10 Years of Detroit Is Different: The Evolution of a Community-Driven Media Hub

In this episode of Heard!, Afros & Audio’s interview series, host Talib Jasir sits down with Khary Frazier, the creative force behind Detroit Is Different. Launched in 2014, Khary’s podcast began as a platform to amplify diverse voices and stories from Detroit, celebrating the city’s rich culture and history. Over the past decade, it has grown into a multimedia platform, incorporating video content and hosting events like the Collard Green Cookoff, dedicated to community engagement and celebrating local narratives.

Khary opens up about the challenges of podcasting and Black community organizing, the value of long-form content, and the unique power of personal storytelling in fostering connections. He also shares advice for aspiring podcasters, explores the evolution of media, and offers a forward-thinking perspective on the future of Black leadership and community-building through podcasting.

Tune in to hear how Khary continues to use media as a tool to connect communities, preserve history, and spark creativity while highlighting his exciting plans for live streams and upcoming events.

Khary Frazier Reflects on 10 Years of Detroit Is Different and Its Evolution

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Welcome to Heard! 00:18 – Khary’s journey into podcasting 01:33 – How Detroit Is Different began and evolved 04:35 – Challenges and growth in podcasting 06:46 – The importance of long-form content 09:28 – The power of personal narratives in Detroit 12:30 – Exploring Detroit’s culture and history 25:18 – Black leadership in urban development 41:14 – Community, creativity, and systemic change 59:26 – The future of Black community organizing 01:02:49 – What’s next for Detroit Is Different

Don’t miss this rich conversation on storytelling, history, and the transformative power of community-driven media.

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To learn more about Khary Frazier, host of Detroit is Different visit: https://www.detroitisdifferent.com

https://www.youtube.com/@detroitisdifferent-onlinem7124

https://www.facebook.com/detroitisdifferent311

https://youtu.be/r_hiCKchLDk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbsnMjDyzMo

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.