Podcast
ML Soul of Detroit
Hosted by ML Elrick · EN
News, views, inside stories -- long AND short -- all well-told.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Iceland Kicks - May 12, 2026
5d ago01:04:23Tap to summarizeTurns out ML's local connection in Reykjavik is really from Rochester. She zooms in to discuss how she became a professional soccer player in Iceland. DCFC women's team coach and captain also dial in to help kick-off their season.STRAIGHT DOPESPECIAL OFFER: Get 15% off Detroit City FC tickets by entering promo code SOUL at check out when you buy tickets at www.detcityfc.com.DCFC women's team coach Dani Evans and team captain Hannah Crum hope to build on last season's strong record when they take on AFC Ann Arbor Saturday in Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo FC on May 23 in Hamtramck for their home opener.There are 64 women on DCFC's squads, so Evans and Crum use all kinds of games to bring the players together. Some of the players have nicknames, but Crum tells ML and Marc so far no one has taken "Mint Chocolate Chip."Marc is plainly disgusted that ML makes it all about him again when he asks the coach and captain to validate his efforts as captain of the Free Press co-ed rec softball team.ML and Marc jump from Le Rouge to Reykjavik when they welcome Lexi Czerwien to discuss her career as a professional soccer player in Iceland.When ML booked his trip to Iceland, his travel companion told him they would connect with a local for dinner in Iceland's capital. Imagine his surprise when their host turned out to be from Rochester! Lexi went to high school there, before playing for Xavier and Bowling Green. After college, her agent fielded offers from around the world before Lexi settled on Iceland.How many women's professional soccer teams do you think there are in a country of 400,000? Lexi plays for Throttur Reykjavik in Iceland's Premier League. She says there are about a dozen teams in her league -- and there are multiple levels of women's professional soccer. She says Icelanders love soccer and pack arenas for men's and women's games. Listen and learn how they deal with the weather in a country that often lives up to its name.Lexi and ML agree Rekyjavik at night is a lot like Mackinac Island, with a thriving main drag lined with bars, restaurants, shops and young people hanging out. Lexi talks about how she keeps busy on a small country in the middle of nowhere.You don't need a map if you're taking a road trip in Iceland. There is one highway -- Highway 1 -- that goes all around the island. The scenery is stark and beautiful, dotted with waterfalls, craters, geysers and beaches where seals frolic and icebergs go to die. ML shares more details about what he saw -- and heard.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKThere are great chefs in Europe, but the ones who put canned corn on salads aren't among them.ROOM 7609Iceland music icon Bjork brings a Nordic touch to the New Wave suite when she performs "Army of Me." Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comOUR BENEFACTORSCome hang with us! For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show!Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKML acknowledges he was wrong about Marr and the Mustang, and Marc agrees with Alex that the game is rigged. We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Facebook at “M.L. Elrick” and InstaGram at ml_elrick and, if the @elrick account ever gets unhacked, on XBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Hopeless Wanderers - May 5, 2026
2w ago01:05:37Tap to summarizeThis week, the Soul goes international — broadcasting (allegedly) live from Dublin, where the Guinness flows, the accents get thicker, and the stories get… weirder.STRAIGHT DOPE:From Detroit to Dublin (with a few questionable detours) Elrick and globe-trotting reptile enthusiast Sergei Morris set up shop in a Dublin WeWork, proving once again that journalism — like beer — travels well. Between sips and sarcasm, the crew checks in on absent friends and the cultural confusion that comes with leaving the Midwest.🐍 Snake Bites, Bad Decisions, and Survival TipsSergey takes us deep into the wild — from Borneo to Africa — with stories that land somewhere between National Geographic and “what not to do if you value your life.”Key takeaway (and possibly life-saving advice):If you get bitten by a snake: do not cut it, do not suck it, do not panicAlso: maybe don’t mess with snakes in the first placeAs Sergei puts it: “Safety is about opportunity — don’t give the snake one.”