative Thanedar.
DP+ executive director of strategic communications Bill Nowling, Outlier Media executive director Candice Fortman, and WDET's Culture Shift host Ryan Patrick Hooper join Stephen to air their grievances with 2022 as part of Detroit Today's annual Festivus tradition.
Racheal and Gerrard Allen discuss why they started a business and nonprofit in the suburbs for a diverse range of workers and business owners. Then, Sharlonda Buckman-Davis shares her journey of becoming an advocate for students in Detroit public schools.
Nolan Finley, Detroit News editorial page editor, joins Stephen to discuss how he sees conservatism and the Republican party from here in Michigan, and how sees right wing politics differing from the left.
Brookings Institution scholar Richard Reeves joins Nick Austin to discuss his new book on why working and middle class boys and men are struggling along lines of health, education and work, and why that negatively affects women, too.
Anna Sale, host of the Death, Sex and Money podcast, sits down with Nick Austin to discuss the podcast's new series on estrangement, what it means to cut ties with people and how to build something new.
Known for their support of free markets and free thinking, libertarians haven’t cracked very far into the political infrastructure as winners. They have historically been key to the coalitional success of the Republican Party, but where do they fit now with the rise of Trumpism? Shikha Dalmia, visiting fellow with George Mason University’s Mercatus Center and author of “The Unpopulist” substack, and Katherine Mangu-Ward, editor in chief of Reason, the magazine of "free minds and free markets," join the show to discuss Libertarianism and how it fits with modern conservatism and the Republican party.
Vox contributor Emily Stewart and Unchained” podcast host Laura Shin join the show to discuss the implosion of the cryptocurrency exchange FTX, the arrest of its former CEO Sam Bankman-Fried, and what it means for our economy.
MLive political reporter Jordyn Hermani and Michigan Public Radio Network senior state Capitol correspondent Rick Pluta stop by to discuss why the lame duck session in the Michigan legislature was particularly uneventful, and the upcoming term in Lansing. Then, state senator Adam Hollier joins the show to discuss a proposal aimed at replacing a statute of Lewis Cass with Coleman A. Young at the U.S. Capitol.
Do you think America’s system of government is broken? With mounting gridlock and extremism between the parties, many are dissatisfied…but how did we get here and what are the solutions? Lee Drutman, a senior fellow in the Political Reform program at New America and author of the book “Breaking the Two-Party Doom Loop: The Case for Multiparty Democracy in America,” joins the show to discuss his ideas on reforms that could create more a more effective and representative legislative bodies in our country.
First, Andy Smarick, senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, joins the show to discuss his ideas education, civil society, and the principles of American conservatism. Then, Rafael Mangual, head of research for the Policing and Public Safety Initiative at the Manhattan Institute, stops by to discuss the research and ideas behind his recent book “Criminal Injustice: What the Push for Decarceration and Depolicing Gets Wrong and Who It Hurts Most.”
Former gubernatorial candidate and former executive director of the Detroit Health Department Dr. Abdul El-Sayed joins the show to discuss his new appointment as health director of Wayne County beginning in March 2023.
What happens in one state could be an example for nearby states - or so the idea went, once upon a time...but with the deep polarization gripping our nation, is that even possible anymore? First, Jake Grumbach joins the show to discuss his book "Laboratories Against Democracy," and how our nationalized politics have changed the way states create laws. Next, former St. Paul mayor Chris Coleman stops by to discuss how the twin cities were able to establish light rail between Minneapolis and St. Paul in Minnesota. Finally, Oakland County Board of Commissioners chair Dave Woodward discusses the new transit millage in Oakland County and what it means for regional transit in Southeast Michigan.
Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger and Michigan Public Radio Network correspondent Rick Pulta stop by to the discuss the relationship between a lobbying firm and former state house speaker Lee Chatfield, including the attorney general's investigation and why it has Lansing concerned. This, Washington Post reporter Azi Paybarah joins the show to discuss the upcoming leadership changes for Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives ahead of the new term.
Outlier Media journalist Candice Fortman joins Stephen and Nick on Detroit Today to discuss what's going on with Twitter, and why so many people are leaving the platform.
State Sen. Ed McBroom from the Upper Peninsula and state Rep. Steve Carra from Three Rivers discusses what conservativism means to them and where the Republican Party is going. This is all part of our new series on Republicans entitled, "GOP '23: Where the Party At?"
Congressman Andy Levin (D) and Thomson Reuters correspondent David Shepardson join the show to discuss the latest involving the labor dispute between railroad companies and workers, including the issues between the parties and how the federal government may intervene. Then, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy stops by to discuss her office's efforts to contact sexual assault survivors who had rape kits performed in Detroit between 1984 and 2009. Survivors may obtain confidential information about their cases by calling 313-224-4111 or visiting www.MyRapeKit.com
Nick Austin steps in for Stephen to discuss why Michigan's population is declining, what that means for the state and how to reverse the trend with University of Michigan economist Don Grimes. Then, Dr. Matthew Sims of Corewell Health East joins the show to talk about increasing RSV infections in the state.
Rana Foroohar, global business columnist and an associate editor at the Financial Times, and author of “Homecoming: The Path to Prosperity in a Post Global World,” joins the show to discuss why she believe the future of America's economy should be local and how globalization has affected the modern worker.
State Sen. Jeremy Moss discusses his view of the changing politics in Oakland County, and what Democrats want to accomplish while holding a majority in the state legislature. Then, two redistricting commissioners explore what went right and wrong about Michigan's new political maps.
What are you cooking for Thanksgiving? What have been some Thanksgiving day disasters of the past? WDET music hosts Rob Reinhart and Ann Delisi join Detroit Today to discuss Thanksgiving day traditions and past mistakes that were made.
A new DTE rate increase will go into effect, but it’s not what was anticipated for consumers.
DTE had wanted an additional $388 million — an increase of 8.8% for households — in annual revenue to maintain the energy grid. But they didn’t get it. They were allowed a rate increase of less than 1 percent from a decision made by the Michigan Public Service Commission at a Friday meeting.
That increase is the smallest approved for DTE in an electric rate case in at least a decade. The commission also directed DTE to offer more details about its low-income assistance program. Freelance reporter Tom Perkins joins the show to discuss what occurred, including why the service commission limited the rate increase suggested by DTE. Then, Katherine Blunt, a Wall Street Journal reporter and author of California Burning: The Fall of Pacific Gas and Electric and What it Means for America’s Power Grid," stops by to provide further insight into how state oversight of utility companies work, including how California's system could be informative for the energy climate in Michigan.
Apologies are hard. It’s not fun to admit wrongdoing and commit to a different set of actions. American representatives and presidents, particularly, rarely apologize while holding office. But that’s not for lack of mistakes that American leaders have made recently or deeper in the country’s collective past.
Other countries expect their leaders to apologize for mistakes the country has made currently or in the past. Why are Americans often against offering apologies and repenting for their actions? And, what does a better apology and repentance look like? Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg is an award-winning author and writer. Her latest book is “On Repentance and Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World.” She joins the show to discuss how personally and collectively, Americans must do the work of repentance and repair or they will repeat the same mistakes.
Detroit Future City CEO Anika Goss and the Kresge Foundation's Detroit program managing director Wendy Jackson join the show to discuss the recently released "Detroit Reinvestment Index" survey tracking local and national perceptions of Detroit and its economic growth since 2013. Then, ACLU staff attorney Mark Fancher stops by to discuss the Michigan State Police's recent agreement to an expert investigation into data indicating African Americans being stopped at a disproportionately high rate in the state.
The last time Democrats had control of the legislature and governor’s office — about 40 years ago — they kind of messed things up. Dealing with enormous unemployment numbers and a state budget carrying a deficit, they immediately raised taxes. But this didn’t work out so well for them, as they lost their majority in the legislature after Governor Jim Blanchard was two years in office. The result was simple: Republican John Engler became the new Senate Majority leader and would later become a three-term governor. What are the lessons that Democrats today have learned from that period? And, will they fall into similar traps now as they did then? Detroit Free Press writer Paul Egan joins the show to discuss why he doesn't think it will happen this time. Then, incoming state senators Veronica Klinefelt and Kevin Hertel join the show to discuss how the Democrats were able to win in Macomb County, their priorities, and what they plan to do in office next term.
First, State rep. Joe Tate joins the show to talk about his historic moment being the first African American speaker of the state House, and what Democrats plan to do with their new majority. Then, Koby Levin of Chalkbeat Detroit discusses why absentee rates are such a problem for Detroit public schools and Michigan schools around the state.
Vox's Emily Stewart joins the show to discuss what non-Federal Reserve members can do to lower inflation (namely, lawmakers). Then, Jamie Butters of the Automotive News explores how high prices are impacting auto makers and auto dealers.
Men have fewer friends than ever, and it’s hurting their health. But why? What is behind the steep decline in friends and how is it harming men in society? Niobe Way, Professor of Developmental Psychology and the founder of the Project for the Advancement of Our Common Humanity at New York University, joins the show to discuss her research into male friendships and the crisis of connection, including the history of the problem, what she has learned from her discussions with boys about the subject, and solutions for creating the meaningful relationships males need in society today.
The midterms are often a referendum on the party controlling the White House. But the anticipated wave didn’t come. So, what happened nationally? How big of an effect did the Dobbs decision have on voting patterns? Why did Democrats do well? Why did Republicans do poorly? Patrick Marley, Washington Post national reporter focusing on voting issues in the Upper Midwest, joins the show to discuss the what happened in the midterm elections nationally. Then, Clara Hendrickson of the Detroit Free Press and Craig Mauger of the Detroit News stop by to continue our look at the results in Michigan, including what happened with the ballot proposals, and what Governor Whitmer could look to do next term now that Democrats will control the House and Senate.
Democrats in Michigan accomplished a major feat yesterday, winning all three statewide elected offices, and appear poised to take the state House and Senate for the first time in nearly 40 years. Bridge Michigan's Lauren Gibbons, MLive's Jordyn Hermani, Gongwer's Alethia Kasben, and Republican political consultant Dennis Darnoi join the show to break down how this occurred and what the results mean for the state moving forward.
What are you curious about? When we’re in this mindset of curiosity, we’re not just seeking facts or a singular truth, we’re seeking connections; we’re looking to weave information together into a web, often drawing us closer to what we’re looking for and to other people who are doing the same. At the root of curiosity lies an active process of building these connections — creating relationships in the outer world that mirror those we’re stringing together in our own mind. That’s at least the argument of a new book called “Curious Minds.” In it, twin siblings and Professors Perry Zurn and Dani Bassett navigate the process of exploration that many of us excitedly partake in every day. They join Stephen to discuss curiosity and what they learned during the process of exploring the topic.
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson stops by to discuss what her office is doing to ensure election integrity ahead of the November 9th election, as well as her bid for a second term as Michigan's top election official. Then, political scientist Matt Grossmann joins the show to take a look at the preferences of Republicans and Democrats ahead of the midterms.
