
What's Up Detroit?!
By What's Up Detroit
What's Up Detroit was initially created by the visionary Darius Smith as a TV show on WADL and TV 20. Now, we're back and better than ever as a podcast, bringing you the same energy and excitement in a new format. Our goal is to keep you informed and entertained with the latest updates.

What's Up Detroit?!Sep 19, 2023

Kenisha Lee: Rising Businesswoman Honored by Michigan Chronicles' 40 Under 40 Award
In the world of entrepreneurship, there are individuals who stand out for their exceptional drive, passion, and dedication to their craft. Kenisha Lee, the founder of the Klee brand. Recently honored with the prestigious Michigan Chronicles' 40 Under 40 Award, Kenisha has been making waves in the business world. Not only that, but she also shares a close friendship with Mays Smith, the wife of Darius, the host of the What's Up Detroit podcast. In a recent episode, Kenisha sat down with the What's Up Detroit podcast team to discuss her journey and her commitment to success.
Kenisha Lee's entrepreneurial journey began with a vision to create a brand that would empower individuals and inspire them to embrace their uniqueness. With this vision in mind, she founded the Klee brand, which has quickly gained recognition for its high-quality products and innovative designs. From fashion accessories to lifestyle products, Klee offers a range of items that reflect Kenisha's passion for creativity and self-expression.

Tammie's Inspiring Journey: Rescuing Dogs and Touching Hearts in Michigan
In a world where compassion and kindness often take a backseat, there are individuals like Tammie, also known as tamchop, who restore our faith in humanity. Tammie's incredible story was recently shared on the What's Up Detroit podcast, where she opened up about her journey to Michigan and her unwavering dedication to rescuing dogs in need. Let's dive into Tammie's heartwarming tale of selflessness and the impact she has made on both the canine community and the people around her.This chapter of Tammie's story begins with her move to Michigan, a place she now calls home. Leaving behind her familiar surroundings, she embarked on a new chapter filled with hope and determination. Little did she know that this journey would lead her to discover her passion for helping animals in distress.Tammie's love for dogs knows no bounds. She has dedicated countless hours, personal resources, and even shed blood and sweat to rescue dogs living in unfavorable conditions. Her unwavering commitment to these innocent creatures is truly commendable.Her selflessness has touched the hearts of many in the community. By sharing her story on the What's Up Detroit podcast, Tammie has inspired others to take action and make a difference in their own unique ways.

Rico Razo and Bridging Neighborhoods
Rico Razo and Bridging Neighborhoods
The amazing team at Bridging Neighborhoods is making a huge impact in our beloved city, and we had the pleasure of sitting down with Rico Razo, their talented Director, for an exclusive interview on the What's Up Detroit podcast.
Rico, a proud Detroit native and new dad, is leading a diverse group of professionals who are dedicated to serving our community through innovative partnerships and city resources. Bridging Neighborhoods' mission is simple but powerful: to contribute to the growth of our city by providing top-notch relocation, renovation, home repair, and real estate services.
One of the most impressive aspects of Bridging Neighborhoods' work is their commitment to reducing blight and strengthening neighborhoods. They understand that thriving communities are the backbone of a vibrant city like Detroit. By revitalizing homes and providing essential services, they are playing a vital role in creating a better future for all Detroiters.
But it's not just about the physical transformation of homes. Bridging Neighborhoods believes in the power of community and aims to build strong relationships along the way. They actively engage with residents, listen to their needs, and work hand-in-hand with community partners to ensure that every project is tailored to fit the unique characteristics of each neighborhood.
Rico and his team are clearly passionate about their work, and their dedication shines through in every project they undertake. Their love for Detroit is infectious, and it's clear that they are making a lasting impact on our city's landscape.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and interviews on the What's Up Detroit podcast, where we celebrate the people and organizations that are shaping the future of our city!
Until next time, keep smiling and spreading the Detroit love!

An evening in support of The NEW Center and transforming the future.
Adrian Miller is a food writer, James Beard Award winner, attorney, and certified barbecue judge. He has been a special guest for previous African American Foodways events at the Roadhouse, where we have been entranced by his incredible knowledge about the history of African American food. For this event, we look forward to hearing stories from his award-winning book, Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue. It’s an in-depth, intriguing and insightful look at the history of barbecue in Black communities all over the U.S. The four course menu for this dinner will be based on mouth-watering recipes from the book!

What's up Detroit Interviews two members from the cast of OWN's Love and Marriage Detroit
Detroit is the next city to join the Love and Marriage family, announced by Kathleen Finch, Chairman and Chief Content Officer, US Networks Group, Warner Bros. Discovery, during the company’s 2023 Upfront at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The series comes to OWN from renowned reality producer and Detroit native Carlos King, CEO of Kingdom Reign Entertainment. The season will introduce a new group of dynamic Black community members and leaders, this time from the “Comeback City” formerly known as the “Motor City.” The third city to join the Love & Marriageseries franchise following Huntsville and Washington D.C., “Love & Marriage: Detroit” now on OWN.

Mr. Washington's Gallery
Welcome to what’s up Detroit! This episode we are talking with Gary Washington, a young professional who is living out his biggest dreams. By day Gary works as an engineer but when the clock strikes five he switches hats and becomes one of Detroit’s most loved photographers extraordinaire. During the night and on weekends, Gary takes photos that tell stories about the history and culture of this great city. His expertise in photography has helped him build Mr.Washington Gallery; a hip collection of his amazing work showcased for all to see in Detroit's historic Renaissance building. Get ready as we explore his journey that led from engineering to photography plus hear some tips on how you can take your own creative hobby or passion project attitude and run with it!

What's Up Real Estate-Rawa Alzihery
Rawa Alzihery is the newest real estate agent on the block and she couldn't be more excited! She just passed her real estate exam and now she's ready to help all of Detroit find their perfect dream home. Rawa had always dreamed of being in the property business, but never imagined it happening so soon. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Rawa meets up with her sister Mays who is cohost of the What's Up Detroit Podcast, along with May's finance (also co-host) Darius to discuss the energy and calculated tactics needed as a successful real estate agent.Thesignaturegroup.org
Insta: Rawaarealtor
734-258-0132

Be Creative Studio
For all our creative muralists and home renovation lovers alike, the reality television world is about to get very exciting! Curtis Wallace, an award-winning artist renowned for his stunning art murals and innovative approaches to wall design, has joined forces with Darius on episode which debuted on Magnolia and HBO Max. That’s right – you read that right. Upon first glance of the trailer for this dynamic partnership between these two brilliant powers in the field of paint-work and structures, we can already tell that viewers are bound to be inspired by their innovative collaboration.

INDIE FASHION SHOW
“THE HEART OF INDEPENDENT FASHION”
Indie Fashion the Country’s Largest platform dedicated to the Independent Fashion Community. Founded by Mercedes Gillard and Daishawn Franklin
Indie Fashion has paved a direct route for consumers to support minority-owned businesses, shop the latest fashion trends, while at the same time pour resources into the ever-evolving Independent Fashion Community.
“INDEPENDENT Creatives Flourish Here”
https://www.indiefash.com/events/indie-fashion-show-detroit-1

What's Up Detroit is BaCk!
What’s up Detroit is back! Founder and host Darius P. Vessel shares why it is time for What’s up Detroit to return and why the return should be via podcast!