PODCAST · society
Authentically Detroit
by Donna & Sam
Authentically Detroit is the leading podcast in the city for candid conversations, exchanging progressive ideas, and centering resident perspectives on current events. Hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson. Produced by Sarah Johnson and Engineered by Griffin Hutchings. Check us out on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @AuthenticallyDetroit!
Episodes
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Draw It Out with Justin Ward and CallJimboFirst
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Justin Ward to discuss how his puppet show, Draw It Out, is helping kids learn to read. CallJimboFirst also joined to discuss his album, Weight of the World! Justin, a 17-year-old puppeteer and creator of Draw It Out, breaks down the mechanics of...
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Protecting Black Futures: Health, Education & Community with Asia McWright
In this episode, Donna sat down with Asia McWright, Director of Operations at Vivent Health, to discuss their new HIV care and prevention center in Highland Park as well as protecting Black children’s futures. Together they get specific about what’s available, from specialized HIV care and…
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Detroit Power Shifts: Young Voters and Media Trust with Donna and Sam
In this episode, Donna and Sam discuss some of the biggest political narratives dominating Michigan’s headlines including Kamala Harris' Detroit visit and the relationship between Detroit rappers and MAGA. Together they dive into the frustration that builds when local media cannot get answers…
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Have You Heard: What Parents Aren’t Tolerating This School Year w/ Monet Harris & Dawn Wilson-Clark
On this episode, Monet Harris and Dawn Wilson-Clark join Arlyssa to discuss the beginning of the school year in Detroit and the Metro Detroit area. Together, they talk through the issues that keep showing up across Detroit schools, DPSCD and charters alike: broken communication, last minute...
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Sustaining Detroit and the Fate of the RenCen with Joseph Middlebrooks
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Joseph Middlebrooks, the Economic Growth Manager at Eastside Community Network (ECN) to discuss the upcoming Sustainability Summit, where environmental wellness meets local entrepreneurship and community connection. From rooftop solar power and battery...
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Black Voters and the 2026 Battle for Michigan with Donna and Sam
In this episode, Donna and Sam discuss whether Black voters in Detroit are actually moving toward Republicans in the 2026 cycle, or if the story has been overstated by headlines and echo chambers. They also weigh in on what Abdul El-Sayed’s candidacy reveals about coalition politics, media...
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A New Era of Politics and Journalism with Jamila Martin
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Jamila Martin from the Movement Voter Project to discuss the political environment on the left - generational divides, growth of a multi-cultural coalition, and the widespread rejection of corporate politics. The Movement Voter Project funds local...
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The Vision Behind Black Beautiful & Brilliant with Tiara Jones
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Tiara Jones, founder of Black Beautiful and Brilliant to discuss how their brand is centering identity, legacy, resilience, and empowering our community. Black Beautiful & Brilliant was created with Black women at the center. It exists as inspiration —...
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2026 Michigan Primary Election Recap With Branden Snyder
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the State Director of the Working Families Party to discuss the results of Michigan’s 2026 primary election. Michigan’s 2026 primary election gained significant national attention as Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens faced off in a race that some said...
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Bridging The Political Divide - From B(oomer) To Gen Z With Jai Smith
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Jai Smith, an official Influencer for Detroit Public Schools Community District to discuss a youth perspective on politics ahead of the 2026 Michigan Primary Election. If you’re looking to learn more about candidates in each race check out our forum,...
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2026 Eastside Candidate Forum Recap with Donna and Sam
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down to discuss what went down at the 2026 Eastside Candidate Forum. The Eastside Candidate Forum, held in partnership with SEIU Michigan, took place on July 18th, ahead of the 2026 Michigan U.S. House, State House, and State Senate elections. At the forum,...
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2026 Eastside Candidate Forum Preview with Jasmine Kaltenbach
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Organizer and Labor Policy Expert, Jasmine Kaltenbach to discuss the upcoming 2026 Eastside Candidate Forum. The Eastside Candidate Forum , held in partnership with SEIU Michigan, takes place on July 18th, ahead of the 2026 Michigan U.S. House, State...
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River Rise: Flooding and Basement Backups on Detroit’s Eastside: with Latisha Johnson, Dr. William Shuster & Dr. Marie Garcia
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the City Council Person for District 4, Latisha Johnson Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Wayne State Dr. William Shuster, and Environmental Justice Director at Eastside Community Network, Dr. Marie Garcia to discuss what’s happening...