Qian Julie Wang's new memoir "Beautiful Country" navigates issues of identity, family, place, and immigration. The author joins Detroit Today to discuss her new book and her experiences in America as an undocumented immigrant from China.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel stops by to discuss voter suppression efforts in Michigan, what her office is doing to protect voters, her re-election bid as the Democratic nominee against her opponent Matt DePerno, and her thoughts about the GOP efforts to use the phrase "Drag Queen in every classroom" against the Democrats this cycle. Then, MLive senior politics reporter Simon Schuster joins the show to discuss the money spent in Michigan elections this year, including how much is being spent and his recent story about FBI concerns of efforts by China attempting to hack our election.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer joins the show to discuss why she's running for re-election as the Democratic nominee against Republican Tudor Dixon, discussing inflation, job creation, her response to the COVID pandemic, and how she thinks she can reach across the aisle to get things done if re-elected. Then, Congressman Dan Kildee stops by to discuss his bid as the Democratic nominee in the 5th Congressional District against Republican Paul Junge, including his thoughts on inflation, the differences between him and his opponent, and what he plans to do if re-elected for another term in office.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer joins the show to discuss why she's running for re-election as the Democratic nominee against Republican Tudor Dixon, discussing inflation, job creation, her response to the COVID pandemic, and how she thinks she can reach across the aisle to get things done if re-elected. Then, Congressman Dan Kildee stops by to discuss his bid as the Democratic nominee in the 5th Congressional District against Republican Paul Junge, including his thoughts on inflation, the differences between him and his opponent, and what he plans to do if re-elected for another term in office.
If you watch television or listen to commercial radio at all these days, you’ve heard the way-over-the-top political ads that flow non-stop. Ads have always been part of political campaigns, but it does seem that there are more negative ads, some making really outlandish claims, than ever before. Michael Franz, professor of Government and Legal Studies and Bowdoin College, and Rick Pluta, senior state Capitol correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network, join the show to discuss political ads in this campaign cycle, if they are effective, and how they have change in Michigan and nationwide.
If you watch television or listen to commercial radio at all these days, you’ve heard the way-over-the-top political ads that flow non-stop. Ads have always been part of political campaigns, but it does seem that there are more negative ads, some making really outlandish claims, than ever before. Michael Franz, professor of Government and Legal Studies and Bowdoin College, and Rick Pluta, senior state Capitol correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network, join the show to discuss political ads in this campaign cycle, if they are effective, and how they have change in Michigan and nationwide.
Americans have more access to public polling data than ever before. We now have knowledge about how our fellow citizens consider all kinds of things — higher prices, the reality of climate change, their support for the sitting president. But the 2016 presidential election especially turned a lot of people off from polling, and caused many organizations that conduct polling to review their processes, and to try to make them more accurate. So how should we be interpreting polls, and what does polling mean for our politics? G. Elliot Morris, data journalist & U.S. correspondent for The Economist, is the author of “Strength in numbers: How Polls Work and Why We Need Them.” He stops by to discuss the importance of polling and provide perspective, including what a world without polling might look like.
Americans have more access to public polling data than ever before. We now have knowledge about how our fellow citizens consider all kinds of things — higher prices, the reality of climate change, their support for the sitting president. But the 2016 presidential election especially turned a lot of people off from polling, and caused many organizations that conduct polling to review their processes, and to try to make them more accurate. So how should we be interpreting polls, and what does polling mean for our politics? G. Elliot Morris, data journalist & U.S. correspondent for The Economist, is the author of “Strength in numbers: How Polls Work and Why We Need Them.” He stops by to discuss the importance of polling and provide perspective, including what a world without polling might look like.
Polarization in today’s discourse is a problem. Some find it impossible to even relate to friends and family members who hold different political opinions than them. This is especially concerning as we consider the effects increased polarization could have on our democracy. Mónica Guzmán, author of “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times,” and Senior Fellow at Braver Angels, a nonprofit working to depolarize America, joins the show to discuss why having conversations with those we disagree with important, while sharing strategies on how to do so effectively.
Polarization in today’s discourse is a problem. Some find it impossible to even relate to friends and family members who hold different political opinions than them. This is especially concerning as we consider the effects increased polarization could have on our democracy. Mónica Guzmán, author of “I Never Thought of It That Way: How to have fearlessly curious conversations in dangerously divided times,” and Senior Fellow at Braver Angels, a nonprofit working to depolarize America, joins the show to discuss why having conversations with those we disagree with important, while sharing strategies on how to do so effectively.
In Michigan, people are expressing frustration that the jobs offered today “don’t offer the same pay, benefits and community cohesion that they remember from Michigan’s industrial heyday," according to POLITICO reporter and Michigan native Gavin Bade. He says people “express a nostalgia” for a time when they didn’t have to worry about paying for healthcare, could relax on their time off and had freedom from financial anxiety -- despite an improving economy and more government investment. So why are people upset? Gavin stops by, along with Detroit News journalist Chad Livengood, to discuss all this and more, including Gavin's recent piece "Glory Days: In Michigan, Nostalgia for a Romanticized Past Outstrips the Reality of an Economic Rebirth."
In Michigan, people are expressing frustration that the jobs offered today “don’t offer the same pay, benefits and community cohesion that they remember from Michigan’s industrial heyday," according to POLITICO reporter and Michigan native Gavin Bade. He says people “express a nostalgia” for a time when they didn’t have to worry about paying for healthcare, could relax on their time off and had freedom from financial anxiety -- despite an improving economy and more government investment. So why are people upset? Gavin stops by, along with Detroit News journalist Chad Livengood, to discuss all this and more, including Gavin's recent piece "Glory Days: In Michigan, Nostalgia for a Romanticized Past Outstrips the Reality of an Economic Rebirth."
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger join the show to breakdown what occurred at the final gubernatorial debate between Gretchen Whitmer and Tudor Dixon and the state of the governor's race ahead of the November 8 election.
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger join the show to breakdown what occurred at the final gubernatorial debate between Gretchen Whitmer and Tudor Dixon and the state of the governor's race ahead of the November 8 election.
Democratic Carl Marlinga stops by to discuss why he's running for Congress against Republican John James in possibly the most hotly contested Congressional race in Michigan's newly drawn 10th District. Then, Elena Durnbough, journalist at the state politics outlet Gongwer Michigan, joins the show to break down the important state races she's covering Downriver and why the results may have a big impact in the Michigan legislature.
Democratic Carl Marlinga stops by to discuss why he's running for Congress against Republican John James in possibly the most hotly contested Congressional race in Michigan's newly drawn 10th District. Then, Elena Durnbough, journalist at the state politics outlet Gongwer Michigan, joins the show to break down the important state races she's covering Downriver and why the results may have a big impact in the Michigan legislature.
In America today, one level of polarization that we often don’t discuss is education. College attendance and completion is a significant predictor of political identification. Will Bunch is an opinion columnist with the Philadelphia Inquirer who has been writing a lot about this in his new book, “After the Ivory Tower Falls.” He joins the show to discuss the places where our political differences are most obvious: in and around college campuses.
Why hasn’t the United States elected a woman president? We came close in 2020, and elected the first female vice president in 2022, but when will this nation hand the reins of power completely over to a woman? Ali Vitali covered both the 2016 and 2022 presidential elections for NBC news, and her recent book "Electable: Why America hasn’t put a woman in the white house… yet," dives into the campaigns to determine why the United States hasn’t yet reached this milestone. She joins the show to discuss what she has learned and what it might take to get over this hurdle.
Southfield chief of police Elvin V. Barren and Reverend Chris Yaw of St. David's Episcopal Church join the show to discuss the gun buy-back events occurring throughout Oakland County on October 22, 2022, and how events like this can help create safer communities. Then Democrat State Representative Shri Thanedar stops by to discuss his bid for Michigan's 13th Congressional seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The candidates for the 12th Congressional District, Republican Steven Elliot and Democrat Rashida Tlaib, stop by to discuss the race and why they are running for Congress.
Oakland County clerk Lisa Brown and Ottawa County clerk Justin Roebuck join the show to discuss election safety, including their concerns as county clerks, and the solutions they have to ensure election integrity. Then, The Detroit News's conservative editorial page editor, Nolan Finley, and Oakland University's director of the Center for Civic Engagement, David Dulio, stop by to discuss the Great Lakes Civility Projection event occurring Tuesday, October 25th at Oakland University, and the importance of civil discourse with people we disagree with.
Arab American News Publisher Osama Siblani and Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Glenn Maleyko join the show to discus the beginning, context, and evolution of the parents who are concerned about the type of books available for students in Dearborn's public schools.
Journalist, activist and fiction writer Desiree Cooper joins the show to discuss her new children’s book, “Nothing Special,” exploring the link between grandparents and grandchildren, north and south, and the Great Migration, and a reverse migration of many African Americans moving south.
Republican political consultant Dennis Darnoi and Oakland County Democratic party chair Nancy Quarles join the show to discuss the state, local and federal elections affecting Oakland County this fall. Then, the University of Detroit-Mercy's new president, Donald Taylor, stops by to discuss higher education in the city and his outlook for the school.
California Congressman Ro Khanna joins the show to discuss his ideas for brining high-paying tech jobs to the Rust Belt. Then, WDET's Sascha Raiyn and Chalkbeat Detroit's Ethan Bakuli join the show to discuss their virtual Detroit Public School Board candidate forum, scheduled for Thursday, October 13 at 5:30 pm, where 18 candidates will face off for the 4 available seats in the race this November.
Congresswoman Elisa Slotkin joins the show to discuss her re-election bid as the Democratic candidate for Congress in the 7th District against Republican candidate Tom Barrett. Then, Martell Bivings, Republican candidate for the 13th District discusses his race against Democratic candidate and Michigan State Representative Shri Thanedar.
Novelist, writer and brand consultant Mohsin Hamid joins the show to discuss his latest book, "The Last White Man," dealing with themes of loss, changing demographics, community, and how we can use novels to inspire ourselves to a better future.
Physician and Director of Clinical Research at Columbia University, Dr. Andrew Bomback, joins the show to discuss his latest book, “Long Days, Short Years: A Cultural History of Modern Parenting," and the difficulties parents face in the modern age.
This November, Michiganders will vote on 3 ballot initiatives. Zach Gorchow, Publisher & Executive Editor of the Gongwer News Service in Lansing, joins the show to break down the 3 initiatives, and how they could affect the state. Then, last week, Michigan approved a $846 million dollar budget in an aggressive bid to attract new business. Lauren Gibbons, a reporter covering Michigan politics for Bridge Michigan, stops by to discuss why lawmakers arrived at this figure and how people are reacting to the increase in spending.
State senator Tom Barrett joins the show to discuss why he is running for Congress in the 7th District against Democratic incumbent Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin. Then, Hayley Harding and Sarah Rahal of the Detroit News stop by to discuss their article "Caregivers in Michigan are at a Breaking Point," including the struggles facing caregivers, why its happening, and the pressures it places on families.
This week, the U.S. Supreme Court starts its new term with its 6-3 conservative super-majority. Anne Marimow, legal affairs reporter for the Washington Post, joins the show to discuss, the Court's prior term, why public opinion of the court is polling at historic lows, and what to look for in the new term. Then, Tom Wolf, deputy director with the Brennan Center’s Democracy Program, stops by to preview the new term, including important cases implicating voting rights, and how they might impact our democracy.
It’s a pivotal time for women and the law in our country. Dahlia Lithwick, who covers the courts and the law for Slate, joins the show to discuss her new book "Lady Justice: Women, the law and the battle to save America," and the ever-changing effect women have in shaping our law and politics.
Aaron Retish, history professor at Wayne State University with a specialization in Soviet and Russian history, joins the show to discuss the latest about the war in Ukraine, including the attempted annexation of territory, and why the war matters for us in America. Then, Joshua Edmonds, Detroit's director of digital inclusion, joins the show to discuss what the city is doing to increase access to technology and internet in Detroit.
