In this episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, I sit down with Detroit hip hop artist Eszeay, a standout voice in the independent music scene and a close creative collaborator. Eszeay brought his sharp lyricism and unique style to four tracks on my album Socially Awkward — Mustard Sassafras, Pasta Party, The Potato Investigation, and Baker's Dozen — each one showcasing his versatility and presence on the mic.

We take a deep dive into his latest release, Here's to Hope, a 17-track album that’s already turning heads with its raw honesty, tight production, and uplifting message. Eszeay opens up about his roots in music, his evolution as an artist, and the creative process that fuels his work — from writing bars to shaping full albums that resonate on a personal and cultural level.

We also talk about our current summer tour across Michigan, including a recent show at The Dovetail in Warren, and the energy of performing live for local audiences.

This conversation is a look inside the mind of a true Detroit creative — grounded, passionate, and always pushing forward.

In this episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, host Jacob Plante sits down with poet Christina Kallery to explore her hauntingly beautiful world of narrative poetry. Born and raised in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Christina shares how her journey—from Manhattan's bustling streets to Detroit's vibrant culture and now Ann Arbor's creative community—has shaped her voice as a poet.

Christina dives into her collection, Adult Night at Skate World, now in its second edition, reading select pieces that showcase her unique blend of narrative storytelling and eerie magic. She also opens up about her creative process, her inspirations, and the poets who have influenced her most, including John Keats and Walt Whitman.

Listeners will hear firsthand why her work has been praised by Jim Daniels, who described her poetry as “brilliant images—packed tight, one after another—that create friction, throwing off glorious sparks of insight and understanding.”

Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, Walmart, and more, Christina’s collection is a must-read for poetry lovers. Don’t miss this enchanting conversation that offers a glimpse into the mind of one of Southeast Michigan’s most compelling poets.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, the podcast where we dive into the minds of the city's most inspiring artists and innovators. I'm your host, Jacob Plante, and today we're plugging into the vibrant world of music journalism with none other than Gary Graff.

Gary Graff is a seasoned music journalist whose byline has graced some of the most prestigious music publications, magazines, and newspapers across the globe. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Gary's journey took him to the University of Missouri's renowned journalism school before he eventually made his way to Detroit, where he has become one of the city's most respected voices in music criticism.

Covering everything from rock and roll to hip-hop, pop, and beyond, Gary has chronicled the evolution of music. His expertise extends beyond the newspapers and magazines, with several insightful books about music that are available on Amazon and other online retailers.

In this episode, we'll explore Gary's path to becoming a prominent music journalist, his experiences covering Detroit Rock City, and his thoughts on the ever-changing landscape of the music industry. Whether you're a music aficionado or an aspiring writer, you won't want to miss this deep dive into the world of music journalism with the incomparable Gary Graff.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired as we unplug with Gary Graff. Let's get started!

In this episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, host Jacob Plante sits down with Tena Harris, a gifted author from Warren, Michigan. Tena’s writing is deeply influenced by her Christian faith and her involvement in the Pentecostal church. She shares how her spiritual journey has shaped her creative process, discussing the themes of faith, resilience, and divine inspiration in her works. Whether you're a writer, spiritual seeker, or someone looking for a story filled with purpose, this episode is sure to inspire. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on the intersection of faith and creativity.

In this episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, Jacob sits down with Ann Arbor-based writer R.J. Fox. Known for his screenplay-turned-memoir Love and Vodka, which chronicles his journey to Ukraine and meeting his first wife, R.J. has made a mark on both the page and screen. With 15 full-length screenplays and several novels under his belt, his work is widely available on Amazon, in online stores, and select Southeast Michigan bookstores. Listen as R.J. delves into his creative process, shares insights from his career, and reflects on his unique approach to storytelling.

In this inspiring episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged, host Jacob Plante sits down with Rabbi Boruch Cohen, an Orthodox Rabbi and the brilliant mind behind Think Outside the Lox, a groundbreaking book about Jewish creativity and imagination. Together, they explore the intersection of faith, art, and spirituality, diving into how Jewish traditions can fuel artistic expression. Rabbi Cohen shares insights from his book, discussing the importance of thinking outside conventional boundaries and nurturing a creative Jewish identity. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will challenge the way you see creativity within the Jewish experience.

Welcome to the first episode of Detroit Creatives Unplugged! In this introduction, host Jacob Plante sets the stage for an exciting journey into the heart of Detroit's creative scene. From artists and musicians to comedians and writers, this podcast dives deep into the stories behind Detroit's most inspiring talents. Learn what drives these creatives, how they navigate the local scene, and what fuels their passion for the arts. Tune in, and get ready to unplug with the voices that make Detroit shine.