Daily Detroit

Jer and Devon cue up our annual mild, hot, and spicy predictions for Detroit, Metro Detroit and Michigan things in 2026! From fun, to development, to automotive, to transit, to politics - we cover all of the bases. If you've got your own predictions (or agree or disagree with ours!) let us know. It's one of our must-listen local podcast episodes of the year. Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Soccer in Detroit is about more than just a game — it's a tool for community building and civic engagement. In this episode, Maxwell Murray joins Fletcher and Jer to share how the Urban Football League and Detroit City FC are using "the beautiful game" to reclaim urban spaces and help people feel a connection to something bigger than themself. Maxwell walks through the mission behind the league: creating a street soccer culture that serves as a modern-day "Sunday service" by and for Detroiters. He explains how these matches blend sport, food, and education to build a unique sense of belonging and cultural expression across the area. He also discusses the importance of breaking down barriers to entry for youth, ensuring that soccer is accessible to every Detroiter regardless of their socioeconomic background. At a time when Detroit is entering its next chapter, Maxwell argues that these community-led efforts are essential for empowering the up and coming generations. Feedback as always: dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com. Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=32536167045e4f20 Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Michigan's auto industry is still a global leader, but Glenn Stevens of MICHAUTO argues in this episode that "innovate or be left behind" is no longer a slogan — it's the stakes of the moment for the state's economy. Glenn walks through the forces reshaping the industry — rapid technology shifts like automation, AI, and EVs, fierce global competition from places like China, and whiplash in trade and domestic policy that makes long-term planning harder. He explains why the real battle is for talent: from skilled trades to high-end software and digital jobs, Michigan needs better K–12 outcomes, clearer career pathways, more counselors, affordable housing, and reliable transit if it wants people to build their lives and careers here. Here's the full report if you want to check it out for yourself: https://michauto.org/michauto-report-michigan-must-innovate-or-be-left-behind-amid-rapidly-changing-automobility-industry/ Feedback as always: dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com Thanks to City Bird for their support. Get grat local gifts this holiday season: https://www.citybirddetroit.com/ Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

State House Speaker Matt Hall's move to cancel $645 million in already-approved state funding is the political equivalent of a rug pull, and it has real consequences for projects and people across Michigan. This episode digs into what happened, why it matters, and what comes next for cities, nonprofits, and everyday Michiganders. This wasn't theoretical money on a spreadsheet. It hit projects that were already underway with contracts signed and local dollars already spent on the promise of state reimbursement. The cuts touch everything from Motown Museum improvements and the BAMF Cancer Center in Detroit to an emergency shelter in Sault Ste. Marie, RX Kids cash support for new parents, police infrastructure in Dearborn, Detroit Zoo funding, and Detroit's right-to-counsel program. To break down the facts, impacts, what could be next and what you could do about it is Steve Watson. He is a Partner and COO at Watson and Yates , a consulting firm here in Detroit that serves public sector and non-profit clients. He knows his stuff. Formerly, Steve was budget director for the city of Detroit. His post, "Speaker Hall's How the Grinch Stole Christmas" took what I had seen in other outlets to another level with his in-depth understanding and I knew I just had to talk to him. https://watsonyates.substack.com/p/speaker-halls-how-the-grinch-stole Support the show on Patreon, get stickers: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Three timely stories to talk about today: 01:20 – Sherrone Moore Fired p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The University of Michigan and head football coach Sherrone Moore abruptly part ways after an internal investigation into an inappropriate relationship with a staffer, plus a separate assault probe in Washtenaw County. ​ p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Jer and Fletcher dig into how this goes far beyond wins and losses: the impact on recruits, assistants, and a program still reeling from recent scandals. ​ p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> They also explore how boosters, fans, and parents might see Moore differently after this, and what it means for Michigan's near-term future on and off the field. ​ 09:57 – Leland House Power Cut p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Detroit's historic Leland House goes dark after a fire marshal–ordered evacuation, with DTE and ownership pointing fingers over damaged equipment and unpaid bills. ​ ​ p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The conversation widens to what happens when iconic Detroit buildings fall into limbo—and how quickly "troubled" can turn into "too far gone." ​ 15:19 – Kronk Gym Returning to Detroit p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Some good news: Kronk Gym is back inside Detroit city limits at a new home on Wilkins, not far from where legends once trained. ​ p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The revived gym blends big-name boxing alumni with youth programming, fitness classes and a renewed community mission. ​ p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Fletcher shares personal memories of the old Kronk and why hearing "hailing from Detroit, Michigan, out of Kronk Gym" still hits different for the city. ​ Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Detroit's stories in today's show are on the riverfront, in Corktown, in our startup labs, and even inside a nearly century-old neighborhood theater. From a $71 million defense-tech hub on the water and a plant-based diner bringing new life to Michigan Avenue, to a controversial new cannabis tax, brain-drain at U-M startups, and the Senate Theater's call for help, this episode breaks down some of the forces reshaping Detroit in 2025. The rundown: 01:07 - Where we've been: Saksey's 03:55 - Where we've been: City Bird and Nest 06:47 - State Grants Money For New Riverfront Defense HQ 09:17 - Street Beet opening in Corktown this Thursday 12:33 - Mocha and Company coffee shop opening downtown 15:01 - Marshall M Fredricks Museum opening a studio on the eastside 17:52 - Michigan judge allowing wholesale tax on canabis to start January 1st 20:29 - Report says that the state has a hardtime keeping U of M startups 27:05 - Senate Theater raising money for building repairs 29:00 - Mailbag: Pile of junk update 30:10 - Norris RoboCop statue thoughts Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