ShotSpotter is a system designed to detect gunfire by triangulating the sound of gunshots with a series of sensors deployed across an area. This week, Detroit City Council approved $1.5 million to renew ShotSpotter, while delaying a vote on whether to spend $7 million in ARPA funds to expand it. Mitchell Douchette, an assistant scientist at Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence joins the show to discuss his study's findings regarding whether the system is effective at reducing gun violence. Then, Nancy Parker, managing attorney at the Detroit Justice Center, presents her arguments against implementing ShotSpotter in the city. Next, Detroit Deputy Police Chief Franklin Hayes joins the show to discuss why the Detroit Police Department supports expanded use of the system. Finally, WDET's Eli Newman provides an update on where city council is with the vote and what to expect moving forward.
Scott Anderson, visiting fellow in Governance Studies at the Brookings Institution, joins the show to discuss the status of the many investigations and lawsuits, criminal and civil, federal and state, facing Donald Trump.
Nationwide, police are leaving their departments in droves while law enforcement agencies are struggling to fill the vacancies. Retired police chief Ivonne Roman and innovations in government researcher Jane Wiseman join the show to discuss why agencies are facing shortages and potential solutions to the issue including increased recruitment and retention of women in law enforcement. Then, Washtenaw County Sheriff Jerry Clayton and executive director for the Police Executive Research Forum Chuck Wexler stop by to discuss how local law enforcement agencies can increase staffing while supporting the communities they serve.
Award winning author Joyce Carol Oates joins the show to discuss her new book "Babysitter," including how it was influenced by her time living in southeast Michigan. Then, environmental law expert Nick Schroeck and journalist Gary Wilson join the show to discuss Wilson's latest article covering how the cleanup of the Detroit River appears to be a low priority, despite the Great Lakes receiving a $1 billion windfall from the Biden adminstration.
“Making Black America,” hosted by history professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr., is a new series on PBS. As part of the series, Detroit Public Television and WDET have teamed up to host a free town hall on September 27 covering the history and future of Black fraternities and sororities and their connection to Detroit. Event moderator Mark S. Lee joins the show to discuss the importance of African-American led institutions, the series, and the upcoming event. Then, Bishop Edgar Vann, senior pastor of Second Ebenezer Church stops by to discuss the nonprofit Detroit Equity Inc., which seeks to address equity in corporations that operate out of Detroit.
Caitlin Dickerson, Staff writer at The Atlantic, Ruby Robinson, managing attorney at the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center, and Linus Chan, director of the Detainee Rights Clinic and law professor at the University of Minnesota Law School, join the show to discuss why some Republican border-state governors are shipping migrants to other states, including the legality and ramifications of the practice.
Josh Pugh, senior director of public affairs for Truscott Rossman, and Jason Cabel Roe, principal for Roe Strategic, join the show to discuss Proposal 1, including how it seeks to increase term limits and financial disclosures for state lawmakers, and why they believe it will benefit the state.
Anika Goss, CEO of Detroit Future City, a local think tank, joins the show to take a comprehensive look at the current state of home ownership and housing in Detroit.
Jessie Singer, journalist and author of “There are no accidents: The deadly rise of injury and disaster — who profits and who pays the price," joins the show to discuss how we misunderstand the nature of accidents, and what we can do to create safer societies in America.
Detroit has returned to be a majority homeowner city for the first time in a decade. Julie Schneider, director for the Housing & Revitalization Department at the City of Detroit, joins the show to discuss the new census data and what it means for the city's effort to increase homeownership. Then, Jeff Cranson, Director of Communications for the Michigan Department of Transportation, stops by the show to discuss the newly announced $104.6 million grant toward the redevelopment of I-375.
Detroit Auto Show/NAIAS co-chair Thad Szott joins the show to discuss the return of the event after its 3-year hiatus, including how the show is changing now that it has moved to September with both indoor and outdoor activities. Then, Jamie Butters of the Automotive News stops by to add insight into the auto show's changes, as well as explore other changes to the auto industry in the city.
Michigan’s highest court will receive a major shakeup at the end of the year as Chief Justice Bridget McCormack announced her plans to retire this week. Rick Pluta, senior state Capitol correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network, and Lauren Gibbons of Bridge Michigan, join the show to reflect on Chief Justice McCormack's legacy with the Court, the political ramifications of her decision, and what we can expect moving forward. Then, Detroit Free Press higher education reporter David Jesse joins the show to discuss why Michigan State University president Samuel Stanley, Jr appears to be under pressure to resign from some members of the Board of Trustees, including how we got to this point, as well as how Eastern Michigan University resolved its labor dispute.
Crime has been trending down for the last few decades. But more recently, violent crime has been increasing, particularly after 2020. National reporter Abene Clayton and Ames Grawert of the Brennan Center for Justice joins the program to discuss how consequences of the pandemic and poverty have caused violence to increase.
Ed Yong, a science writer at The Atlantic, joins the show to discuss the unique experiences of animals as highlighted in his most recent book, “An Immense World: How Animal Senses Reveal the Hidden Realms Around Us.” Then, Dr. Lezli Levene Harvell, the creator and curator of The Iconoclast Dinner Experience, joins the show to discuss exploring nuanced and complex cultural topics through food.
Paul Levinson, professor of communications and media studies at Fordham University, joins the show to discuss all things smart phone including, the device's, how society interacts with them, and why continue to call them "phones."
Caitlin Dickerston, staff writer at The Atlantic, joins the show to discuss her new piece, “We Need To Take Away the Children," covering the secret history of the U.S. government’s family-separation program that occurred as part of the Trump administration's "Zero Tolerance" policy. Then, David Bier, associate director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, a free market think tank, joins the show to discuss his organizations recent polling covering the public's opinions on immigration in the United States
In 1986, Detroit Pistons NBA star Isiah Thomas tried to reduce violence in the city with "No Crime Day." Slate Magazine's national editor and host of the “One Year” podcast, Josh Levin, joins to the show to discuss Thomas' vision of a crime-free Detroit and whether the event was a success or failure. Then, Alex Alsup, vice president of Research and Development at Regrid, joins the show to discuss the Wayne County Tax Foreclosure auction.
Stanford law professor Michelle Wilde Anderson joins the show to discuss the issues some cities face with their local governments not having enough money, and potential solutions, as highlighted in her book "The Fight to Save the Town: Reimagining Discarded America."
Wayne State Law Professor Peter Hammer joins the program to discuss his latest book, "No Equal Justice," about the life and times of George Crockett, Jr. Then, Stephen talks Jazz Fest with a local artist and a director of the festival.
Zachary D. Carter, consultant with the Hewlett Foundation's Economy and Society Initiative, joins the show to discuss the President's student debt relief plan, including how it can benefit society. Then, Marc Goldwein, Senior Vice President with the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, stops by to discuss the argument against debt cancellation and concerns with plan announced by the White House.
Severe storms left over 262,000 residents without power in metro Detroit this week following extreme winds reaching up to 70 mph. American Society of Adaptation Professionals executive director Beth Gibbons and Detroit Mercy Law School professor and environmental law expert Nick Schroeck join the show to discuss the best ways we can adapt our infrastructure to deal with increasing volatile weather in the state.
On Thursday the Board of Canvassers will decide whether to certify the Reproductive Freedom for All proposed constitutional amendment for the November ballot. Attorney Mark Brewer and Michigan ACLU executive director Loren Khogali join the show to discuss the challenges to the proposal and what is at stake ahead of the hearing. Then, the Michigan League for Public Policy's external affairs director Alex Rossman stops by to discuss a recent Kids Count report detailing child well-being in the state, areas of strength, and where we can improve.
Author and journalist Eyal Press joins the program to discuss his new book, "Dirty Work," and why America doesn't just have economic inequality, but also moral inequality.
This week, President Biden announced a plan to cancel student debt of up to $20,000 for millions of Americans. According to the White House, the plan will affect 95% of borrowers and eliminate debt for almost 45%. But how does the plan work and is it a good idea? Senior Fellow at Brookings Metro and a scholar-in-residence at American University Andre Perry joins the show to discuss the ins-and-outs of the new three-part plan for student loan relief.
Bryce Huffman of Bridge Detroit and reporter Kayleigh Lickliter stop by to discuss the cost of demolitions in Detroit. Then, Ron French joins the program to talk about why residents of a town in Ottawa County voted to defund their own library.
Citizens for a Pro-Life Society director Monica Miller joins the show to discuss why she became part of the pro-life movement and has continued her fight against abortion for so many decades. Then, Vox senior policy reporter Rachel Cohen and Bridge Michigan politics reporter Lauren Gibbons stop by to break down the nuanced positions Michiganders, and Americans generally, have on access to abortion.
Freelance reporter Tom Perkins stops by to discuss a promising new method scientists have discovered for decomposing some PFAS compounds, and why this may be a major breakthrough in addressing its widespread environmental contamination throughout the world. Then, Tom Daldin and Jim Edelman of the PBS Television program "Under the Radar Michigan" stop by to discuss what makes Michigan unique and fun.
University of Michigan professor of musicology Mark Clague joins the show to discuss his book "O Say Can You Hear? A Cultural Biography of 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' including how it developed as a symbol and whether and how symbols can unite as Americans.
Former ACLU president Nadine Strossen joins the show to discuss her book "Hate: Why We Should Resist it With Free Speech, Not Censorship," including how free speech interacts with modern platforms.
Washington Post contributing columnist Micheline Maynard joins the show to discuss her book, "Satisfaction Guaranteed: How Zingerman's Built a Corner Deli into a Global Food Community," including the story behind the 40-year-old Ann Arbor delicatessen, how it navigated the pandemic, and what business owners can learn from the company's success. Then, Republican political consultant Dennis Darnoi and Detroit News columnist Chad Livengood stop by to discuss where the Michigan GOP stand on policy compared to the electorate, including the influence of Donald Trump and how it make affect the upcoming elections in November.
New York Times author Ron Lieber joins the show to talk about his new book, "The Price You Pay for College," and how people should navigate university costs that have been skyrocketing. Then, Kalea Hall of The Detroit News joins to discuss why GM decided to remove four-year college requirements for some of their jobs.
Jaron Lanier, computer scientist, tech pioneer and author of "Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now," joins Nick Austin to discuss how social media in its present form harms society, how we got to this place, and what we can do to make improve the platforms for everyone.
Why did the Justice Department execute a search and seizure of classified material at Former President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate? Politico reporter Stephen Wu, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Chutkow join the show to discuss the latest following public release of the underlying warrant. University of California-San Diego professor Barbara Walter stops by to discuss her new book "How Civil Wars Start and How to Stop Them," and the current state of violent extremism in America.
Will Oakland County expand it's public transit system? Oakland County Board of Commissioners chair Dave Woodward, State Senator Ruth Johnson, and Transportation Riders United executive director Megan Owens join the show for a lively discussion about the upcoming vote on public transit in Oakland County, if it should pass, and how it would affect the region. Then, Automotive News executive editor Jamie Butters stops by to discuss the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on the electric vehicle industry.
Detroit’s tax structure is odd, partly because Detroit is a city trying to redevelop and build back equitably after losing 1.5 million people since the 1950s. There are very high property taxes, nonexistent consumption taxes, and many corporate tax breaks. The city is short on revenue - for services, for investment, for infrastructure. At the same time, the people who live in the city - and the poorest people, especially - bear the brunt of a walloping tax burden. Eric Lupher, the President of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, and Nick Allen, a former manager of strategy and policy for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and current doctoral candidate studying city planning at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, join the show to discuss Detroit's tax ecosystem and potential solutions to its issues.