🍻Culture Shock: Ireland vs. Everywhere ElseFrom hurling matches to pub parenting strategies (including screen time vs. beer time), the crew explores Irish life with the curiosity of tourists and the judgment of Detroiters.Highlights include:First-ever live hurling match experienceThe eternal mystery of Temple BarPublic urination as a cultural gray areaAnd yes… a story involving a drunk baby (Africa edition — don’t worry, it’s complicated)⚽ Detroit City FC Check-InBack home, Detroit City FC keeps rolling with a big win over Louisville.Fans are encouraged to:Catch upcoming matchesUse promo code SOULAnd support the squad at Keyworth Stadium🛠️ Sponsor Love (and mild threats)Artisan Interiors: Fix your house before it fixes youPinnacle Wealth Strategies: Because retirement shouldn’t be a gambleCadieux Cafe: Where Detroit eats, drinks, and occasionally sings karaokeGEEK OF THE WEEK:The Met Gala takes heat for peak excess and celebrity absurdityBillionaire bunker-builders also catch a strayConsensus: we hate it… but we’re still watchingROOM 7609:Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford & SonsA fitting anthem for travelers, misfits, and anyone trying to make sense of the road they’re on — whether it’s through Dublin, Detroit, or the jungle.❤️FEEDBACK:Elrick caught up with one of the all time worst judges. After reporting that disgraced former 36th District Court Judge Kahlilia Davis was running for a spot on the Detroit bench, the Michigan Secretary of State announced that she is ineligible to appear on the ballot.Shawn has been busy writing about the cities hottest team. Catch all his Detroit Pistons columns here.And catch all of Sergei's writings and adventures here at BFGringo.com.FINAL THOUGHT:From snake venom to Guinness foam, this episode is a reminder that no matter how far you roam, the Soul of Detroit is never far behind — it just might be telling stories you won’t believe.📩Got feedback, stories, or your own near-death reptile encounter?Hit them up: mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Historic Detroit Buildings - April 28, 2026
3w ago01:05:07Tap to summarizeDetroit's great buildings are Dan Austin's passion -- and his legacy. Before colon cancer claims him, he needs your help to preserve his life's work documenting our city's past and present.STRAIGHT DOPESPECIAL OFFER: Get 15% off Detroit City FC tickets by entering promo code SOUL at check out when you buy your tickets at detcityfc.com.Dan Austin has been putting his journalistic skills to work for decades documenting and telling the stories behind some of the city's greatest buildings. He joins ML and Marc to talk about how and why he started Historic Detroit and how you can help keep it going by supporting the Austin Past and Future Fund.Dan tells Marc and ML how an Oakland County kid fell in love with Detroit and its buildings -- starting with the downtown Statler Hotel.Marc gets the bell ready as ML tells the story of how Kwame Kilpatrick knocked down Dan's favorite building. He and Dan also reveal the other iconic building Kilpatrick knocked down before Super Bowl XL.Dan Gilbert, savior of Detroit or mixed blessing? Dan weighs in.Ilitches, angels or devils? Dan weighs in again.For someone so sentimental about Detroit buildings, Dan is also very clear-eyed. Among the landmarks he says had to go is the Packard Plant. Listen and learn why.Party with Dan from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at the Northern Lights Lounge, 660 W Baltimore St., in Detroit's New Center neighborhood.Colon cancer is going to cut Dan's life tragically short. He wants to make sure you get checked in time. Learn more here.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKGOW will be back next week!ROOM 7609Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comOUR BENEFACTORSRusty and Randy are our two newest (maybe re-newest) Soulmates. Come hang with us! For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found!When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!!Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Facebook at “M.L. Elrick” and InstaGram at ml_elrick and, if the @elrick account ever gets unhacked, on XBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Deadline Detroit Takeover - April 21, 2026
4w ago01:06:29Tap to summarizeDeadline Detroit thinks the Michigan Democratic Party may have a Jewish problem. Editor Allan Lengel tells ML and Marc what that means. STRAIGHT DOPEPro-Israel U.S. Senate candidate Haley Stevens and U-M Board of Regent member Jordan Acker, who is Jewish, were shouted down at Sunday's Michigan Democratic Party endorsement convention. ML was shocked by the hostility, and Deadline Detroit Editor Allan Lengel says it may be a sign there is an anti-Semitic streak running through the party. Read his column on the subject here.Democrats angry with Joe Biden over U.S. policy in Gaza cost presidential candidate Kamala Harris her chance to beat Donald Trump in Michigan 2024. ML, Marc and Allan discuss whether pro-Palestinian sentiment now is making Jews feel unwelcome in the Michigan Democratic Party.ML asks Marc, the youngest guy in the room, if he has noticed that progressives seem to be increasingly anti-Israeli.Marc says subtlety and nuance are missing from politics these days, but ML nevertheless says there are factors beyond anti-Israeli sentiment that may have caused Democratic delegates to disrespect Stevens and Acker. He discusses them in his upcoming On Guard column at the Free Press, but gives us a sneak preview on the show.Democratic presidential hopefuls Kamala Harris, Corey Booker and Andy Beshear came to town Saturday, and Beshear delivered a message that ML, Marc and Allan say could save the party. Should Harris run for president again? ML, Marc and Allan discuss.ML says Saturday night was definitive proof that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is not running for president. But he says that doesn't mean she doesn't want to move to Washington.Allan has been covering Taryn Asher's fight with Fox 2 more closely than any reporter in town. He gives his take on the story -- and where it may be heading.