Advertise on podcast: Denise Ilitch show

What happens when one of Detroit's most storied family names passes to the next generation? Denise explores legacy, leadership, and entrepreneurship with father and son Dennis Archer Jr. and Dennis "Trey" Archer III. The Archer name is woven into the fabric of Detroit, and each generation has taken that legacy and built something of its own. Dennis Archer Jr. is a lawyer, marketer, developer, investor, and hospitality leader who has played a major role in development projects that bring economic opportunity and affordable housing to the city, along with civic leadership at the highest levels. Sitting beside him is the next chapter. Trey is a student at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business preparing for a future in business and civic leadership. A standout student-athlete at Detroit Country Day, he's already exploring real estate investment and community impact. Together, they talk about the values passed from one generation to the next, all built on a foundation of service and community.

Recorded on-site at Gypsy Distillery, Denise Ilitch sits down with identical twin brothers Adam and Michael Kazanowski, the Birmingham, Michigan natives who built one of the state's fastest-growing craft spirits companies out of the back of a van. Turned down by every bank they pitched, the brothers opened their first distillery in Petoskey in 2017 and launched Gypsy Vodka, funding it through music-festival gigs and reinvested cash flow. That single bottle grew into High Five Spirits, distributed statewide with three tasting rooms including one on Mackinac Island, and their biggest swing yet: Gypsy Farms on Lake Michigan. It's entrepreneurship in its rawest form, and what happens when the people who said no become part of the reason you keep going.

For America's 250th year, Denise Ilitch talks with two veterans who took very different paths. Our first guest is Evan Fay, who spent 10 years in the Air Force, rising to major as a nuclear missile officer and munitions leader in Wyoming and Alaska. He then moved to Detroit to launch Café Noir in the North End and Roar Brewing Company, the city's first Black-owned brewery. He explains why veterans make strong entrepreneurs, what "Service Before Self" cost him, and how the Lions, Tigers, and Motor City inspired the name Roar. Next is Khadijah Queen, who enlisted in the Navy to escape family hardship and pay for college, then earned a PhD and became an award-winning poet and memoirist. Her book, "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea", won a Michigan Notable Books award. She talks about truth-telling, banned books, and reframing adversity through imagination, and she reads from her poem "Anodyne." Two honest, wide-ranging conversations about where service leads, how a life gets rebuilt, and what it takes to make something of your own.

In this family-themed episode, Denise Ilitch sits down with her daughter Brooke Lites and "daughter-in-love" Isabella Tobias Lites. Brooke, a U-M psychology grad with a JD and a master's in clinical psychology, traded a path toward law for work in animal care and canine management in metro Detroit. Isabella spent 22 years as a competitive ice dancer, ranked 12th in the world, and skated at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics for Lithuania and later Israel. They talk about building a life you love, what elite competition teaches you about friendship and self-worth, raising kids with composure, responsible dog adoption through groups like the Michigan Humane Society and Detroit Dog Rescue, and why education and authenticity hold a family together.

In this special episode, actor and comedian Dave Coulier steps in as guest host to interview the host herself, Denise Ilitch. Dave takes Denise back to her early years as the oldest of seven Ilitch siblings and into the very first Little Caesars location. Denise shares vivid childhood memories of sitting on towering flour bags in the back room while her parents worked side by side—her mom on the register, her dad making pizzas—and the family conversations and sacrifices that shaped an iconic Detroit brand. Stay tuned for an engaging, heartfelt, and surprisingly funny episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, presented by Secure Financial Group.

In this episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise sits down with one of her dear friends, Colleen Pobur, for a powerful conversation about public service, leadership, culture-building, family, and sports. This episode is a compelling listen for anyone interested in how government works, what effective leadership and culture-building look like in practice, and how personal values, family, and even sports fandom can fuel a life of meaningful public service.