Wayne State University Professor Marick Masters joins Stephen to discuss why the service and tech sectors are now spaces for collective bargaining, and why Americans abandoned the labor movement for the past few decades. Then, WDET's Sascha Raiyn joins the show to discuss new developments with the United Autor Workers.
Democrats have passed historic legislation covering items like healthcare and climate...without a clear majority in the senate. So why are President Biden's ratings so low? Shikha Dalmia of George Mason University's Mercatus Center and Ryan Cooper of The American Prospect stop by to discuss the issue and what they believe the party can do about it ahead of the general election. Then, Brown University professor Wendy Schiller stops by to discuss the dangers of Democrats spending money in Republican primary elections.
Author and New York Times Magazine contributing writer Linda Villarosa discusses her new book "Under the Skin," about how racism affects personal health. Then, Michigan Chief Medical Executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian discusses Monkeypox and how to be safe from it.
CNN host Zain Asher sits down with Stephen to discuss her new memoir, "Where the Children Take Us," and how her family was able to succeed amid tragedy and struggle after her father died.
The Inflation Reduction Act, as currently written, would allow the most spending the country has ever put forward to specifically tackle climate change. But will it pass? Washington Post White House economics reporter Jeff Stein joins the show to discuss, what's in the bill, the obstacles it currently faces, and how Senator Joe Manchin became one of its vocal supporters. Then, Detroit News reporter Craig Mauger stops by to discuss why Michigan could soon have a $12 minimum wage and why the issue is in court, as well as the results from Michigan's recent primary elections.
Gongwer News Service Michigan's managing editor Alethia Kasben, political and communications consultant and Deadline Detroit columnist Greg Bowens, Michigan Public Radio Network senior state Capitol correspondent Rick Pluta, join the show to break down all the results from Michigan's primary elections and what they mean for the state.
Sharon McMahon is a former government teacher who has amassed over 970,000 followers on Instagram because of the warm, open community she’s created. On her online channels, people of different political beliefs come together to investigate certain topics, but also to better connect with Sharon. She joins Detroit Today to discuss what she has learned and how we can best reduce misinformation and alleviate partisan divides.
Americans do not always have a favorable opinion of immigrants, but is immigration a net positive for both immigrants and native-born citizens? Princeton University professor Leah Boustan is the author of a new book called “Streets of Gold: America’s Untold Story of Immigrant Success” and joins the show to discuss why children of immigrants from around the world consistently succeed in climbing the economic ladder and how immigration expands our country's economic pie. Then, Michigan ACLU staff attorney Jay Kaplan joins the show to discuss the Michigan Supreme Court's latest decision barring discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Senator Debbie Stabenow joins the show to discuss Congress's efforts to increase domestic microchip manufacturing through the CHIPS Act, as well as her thoughts on price gouging by oil companies and the latest legislative effort to protect marriage equality. Then, author and journalist Will Storr stops by to discuss his latest book, "The Status Game" and his argument that in everything we do — work or school, sports or volunteering — we are aware of our standing compared to others, and desire the approval and adoration of them, too.
What issues are driving the Republican candidates for Governor in Michigan? Jonathan Oosting stops by to discuss the state of the Republican primary in the gubernatorial race. Then, former Wayne County executive Robert Ficano and former Wayne County Board of Canvassers member John Knappman stop by to discuss how Wayne County elections outside of Detroit are shaping up ahead of Tuesday's primaries.
Simon Schuster of MLive.com joins the show to discuss campaign financing in Michigan including, how money impacts our elections, where its coming from, and proposed changes to the system. Then Michigan football alum Braylon Edwards and Detroit Free Press sportswriter Shawn Windsor stop by to discuss USC and UCLA joining the Big Ten, the ability of college athletes to earn money of their likeness, and the current state of college sports.
WDET's Eli Newman, political consultant Mario Morrow and Detroit Free Press reporter Todd Spangler join the program to discuss who is leading in the 12th and 13th Congressional District races.
Idaho State University Associate Professor Zac Gershberg joins the program to discuss his new co-authored book, "The Paradox of Democracy," and one reason why America's democracy is particularly vulnerable right now.
What is a good friend? How can we have better friendships? Atlantic editor Julie Beck joins the show to discuss her series “The Friendship Files” including what she’s learned and the six (“6”] forces that fuel friendship.
Two Washington Post reporters discuss their latest book on George Floyd, and how he was constantly plagued by systems of racism. Then, local WDET reporter Eli Newman talks with Stephen about how little the Detroit Police Department has changed since the summer of 2020 protests.
What is the history of cash bail? Why do you we use it and are their better alternatives? Insha Rahman, vice president of advocacy and partnerships at the Vera Institute, joins the show to discuss our history with cash bail, why it persists, and what better alternatives she believes we have to ensure court appearances, lower costs, and promote public safety. Then, William McConico, the chief judge for Detroit's 36th District Court joins the show to discuss how his court is changing its bail policies and why he believes the changes will promote fairness and safety in the city.
The Concert of Colors, metro Detroit’s free annual diversity-themed music festival, is happening from July 16 - July 24. Ismael Ahmed, host of "This Island Earth" on WDET started the event almost 30 years ago and joins Stephen to discuss the event, its importance, and his love of world music. Then, Dr. Paul Kilgore joins the show to discuss the current status of COVID-19 including the BA.5 omicron subvariant, best health and safety practices, and how you can get N95 masks for free in your neighborhood.
In this pre-recorded conversation, journalist Anna Sale discusses her book "Let's Talk About Hard Things," which explores how to have difficult conversations without the organizational supports that once were a bigger part of our lives.
Detroit Free Press writer Todd Spangler talks with fill-in host Nick Austin about the heated 11th Congressional District primary race between sitting Congressmembers Haley Stevens (D-11) and Andy Levin (D-9). Then, leaders of the Reproductive Freedom for All campaign join the program to talk about the abortion access movement in Michigan.
The fight over what stories get told in American history is very contentious today. Many are recognizing that they were not taught the full story of the good, bad and ugly of American traditions, rituals and historical figures. Author and climate activist Bill McKibben joins Stephen to discuss his latest book, and how he came to realize a fuller, more complex version of American history.
Stephen checks-in on the landscape for the upcoming Detroit primary elections with political strategists Sheila Cockrel and Greg Bowens. Then, Orlando Bailey and Catherine Kelly of BridgeDetroit stop by to discuss the recent townhall discussions they have hosted with Detroit residents, what they have learned, how the information will help orient the organization's editorial coverage priorities for the city.
Who’s American? And what does that mean? Author Caleb Gayle joins Stephen to the notions of race and ethnicity and how they place people in the American experiment, and other questions he interrogates in his new book “We Refuse to Forget: A True Story of Black Creeks, American Identity, and Power.”
New York Times bestselling author Frederick Joseph joins the show to discuss his new book "Patriarchy Blues: Reflections on Manhood" and delve into what it means to be a man and how it affects society.
First, Zach Gorchow of the Gongwer News Service joins Stephen to talk about the recently passed state budget of almost $77 billion. Then, a political consultant and local representative in Oakland County discuss the local elections coming up in that area.
This past fourth of July, at least ten people were killed in different mass shootings in Illinois, Indiana, New York and elsewhere. These tragedies occurred in the wake of the federal government finally passing gun control legislation. But many — including President Joe Biden — don’t believe the bill went far enough, which leaves questions about what more needs to be done to prevent mass shootings and the actual costs on the psyche of our communities. Washington Post congressional reporter Mike DeBonis joins the show to discuss the legislation passed by Congress and the politics behind its passage. Then Wayne University's College of Liberal Arts & Sciences dean and professor of sociology Stephanie Hartwell joins the show to discuss the interplay between gun violence and society.
A military coup in Myanmar led to Metro Detroit native Danny Fenster's wrongful imprisonment for 6 months by the military junta. Now the recipient of the Detroit News award for 2022 Michiganian of the Year, Fenster joins Stephen to reflect on his harrowing experience in Myanmar, freedom, and the lessons he learned from the ordeal.
Detroit Mercy Law School professor Nick Schroeck and Earthjustice director of litigation Jeremy Orr join Stephen to discuss the Supreme Court's decision limiting the ability of the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") to regulate carbon admissions, the effect the opinion will have on citizens, and what options the agency now has under the Clean Air Act.
University of Michigan constitutional law professor and history expert Richard Primus joins the show to discuss the current state of our democracy, the public loss of confidence in the US Supreme Court, and what is required to make constitutional governance work.
Gabriela Santiago-Romero, Detroit City Councilwoman for District 6, joins the show to discuss her policy agenda for her first term and subjects concerning the city including housing, alternative income and property tax structures, reparations, universal basic income and infrastructure. Then, outgoing University of Detroit-Mercy president Antoine Garibaldi stops by to discuss higher education, lessons in leadership, and what he is most proud of accomplishing during his tenure.
Economist Charlie Ballard joins Stephen to discuss how supply chain issues related to the war in Ukraine and COVID-19, combined with previous economic policy, led to America's current battle with inflation and what we can expect moving forward.
Nick Austin fills in to discuss the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v Wade, the impact of the decision, and what it means for legal challenges moving forward with constitutional law expert and Dean of the University of Detroit Mercy law school, Jelani Jefferson Exum.
Rabbi Steve Leder joins Stephen to talk about his new book, which dives into the questions we should be asking ourselves - and the answers we should be writing down - before we die.
Co-founder and executive director of Detroit Black Community Food Security Network Malik Yakini stops by to discuss food access, justice and equity in Detroit, along with the goals of the Detroit Peoples’ Food Coop, a community owned grocery being built in Detroit. Then CEO & Chief Strategist of URGE Imprint Rod Hardamon joins the show to discuss the new $11 million Ebiara fund created to help combat the challenges that minority developers face accessing capital, securing talent, and growing their businesses.
Bryce Covert stops by to discuss her recent essay in the New York Times, "We Pay to Keep the Old Out of Poverty. Why Won’t We Do the Same for the Young?" Then, Patrick Cooney, assistant director of policy at Michigan Poverty solutions, joins the show to discuss child poverty in Michigan and proposed solutions to fix the problem.
Detroit Free Press dining and restaurant critic Lyndsay Green stops by to discuss Detroit’s restaurant scene, and how it can be more inclusive; then Jerusalem Demsas, staff writer at The Atlantic, stops by to discuss her recent piece, “The Real Villain in the Gentrification Story” and what we can do to fix the issue.
History professor Hasan Kwame Jeffries joins Stephen to discuss Juneteenth, the history behind the celebration, and why its recognition as a federal holiday is a modest, yet meaningful step toward progress.
Bestselling author Chuck Klosterman joins Nick Austin to discuss his new book, "The Nineties," for a sprawling conversation about the decade, its cultural impact, and how it is remembered.
Journalist Mark Follman joins Nick Austin to discuss his new book, "Trigger Points: Inside the Mission to Stop Mass Shootings in America." Follman talks about how threat assessment teams are already working to intervene when it appears like someone may commit mass violence.
Michigan's Secretary of State joins the show to discuss why she opened a new branch office in Detroit, revelations for the January 6 House Committee hearings, and the forthcoming elections in the state. Then, author Susan Hartman joins the show to discuss her book "“City of Refugees: The Story of Three Newcomers Who Breathed Life into a Dying American Town."
Washington Post congressional investigations reporter Jacqueline Alemany joins the show to discuss the start of the January 6th Committee Hearings into the insurrection at the Capitol last year. Then Rick Pluta, senior state Capitol correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network, stops by to discuss the arrest of Michigan gubernatorial candidate Ryan Kelley, and how Michigan Republicans are reacting to the hearings.
