Hidden in Plain Sight

May 26, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois transports listeners to Detroit’s east side to uncover the forgotten legacy of Water Works Park. Once a sprawling 110‑acre civic treasure along Jefferson Avenue, the park featured lush landscapes, recreational amenities, and its iconic water tower—an early symbol of the city’s skyline and ambition. Livernois traces the park’s rise as a beloved gathering place, its layered history stretching back to early French settlers, and its eventual decline and closure in the mid‑20th century. The episode also highlights the remnants that remain today, offering a glimpse into a remarkable piece of Detroit’s past that still lingers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 12, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois looks up—way up—along Washington Boulevard in downtown Detroit to reveal the storied past of the Book Tower. Opened in 1926 and once the tallest building in the city, the Italian Renaissance landmark embodied Detroit’s roaring‑twenties confidence, rising in limestone and terracotta as a bold declaration of ambition. The episode traces the Book Tower’s arc from skyline‑defining marvel to long‑neglected giant, reflecting Detroit’s own struggles and resilience, before exploring its recent revival as a vibrant, mixed‑use destination. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 28, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois takes us to Detroit’s east side to uncover the fading grandeur of the Vanity Ballroom, an Art Deco landmark along Jefferson Avenue whose quiet exterior still echoes with nearly a century of music and motion. Designed by renowned architect Charles N. Agree and opened in 1929, the Vanity rose as a beacon of optimism just before the Great Depression—its geometric façade and pastel details promising escape and celebration in uncertain times. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 14, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois turns our attention to a quiet figure seated in bronze near the heart of downtown Detroit—the statue of William Cotter Maybury in Grand Circus Park. Just steps from Comerica Park and surrounded by the energy of Woodward Avenue, the monument depicts a composed, almost contemplative mayor whose legacy is easy to overlook amid the city’s larger‑than‑life history. Unveiled in 1912 and intentionally modest in design, Maybury’s statue sits directly across from Pingree’s, the two former rivals facing one another in silent dialogue. Today, Maybury remains a symbol of steady leadership, measured governance, and the kind of civic patience that helped shape Detroit’s industrial future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 31, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois journeys into the enduring presence of Old St. Mary’s Church, a red‑brick landmark standing at the edge of Detroit’s Greektown, where Monroe Street meets the I‑375 Expressway. Amid neon lights, casinos, and bustling restaurants, the church remains a quiet spiritual anchor—one that has watched the city transform for nearly two centuries. Still hosting daily Mass today, Old St. Mary’s stands as a rare constant in a rapidly changing neighborhood—a sacred survivor, rich with history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 17, 2026 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois steps into the long shadow of Engine House No. 18, a red‑brick sentinel on Mount Elliott Avenue whose arched doors and hose‑drying tower have watched Detroit evolve for more than 130 years. Listeners are carried back to the 1890s, when a rapidly expanding city of factories, streetcars, and wood‑framed homes faced a constant threat from fire—and when a single spark could erase an entire neighborhood. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

March 3, 2026 — In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois steps into the shadow of Detroit’s monumental Cadillac Place, a limestone giant on West Grand Boulevard whose walls have witnessed more than a century of ambition, innovation, and reinvention. Listeners will journey back to the 1910s, when General Motors—expanding at breakneck speed—chose this very block in the emerging New Center area to build a headquarters worthy of its growing empire. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb. 18, 2026 — In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois journeys back to a frosty morning on Belle Isle in 1896, where Charles Brady King quietly made history. Listeners will discover how King—an engineer, artist, and inventor—became the first person to drive an automobile in Detroit, guiding his handmade machine across the island’s empty roads while a curious onlooker named Henry Ford watched from the sidelines. It’s a story of imagination, grit, and the spark that ignited the Motor City long before assembly lines and mass production reshaped the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb. 10, 2026 — This episode of Hidden in Plain Sight with Dr. Robert Livernois traces the rich history of Detroit’s United Sound Systems, exploring how the unassuming brick house on Second Avenue became a recording hub for artists from John Lee Hooker to Aretha Franklin. Listeners will hear how this landmark studio shaped generations of music and preserved Detroit’s creative spirit through decades of change. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb. 3, 2026 ~ Step back in time to a forgotten playground of Detroit’s West Side. In this episode, we uncover the magic of Edgewater Park, the 23‑acre amusement park that once brought joy, music, and escape to Seven Mile Road. From its roaring‑’20s debut and Depression‑era dime rides to the thunder of the Wild Beast roller coaster and Motown legends lighting up the stage, Edgewater was where Detroit came to play. Though the rides are gone and the gates long closed, the laughter, screams, and soul of the park still linger. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan. 27, 2026 ~ What do a scarred wooden bar, a maze of hidden tunnels, and Detroit’s most notorious mobsters have in common? A whole lot more than you’d ever guess. In this episode, we head into Corktown’s legendary Tommy’s Bar & Grill—an unassuming neighborhood joint that has quietly witnessed the city’s most turbulent eras. From whispers of Underground Railroad escape routes weaving beneath its floorboards to Prohibition‑era smuggling schemes run by the infamous Purple Gang (with Al Capone himself dropping by), Tommy’s history reads like a secret map of Detroit’s underbelly. Join us as we descend into the hidden passages, the outlaw lore, and the rebellious spirit that still lingers beneath 3rd Street. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan. 20, 2026 ~ What do Art Deco mosaics, secret currency plates, and experimental microwave relays have in common? A whole lot more than you'd ever guess. In this episode, we step inside Detroit’s Guardian Building — the towering “Cathedral of Finance” whose brilliant tiles, soaring arches, and quiet mysteries have watched over the city for nearly a century. It’s a witness, a keeper of secrets, and a living timeline of Detroit’s ambition, resilience, and reinvention. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 17, 2025 ~ What do community gardens, streetcar fares, and a Civil War shoemaker have in common? A whole lot more than you'd think! In this episode, we uncover the legacy of Hazen Pingree – the man immortalized in bronze at Grand Circus Park – whose bold ideas and relentless drive helped shape the Detroit we know today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 15, 2025 ~ In the debut episode of "Hidden in Plain Sight," Dr. Robert Livernois uncovers the surprising origins of the massive Uniroyal Tire in Allen Park, Michigan. Discover how this iconic roadside attraction started as a Ferris wheel at the 1964 New York World's Fair and learn about its journey to becoming a beloved symbol of Detroit's automotive heritage. Tune in to find out the fascinating transformations it has undergone and the clever marketing stunts that have kept its story rolling. Don't miss this intriguing tale of innovation and history hidden in plain sight! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 10, 2025 ~ What do secret ballrooms, Motown legends, and Jack White have in common? They are all a part of the history of Detroit’s Masonic Temple! This towering, mysterious monument hides stories of music, resilience, and rock ‘n’ roll salvation. Listen in to uncover how this architectural giant became the heartbeat of a city’s soul, hidden in plain sight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 15, 2025 ~ Buckle up for a ride down Detroit’s most storied street! In this episode, we uncover the fascinating legacy of Livernois Avenue—from its French colonial roots and ribbon farms to jazz legends, Motown magic, and the golden age of used cars. If you’ve ever driven Livernois and wondered about its name or its soul, this episode reveals the rich history hidden in plain sight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec. 16, 2025 ~ Dive into the effervescent history of Faygo, Detroit's beloved soda brand, in this episode of "Hidden in Plain Sight." Discover how two Russian immigrants transformed a small bottling operation into a national treasure, and learn about the iconic flavors that have delighted generations. Uncover the surprising cultural connections, including Faygo's unique bond with the Insane Clown Posse. Tune in to explore the rich legacy of Faygo, a true gem hidden in plain sight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec. 9, 2025 ~ Journey to Wayne State University on this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight as we uncover the story behind the “Fantastic Four”—towering stone figures that once guarded Detroit’s original City Hall. Carved in the 1880s by Julius Melchers, these statues honor four French pioneers who shaped the city’s foundation: Cadillac, Marquette, La Salle, and Father Gabriel Richard. Tune in for more from Dr. Robert Livernois. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec. 2, 2025 ~ Step into Detroit’s green heart on this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, as we explore Palmer Park—a sprawling oasis just off Woodward Avenue, south of Seven Mile Road. Gifted to the city in 1893 by Senator Thomas Palmer, this 200-acre park was designed by none other than Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture. With wooded trails, serene waters, and open meadows, Palmer Park offered a breath of fresh air to a city on the brink of industrial boom. Tune in for more from Dr. Robert Livernois. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov. 25, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois steps into Detroit’s storied sports tradition on this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, tracing the roots of a Thanksgiving ritual that began in 1934. That year, as the city thrummed with auto factories and radio waves, a new roar rose from a patch of turf at the University of Detroit—the Detroit Lions’ first Thanksgiving Day game. Today, Ford Field carries that legacy, built on history both athletic and architectural: its very bricks include remnants of the old Hudson’s department store, once a titan of Detroit commerce and sponsor of the city’s iconic Thanksgiving parade. Tune in for a story of vision, resilience, and the hidden threads that bind Detroit’s past to its present. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov. 11, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois steps back into Detroit’s early days on this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, visiting one of the city’s oldest surviving homes: the Moross House. Nestled on East Jefferson Avenue, just a short walk from the Renaissance Center, this modest brick structure has stood since the 1840s—long before the roar of engines or the rise of skyscrapers. Built by French bricklayer Victor Moross and his son Christopher, the house is a rare example of Greek Revival architecture in Detroit, crafted with hand-laid red brick and lime mortar. Tune in for a story of legacy, preservation, and enduring beauty. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov. 4, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois steps into the maritime soul of Detroit to uncover a sanctuary that has weathered centuries of change—both literally and figuratively. On this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, we visit the Old Mariners’ Church, a Gothic stone landmark nestled beside Hart Plaza and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel. Founded in the 1840s through the vision and generosity of Julia Ann Anderson, the church was built to serve Great Lakes sailors in need of shelter, sustenance, and spiritual care. Tune in for a story of maritime legacy, architectural marvel, and the enduring echoes of compassion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct. 28, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois journeys into the cultural heart of Detroit to explore a landmark that’s more than just a museum—it’s a symbol of the city’s soul. On this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, we visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, affectionately known as the DIA. From its humble beginnings in 1888 as the Detroit Museum of Art to its transformation into a world-class institution, the DIA has mirrored Detroit’s rise, struggles, and resilience. Tune in for a story of artistic legacy, civic pride, and the quiet power of community action. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct. 21, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois steps into the heart of downtown Detroit to uncover the story behind one of the city’s most powerful monuments: the Joe Louis Fist. On this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, we visit the 24-foot-long bronze sculpture suspended over Jefferson Avenue—a tribute to the legendary boxer known as the Brown Bomber. Commissioned by the Detroit Institute of Arts and sculpted by Robert Graham, the Fist is more than a symbol of athletic prowess; it’s a monument to justice, resilience, and Detroit’s fight against racial inequality. Tune in for a story of strength, symbolism, and the enduring legacy of a Detroit icon. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct. 14, 2025 ~ Dr. Robert Livernois rolls back the clock to the birthplace of the Motor City’s automotive revolution: the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant on this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight. Located in Detroit's Milwaukee Junction, just a few miles up Brush Street from Ford Field, this unassuming brick building helped launch a global industry. Built in 1904, it was Ford Motor Company’s first purpose-built factory—featuring fireproofing innovations, hand-built cars, and a rooftop water tank that was ahead of its time. Today, visitors can walk the same floors where the automotive age began. Listen in for a story of invention, grit, and the Detroit spirit that changed the world. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct. 7, 2025 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, we dive into the fizzy legacy of Vernors Ginger Ale, a Detroit original with roots stretching back over 150 years. While shoppers stroll past the Lululemon at Woodward and Clifford, few realize they’re standing on the site of James Vernor’s original pharmacy—where America’s oldest ginger ale was born. A Civil War veteran and pharmacist, Vernor left behind a barrel of ginger, vanilla, and spices before heading off to serve. What he returned to was a smooth, golden drink that would become a Midwest icon. From soda fountains to neon signs, and from family-run bottling plants to corporate ownership, Vernors has remained a beloved staple in Michigan. Tune in for a story of invention, nostalgia, and the sweet taste of Detroit history. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sept. 30, 2025 ~ In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, we explore the David Whitney Building, a historic structure visible from Comerica Park’s third base line. While fans watch the Tigers play, few realize that just beyond the outfield lies the birthplace of one of the nation’s most respected accounting firms: Plante Moran. From its humble beginnings, Plante Moran grew into a billion-dollar company with offices across the U.S. and around the world. It was the only accounting firm chosen to help investigate the Enron collapse, and it’s consistently ranked among the best places to work. Listen here for a story of vision, values, and a legacy that started with one desk and a dream. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sept. 9, 2025 ~ Detroit’s grit runs deeper than its streets—literally. In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois uncovers the Detroit Salt Mines: a sprawling underground network formed 400 million years ago and still active today. From donkeys living underground to tunnels stretching beneath multiple cities, listen to learn how these hidden mines are a story of geology, industry, and resilience. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug. 26, 2025 ~ Nestled in Detroit’s New Center, the Fisher Building rises like a dream carved in stone. In this episode of Hidden in Plain Sight, Dr. Robert Livernois takes us inside one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—a 1928 Art Deco masterpiece born from the vision of the Fisher brothers and architect Albert Kahn. From its gleaming marble halls and vaulted mosaic ceilings to its hidden tunnels and rooftop secrets, the Fisher Building tells a story of ambition, resilience, and artistic brilliance. Discover how this “cathedral of commerce” became a cultural hub, survived war and economic hardship, and continues to pulse with the spirit of Detroit nearly a century later. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug. 20, 2025 ~ Tucked into a quiet intersection on Detroit’s east side stands a theater with a story that spans generations. In this episode, Dr. Robert Livernois explores the Alger Theater—a 1935 architectural gem that has witnessed the rise of radio legends, the golden age of cinema, and the resilience of a community determined to preserve its past. Listen in to uncover how this historic venue continues to shape the city’s cultural landscape. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug. 12, 2025 ~ A peaceful park in southwest Detroit holds the echoes of a powerful protest. In this episode, you'll uncover the story of the 1932 Fort Street Hunger March—where thousands of workers, united across racial and cultural lines, lifted their voices in song. They sang union hymns and spirituals, along with popular tunes of the day, filling the streets with a sound that carried hope, resilience, and a demand for dignity. Click in to discover how this historic moment still resonates through Detroit’s landscape and legacy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