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Have You Heard? Episode One
In the first episode of Have You Heard?, Arlyssa Heard sits down with father, mentor, coach, author, and youth advocate Jonathan Shropshire to discuss the rise in fighting, bullying, and violence in schools. Together, they explore how social media conflicts spill into classrooms, what's driving...
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Trauma Intervention and Recovery with Sheba Rogers, Liz Kennedy, Ali Lakhani & Valerie Kelly-Bonner
In this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Sheba Rogers, Liz Kennedy, Ali Lakhani and Valerie Kelly-Bonner to discuss a series of mental health roundtable discussions Detroit Justice, Henry Ford Health’s Trauma Recovery Center, and Strategies to Overcome Obstacles and Avoid Recidivism (SOOAR)...
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Beauty and Political Beef with Jessica Kwalli
In this episode, Donna and Sam ran down some of the hottest political topics across the city including some of the upcoming primary elections. They also sat down the Jessica Kwalli, the owner of Jessica Blair Beauty. Jessica Kwalli is no stranger to identifying and servicing the needs of others...
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Juneteenth Political Rundown with Sam and Donna
In this episode, Donna and Sam ran down some of the hottest political topics across the city including Mike Duggan’s exit from the governor’s race, Detroit’s census case, UAW endorsements, money out of politics, and more! They also discuss Juneteenth and the importance of telling the story of…
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Plowshares and Power with Gary Anderson and Cándido Tirado
In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed director and the founder of Plowshares Theatre Gary Anderson plus playwright Cándido Tirado to discuss the world premiere of “Roberto Clemente: A Diamond Within,” an original play written by Tirado. “Roberto Clemente: A Diamond Within” dramatizes the life…
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Rooted Wonder & Duggan’s Dirt with Kamaria Gray
In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed the latest member of the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network, Kamaria Gray, to discuss her newly released podcast “Roots & Wonder.” Roots & Wonder Podcast is a storytime space where little ones are invited to slow down, listen closely, and remember.Each...
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Divining Freedom with Sarah Johnson and JerJuan Howard
In this special live episode, Donna and Sam sat down with the producer of Authentically Detroit, Sarah Johnson and Jerjuan Howard, the owner of the newly opened Howard Family Bookstore for a powerful evening rooted in storytelling, reflection, and community. The discussion surrounded the creation...
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Containing Black Utopia: A Conversation with Aaron Robertson and Michelle Adams
In this special live episode, Donna and Orlando reunite for a book talk at the Charles H. Wright Museum in collaboration with Next Chapter Books. This compelling book talk featured two exceptional Detroit authors: Aaron Robertson, author of The Black Utopians, and Michelle Adams, author of The...
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Pathways Out of Poverty with Veronika Scott and Cheryl P. Johnson
In this episode, Donna and Sam welcomed Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Empowerment Plan, Veronika Scott, plus Chief Executive Officer of COTS Detroit, Cheryl P. Johnson, to discuss their 16-year partnership - centering a shared mission of providing emergency help for people experiencing...
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Have You Heard? Who’s Joining the Podcast Network with Arlyssa Heard and Kevin Ashwood
In this episode, Donna and Sam introduce the latest segment on Authentically Detroit, What’s Happening at ECN featuring Outreach Manager for the Housing & Economic Department at Eastside Community Network, Kevin Ashwood. Kevin leads resident engagement, community outreach, and program education...
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2026 Michigan Democratic Party Convention Recap
In this episode, Donna and Sam recap some of the top headlines from the weekend’s Michigan Democratic Party Convention! Many celebrated over the weekend as Michigan progressives scored key victories. Michigan Democrats say they are closer together ahead of the midterm elections, despite the...
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Amplify Outside Podcast: Welcome... To Detroit!
The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network Presents... Amplify Outside! Welcome to the Amplify Outside podcast, a show with a mission of amplifying nuanced approaches to Intersectional Environmentalism centered in no other than Detroit, Michigan. For our first episode we meet host Ian John Solomon...
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Poverty and Prosperity by the Numbers with Kim Trent
In this episode, Donna and Sam welcome the Deputy Director for Prosperity for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to discuss her work guiding and building support for efforts to boost the economic security of Michigan citizens. As Deputy Director for Prosperity for the...