Former state superintendent Tom Watkins and Georgetown professor of inter-society history James Millward join the show to discuss America's changing relationship with China, including why the change is occurring, and whether we should be fearful, or even resentful, toward the still-emerging superpower.
WDET Culture Shift host Amanda LeClaire sits in for Stephen to lead a conversation covering the biggest climate issues facing southeast Michigan with Nina Ignaczak and Brian Allnutt of Planet Detroit
Infectious disease expert Dr. Paul Kilgore of Wayne State University joins the show to discuss the latest variants of COVID-19 and what we should do to combat spread over the summer. Then Dr. Nick Gilpin from Beaumont Health discusses the pandemic's continued impact on hospitals and why vaccines are so important for children.
On the final episode of Detroit Today's conversations at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Stephen Henderson talks with Monique Stanton of the Michigan League for Public Policy, Antoine Bryant, Detroit's development director, and Ric DeVore, president of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan.
Conversations on Mackinac Island continue with this episode, featuring Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, and Ralph C. Wilson Foundation President and CEO David Egner. Additionally, Stephen talks with Paul W. Smith of WJR about WDET's One Small Step, which is encouraging civil conversations during a time of greater discord.
Conversations on Mackinac Island continue with this episode, featuring Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans, and Ralph C. Wilson Foundation President and CEO David Egner. Additionally, Stephen talks with Paul W. Smith of WJR about WDET's One Small Step, which is encouraging civil conversations during a time of greater discord.
Michigan House Democractic Leader Donna Lasinski joins Stephen to discuss bipartisanship, legislation and term limits in state government; then former Lithuanian ambassador Zygimantas Pavilionis, and Strategic Staffing Solutions CEO Cindy Pasky, join Stephen on Mackinac to discuss the war in Ukraine and other issues facing Michiganders.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer, business and foundation leaders join Stephen on Mackinac to discuss the most pressing issues facing Michiganders.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer in addition to business and foundation leaders join Stephen on Mackinac to discuss the most pressing issues facing Michiganders.
The Mackinac Policy Conference continues. Today, Stephen sits down with Detroit Regional Chamber President & CEO Sandy Baruah, vice chairman of the Detroit Pistons Arn Tellem, President & CEO of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation La June Montgomery Tabron and Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence.
Sen. Debbie Stabenow, Sen. Gary Peters, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan join the program to talk about what are the most pressing political issues to Michiganders, and their policy solutions. They also discuss why they come to Mackinac year after year.
Journalist Anna Sale discusses how to have hard conversations, and talks about what she learned in her new book, "Let's Talk About Hard Things" in this re-aired conversation.
Jonathan Oosting of Bridge Michigan joins the show to discuss the Michigan Board of Canvassers decision disqualifying 5 GOP gubernatorial candidates due to forged petition signatures, its ramifications, and what happens next. Then international DJ/Producer Jeff Mills stops by to discuss techno music's development and history in Detroit ahead of his headlining performance at the 2022 Movement Electronic Music Festival.
Legal scholar Mary McCord joins the program to discuss why semi-automatic weapons cause so much damage, and what it would mean to limit or prevent access to them. Then, Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-12) discusses her personal interaction with guns and Congress needs to do to take action against gun violence.
Stephen Henderson talks with listeners about what needs to be done to stop future mass shootings. Then, journalist Allie Gross and scholar John Anderson discuss split rate taxes, and why they could potentially generate more revenue for Detroit residents if used in the city.
Maria Hinojosa joins the program to discuss her Pulitzer-Prize winning podcast, "Suave," which explores the life of a juvenile lifer who was surprisingly released from prison, and what happened when he returned to the outside world.
Political director for the national nonprofit Republicans for the Rule of Law Gunner Ramer discusses why the Republican Party still favors Donald Trump. Later, George Mason University scholar Shikha Dalmia joins the program to talk about what it would mean for Republicans to seek more moderate candidates.
Performance poet, author and Detroit native Natasha T. Miller discusses the ways we manage grief, loss and what she has learned navigating these emotions in her own life, through poetry.
Washington Post photojournalist Salwan Georges joins the program to discuss what it's like to capture images of people in Ukraine. Then, professor Jen Schradie talks about how social media coverage of war changes how we consider war, and react to it.
Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin joins the program to discuss a wide variety of issues as we head into the midterms. Then, technology writer Will Oremus talks about what it means if Elon Musk buys Twitter and what Twitter even is anyway.
Can Michigan be a carbon neutral state by 2050? Liesl Clark, Michigan's EGLE Department director, joins the show to discuss the state's recently released Michigan Healthy Climate Plan report. Then, environmental law expert Nick Schroeck stops by to discuss Michigan's climate infrastructure and what needs to happen to reach the plan's goals.
Sociology professor Rashawn Ray joins the program to discuss the latest mass shooting targeting African-Americans in Buffalo, and what changes are necessary to prevent them in the future. Then, columnists Karen Dumas and Greg Bowens join the show to discuss the trauma faced in communities following these incidents and what is needed to reduce racially motivated shootings in the future.
Bridge Michigan reporter Jonathan Oosting joins the program to discuss potentially fraudulent signatures on James Craig's gubernatorial petitions, potentially ending his office run. Then, professor emeritus of history Bruce Levine talks with Stephen about why abolitionist Thaddeus Stevens should be considered an American hero - and how we come to determine our heroes in the first place.
ProPublica's Doug Bock Clark joins the program to discuss how the Big Lie originated. Then, composer Anthony Davis discusses his show, "X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X", which will be premiering Saturday at the Detroit Opera House.
Author Andrey Kurkov joins the program to discuss how Ukrainians are resisting Putin's regime, and how Russia's leader is trying to destroy Ukrainian people as well as the country's culture and history.
Scholar Kal Munis joins the program to discuss why he thinks Democrats would be better of if they tried to win over rural voters. Then, Carol Glanville discusses how she was able to flip the 74th House District seat in Kent County, Michigan.
Elizabeth Williamson joins the program to discuss why conspiracy theories are so potent in the internet age. She discusses this and more in her new book, "Sandy Hook: An American Tragedy and the Battle for Truth."
Author Kristen Green joins the program to discuss her new book "The Devil's Half Acre: The Untold Story of How One Woman Liberated the South's Most Notorious Slave Jail."
University of Michigan legal scholar Barbara McQuade discusses the meaning of the leaked SCOTUS draft opinion, and what a world without Roe would look like.
Benson talks about how the draft Supreme Court opinion on Roe v. Wade could affect voting rights as well as Tuesday's elections across Michigan. April Baer and Tracy Samilton of Michigan Radio talk about their new podcast about former Red Wing defenseman Vladimir Konstantinov and how he could lose his in-home care due to Michigan's new auto insurance law.
Stephen talks about the leaked Roe v. Wade opinion, stating that the decision will be overturned. Then, former Detroit Free Press journalist John Gallagher and Detroit Future City CEO Anika Goss join the program to discuss a new report explaining why Black Detroiters are often shut out from purchasing a mortgage - and what can be done about it.
Co-director Sam Katz and producer Chastity Pratt talk about their film "Gradually, Then Suddenly," which debuted at the Freep Film Festival. And Wayne State University CFO and former City of Detroit CFO Dave Massaron talks about the financial challenges still facing the city.
Sen. Peters discusses his official U.S. delegation trip to Europe, Ukraine, Title 42 on the southern border, and more. And Roberts talks about her book "Torn Apart: How the Child Welfare System Destroys Black Families— and How Abolition Can Build a Safer World"
The Nation's Jane McAlevey talks about the labor movement in 2022. And President Wilson talks about his upcoming book "The Plum Tree Blossoms Even in Winter."
Reid talks about his book “A Fine Mess: A Global Quest for a Fairer, Simpler, and More Efficient Tax Code.”
Sen. McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) talks about her viral floor speech pushing back against flagrant Republican attacks and what it means to be an ally in 2022. And Rick Pluta of the Michigan Public Radio Network talks about the GOP's endorsement convention on Saturday and what it says about the state of the party in 2022.
Ari Matusiak of Rewiring America talks about the biggest green energy idea of all - complete elimination of carbon sources for our grid. And De’Angelus Garcia of Soulardarity in Highland Park talks about the organization's goal to make the city 100% energy independent.
Rob Gramlich of Grid Strategies LLC talks about the present and future of wind power in America as part of Detroit Today's Earth Week series on sustainable technology. And Ford talks about her book "Somebody's Daughter" and about growing up with an incarcerated father.
Detroit City Council President Pro Tem James Tate talks about the city's new marijuana business ordinance. Robin Schneider of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association talks about how the industry is doing in 2022. And Michael Eliason of Larch Lab talks about efforts to build more sustainable buildings and communities.
Stephen Henderson talks with Charlotte Jameson, chief policy officer for the Michigan Environmental Council, about the state of solar power in Michigan. And he talks with Juan Shannon, the founder of Parker VIllage HP, an organization that is creating a “smart neighborhood” to make Highland Park more sustainable.
Stephen Henderson talks with Bryce Huffman of BridgeDetroit and former Detroit Police Chief Ike McKinnon.
hampton talks about her new short video "Fresh Water" on exhibition at MOCAD starting Friday. And Collins talks about his new collection "Whale Day and Other Poems," as well as his upcoming appearance at the Midwest Literary Walk.
Congresswoman Dingell talks about the latest news from Washington D.C. And Winslow talks about his new book "City of Fire" and his upcoming appearance at the Midwest Literary Walk.
Morial talks about his recent "State of Black America" report focusing on threats to voting rights. And Wayne State University's John Corvino and Chase Cantrell of Building Community Value talk about what it means to move your community forward.
Sarah Alvarez of Outlier Media talks about her reporting on the hundreds of thousands of DTE power shutoffs during the pandemic. And Johanna Bozuwa of the Climate and Community Project talks about efforts to treat utilities as public goods.
Stephen Henderson talks with Beth LeBlanc of the Detroit News and Dr. Sarah Wallett of Planned Parenthood of Michigan. Wallett is also listed as an individual plaintiff on Planned Parenthood of Michigan's lawsuit to block enforcement of the state's abortion ban.
Stephen Henderson talks with Perry about her book "South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation"
Sen. Peters talks about his bill to reform the U.S. Postal Service, as well as the upcoming confirmation vote for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. And experts continue the conversation about the Postal Service and its future.
Stephen Henderson talks with labor experts Steven Greenhouse of The Century Foundation and Marick Masters of Wayne State University's Mike Ilitch School of Business about the vote by Staten Island, NY warehouse workers and what it means for the union movement going forward.
Stephen Henderson talks with journalist Allie Gross and United Community Housing Coalition Executive Director Ted Phillips about homes and renters at risk of foreclosure and what's being done to help them.
A look at the history of lynching in the United States and why it has taken more than a century for Congress to pass an anti-lynching law.
Flint native and author Kelsey Ronan discusses her new book, "Chevy in the Hole." And, Bryan Jones, community engagement manager for Chamber Music Detroit and composer Jeff Scott talk about a new chamber music production that is being performed on April 9. The music is based on the lives of former juvenile lifers in Michigan.
Wayne State University Professor Robin Boyle and City of Detroit historian Jamon Jordan join the program to discuss how the creation of highways in Detroit often meant the destruction of Black communities. And, two Syracuse, New York housing advocates talk about how that city is trying to redevelop a space where a highway previously displaced a predominately Black community to create part of I-81.
