“The Detroit History Podcast”, hosted by Tim Kiska, provides wonderful stories about Detroit’s history. As a lifelong Michigander and local resident of Detroit, I highly recommend these episodes to those in the area or other Michiganders interested in learning a little bit more about their local history in a fun and easy-to-digest way!
Each season, the podcast covers a variety of topics that encompass a diverse array of history in Detroit. The latest season, season 6, covers topics like wrestling, bebop jazz, and even a failed automobile. There really is an episode for everyone, as the topics can appeal to so many different interests. Tim Kiska’s voice brings a smooth subtlety to the narration, and the information he presents really drives home how interesting the history of Detroit really is.
Some episodes I recommend are Chung’s and Detroit’s Chinatown, The Last Hanging in Detroit, and A Century of Mexicantown. My personal favorite, though, embedded below, has got to be the season 6 finale: Michigan Central Station. The usage of sounds and interview clips really makes you feel like you’re really in the boom of the railroad industry. This episode is such an incredible example of the rise and fall of different kinds of automation and highlights a powerful metaphor that this isn’t just the fall of the railroad industry in Detroit but the entire U.S. in the wake of the automotive revolution.