We got a ton of feedback on the Packard Plant project announcement last week, so we sort through it with our thoughts. Plus, Norris keeps it a buck on people who want Detroit to win and what it'll take to keep families in the city. Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Today's episode is a fun one in two parts: 1) What are YOUR favorite podcasts, books, and music? We got our Spotify Wrapped and since Devon's a parent and his music selection has been completely skewed by his family, we thought we'd walk through ours and also ask if YOU want to share your favorite stuff! What did the data analytics miss? 2) We have an update on the proposed demolition date of the RenCen, 2027. But should we do something fun with it in between? Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Follow us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=df538dae2e144431

Detroit has a RoboCop statue. I watched it go in myself on Wednesday. It's a real thing. An amazingly detailed, 10-foot tall, 2.5 ton bronze behemoth will be greeting future generations coming to Eastern Market. For more of the story, I sat down with three of the key people who refused to let this long-running project die: Filmmaker and original organizer Brandon Walley Producer and Free Age co-owner Jim Toscano Omni Consumer Products' "defictionalizer-in-chief" Pete Hottelet Together, we unpack how a jokey tweet comparing Detroit to Philadelphia's Rocky statue turned into a nearly decade and a half odyssey that pulled in Hollywood effects legends, local foundry artisans, a major studio, and countless twists and turns. Brandon explains how the idea leapt from a viral Facebook page into a real public art commission through the old Imagination Station, and why the team was adamant that the statue be made in Detroit. He walks through the early missteps, the learning curve on how you actually build a 10-foot bronze figure, and the multi-year collaboration with Venus Bronze Works, the shop behind many of Detroit's landmark sculptures.​ Pete gets into the legal and technical hurdles: getting MGM on board, putting up his own money to show good faith, and insisting on screen-accurate detail by restoring Peter Weller's original armor from a warehouse in Houston with artist Mark Dubois and the legendary Tippett Studio. One of the most interesting points for me, from a community perspective, is that he talks about "defictionalizing" Robocop's Directive One — serve the public trust — by turning the statue's plaque itself into a QR code that can connect visitors to community causes, donating straight from their phones.​ Jim shares how Free Age became Robocop's eventual "roommate" after other locations, including the Science Center, fell through during the pandemic. He and Walley talk about the symbolism of placing Robocop on the edge of Eastern Market as a welcoming figure, arm extended, and how they're bracing — in a good way — for fans who donated years ago, people honoring loved ones, and visitors from around the world to show up on their Russell Street patio.​ Throughout, the group reflects on the grind of seeing a wild idea through nearly 15 years, the friendships and collaboration that kept it alive, and what it means for Detroit to finally have a pop-culture monument that is both deeply nerdy and deeply rooted in the city's perseverance and generosity. You're not going to want to miss this conversation, or your chance to see a bit of movie history right here in the Motor City. More on Eastern Market's website: https://easternmarket.org/robo-cop-statue/ More on Omni Consumer Products: https://www.omniconsumerproductscorporation.com/ Free Age: https://www.instagram.com/thefreeage/?hl=en Brandon Walley: https://www.instagram.com/brandonwalley/?hl=en Cover art photo by Ryan Southen. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/ Daily Detroit is made possible by our members on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit

On this episode of Daily Detroit, host Jer Staes is joined by barchaeologist and writer Mickey Lyons to explore the newest and best places to grab a drink around the city. They dig into Mickey's latest guide for Eater Detroit, "The Best New Bars in Detroit Right Now," which highlights standout spots for cocktails, beer, and wine across the region. From intimate neighborhood joints to polished hotel bars and creative cocktail dens, the conversation covers what makes each place worth a visit, how they fit into Detroit's evolving bar scene, and why thoughtful hospitality still matters as much as a good drink.​ Jer and Mickey talk about how Detroit's bar culture has matured over the past decade, what trends are emerging behind the stick, and how new openings are spreading beyond the traditional downtown and Midtown cores. They also share practical tips on what to order, when to go, and how to pick the right spot for your next night out, date, or low‑key hang with friends.​ If you're plotting your next bar crawl or just want a fresh place to become a regular, this episode is a handy starting point. Check out Mickey's full list on Eater Detroit here: https://detroit.eater.com/maps/detroit-best-new-bars-cocktails-wine-beer Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

Detroit's Packard Plant finally has a realistic reuse plan — and downtown's historic Leland is abruptly shutting its doors. On today's Daily Detroit, Jer Staes is joined by producer Shianne Nocerini and reporter Luciano Marcon to unpack two very different development stories that say a lot about where the city is headed. Packard Plant reboot Jer and Shianne break down the newly announced 28‑acre redevelopment of the southern half of the Packard Plant site along East Grand Boulevard, after going to the announcement on the city's east side. The plan, led by Packard Development Partners in a public‑private‑philanthropic partnership with the city and groups including the Albert Kahn Legacy Foundation, calls for a new 393,000‑square‑foot Class A industrial building and an estimated 300 permanent manufacturing jobs They outline what's envisioned for the historic Albert Kahn building: 42 affordable live‑make units, a skate park, the Museum of Detroit Electronic Music (MODEM) and more than two acres of indoor‑outdoor public and recreation space, with completion targeted for 2029. The team talks about why keeping the 1903‑era frontage on East Grand matters to the neighborhood and the city's psyche, and why this feels like a grounded, "doable" project instead of yet another Packard pipe dream. They also speculate, based on the more than 50 loading docks and rail/freeway access, that the site is more likely headed toward logistics or shipping than a data center. Leland House shutdown In the second half, Luciano joins Jer and Shianne after a very cold visit to the Leland House, the nearly century‑old former Leland Hotel downtown that's now telling remaining residents they must leave with less than a week's notice. Management letters delivered over the holiday weekend say the building will close by Wednesday, December 3, amid bankruptcy complications and stalled redevelopment efforts following the death of owner Michael Higgins. Luciano describes what he saw inside: Residents relying on space heaters Visible water damage Tarps tacked to ceilings and years of deferred maintenance The crew talks about the scramble by the city to help people relocate, the potential loss of jobs tied to longtime nightlife fixture City Club and the scale of money it would take to save the property. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

On this pre-Thanksgiving episode of Daily Detroit, Norris Howard and I come to you in our Sunday sport-coated best fresh from a heavyweight fireside chat with Detroit's outgoing Mayor Mike Duggan and Rocket's Dan Gilbert. We react to a conversation that's a look into the future of Detroit and Michigan from two people shaping where we're headed next. We break down the biggest takeaways from the discussion, including why housing affordability tops Duggan's agenda as he runs for governor (as an independent) and why zoning reform and building more duplexes, triplexes, and other smaller-scale multi-family housing are absolutely crucial for Detroit. We get into the realities of market demand, population shifts, and why transit is still the other half of Detroit's comeback equation. Because whether it's chicken or egg, you need both people and transit to revitalize a city. Beyond the political stage, Norris and I swap thoughts on how local development impacts long-standing communities, and why the land value tax push in Lansing was such a key piece of the mayor's agenda. Then, we switch gears for a rapid-fire rundown of where to shop, eat, and support local business for Small Business Saturday across Southeast Michigan, from Merry in Midtown to the Rust Belt in Ferndale. Plus, some of our holiday traditions, why you shouldn't ring the bell at the Two Way Inn unless you're feeling extra generous, and why supporting our local spots matters more than ever. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