Economic historian Adam Tooze joins the program to talk about how the economic sanctions in Russia are reverberating in that country and around the world. Then, a local Ukrainian-American talks about how Ukrainians are processing the war at home, and what Americans are doing to try to help.
Ryan Patrick Hooper sits in for Stephen Henderson. He is joined by two teachers to discuss how best to explain the war in Ukraine to kids using the metaphor of sports; and, Yuval Sharon of the Detroit Opera discusses the theater's name change and La Boheme, which will open for the theater on April 2.
Vox journalist Keren Landman joins the program to discuss how important the internet is to public health. And, Crain's Detroit Business senior editor Chad Livengood discusses what the 2015 road funding package did for Michigan's roads - and what Gov. Gretchen Whitmer needs to do to find the funding to properly repair them.
Stephen Henderson talks with writer and journalist Ash Sanders and psychologist Susan Clayton about dealing with a scary climate future.
Affirmations Executive Director Dave Garcia addresses the surge of anti-LGBTQ legislation across the country in 2022. And state Sen. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) talks about the debate over making Daylight Saving Time permanent.
Former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade and University of Detroit Mercy Law School Dean Jelani Jefferson Exum react to this week's U.S. Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Judge Jackson.
Stephen Henderson speaks with Dr. Clifford Marks, an emergency-medicine resident at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, about his new piece in the New Yorker titled, “Inside the American Medical Association’s Fight Over Single-Payer Health Care.”
Majora Carter, author of "Reclaiming Your Community," discusses why people should invest in the places where they grew up; and, Chris Collins of the Detroit Jazz Festival talks about what's new this year.
In this archived episode, Snyder talks about the lessons we need to learn from 20th Century history to preserve civil society. Artist Waleed Johnson talks about his mural "The Spirit," the 100th mural commissioned by the city.
Stephen Henderson talks with Elaine Maag, a senior fellow in the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center at the Urban Institute, as well as Rachel Richards, Fiscal Policy Director for the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter talks about his State of the County speech and transit advocates who felt snubbed by his brief mention of the issue. And Michigan Chief Medical Executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian says COVID is not done with Michigan yet.
Stephen Henderson talks with experts about the real environmental and social benefits -- as well as the limitations -- of EVs.
Chad Livengood of Crain's Detroit Business talks about why the price at the pump is so high, and what public officials are debating as ways to provide relief for drivers.
The City of Detroit's Nicole Sherard-Freeman talks about the new Fisher Body Plant development and "Hamilton" Producer Jeffrey Seller discusses the return of live theater.
Nuclear weapons expert Stephen I. Schwartz discusses the threat of nuclear war amid the Russia-Ukraine War. University of Michigan media psychologist Dr. Kristen Harrison talks about how to protect our mental health amid threats to our future.
The new National Geographic podcast explores the wrecks of sunken slave ships and gets into fundamental questions about what it means to be African American.
Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Brenda Ekwurzel and James Gignac with the Union of Concerned Scientists about the new report and what needs to happen to combat the worst effects of climate change.
A look at ranked choice voting and whether it could be a better way to empower voters. And two local clerks - one Democrat and one Republican - talk about why they're urging state leaders to pass elections reforms immediately.
Stephen Henderson talks with Hari about his new book "Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention, And How to Think More Deeply Again."
Stephen Henderson speaks with Wayne State University Russia expert Aaron Retish, as well as Brian Mefford, a U.S.-born longtime resident of Ukraine who is a senior non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council and who joins live from Poland.
Congressmember Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), and PR CEO John Truscott discuss how President Biden did during his first State of the Union address.
As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian aggression, Rep. Dingell discusses what Congress is doing to prevent destruction. And, Dan Charnas talks about the life, times and legacy of J Dilla.
Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist details the ways the state has intervened to address racial inequities made worse by the pandemic. And, journalist and attorney Kimberly Atkins Stohr joins the program to discuss the importance of the president's Supreme Court nomination.
Dr. Olena Danyluk with the Ukrainian-American Crisis Response Committee of Metropolitan Detroit and former state lawmaker Martin Howrylak react to the situation in Ukraine. Wayne State University Russia expert Aaron Retish also discusses the invasion and what it means.
Congresswoman Stevens talks about the U.S. role as Russia invades Ukraine, as well as her primary battle against Congressman Andy Levin. And Gongwer Michigan reporter Ben Solis talks about where the redistricting process has left political representation in Michigan.
Rep. Levin talks about his re-election bid in the new 11th Congressional District and his primary against fellow Democratic incumbent Congresswoman Haley Stevens. And a local organizer talks about efforts to organize workers at shops across Michigan.
Yale economist Paul Sabin joins the program to talk about his book "Public Citizens: The Attack on Big Government and the Remaking of American Liberalism."
Oakland County Commission Chair Dave Woodward, transit advocate Dave Gifford, and urban planner Robin Boyle react to Auburn Hills' pending vote to opt out of SMART bus service and what it says about our bigger transit challenges as a region.
Stephen Henderson speaks with journalists Desiree Cooper and Chastity Pratt about their experiences as mothers of African American children in public schools learning about Black history. And USC education expert Akilah Lyons-Moore talks about how new teachers are trained to handle these subjects.
Washtenaw County Sheriff Jerry Clayton and the Detroit Justice Center’s Erin Keith join the show to discuss the contrasting positions between police abolition and police reform.
Stephen Henderson talks with Reuben Miller, author of “Halfway Home: Race, Punishment, and the Afterlife of Mass Incarceration,” and Ronald Simpson-Bey, a former prison inmate and executive vice president of JustLeadershipUSA.
Dr. Bagdasarian, the state's top doctor, gives a positive update on Michigan's pandemic numbers and what comes next. And The Atlantic's Zachary D. Carter talks about why Democrats aren't willing to take more credit for the economy.
Stephen Henderson talks with Detroit News sports columnist John Niyo about Matthew Stafford's Super Bowl victory and how Detroit fans are reacting. And University of Michigan professor Andrew Wu gives the basics of cryptocurrency -- its promises and limits.
Stephen Henderson talks with Gongwer Michigan's Zach Gorchow about Whitmer's budget proposal. And City of Detroit Historian Jamon Jordan talks about his new job and talks Black history in and around Detroit.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens joins the program to contextualize why Canadian truckers are protesting. And, scholar Timothy Shaffer explores when something becomes a legitimate form of political expression.
Stephen Henderson speaks with economist Tim Harford about his new book “The Data Detective: Ten Easy Rules to Make Sense of Statistics.”
Rep. Brenda Lawrence is a longtime Congresswoman in Michigan, and a fixture in southeast Michigan's political scene. She talks about how her personal life and the attempted Jan. 6 insurrection helped her decide not to run for reelection. And, economists Justin Wolfers and Charles Ballard talk about how supply-chain shortages and low global vaccination rates are causing increasing prices.
Haupt is the author of the new book "Rooter: Life at the Crossroads of Science, Nature, and Spirit."
A new podcast, "Tracked and Traced," explores the layered dimensions in which we are being watched. Stephen Henderson spoke with WDET's Laura Herberg about her reporting for the podcast, where she explored the effectiveness of Project Green Light. She was joined by Eric Williams of the Detroit Justice Center, who criticizes Project Green Light for violating residents' civil liberties and for wasting tax payer dollars on a program that he says does not deter crime.
Author Kathryn Schulz joins the program to discuss her new memoir, "Lost & Found," which is about the death of her father, falling in love with her partner, the nexus between these two things, and the existential nature of losing things.
Scholars Norman Ornstein and Jim Townsend discuss Wayne State University's new "Portraits in Oversight" project and the ways Congressional oversight commissions have influenced public perception and American laws.
The superintendents of Grosse Pointe and Eastpointe schools discuss the desire to keep in-person learning and the things they need from the state to continue doing so. And, former sports columnist Terry Foster discusses why Matt Stafford couldn't win when he was with the Detroit Lions.
Detroit resident, writer and Wayne State urban planning student Rukiya Colvin discusses how the Joe Louis Greenway will impact Detroit's neighborhood residents. And, Michigan Department of Transportation Director Paul Ajegba and OHM Advisors President Jon Kramer talk about how public infrastructure projects that lead with community voices can alleviate inequality.
Crain's Detroit Senior Editor Chad Livengood joins the program to discuss how the tax incentives for GM and their business partner may have been a mistake. And, journalist Clara Hendrickson discusses the tension brewing on Michigan's redistricting commission, and how legal redistricting decisions in Ohio and Alabama could affect Michigan's new political maps.
Whitmer joins Stephen Henderson on the heels of her fourth State of the State address. And state Capitol reporters Rick Pluta of the Michigan Public Radio Network and Lauren Gibbons of MLive react to the speech.
What does it mean to love a place that doesn't always love you back? It's a big question here in Detroit and one of the many things author Raechel Anne Jolie explores in her book "Rust Belt Femme"
With changing political maps in Michigan, some politicians are having to change their strategic calculations. Now, Rep. Fred Upton is weighing his options for the future, and also pondering changes going on in the Republican Party. And, Wayne State University Professor Aaron Retish discusses the possibility of war between Russia and Ukraine and the downstream consequences for Americans.
The nature of work has changed over time. Sarah Jaffe says the pandemic is causing people to reflect on how they want their work to better service them.
Stephen Henderson talks with Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and Detroit-activist Kim Trent about clearing Detroit's rape kit backlog. And, two experts who study conspiracy theories discuss whether parody can combat misinformation.
Stephen Henderson speaks with MLive higher education reporter Samuel Dodge about the settlement related to Dr. Robert Anderson's alleged sexual assault and the firing of former president Mark Schlissel. Council President Sheffield talks corruption on council and her priorities for the new term.
Wong talks about the ways Democrats and liberals need to approach racial justice issues, saying that a "race neutral" approach is the wrong path.
Stephen Henderson talks with hampton about the influence and writing of bell hooks, who passed away late last year. They also talk about feminism, intersectionality, and hampton's upcoming work in 2022.
Stabenow discusses President Biden's renewed push to pass federal voting rights laws and possibly end or change the filibuster to do so. And author Matt Hongoltz-Hetling talks about his book "A Libertarian Walks Into a Bear: The Utopian Plot to Liberate an American Town (and Some Bears)"
Wilson will give the keynote speech at Wayne State University's MLK Day celebration on Friday, Jan. 14. And Stephen Henderson speaks with reporter Julie Z. Weil about the Washington Post's investigation that found 1,700 members of Congress through history owned slaves.
Stephen Henderson speaks with The Atlantic's Katherine Wu and Wayne State University Medical Researcher Dr. Paul Kilgore about this stage of the pandemic and what everyone needs to know to stay safe.
Stephen Henderson talks with E.J. Dionne of Brookings and the Washington Post as well as Wendy Schiller of Brown University about President Biden's first year in office. And Wayne State University astrophysicist Edward Cackett talks about NASA's exciting new space telescope and what it will teach us about the universe.
Gov. Whitmer discusses the omicron variant surge in Michigan and how the state is responding. Journalist and scholar Shikha Dalmia talks about ways to protect and bolster democracy in America after Thursday's look back at the January 6 insurrection.
Stephen Henderson speaks with redistricting commissioners Rebecca Szetela and Anthony Eid about the maps they approved late last month. And former Lt. Gov. Brian Calley offers his concerns about the new maps from a rural Republican perspective.