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKMarc and ML finally find something about college football on which they agree ... until they don't.ROOM 7609Mr. Magoo books Kirsty MacColl into the New Wave suite to perform "Walking Down Madison," causing Marc to pull a Shawn. Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comOUR BENEFACTORSCome hang with us! For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found!When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Facebook at “M.L. Elrick” and InstaGram at ml_elrick and, if the @elrick account ever gets unhacked, on XBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Kickin' it with Erika - April 14, 2026
Apr 1401:13:11Tap to summarizeErika, a $1 million soccer challenge, a DCFC legend, an epic Irish pub and a discount on an MLS game -- how much more good stuff could we pack into one podcast?!?STRAIGHT DOPETUESDAY SPECIAL: Get 15% off tickets to TONIGHT's (4/14) U.S. Open Cup match with MLS side Chicago Fire by using promo code SOUL at http://www.detcityfc.com/tickets. Then catch up with ML before the game at Bumbo's!ML starts the show congratulating the new national champions in a college sport ... just not the one you might expect. Listen and learn which victors he's hailing. (Sorry, Tommy!)This week's intro says ML will be a friend to the friendless, prompting him to wonder whether the friendless would even want a friend who is friendless himself?Retired Detroit City Football Club captain Stephen Carroll zooms in to explain DCFC's involvement in a new 7-on-7 tournament in which Le Rouge's men and women will compete together against some international soccer stars for a $1 million prize.Stephen hails from Cork, where he was playing soccer until a college in Tennessee recruited him to play in America. Within days of arriving on campus, he met the woman who would become his wife. Erika asks him to tell all about their lovely love story.ML, who is headed back to Ireland next month, asks Stephen to recommend some of his favorite places. Amazingly, it turns out ML's favorite pub in Cork is the Stephen's mother's local. ML says he knew he'd like it when he saw it was a Ford(e) pub and read the ominous sign on the front door.Marc just got back from Puerto Rico, where he watched his Wolverines buy, er, win a national championship while his daughter coped with a 103-degree fever. They left the medical facility with a trophy -- and no bill!Erika is hot on the trail of a story about a mom pissed off that her son was pissed on in a widening local high school wrestling scandal in which at least one person's career went, ahem, down the drain. Watch her story here.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKLife insurance pitchman Mike Slater is ML's geek, until Marc convinces him now-former congressman and California gubernatorial candidate Eric Swawell needs the win more.ROOM 7609Listener Kevin marks the sixth anniversary of the Soul of Detroit by booking Morrissey into the New Wave suite to performance his new chanson "Make Up Is A Lie." Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comOUR BENEFACTORSMiguel sends a few Euros to fund ML's Irish excursion and Randy becomes our newest Soulmate! Easter is over, but we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKWilliam asks a question about golf, which ML answers with a question: "Who cares about golf?!?" We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Halls of Shame and Fame - April 7, 2026
Apr 701:13:22Tap to summarizeRob Wolchek and Darren McCarty star in this bonus-laden episode Marc put together so ML would let him leave town. Plus- Elrick wants to avoid Michigan's National Championship.STRAIGHT DOPEML compares Marc to a Biblical figure, even though the only miracle he's trying to pull off is getting out of town with his family.In our last episode, ML told Marc what he would look for at Mayor Mary Sheffield's first State of the City address. Here's what he wrote after attending the speech.Long before he created the Hall of Shame, legendary Fox 2 Problem Solver Rob Wolchek reveals that he was known as "Scott Roberts" and how he reclaimed his name when he came to Detroit. Kind of.Rob shares his retirement plan, his wife's skepticism, and why he's hoping Detroit classic rocker WOMC-FM gives him a call.Marc reminds Rob about the time he busted Otis, a scammer who pretended he worked for WRIF to run a hustle -- and who took a swing at Rob and his photographer before he was inducted into the Hall of Shame.Listen and learn about legendary Fox 2 Special Projects photographer Keith J -- and what he and BA Baracus of the "A Team" have in common.Rob reveals what it