This month's episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and real-life stories.  First, Denise sits down with Bryan Spencer, founder of Secure Financial Group, for a candid conversation about what it's really like to build a business alongside his father. From family dynamics to financial planning, Bryan shares lessons on trust, legacy, and creating a secure future. Then, Olympic gold medalist and three-time world champion Haley Skarupa takes us inside the world of women's hockey. She opens up about competing at the highest level, the growth of the women's game, and what it takes—mentally and physically—to perform on the world stage. Finally, rising hockey standout Giuliana Golden joins the show to talk about how the sport is shaping her journey to college. She reveals how she's balancing academics and athletics, managing life away from home, and using the discipline of hockey to prepare for her future. Presented by Secure Financial Group.

This week on the Denise Ilitch Show, Denise welcomes Jon Oberheide, co-founder of Duo Security, for an inspiring conversation about his early passion for technology and the entrepreneurial spirit that led him to launch his first business while still in middle school. Jon shares how his childhood curiosity shaped his career and offers valuable insights into building a successful company from the ground up. Denise also sits down with Gigi Doelle, a junior Political Science major at the University of Michigan, to explore how artificial intelligence is woven into her daily life. Gigi discusses the real-world impact of AI on students and young professionals, and reflects on both the opportunities and challenges that come with embracing this rapidly evolving technology. Tune in for personal stories, expert perspectives, and a closer look at how technology is shaping our world today.

This week on The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise welcomes Dean Simpson—former New York City police officer, Army veteran, and now an accomplished author. In this compelling episode, Dean opens up about the moments that shaped his remarkable journey. He shares what he's most proud of from his years in uniform, offering an unfiltered look at what it was really like to police New York during some of its most challenging times. Dean also reveals how facing darkness and adversity ultimately led him down a path of healing and personal reinvention. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, transformation, and the power of never giving up.

On this week's episode of the Denise Ilitch Show, Denise explores the power of overcoming adversity, staying positive, and giving back to the world around us. Join Denise as she sits down with three remarkable guests: Ron Weiser, founder of McKinley Associates and a passionate civic and philanthropic leader; Matt Jonna, co-founder and CEO of Plum Market, whose entrepreneurial journey inspires resilience; and Lori Karbal, owner of Lori Karbal Fine Home and Gifts in Birmingham, who brings creativity and heart to her community. Tune in for uplifting stories, practical wisdom, and a celebration of those who make a difference—because on the Denise Ilitch Show, it's all about turning challenges into opportunities to give back.

On the new episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise explores the parallels between business partnerships and marriage in the first half, and then dives into the enduring Motown legacy in the second. Denise sits down with Daniel Stern and Christopher Brochert, co-founders of Lormax Stern Development—a nationally recognized, award-winning real estate firm known for its innovative shopping centers and contemporary approach. Together, they discuss why a successful partnership is much like a marriage: it requires trust, aligned values, shared decision-making, and mutual respect. Daniel and Christopher share their journey, the importance of education and mentorship in business, and offer invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs—emphasizing that people are your greatest assets and that patience is key to long-term success. In the second half, Denise welcomes Robin Terry, Chairwoman of the Motown Museum and granddaughter of Motown's founder. Robin shares her family's remarkable legacy, her ambitious $75 million expansion project for the museum, and her vision for keeping Motown relevant for future generations. From transforming Hitsville U.S.A. into a hub for young artists to celebrating Detroit's rich musical heritage through programs like Amplify the Sound of Detroit, Robin's passion for community and innovation shines through. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building lasting partnerships in business—and in family—while honoring Detroit's past and shaping its future.

On today's episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise sits down with Arn Tellem and Grant Hill, two visionary co-owners of Detroit's brand-new WNBA franchise. Arn Tellem, Vice Chairman overseeing business, basketball strategy, community engagement, and major development initiatives, has represented over 500 athletes and played a pivotal role in bringing women's basketball back to Detroit.  Grant Hill, a 7x NBA All-Star, Hall of Famer, 2x NCAA Champion at Duke, and a leader in media, sports, and business, shares his excitement about bringing the WNBA to Detroit. As a co-owner of the Atlanta Hawks, Baltimore Orioles, and two Orlando soccer teams, Grant's passion for sports and community shines through. Tune in for an uplifting conversation about leadership, resilience, the bright future of women's basketball in Detroit, and to find out if fans may have a chance to name the team!