Michigan has brand new congressional and legislative districts. Stephen Henderson and guests talk about this historic moment, the political implications, and possible legal challenges.
Stephen Henderson and Rep. Dingell discuss redistricting and what it means for her political future, the status of Build Back Better, lead pipe replacement, and more.
"We've got a lot of problems with 2021, and now you're gonna hear about it!" Detroit Today's annual Festivus airing of grievances featuring Outlier Media's Candice Fortman, communications strategist Bill Nowling, and WDET's Ryan Hooper.
Stephen Henderson talks with UD Mercy environmental law expert Nick Schroeck about some of the most significant environmental and climate stories of the past year.
Stephen Henderson talks with Gongwer Michigan Publisher and Executive Editor Zach Gorchow about some of the biggest state government and politics stories of the year.
Stephen Henderson and University of Michigan law professor and former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade break down some of the biggest legal news stories from 2021, from the Derek Chauvin trial and conviction to the charges in the Oxford High School shooting.
Stephen Henderson talks with journalist, activist, and full time caregiver Desiree Cooper about her experiences in 2021 and the kinds of supports people raising kids and caring for other adults need.
Stephen Henderson talks with University of Michigan public health expert Dr. Emily Martin.
McDonald gives her most in-depth interview yet about her decisions to charge 15 year old Ethan Crumbley as an adult, as well as to charge his parents. And University of Michigan public health and psychology expert Dr. Marc Zimmerman talks about how communities cope with mass tragedies.
Stephen Henderson talks with local water quality expert Elin Betanzo and state Senate Democratic Leader Jim Ananich (D-Flint) about the $3.3 billion water infrastructure bill at the state Capitol and more.
Retired GOP strategist Bob LaBrant says Michigan's constitution needs a rewrite. And Congressman Andy Levin talks about the Protecting Our Democracy Act and the federal response to the shooting in Oxford, MI.
A look at Michigan’s 2019 auto insurance law with an analyst who has taken a deep dive into the successes and failures of those reforms, and MLive reporter Lauren Gibbons about the $400 refund drivers are getting per vehicle.
State Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-Beverly Hills) who represents Oxford, Michigan in the Legislature, details her new bills that would ban sales of high-capacity gun magazines. And Dr. James Alan Fox, one of the nation's leading experts on gun violence in American, talks about what the issue looks like beyond high-profile mass shootings as well as possible solutions.
Storr, an author and journalist, talks about his new book “The Science of Storytelling: Why Stories Make Us Human and How to Tell Them Better.”
Stephen Henderson speaks with Bloomfield-based independent healthcare analyst Charles Gaba and the Kaiser Family Foundation's Liz Hamel about the connection between politics and vaccination rates, and what that means for the trajectory of the pandemic.
Stephen Henderson talks with Allison Anderman, senior counsel and director of local policy at the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, as well as Crain's Detroit Business senior editor Chad Livengood.
Dr. Tabitha Bentley of Education Trust-Midwest, South Redford Thomas Jefferson Elementary Principal James Kinsey, and University of Michigan School of Education Dean Elizabeth Moje discuss solutions to make sure underserved students get the education they deserve.
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter reacts to this week's mass school shooting in Oxford, MI, as does Megan Dombrowski, founding president of the Wayne State University chapter of Students Demand Action. And Slate legal correspondent Dahlia Lithwick talks about Wednesday's Supreme Court oral arguments in a case that could overturn Roe v. Wade.
Stephen Henderson offers his early thoughts on Tuesday's mass school shooting in Oxford, MI. Sen. Gary Peters discusses Build Back Better and other news from Capitol Hill. And University of Michigan infectious disease expert Dr. Adam Lauring talks about what we know and don't know about the omicron variant of the novel coronavirus.
Stephen Henderson talks with Satori Shakoor of the Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers about what is bringing her joy this year and listeners offer their sources of comfort and joy as well.
Stephen Henderson talks with the ACLU's Yasmin Cader and George Washington University Law School Professor Cynthia Lee about the convictions of the three white men who murdered Ahmaud Arbery and what the trial and outcome say about our criminal justice system.
Congresswoman Tlaib talks about her "no" vote on the infrastructure package and about her skepticism about whether the Build Back Better package will get done. And University of Michigan epidemiologist Dr. Emily Martin talks about traveling and gathering safely as COVID cases surge.
Former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade, Boston Globe opinion writer, and Brookings Institution sociologist Dr. Rashawn Ray react to the Rittenhouse verdict.
El-Sayed talks about his new article that says "case counts are climbing again, but that doesn’t mean that we’re moving backward." And Detroit-based muralist Waleed Johnson talks about his new piece "The Spirit," the 100th city-sponsored mural in Detroit.
Vogl talks about his new book “The Enablers: How the West Supports Kleptocrats and Corruption - Endangering Our Democracy." And NBC News Digital's Erin Einhorn talks about Detroit's 'fake landlord' scam.
The pandemic has put a spotlight on the world of public health. It's a world that has changed dramatically over the past century, and not necessarily in ways that better protect public health. Stephen Henderson talks with Dr. Amy Fairchild, dean of the college of public health at Ohio State University, as well as Dr. Tricia Miranda-Hartsuff, public health associate professor at Wayne State University.
Dr. Taylor is a 2021 recipient of a MacArthur "genius" award, and the author of multiple books, including “Race for Profit: How Banks and the Real Estate Industry Undermined Black Homeownership” for which she won a National Book Award.
Rep. Dingell and Rep. Kildee discuss the infrastructure bill, which President Joe Biden plans to sign on Monday.
Who should respond when someone is having a mental health crisis? State Sen. Stephanie Chang (D-Detroit), Summer Berman of Fresh Start Clubhouse, and advocate Cynthia Harrison talk about efforts to deploy more mental health professionals. And Michigan Supreme Court Justice Beth Clement talks about nearly $17 million dollars in grants for Michigan's problem solving courts.
State Sen. Erika Geiss (D-Taylor) talks about efforts to give pregnant and postpartum prisoners more rights during and after birth. And Young talks about his new role as a member of Detroit City Council and his relationship with former political opponent Mayor Mike Duggan.
We hear from a brave six-year-old before and after his first dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine. Wayne State University medical researcher Dr. Paul Kilgore talks about the vaccine rollout for young children. And The Atlantic's Rachel Gutman talks about the looming debate over vaccine mandates for kids in school.
Dr. Bell talks about his new book “Suspended: Punishment, Violence, and the Failure of School Safety." And Michigan artist and filmmaker Andy Kirshner talks about his new film "10 Questions for Henry Ford."
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson talks about efforts in Michigan to prevent elections from being hijacked. And Republican strategist and George Mason University scholar Shikha Dalmia discuss the rise of right wing authoritarianism in America and how to counter it.
Stephen Henderson talks with UCLA urban planning professor Michael Manville about how single family zoning laws shape communities and drive housing inequality.
Mak talks about his new book "Misfire: Inside the Downfall of the NRA." And SMU law professor Eric Ruben discusses Wednesday's U.S. Supreme Court arguments about New York's gun control law and what it might mean for firearms regulations across the country.
Michigan State University Economist Dr. Lisa D. Cook talks about inflation and the larger economic disruptions related to the pandemic. Hammoud talks about being elected the first Arab American and Muslim mayor of Dearborn. Greimel talks about his vision for Pontiac after his election victory on Tuesday.
Philosopher and historian Matthew Stewart talks about his new book “The 9.9 Percent: The New Aristocracy That Is Entrenching Inequality and Warping Our Culture”
Attorney and Detroit Charter Revision Commission member Karissa Wallace talks about Prop R on Tuesday's Detroit ballot. Mayor Mike Duggan talks about his bid for a third term. And two local journalists talk about big elections in the suburbs.
Dr. Gina Brandolino, lecturer in the Department of English and the Sweetland Center for Writing at the University of Michigan, talks about the power of horror literature.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian and Dr. Emily Toth Martin talk about which direction the pandemic is heading in Michigan as we head into the winter months and kids 5-11 years old start to get vaccinated.
Writers Joshua Adams and Damon Young talk about the history of the word "woke," what it means in the Black community, the importance of language for African Americans, and how conservatives and white people co-opted the word for their own political gains.
Rep. Slotkin talks about the Build Back Better and infrastructure packages, her legislation to bolster the national stockpile, her decision to move to the Lansing area to run in a new Congressional district, and more. And Grossmann talks about his new book "How the Social Sciences Got Better."
Mel Barnes of Law Forward and Norm Eisen of the Brookings Institution talk about the history of the filibuster and the ways it could be reformed, if not eliminated.
Nick Leonard of the Great Lakes Environmental Law Center and Rev. Edward Pinkney of the Benton Harbor Community Water Council talk about the situation on the ground in Benton Harbor and what the response and accountability should look like. And a conversation about plans to resurrect Michigan's only HBCU, the Lewis School of Business in Detroit.
Washington Post Columnist Micheline Maynard says American consumers need to lower their expectations for convenience amid supply chain and staffing issues. And author Anne Elizabeth Moore talks about her new book "Gentrifier: A Memoir."
Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission Chair Rebecca Szetela and Commissioner Brittni Kellom discuss their process as they kick off their new round of public comment period. And MSU redistricting expert Jon Eguia talks about his new report that takes a hard look at the commission's ten draft maps.
WDET's Eli Newman and Detroit News city hall reporter Christine Ferretti talk about how corruption scandals are affecting this round of city council elections and the issues at play in individual races. And CitizenDetroit CEO and former city council member Sheila Cockrel talks about why it's so important to participate in local elections.
Rep. Kildee talks about the life and legacy of his uncle and former congressman Dale Kildee. And Stephen Henderson talks with guests about Chappelle's Netflix Special "The Closer" and the resulting backlash from the LGBTQ+ community.
Sen. Stabenow highlights her new initiative to fill gaps in Michigan's mental health and addiction treatment systems. And a conversation with "Ratf**ked" author David Daley and former Michigan GOP gerrymanderer Jeff Timmer about what they're seeing from the state's new Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission.
Taylor, the president of Sojourners, talks about his vision for a less divided and more progressive society as laid out in his book "A More Perfect Union: A New Vision for Building the Beloved Community"
McCampbell is challenging incumbent City Clerk Janice Winfrey, who is seeking a fifth term in that position. And Stephen Henderson talks with The Atlantic's Hannah Giorgis about her piece in "Inheritance" titled "Not enough has changed since Sanford and Son"
Michigan indigenous journalists Meghanlata Gupta and Sierra Clark talk about Indigenous Peoples' Day and the move away from Columbus Day. And Dr. Garibaldi talks about his decision to step down from the president's office at UD-Mercy at the end of this academic year.
Rep. Meijer joins Stephen Henderson to talk about the state of the GOP in 2021, as well as his bipartisan legislation to return war powers to Congress. And a conversation about what we can learn from businesses that are owned by their own workers as employers complain about the "labor shortage"
Adams talks about his campaign for mayor and reacts to incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan's refusal to debate. And historian Dr. Keisha N. Blain talks about her new book “UNTIL I AM FREE, Fannie Lou Hamer's Enduring Message to America”
Legal scholar and author Anita Hill, whose 1991 testimony against then-Judge Clarence Thomas changed the national conversation about sexual harassment, about her new book "Believing." And Wayne State University Social Work Dean Sheryl Kubiak talks about her new study detailing Michigan's lax data on its criminal justice system.
Rep. Levin talks about the infrastructure and Build Back Better bills as President Joe Biden visits Michigan on Tuesday. And Stephen Henderson talks with MSU agricultural researcher Kurt Richter and Afghan scholar Sara Qaderi about their experiences with evacuations from Afghanistan this summer.