On your Daily Detroit, we're diving into a crisis that affects not just our classrooms, but the future of our entire region: Michigan's unraveling education and talent pipeline. I'm joined by Greg Handel, chief education and talent officer at the Detroit Regional Chamber. We're going to unpack a new report that doesn't pull punches…. Michigan has tumbled to 40th in per capita income nationwide, a far cry from the place we held just a generation ago. The full report: https://www.detroitchamber.com/just-released-2025-state-of-education-talent-report/ We're going beyond the headlines. On this Tuesday, November 25 we get into: What happened to our advantages? How did our state fall behind, and what's being done to reverse the slide? In a world where place and talent attract each other, we'll explore the hard truths and real opportunities for a region at a crossroads. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

On today's show: p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> At what temperature do you stop wearing shorts? 02:31 – Detroit Lions narrowly defeat Giants, and the season is on the line p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The "Cardiac Cats" deliver another stressful win: the Lions barely get by the Giants. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Jer and Fletcher break down the wild ride that is the Jameis Winston experience ("more fun when it's not your team on the line!"), and how Jamir Gibbs stepped up in historic fashion. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Deep dive into what's working and what isn't—especially a candid convo about Jared Goff, the offensive coordinator, and whether the Lions are too predictable. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The hosts highlight what must improve for Detroit with national eyes on them for Thanksgiving against the Packers—a critical NFC North matchup. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Both agree: If the Lions want a real shot at the playoffs, they basically need to win out. 11:12 – Detroit Pistons: 12-Game Win Streak and Rising Hopes p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> The Pistons are HOT: 14-2 with a 12-game win streak, taking down Milwaukee on the road (even if Giannis was out). p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> "Are the Pistons for real?" Discussion weighs schedule quality, team growth, the impact of new players, and how Detroit is earning national respect. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Local pride watch: Shoutout to Ryan Rollins (Macomb Dakota) leading Milwaukee in the absence of their stars. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Being able to expect the Pistons to win games, not just "play hard"—Detroit fans everywhere can relate how good this feels! p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Call to listeners for vintage Pistons gear for the studio. 18:11 – Red Wings: "Wings in Flight" and Atlantic Division Leaders p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Quick coverage of the Red Wings' strong season—they're leading the Atlantic and scoring with flash. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Props to Dylan Larkin, DeBrincat, and Lucas Raymond, plus some talk about the Yzerplan paying off. 19:35 – Stephen Carroll retires as DCFC Captain for Front Office Role p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Longtime Detroit City FC captain Stephen Carroll announces retirement from the pitch but stays with the club in a (yet-to-be-named) front office role. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/ Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DailyDetroit

This episode of Daily Detroit with Jer Staes and Devon O'Reilly covers: p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Thanksgiving vibes: Jer and Devon kick off with light banter on their favorite Thanksgiving sides p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Where we've been: Devon shares his experience at the new Ford World Headquarters grand opening in Dearborn, highlighting the innovative "glass spaceship" campus, family legacy, and downtown impact. This includes the historic Dearborn Inn and its newly redone literary-themed cottages. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Where we've been, pt 2, holiday happenings: Jer describes the festive transformation of Michigan Central Station for "Winter at the Station," complete with interactive video walls and seasonal events, making it a must-visit holiday destination in Corktown. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Community and connection: We encourage listeners to explore diverse neighborhoods and businesses across Metro Detroit! Get to know your neighbors! p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Facing serious news: The conversation shifts to recent protests in Dearborn, debunking harmful myths (notably, the false "Sharia law" narrative) and reflecting on the robust, peaceful, and united local response. Devon, recently elected to City Council, shares some hsitory and context about Dearborn's resilience and diversity — as outsiders coming around with factually false ideas is nothing new. p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> We end with calls for stores from listeners in communities across the region. After all, Daily Detroit has the core value of localism. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

Jer and Norris are in with hot takes and hot stories around Metro Detroit! 03:12 - Sweetgreens opening day annoucement 05:32 - Belle Isle news: Zoo to be demolished and the historic Boat House will be leased to developer 11:41 - David Whitney Building converting existing apartment units to condos 15:07 - DTE Energy trying to fast track approval for data center 20:27 - Sinclair media trying to buy EW Scripps - which includes WXYZ Channel 7 here in Detroit

What do you think of the new "Nasty Dogs" Pistons nickname? Plus, Cade's getting his flowers with a new show; the Lions look kinda lacking and need to step their game up if they're gonna make the playoffs. PLUS - Eminem and Paul Rosenberg are producing the halftime shows for Thanksgiving Day for the next three years. First up? Jack White. We're supported by you, our members on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/DailyDetroit Feedback as always, dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com or 313-789-3211.