Join us for a milestone celebration on "The Denise Ilitch Show" as we mark our 50th episode and announce an exciting new partnership with WJR Radio. In this special episode, Denise welcomes her dear friend Jill Martin, an Emmy Award-winning TV personality, entrepreneur, advocate, and contributor to The Today Show. Jill opens up about her journey of resilience, sharing how she overcame the challenges of cancer and divorce in the same year. She discusses her new apparel line and her advocacy for health issues through genetic testing. Denise's insightful questions reveal how Jill maintains her confidence amidst adversity, emphasizing that giving 100% is always enough. Jill shares her secret to confidence: a positive attitude, self-improvement, and valuing kindness—a trait she believes is a superpower rather than a weakness. Discover how passion and leveraging your strengths can lead to success in this inspiring conversation. Plus, get the scoop on the upcoming Guinness World Record attempt on The Today Show Plaza on October 1st for the most genetic testing sign-ups in a day. Once the record is set, Sheryl Crow, a fellow survivor, will perform live! Don't miss this impactful episode filled with wisdom, inspiration, and aspiration.

In this episode of The Denise Ilitch Show, Denise sits down with Portia Roberson, the dynamic CEO of Focus: HOPE, to delve into the incredible work she does with the organization and her inspiring journey to where she is today. Portia shares her passion for her current role but reveals that one of her proudest moments was being appointed by President Obama after working on his successful campaign. Despite never envisioning a career in Washington, D.C., Portia's experience taught her a valuable life lesson about being open to unexpected opportunities.   Throughout their conversation, Portia emphasizes the importance of embracing nontraditional paths and staying receptive to unforeseen possibilities, even as we make plans throughout life. She credits her relationship with her father for shaping her confidence and discusses how she has learned to quiet the self-doubt that sometimes creeps in. Recognizing the societal pressure on women to be perfect, Portia underscores the significance of giving herself grace.   Portia also reminisces about her favorite Detroit moments, fondly recalling times spent at Boblo Island and the State Fair with family and friends. Join us for an enlightening discussion on resilience, adaptability, and the power of unexpected opportunities.   Denise Ilitch, an owner of Ilitch Family Companies and President of Ilitch Enterprises, has been a part of Detroit's business and philanthropic community for over 40 years. As a mother, lawyer, entrepreneur, devoted community servant and tireless advocate for women and children, she learned early, from her father, that everyone is worthy of contributing to the world. Her passion for affordable, accessible, quality education stems from her own experience as a first-generation student, earning a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, where she currently serves on the Board of Regents, and a law degree from the University of Detroit Law School. FOLLOW DENISE @thedeniseilitchshow

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Denise Ilitch podcast! Today's episode, titled "Showing Up," features an extraordinary guest who embodies the spirit of Detroit's resilience and progress. Join us as Denise sits down with Mary Sheffield, the youngest person ever elected to the Detroit City Council and its current President. Mary's journey is a testament to the power of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to community. In this captivating conversation, Mary shares her inspiring story of discovering her gift in public service, her deep love for Detroit, and the crucial importance of showing up - even in the face of fear, doubt, and uncertainty. You'll hear about her strategies for silencing self-doubt, how adversity has shaped her character, and her dedication to lifelong learning and personal growth. Mary also offers invaluable advice to young people about understanding their values, standing firm in their beliefs, and cultivating their unique gifts. Plus, she shares her pride in Detroit's recent hosting of the NFL draft. Whether you're a budding leader, a community advocate, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical insights. So tune in, get ready to be motivated, and learn how showing up can transform not just your life, but your entire community. The Denise Ilitch podcast starts now!