Stephen Henderson talks with Katherine Wu and Sarah Zhang of The Atlantic about their reporting on where we are in the pandemic and what people need to know in the coming months.
Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint Twp.) talks about the $3.5 trillion spending bill and how it could affect Michigan cities. And two new American citizens talk about their immigration stories and what it means to them to be an American on Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
Stephen Henderson speaks with two of the hosts of the podcast #SistersInLaw -- former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade and Boston Globe senior opinion writer Kimberly Atkins Stohr -- about how the Constitution affects and shapes fairness in our criminal justice system and efforts to make it fairer.
Chad Livengood of Crain's Detroit Business and Bryce Huffman of BridgeDetroit react to the former Detroit police chief's gubernatorial kick-off event. And Michigan Public Service Commission Chair Dan Scripps joins the show to talk about the MPSC's look into utilities' resilience measures and outages and extreme weather get worse.
Constitutional law scholars Bill Treanor and Garrett Epps join Stephen Henderson to talk about how the Supreme Court has altered our understanding of the Constitution and equality over the nation's history.
Detroit News sports columnist John Niyo talks about the storylines surrounding the NFL and the Lions as a new season gets underway. And Harvard economist David Cutler talks about the new book he co-authored titled “Survival of the City."
In this hour Stephen Henderson looks at the huge infrastructure package that finally passed the U.S. Senate this week. Henderson speaks with Russell Berman, Beth Gibbons and Reps Debbie Dingell and Fred Upton about the bills, and talking about what this package will mean for Michigan.
Former U.S. Senator Carl Levin died Thursday at age 87. Stephen Henderson listens back to his last interview with Levin in March and talks with Rep. Debbie Dingell and Wayne State University Levin Center Director Jim Townsend.
Nessel says she is removing herself from her office's investigation into election lies, and talks about the state's possible share of a proposed opioid settlement. And Detroit city clerk candidate Denzel McCampbell joins the program.
Stephen Henderson talks with University of Virginia constitutional law expert Bertrall Ross and Brennan Center senior fellow Theodore Johnson about the ways the Constitution addresses and frustrates efforts to guarantee ballot access.
Stephen Henderson talks with University of Detroit-Mercy environmental law expert Nick Schroeck about what we can do individually and collectively to reverse the extreme weather we're experiencing.
Antoine Bryant is Mayor Duggan's pick to run the city's planning and development department. And Washington Post reporter Amanda Coletta talks about plans to reopen the border with Canada.
State Sen. Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak) and Chad Livengood of Crain's Detroit Business talk about child care in Michigan. And Antonia Gonzales of National Native News and Sierra Clark of the Traverse City Record Eagle discuss the Biden Administration's vow to investigate our dark history of Native American residential schools.
Author and poet Clint Smith joins the show to talk about his new book “HOW THE WORD IS PASSED: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America”
Wayne State University professor and Chair of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering Bill Shuster talks about the massive flooding over the weekend in SE Michigan. And Washington Post reporter Libby Casey gives an update on the federal infrastructure deal.
In this hour Stephen Henderson examines the phrase Critical Race Theory, which is being attacked in Republican-led legislatures across the country, and mischaracterized as a blueprint for teaching kids to hate white people, and America. Dr. Hasan Jeffries weighs in. Plus, Ola Akinmowo and Katelyn Durst-Rivas talk about the Free Black Women's Library ahead of an event that’s taking place this weekend at The Tuxedo Project.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Michigan SOS Jocelyn Benson about changes coming to branch offices throughout the state. Plus, Nadja Popovich and Robin Boyle join for a conversation about the role of aging highways in American cities and what it could mean for the future of urban landscapes if some aging highways were removed altogether.
In this hour Stephen Henderson speaks with John U Bacon and Hilary Green about the news about the Yost Arena and other troubling stories coming out about the school's athletics department and a look at what Green is doing at the University of Alabama around recontextualizing that university's markers around slavery and Jim Crow.
In this hour Congressman Andy Levin and Bryan Fenster talk about Michigan journalist Danny Fenster who has been detained in Myanmar for the last two weeks. Plus political writer and author Edward-Isaac Dovere on his new book which explores the post-Obama recalibration and rebirth of the Democratic Party.
A look at the governor's decision to lift most of Michigan’s COVID restrictions by July 1. And writer Anya Groner joins Stephen Henderson to talk about her new piece in The Atlantic’s Inheritance Project titled “One Oppressive Economy Begets Another”
This hour Stephen Henderson takes a look at what the pandemic has meant for the world of home renovations, home sales, and renovation prices. That’s good for some folks, but hardship for others. Henderson speaks with a housing researcher about what this means for the future, a longtime local contractor and hears about the socio-economic implications of the surge in home repairs and costs.
In this hour Stephen Henderson speaks with Monica Andrade of ACLU of Michigan about a new report that suggests we’re seeing the same racial profiling here along the northern border that is so familiar along the border with Mexico. Plus, Shikha Dalmia of The Week joins to talk about President Biden’s difficult choices as he tries to craft a more humane national immigration policy.
In this hour Stephen Henderson talks about the Derek Chauvin trial. First with a look at the strategy and procedure of the trial with Barb McQuade, Law Professor at the University of Michigan and former United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan and then CNN's Nia-Malika Henderson joins as well.
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-Detroit) and Michigan League for Public Policy President & CEO Gilda Jacobs talk about the impact of the new COVID relief package on childhood poverty in Michigan.
Staff writer Vann R. Newkirk II talks about his piece in the Atlantic's "Inheritance" project titled “American Democracy Is Only 55 Years Old—And Hanging by a Thread.”
In this hour Stephen Henderson speaks with Bart Gellman of The Atlantic about what could happen in November depending on the outcome of the election.
After 13 people were charged by federal and state authorities for plotting to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, attack law enforcement and the Capitol in Lansing; guest host Russ McNamara speaks with a reporter on the raid that led to the arrests, an author who has documented the rise of militias in Michigan and the president of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, which has sued to stop the enforcement of Whitmer's COVID-19 related executive orders.
In this hour Stephen Henderson speaks with independent Portland journalist Tuck Woodstock about the protests in that city and how federal troops are increasing in force numbers, Detroit News crime reporter George Hunter weighs in on how things could look in Detroit if federal troops come here and Yale Professor Jason Stanley talks about the roots of fascism in Europe and what fascism looks like in America 2020.
A special hour of Detroit Today where Stephen Henderson invites callers to participate in an hour of commemorating the lives lost in and around Detroit by telling the stories of those who have died. Local therapist Rebecca DeRaud joins Stephen for the hour.
Stephen Henderson speaks with Reuters aviation, autos, and transportation reporter David Shepardson about the proposed airline bailout. Derek Thompson of The Atlantic joins Stephen Henderson to talk about the idea of sending most Americans stimulus checks.
DIA Director Salvador Salort-Pons joins Stephen Henderson to talk about the museum's request to renew its ten-year millage. And a panel of Metro Detroiters talks about how different groups of voters around Southeast Michigan are viewing the presidential election a day before Michigan's primary.
Stephen Henderson speaks with Speaker Chatfield about roads, the budget, transit, and more. And Crain's Detroit Business Senior Editor Chad Livengood got the first interview with Gilbert after his stroke -- we hear parts of that conversation and Livengood talks about what we learned.
Rep. Dingell discusses the dismal mood in Washington D.C. post-impeachment, the controversy surrounding President Trump and the DOJ, her effort to stop allowing Iowa and New Hampshire to hold the first-in-the-nation nominating contests, and more. And Stephen Henderson speaks with the attorneys who are suing the city over property tax assessments in the years following the Great Recession.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Detroit News Film Critic Adam Graham about the Detroit moments of the Academy Awards and the night's big winners and snubs. Plus, Crain's Detroit Business Senior Editor Chad Livengood on when Michigan's auto insurance overhaul is rolling out.
In this hour Stephen talks about the impeachment vote in the House last night, and what's next in the impeachment proceedings. He is joined by Senator Debbie Stabenow and conservative political consultant Matt Resch.
In this hour, Ron Fournier, president of the Truscott Rossman PR firm and former publisher of Crain’s Detroit Business; and legendary NHL defenceman Nicklas Lindstrom.
In this hour, a conversation with former Detroit Emergency Manager Kevyn Orr, Detroit Chief Financial Officer Dave Massaron, Wayne State University Law Professor and Director of the Damon J Keith Center for Civil Rights Peter Hammer and former Detroit Retired City Employees Association Shirley Lightsey.
In this hour, a special announcement from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on articles of impeachment, and then University of Michigan Law Professor and Former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Barb McQuade joins Stephen to unpack the implications of the announcement by Congress.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Detroit Regional Chamber President and CEO Sandy Baruah about the state of the region and regional transit, plus WDET's Jake Neher speaks with attorney Ben Crump about his work to address environmental racism and documentary filmmaker Jaye Fenderson talks about her newest work called "Unlikely."
In this hour, Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel joins Stephen to recap his County address last night, Michigan State University Constitutional Law Professor Brian Kalt weighs in on the impeachment hearings and Gen Senior Writer Andrea Gonzalez-Ramirez talks about the implications of Senator Kamala Harris dropping out of the presidential 2020 race.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with University of Michigan Law Professor Richard Primus ahead of the House Judiciary Impeachment Hearings. Plus, UC Berkeley Professor and Author David Kirp joins Stephen to talk about his new book "The College Dropout Scandal."
Stephen Henderson speaks with Fraser Nelson, VP of Business Innovation at the Salt Lake Tribune, which recently decided to become nonprofit. And experts talk about the ways the news cycle affects our mental and physical health.
Stephen Henderson speaks with Crain's Detroit Business reporter Dustin Walsh and cannabis attorney and activist Matt Abel about the launch of retail marijuana sales in Michigan and what happens next.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson is joined by Satori Shakoor, host of WDET's Twisted Storytellers podcast, Dave Garcia, Executive Director of Affirmations and Osama Siblani, publisher of Arab American News.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Center Line Downtown Development Authority member Jan Ornsten and Mayor Bob Binson about the role of community spaces in Center Line. After that, CityLab Executive Director David Dudley joins Stephen for a conversation about the role of community gathering spaces in cities throughout the nation.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with longtime labor and political activist Frank Joyce about the recent UAW corruption scandal. Plus, State Senator Mallory McMorrow on recent name-calling in Lansing and tax incentives.
In this hour, WDET's Jake Neher fills in for Stephen Henderson. Neher speaks with Reuters Reporter David Shepardson about the UAW and public testimony in Washington DC. Plus, photographer Kenny Karpov stops by WDET to talk about his upcoming exhibition.
In this hour, Jake Neher speaks with Jeffrey Engel, author and director of the Center for Presidential History at Southern Methodist University about impeachment. Plus, conversations with Eastpointe Mayor Monique Owens and Livonia Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Congresswomen Rashida Tlaib and Debbie Dingell about their thoughts on the first day of public testimony in the impeachment inquiry. Plus, John Truscott and Ron Fournier weigh in on the topic as well.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Congressman Dan Kildee about the public testimony planned for this week. Plus, University of Michigan Education Dean Elizabeth Moje stops by the WDET studio.
In this hour, Stephen Henderson speaks with Washington Chief Correspondent with Kaiser Health News Julie Rovner and creator of ACAsignups.net Charles Gaba about open enrollment and what it would mean to overhaul Obamacare.