takes to be a Problem Solver photographer -- and why it's not for everyone."Survivor" legend Michael Skupin was one of Rob's most memorable busts. Listen and learn what made this case so memorable.Rob updates us on the leader of a cult-like organization he put in the Hall of Shame.In one of his most amazing investigations, Rob busted thieves who were selling stolen goods from a gas station in Detroit -- including camera gear stolen from someone who helped out at ML's annual Clark Park outdoor charity hockey game! Right after the USA won Olympic gold in hockey, Darren McCarty drops in to discuss legendary coaches.After ML asks Darren if he watched "Miracle," the Red Wing legend says Herb Brooks was like Scotty Bowman -- all he cared about was winning.Darren played for Bowman and his successor, Mike Babcock. He said one difference between the two Stanley Cup-winning coaches is that Babcock used to "top to bottom." Then he explains what that means. Darren explains why Babcock needed him for the 2008 Stanley Cup runs.Bowman vs Babcock. Darren compares the two legendary coaches, and works in a "Game of Thrones" analogy.Darren drops some serious wisdom, including "If you take the lesson, it's not a loss," and "When the guy next to you is more important that you are to yourself, then you're ready to win." DEEP!!!ML asks if coaches do better if they treat everyone the same. Darren can't believe his ears -- and sets ML straight.ML tries to show he understands by telling a Sir Alex Ferguson story. Darren says everyone needs to get respect, but everyone needs to get it differently.Darren says the best coaches know which buttons to push. And it helps if they care.You'll never guess who Darren's two favorite coaches are. Listen and learn.Darren tells how thumping Claude Lemieux -- and scoring the OT winner -- helped prime the Red Wings for the beginning of their most recent dynasty.Our NEW bonus episode is now available! Soulmates can relive our live event at the Cadieux Cafe, when we dazzled the crowd with a mixture of Detroit and Irish trivia. Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonOUR BENEFACTORSJust in time for Easter, we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link.FEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Recidivist Addict - March 31, 2026
Mar 3100:56:13Tap to summarizeKwame Kilpatrick is back in the news and Shawn is gone, so ML and Marc catch up on Hizzoner's latest caper as well as reveal some secrets behind a few of his greatest hits.STRAIGHT DOPELIMITED TIME OFFER: You could get FREE tickets to Wednesday's (4/1) 7:30 p.m. U.S. Open Cup match between DCFC v. Flint Bucks FC in Grand Blanc. Go to https://tickets.uslleaguetwo.com/ and enter the promo code SOULCUP at checkout. The number of free tickets are limited, so act fast! ML had one of his worst sports weekends ever. His Spartans blew TWO chances to make a Final Four -- in basketball and hockey -- while Marc's Wolverine's advanced. So Marc asks who ML will be cheering for next weekend.It was a busy week at the ol' truth factory, as ML exposed state lawmakers who got paid mileage for going to the Capitol without attending House sessions, spent an afternoon at the Michigan Republican Party convention and finagled a pass to Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield's upcoming State of the City address.Read all about the lawmakers' antics here.Read all about the Republicans' antics here.With Shawn gone, Marc and ML dive into the latest Kilpatrick controversy, this time involving how the broke former mayor of Detroit ended up in a nearly $900,000 home in Novi -- and whether he's about to lose it.After the show, ML is looking forward to attending the current mayor's State of the City address. Marc asks what he expects to hear, and ML explains how he'll be looking for more than the obvious.Mary Sheffield's first State of the City brings the conversation around to Kilpatrick's last State of the City. ML tells some behind-the-scenes stories about how Kilpatrick went so far off script -- and where he came up with his claims that he and his family had been called names and threatened. Shawn hits the road to cover the Wolverines in the Elite 8. But which Wolverines? Read his latest column to find out.Our new bonus episode is coming soon for Soulmates! In the meantime, enjoy our most recent, in which Detroit Red Wing legend Darren McCarty talks about his favorite coaches -- and bags on one of the best coaches he had, who is also one of the worst.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKML nominates Meatball Ron for groveling while Marc chooses the Secret Service agent who shot himself in the butt looking for his cell phone.ROOM 7609Listener Mike JohnsTon recounts an epic tale of meeting Wesley Willis and buying some CDs from him -- even though he only meant to buy one. In keeping with that spirit, Marc plays Mike's choice "Make My Joyplane Crash and Burn" and the much shorter "Osama bin Laden." Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comOUR BENEFACTORSJust in time for Easter, we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKBob asks a question the feds are probably wondering, too: How did Kilpatrick get his mortgage? We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Nobody Beats the Whiz - March 24, 2026