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Building Just Communities with Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur and Joe Drew-Hundley
In this episode, Donna and Sam welcome Dr. Yusef Bunchy Shakur and Joe Drew-Hundley of the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities to discuss their work eradicating racism, discrimination, and systemic inequities. Rooted in the profound legacy of his mama, Ava Jo—whose love, humor, and grit…
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Art and Politics with Eboni Taylor, Nafeesah Symonette, and Rhonda Green
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with State Senate hopeful Eboni Taylor to discuss her vision for Michigan’s 3rd District as well as Nafeesah Symonette and Rhonda Green who gave insight into the Summer Arts Employment Training (SAET) Program. Eboni Taylor is a lifelong Detroiter and…
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Concert of Colors: A Freedom & Healing Music Festival with Charles Erza Ferrell, De’Sean Jones and Kenny Green
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Charles Erza Ferrell, De’Sean Jones, and Kenny Green to discuss the upcoming Concert of Colors Neighborhood Programs event. The Concert of Colors in Detroit is one of the nation’s longest-running, largest, free and global music festivals. It is music...
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Amplify Outside: Recreation as Liberation with Ian Solomon
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with interdisciplinary artist and founder of Amplify Outside, Ian Solomon to discuss recreation as liberation and how he plans to further amplify this message as the newest addition to the Authentically Detroit Podcast Network! Ian John Solomon is an...
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Rebuilding The Village with Kayana Sessoms and Tarsha Gale
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Hitha Healing House Founder and Executive Director, Kayana Sessoms and Executive Director of Brilliant Detroit, Tarsha Gale to discuss how their partnership is helping Detroit moms and their families. In February, Brilliant Detroit unveiled a new...
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Live Episode: Detroit History Is Black History III with Dr. Anna Malaika Tubbs
On this episode, Donna and Dr. Anna Malaika Tubbs sat down for a live book talk at Wayne State University for their Black History Month program. Anna, a two-time New York Times best-selling author, whose work explores the intersection of history, sociology and gender, is best known for her book…
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Building BLAC Power in Detroit with Dexter Sullivan
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Dexter Sullivan, founder of the Black Legacy Advancement Coalition (BLAC) to discuss how they’re building Black power and continuing Detroit’s legacy as a Black city. The roots of BLAC began to take form in the heart of its founder, Dexter Sullivan, in...
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Detroit’s Black Bottom: Remembered and Reclaimed with Marcia Black and Lex Draper Garcia Bey
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Co-Executive Directors of the Black Bottom Archives, Marcia Black and Lex Draper Garcia Bey, to discuss how they’re working to uncover and restore our stories as Black Detroiters. At the heart of Black Bottom Archive’s work are the people (and their...
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Behind The Mountaintop: Humanity, History, and Detroit with Stephanie Wright Griggs and Brian Sullivan Taylor
On this episode, Donna and Sam spoke with Stephanie Wright Griggs and Brian Taylor Sullivan about preserving Black history, the legacy of Dr. Charles H. Wright, and The Mountaintop, written by Katori Hall and currently directed by Brian Marable at the Detroit Public Theatre. Healthcare...
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Thriveworks: A Holistic Approach to Community Building with Urenia Johnson and Adelina Robinson
On this episode, Donna and Sam sat down with Urenia Johnson and Adelina Robinson to discuss their newly formed collaboration, Thriveworks Coalition and how they’re amplifying access to essential services for families through a unified, holistic approach. Founded by leaders from diverse nonprofit...
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From Data to Dignity: Detroit’s Housing Reality with Alex B. Hill and Kirsten Elliott
In this episode, Donna and Sam had a virtual sit down with Alex B. Hill for Detroit By The Numbers and Kirsten Elliott, the CEO and President of Community Housing Network. Together, they trace a clear line from protest and media narratives to the daily math of housing: water debt, fixed incomes,...
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Equity First, By Design with Graig Donnelly and Aaron Abney
On this episode, Donna welcomes new co-host Sam Robinson to Authentically Detroit! They’re joined by Graig Donnelly and Aaron Abney of the newly launched Community Owner’s Representative Initiative (CORI) to discuss how they’re building Detroit’s capacity for equitable real estate. The Community...
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Orlando’s Farewell and 482Forward with Molly Sweeney
On this episode, Donna and Orlando reflect on their evolution since starting the podcast in 2019 as Orlando bids farewell to Authentically Detroit. Together they look at how time sharpens politics and encourage Detroiters to keep showing up and building power where it matters. They also sat down...
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From City Hall To 98Forward: Legacy, Lessons, And The Future Of Detroit Communications with Georgella Muirhead and Antonice Strickland
On this episode Orlando sat down with legendary public relations executive, Georgella Muirhead and Vice President of 98Forward, Antonice Strickland to discuss how Georgella’s career shaped Detroit's communications landscape and paved the way for the next generation of leadership at 98Forward.…
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Black Detroit Democracy Podcast: Protecting Students, Defying ICE, And Rethinking Power In Detroit
The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson! Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a...
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Art, Trust, And Listening To The Land with Augusta Morrison and Billy Mark
On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with Sidewalk Detroit Program Director, Augusta Morrison and Earth Futures Fellow, Billy Mark to discuss the Echoes Soundmaps project and how they’re advancing public life through the lens of arts, culture, collaborative design and deep engagement with...
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Black Detroit Democracy Podcast: Detroit City FC, Fair Development and Community Power with Maxwell Murray
The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson! Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a...
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Detroit Promise, Real Futures with Onjila Odeneal
On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with the newly appointed and first CEO and Executive Director of Detroit Promise, Onjila Odeneal, to discuss how they’re opening the doors of higher education to Detroit’s youth. Onjila’s hiring marks a historic moment as Detroit Promise enters a new...
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Rebuilding Hope In Regent Park with Aaron Marsh and Noah Stricker
On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with Aaron Marsh and Noah Stricker of LifeBUILDERS Detroit to discuss how they’re pouring into a community on the city’s east side. Established in 2005 with the mission to bring life and hope to the east side of Detroit, LifeBUILDERS seeks to restore a...
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Black Detroit Democracy Podcast: Detroit’s Demolition Drama, New WNBA Team, and DTE Battles
The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson! Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a...
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Correcting the Narrative: Black Fathers’ Role in Maternal and Infant Health with Denzel McCampbell, Jasahn Larosa and Iris Taylor
On this episode Donna sat down with the newly elected Denzel McCampbell plus Jasahn Larosa and Iris Taylor of the Southeast Michigan Perinatal Quality Improvement Collaborative (SEMPQIC). Together, they explore a father-centered approach to maternal and infant health and the policy changes that...
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2025 Election Recap: Detroit’s Turning Point
On this episode Donna and Orlando discuss Detroit’s historic election where the city elected Mary Sheffield as its 76th mayor along with a progressive bloc which aims to reshape Detroit’s future. After months of forums and one-on-ones with candidates, they share why this landslide felt inevitable...
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Detroit’s Next Chapter: Organizing Beyond Election Day with Branden Snyder
On this episode Donna and Orlando sat down with community organizer, Branden Snyder, to discuss the Working Families Party and how people can stay involved in the political process beyond election day. They also unpack the media narratives swirling around the mayoral race, why they matter for…
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Black Detroit Democracy Podcast: Crime, Power, And Detroit’s Debate Over Federal Policing
The Authentically Detroit Podcast Network in collaboration with Detroit One Million presents: The Black Detroit Democracy Podcast, hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson! Together, Donna and Sam illuminate the complexities of Detroit’s unique political landscape and give residents a...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Authentically Detroit is the leading podcast in the city for candid conversations, exchanging progressive ideas, and centering resident perspectives on current events.
Hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson.
Produced by Sarah Johnson and Engineered by Griffin Hutchings.
Check us out on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @AuthenticallyDetroit!
HOSTED BY
Donna & Sam
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Authentically Detroit have?
Authentically Detroit currently has 315 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Authentically Detroit about?
Authentically Detroit is the leading podcast in the city for candid conversations, exchanging progressive ideas, and centering resident perspectives on current events. Hosted by Donna Givens Davidson and Sam Robinson. Produced by Sarah Johnson and Engineered by Griffin Hutchings. Check us out on...
How often does Authentically Detroit release new episodes?
Authentically Detroit publishes regularly with 315 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Authentically Detroit?
You can listen to Authentically Detroit on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Authentically Detroit?
Authentically Detroit is created and hosted by Donna & Sam.
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