Me and photographer Ryan Southen reflect on Ford's new glass-clad headquarters across from The Henry Ford in Dearborn. We get into the design elements, the thoughts behind the campus, and details we noticed from the tour. It shows an organization that's looking not only to the future, but to having a campus that top talent from around the country would want to work at. Ford's new World Headquarters isn't just glass and steel. It's a 2.1 million square foot bet that Metro Detroit and Michigan can compete for talent with Silicon Valley. You can see the entire photo tour on our website here: https://www.dailydetroit.com/see-inside-fords-big-bet-on-the-future-a-new-world-headquarters/

Welcome to Friday! This is your Daily Detroit sharing What ' s Next , What ' s Now and What Matters in the Motor City. Devon O'Reilly and Jer are your hosts and today's bucket of topics include: Detroit development updates: Henry Ford campus expansion, new Amsterdam Lofts, and transformation around Grand Boulevard p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Discussion of the changing Milwaukee Junction, originally the crucible of the auto industry and generally an industrial neighborhood and now turning to lofts and residential p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Where we've been: Fishbones in St. Clair Shores and the new Nick Gilbert Way for the holidays p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Devon laments the loss of the "kitschy" vibe in dining — and the rise of homogenized minimalism in Detroit restaurants p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Are you a minimalist or a maximalist with design? p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> New placemaking features: There's a giant teddy bear at Nick Gilbert Way and improved Woodward corridor with outdoor "rooms" p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Pingree Detroit's opening on Columbia p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Retail update: Timberland store opening on Woodward today p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Abrupt closure of the Sonder Hotel (Gabriel Richard Building) due to national bankruptcy; what's next for the property p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Our main topic: A new $75 million DDA incentive for Renaissance Center conversion and riverfront redevelopment; breakdown of funding and vision for more public access and a "Navy Pier-like" experience p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Comparing Detroit's Riverfront to other U.S. cities and discussion on what it still needs to truly be the best p]:pt-0 [&>p]:mb-2 [&>p]:my-0"> Upcoming events: David Whitney building tree lighting on November 22nd Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

And we're back! Jer and Fletcher are in to talk about all things Detroit on this Veteran's Day. Also, thanks for the HUGE effort by you, our community, on our Gleaners virtual food drive! Support it here: https://fooddrives.gcfb.org/event/2025-daily-detroit-virtual-food-drive/ Your show rundown: 03:47 - RoboCop Statue in Eastern Market: Jer and Fletcher discuss long-awaited completion and location of Detroit's RoboCop statue; impact as a tourist destination; personal reflections and the journey to completion. 07:36 - Detroit Lions Talk: Recap Lions' 44-22 win over Washington; Jer and Fletcher analyze Dan Campbell's offensive play-calling shift, staff decisions, game tactics, impact on the team, and upcoming game vs. Eagles. 15:18 - Pistons Off to a Hot Start: Jer and Fletcher break down Detroit Pistons' 9-2 record, Cade Cunningham's historic triple-double, change in team chemistry, new players, and renewed energy; Fletcher analyzes growth and outlook. 18:09 - Detroit City FC Playoff Run Ends: Reaction to DCFC's playoff elimination (penalty shootout), success exceeding expectations, offense frustrations, league parity, and challenges retaining talent. 21:40 - Listener: Why Not More Red Wings Talk? Listener question about lack of Red Wings coverage; Fletcher shares personal reasons and nostalgia for Red Wings' 90s dynasty. But yes, we totally hear you! 25:10 - What is Fletcher's favorite Daily Detroit sticker? Get yours at https://www.patreon.com/DailyDetroit Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

Devon O'Reilly is back — now as a councilman-elect of the great city of Dearborn! After talking about the race and the experience, we get back into the groove on where we've been for coffee... plus: React to news that the owner of a giant downtown Detroit building has declared bankruptcy. Our worry? Buyers who don't actually have the access to cash to fix these places up, so they get stuck for years. Speculation on future use for the soon to be vacated Detroit intercity bus terminal on Howard Street And reacting to your listener feedback on Waymo coming to Detroit... which was overwhelmingly positive. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