Mar 2400:53:30Tap to summarizeShawn got a pee pass that lets him cut the line in an emergency, prompting Marc and ML to wonder where they can get one of these amazing documents. STRAIGHT DOPESPECIAL OFFER: The first five new Soulmates, listeners with suggestions for Room 7609 or who send feedback will receive four tickets to the April 1st U.S. Open Cup match between DCFC v. Flint Bucks FC in Grand Blanc. Everyone else can buy tickets here.ML starts the day with a flat tire -- and immediate blames the Michigan Wolverines, who are on track to win national championships in basketball and hockey. Marc diagnoses him with Chump Derangement Syndrome.Shawn and ML are both dragging after staying up til 3 AM Monday night. Shawn was working on his latest Free Press sports column, while ML was trying to get numbers to line up in the right columns.Have you ever heard of a "pee card?" Shawn just got one that lets him cut lines in case of emergency. He explains how it is supposed to help protect the public from biohazards.Marc, ML and Shawn debate the ethics of using a handicap placard to park if you are not injured, prompting ML to question whether it's OK to use the big stall in a public restroom.Do you prefer hotels or AirBNB? The crew weighs in with their choices.A New Zealand teacher, a Florida content creator and a neurosurgeon all got in trouble for hobbies they should have done at home, instead of in public. Listen to learn more.ML's latest column was about Sunshine Week -- a 7-day effort to increase transparency in government. Hit the link to learn how Michigan Speaker of the House Matt Hall and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reversed course on their claims that they want to make the state's Freedom of Information Act apply to the Legislature and governor.Catch's Shawn's latest column here.Our new bonus episode is here -- and it's free for Soulmates! Detroit Red Wing legend Darren McCarty talks about his favorite coaches -- and bags on one of the best coaches he had, who is also one of the worst.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKOlympian Jack Hughes complained that he didn't have his golden goal, then said he didn't want it after all. ML wonders whether that makes him a geek, or a cool guy?ROOM 7609Seems Shawn got ANOTHER powerful pass -- one that allows him to cancel this week's musical selection. Please show him who's boss and send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com OUR BENEFACTORSJust in time for Easter, we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKIsaac thinks the refs are on the take, prompting Shawn and Marc to opine. We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found!When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!!Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Liars, Liars - March 17, 2026
Mar 1700:59:37Tap to summarizeThe Governor and Speaker of the House flipflopped on their claims they want you to have access to information about what the hell goes on in Lansing. A state senator who has been working to expand Michigan's Freedom of Information Act joins ML and Marc to tell the tale.STRAIGHT DOPEWe're recording on St. Patrick's Day, so ML starts off with a phrase Americans believe the Irish use every day -- but that he's never heard the Irish utter. Shawn inquires about ML's Irish bona fides and work record on the Emerald Isle.ML's most recent trip to Ireland involved a visit to a family graveyard that had him wondering if he might be a distant relative for former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. Find out what happened when he asked Hizzoner about the possible intersection of the roots on their family trees.Marc and ML recorded an interview with a newsmaker before Shawn made the scene, a situation that he struggled to process as Marc and ML try desperately to get the show off the ground.It's Sunshine Week -- a 7-day effort to increase transparency in government -- so ML wrote about how Michigan Speaker of the House Matt Hall and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer reversed course on their claims that they want to make the state's Freedom of Information Act apply to the Legislature and governor. Read all about it here.Listen to Matt Hall's press conference here.State Sen. Jeremy Moss, a Bloomfield Township Democrat, has been working for a decade to expand FOIA so you can get access to government records that will help reveal what state lawmakers are up to. He tells us how he feels about the Speaker and Governor's flipflops.Is there any hope that we'll ever get a peek at the records that could reveal what's REALLY going on in Lansing? Moss offers a couple plans that might work. Then ML and Marc discuss how there's got to be a better way.ML and Marc discuss the attack on Temple Israel last week -- and what we should do.Faith comes up after Shawn arrives, just in time to challenge ML's Catholicism. Marc says he goes to church mainly to sing -- embarrass his children!Shawn was SUPPOSED to ease back into work. Instead, he wrote FOUR columns last week! Here's his latest, in which he declares the Lions dead already!!! Our new bonus episode is here -- and it's free for Soulmates! Detroit Red Wing legend Darren McCarty talks about his favorite coaches -- and bags on one of the best coaches he had, who is also one of the worst.