August 5, 2025 ~ Historic Fort Wayne stands today as a quiet witness to centuries of transformation in Detroit. From ancient Native homelands to Civil War training grounds, WWII supply lines, and a safe haven during social upheaval, this star-shaped stronghold has shaped lives without ever firing a shot. Tune in to discover how a place built for battle became a beacon of community and history, hidden in plain sight. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

July 8, 2025 ~ Step inside a Detroit landmark that’s been quietly shaping the city for over 170 years—through music, mission, and a whole lot of heart. From secret architectural choices to bells that sing across neighborhoods, this episode uncovers the soulful story of a church that’s more than just stained glass and sermons. You’ll never hear East Jefferson the same way again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025 ~ He coined Detroit’s motto, brought the city its first printing press, and helped found the University of Michigan—yet most Detroiters have never heard his name. Discover the remarkable story of Fr. Gabriel Richard, the priest, pioneer, and public servant who helped Detroit rise from the ashes. His legacy is everywhere… if you know where to look. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 24, 2025 ~ Step into Detroit’s past with a visit to Brooks Lumber, where home runs once landed in the woodpile and history still echoes through the aisles. Discover how this century-old hardware store became an unlikely outfielder for baseball legends and a cornerstone of Corktown’s revival. It’s a story of grit, sawdust, and the sweet crack of a bat echoing through time. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

June 3, 2025 ~ Step into the groove of Detroit’s past! This week on Hidden in Plain Sight, we uncover the electric history of the Grande Ballroom. From its jazz-age elegance to its rock-and-roll revolution, this iconic venue hosted legends from Chuck Berry to Jimi Hendrix, and John Coltrane to Led Zeppelin. Tune in as we explore how one building became the heartbeat of a counterculture that still echoes with rebellion today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 27, 2025 ~ What happens when a wall built to divide becomes a canvas for unity? This episode traces the Birwood Wall’s transformation from a tool of segregation to a symbol of community resilience. Join us as we explore how Detroit residents turned concrete into a chronicle of courage, creativity, and change. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 20, 2025 ~ Join Dr. Robert Livernois as he explores the intriguing history of the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, from its ambitious construction in 1928 to its strategic importance during World War II. Learn how this underwater passage connects two nations and hear about the unique moments that have made it legendary, including a wedding right on the international border! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

May 13, 2025 ~ Ever wondered why Detroit's roads have such unique names like 8 Mile and 10 Mile? Join Dr. Robert Livernois as he uncovers the fascinating history behind Detroit's mile road system, revealing its surprising connection to Paris, France. Discover how a devastating fire and a visionary urban planner transformed the Motor City into a blend of European elegance and American practicality. Buckle up for a journey through time and urban design that you won't want to miss! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 29, 2025 ~ Explore the captivating history of Detroit's Michigan Central Station in this episode of "Hidden in Plain Sight." Discover how this architectural marvel transitioned from a bustling railway hub to a symbol of Detroit's decline, while uncovering some surprising roles it had assumed along the way. Learn about Ford Motor Company's ambitious renovation project that transformed the station into a cutting-edge innovation center and delve into some of the secrets found hidden within its walls during the renovation process. Get ready for the fascinating tales that make this landmark a true gem of Detroit's past and future! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 22, 2025 ~ In this gripping episode of "Hidden in Plain Sight," uncover the dramatic and mysterious final days of the legendary magician Harry Houdini. Learn about his last performance at Detroit's Garrick Theater and the tragic events that followed, leading to his untimely death. Discover the eerie coincidence of Houdini's promise to communicate from beyond the grave and the unanswered questions that still linger. Tune in to explore the fascinating history hidden in the heart of Detroit's Financial District. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April 9, 2025 ~ Discover the hidden stories behind Southeast Michigan's most iconic landmarks with "Hidden in Plain Sight," hosted by Dr. Robert Livernois. Each episode uncovers fascinating backstories of places folks pass by every day, revealing the rich history and surprising tales that make these locations more than just part of the scenery. Tune in to learn the intriguing secrets that lie just beneath the surface of familiar sights! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.