Welcome to Daily Detroit — your guide to what's next, what's now, and what matters in the Motor City. Today, we're diving deep into one of Detroit's biggest challenges and, possibly, its greatest opportunity: what to do with our city's vast tracts of vacant land. Since 1950, Detroit has lost 65% of its population, creating more than 100,000 vacant lots and 18 square miles of unused land. Right now, the city spends more than $1.3 million each year just mowing the grass on these empty parcels, among other costs. But what if these vacant lots were transformed into something new? Parks, forests, community gardens, and green spaces that could help stabilize neighborhoods, improve health and safety, and help us adapt to a changing climate? That's the question at the heart of the latest report from Detroit Future City: "Saving for the Future." To break this all down, I'm joined by two key voices behind the report. Kimberly Faison, Vice President for Thriving, Resilient Neighborhoods, and Sarah Hayosh, Director of Land Use and Design at Detroit Future City. We'll talk about how a dedicated land conservancy could be a game-changer for Detroit, what the research says about green space and community health, and the practical steps ahead to make this vision real. Link to the report: https://detroitfuturecity.com/data_reports/saving-for-the-future-land-conservation-in-detroit/ Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

The 2025 Detroit mayoral election saw a historic victory with Mary Sheffield becoming the first female mayor of the city. Join Jer and Norris as we unpack the results, analyze the political landscape, and discuss what this means for the future of the Motor City. Here's what you'll discover: A Landslide Victory: How Mary Sheffield secured a clear victory from Detroit voters and the significance of her win The Energy Shift: Norris Howard shares his firsthand experiences from the Kinloch and Sheffield victory parties, highlighting the diverse and energized coalition behind the new mayor Generational Change: Exploring the through-line between Detroit and New York's recent elections, and how a new wave of millennial leaders is emerging The Responsibility Ahead: What challenges and opportunities Mary Sheffield faces in her first 100 days, and the importance of delivering on promises to the community The Power of the People: A discussion on the critical role Detroit's residents play in the city's comeback, and how any mayor either enables or hinders that spirit Local Race Breakdowns: Analysis of key City Council races, including Angela Whitfield Callaway, Scott Benson, Renata Miller, Gabriella Santiago-Romero, Denzel Anton McCampbell The Rise of Progressivism: Examining the growing appeal of progressive ideas — particularly among younger voters for whom the current system isn't working for them — and what this means for an American politics where frustration is driving a desire for change The whole time we share personal stories, thoughtful commentary, and a passionate love for the city of Detroit. Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/

On this episode of Daily Detroit, host Jer talks with Mike Burton, co-founder and CEO of Lockstop, to discuss an innovative solution for bike security now available in Detroit. Learn how this technology is making cycling more accessible and secure in Corktown's Transportation Innovation Zone, and how data from bike locks could help shape the future of urban mobility. Episode highlights Lockstop's Innovation: A retrofit bike locking system that provides both security and valuable mobility data Detroit Deployment: 25 Lockstop devices installed throughout Corktown, focusing on Michigan Central and key amenities Transportation Innovation Zone: How Corktown serves as a testing ground for mobility startups Data-Driven Insights: Understanding cyclist demographics and patterns to improve urban planning The Goal: Getting more "booties on bikes" by making cycling a viable transportation option What to know Half of daily car trips in the US are within three miles — the perfect cycling distance Detroit has grown 25% on the "People for Bikes" score and has more than 400 miles of trails Lockstop devices are strategically placed near coffee shops, restaurants, and workplaces along Michigan Avenue The Lockstop app (available on iOS and Android) helps cyclists locate devices and secure their bikes Guest Mike Burton - Co-founder and CEO of Lockstop Links & Resources Download the Lockstop app: https://www.lockstop.co/ Visit Corktown and Michigan Central to try Lockstop devices Contact Daily Detroit: [email protected] Support Daily Detroit Daily Detroit is made possible by our members on Patreon. Join us to get exclusive swag, including our brand new sticker pack, at patreon.com/DailyDetroit Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942

Welcome to the week! We've got five things we're talking about on this Monday with Fletcher Sharpe and Jer: 01:09 - Waymo self-driving taxis are coming to Detroit 08:57 - Fletcher's SNAP Thoughts 14:00 - Pistons win in Mexico 15:09 - Are we worried about the Lions after the loss to the Vikings? 18:17 - Detroit City FC upset win in playoff match Feedback as always - dailydetroit -at- gmail -dot- com or leave a voicemail 313-789-3211. Follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Or sign up for our newsletter: https://www.dailydetroit.com/newsletter/