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKKouri Richins won't win any awards for the book she self-published about dealing with grief in the wake of her husband's death, but she wins GOW for being convicted of murdering him. Hear all about it here!ROOM 7609With no listener suggestions, ML takes over and books The Pogues to perform "Dirty Old Town" in the New Wave suite for St. Paddy's day. Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com OUR BENEFACTORSWilliam finally gets his due for giving us some green. Thanks for your patience -- and your money! The holidays have passed, but we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link.FEEDBACKML said he knew Thomas couldn't keep his pledge not to listen to the show any more. We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →
Balloon Animal - March 10, 2026
Mar 1000:59:59Tap to summarizeShawn shares his adventures with balloons before ML goes ham on a (former?) listener.STRAIGHT DOPEShawn is back in the basement ... and in a bit of a fog. But it's nothing like the fog ML went through to get to Rob Wolchek's going away party. ML gives an account of the festivities, where the dean of the Hall of Shame seemed both flattered by the attention -- and overwhelmed by it.ML offers a hot take on Novi, prompting Shawn and Marc to defend Kwame Kilpatrick's current hometown.Shawn went back to work last week for the Wolverine-Spartan clash at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor. He reveals that he was a bundle of nerves as he FINALLY put in an honest day's work.ML buys into the narrative that Tom Izzo versus Dusty May epitomizes the change in college sports, with the old-time coach who develops players taking on the coach who signs the best talent money can buy. Marc says, in so many words, "Get it over it!"If you missed Shawn's column on the game, read it here.Even in the off season, people love to talk Detroit Lions. ML doesn't, of course, but Marc and Shawn get you caught up on the latest ... while ML learns how to pronounce "Anzalone."Speaking of "Anal Zones," Shawn shares stories about what he describes as "balloons up my butt."Catch ML at the Cadieux Cafe on St. Paddy's Day from about 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. doing Detroit and Irish trivia. There will be drink specials and live music all day! Find out more here.Our new bonus episode is here -- and it's free for Soulmates! Detroit Red Wing legend Darren McCarty talks about his favorite coaches -- and bags on one of the best coaches he had, who is also one of the worst. Catch ML's latest On Guard column here: Disorder in the court! Referee with problematic past removed after report.Looking for a great gift for a friend, relative or even someone you don’t particularly like? A Free Press subscription is a bargain! Hit this link to get a deal: Detroit Free Press Subscription Offers, Specials, and DiscountsPlease support the show by becoming a Soulmate. For as little as $5 a month, you can enjoy benefits like early access to new episodes, the video version of the show, no insertion ads and access to our monthly bonus episode. Sign up here: Get more from ML Soul of Detroit on PatreonGEEK OF THE WEEKThe Detroit Tigers' failure to sign Tarik Skubal to a long-term contract, as well as their low-ball arbitration offer, makes them this week's geek.ROOM 7609Herman books Black Rebel Motorcycle Club into the New Wave suite to preform "Conscience Killer." Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com OUR BENEFACTORSKeith makes a generous donation and David becomes our newest Soulmate! The holidays have passed, but we're still making this special offer: For a $500 donation, you can join us in the studio and sit in on a show. For as little as $5 a month, you can become a Soulmate by joining our Patreon supporters club and get perks by supporting the show! Use this link: https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroitFEEDBACKShawn inspired James to share his story before ML goes ham on Thomas. We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.comDONATE OR SPONSOR USSupport us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at mlsoulofdetroit.com. Or drop us a line at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!LISTEN AND LEARNFind out more about the podcast at www.mlsoulofdetroit.com, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCHSubscribe to the podcast at iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever quality podcasts are found! When you check out the podcast, remember to rate it (even if you hate it)!!! Your endorsement is very powerful! Get podcast news on Twitter @elrick or on Facebook at “ML Elrick”.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribe →