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Transcribed
2 JUN 2026 · Brad Galli left WXYZ to start his own sports reporting venture. He drops in to explain how it will work ... and to make ML, Shawn and Marc feel old.
STRAIGHT DOPE
http://www.detcityfc.com
After 15 years of bringing you the news from Broadcast House, former WXYZ-TV sports director Brad Galli will bring you the news from his house -- or wherever the story takes him now that he has launched his own sports channel. He tells us why it was time to leave Channel 7.
https://www.youtube.com/@BradGalliShow
Barry Sanders, Jahmyr Gibbs, Dusty May, Alan Trammel and Lou Whitaker are just some of the local sports legends Brad features as his new venture launches.
Shawn is appalled that anyone would suggest he might break wind on air -- a couple weeks after going on and on about his gassy gut. Brad isn't sure how his flatulent friend would play on his new show.
Appointment viewing -- when you sit down and watch the news during dinner -- is dying. Hear how Brad says he'll handle breaking news when it happens.
ML says anchor jobs are overrated -- while everyone else is watching their kids' games and plays, you're stuck behind a desk or at the studio. Brad says getting to coach some of his kids' games inspired him to take a chance and create a gig that lets him enjoy being a dad more.
What's more fun; sitting in a warm, dry, studio -- or being in the middle of the story? ML and Brad opine. Shawn interrupts.
Marc asks whether Brad will keep going live on big sports events after the network cuts away, like when the Wolverines and Buckeyes tussled in the Horseshoe. Listen and learn Brad's plan.
ML is back from Mackinac, where he got the answer to the burning question on everyone's mind: Would former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan show up at the Grand Hotel to face all the big shots who plowed beaucoup bucks into his failed campaign to be elected governor of Michigan as an independent?
https://www.freep.com/videos/news/politics/elections/2026/05/31/mike-duggan-and-candidates-still-running-for-governor-met-on-mackinac/90314620007/
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
Robert Van Winkle is this week's geek, geek, baby!
ROOM 7609
Steve wasn't sure he nailed it, but he sure did by booking Detroit-inspired Australian band Hoodoo Gurus into the New Wave suite to perform "I Want You Back." Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKRobert plucks the EMU Eagles for their feel-good golf team that may be more than meets the eye, Janet wants the lowdown on which of Michigan's top Democrats may lead its top universities, and Grace suggests that "ML" stands for "Mega Lapdog." We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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 X Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
26 MAY 2026 · Mackinac politics, Mike Duggan’s surprise exit, Muskegon memories, Memorial Day reflections, and why Michigan never stops being complicated.
STRAIGHT DOPE:
http://www.detcityfc.com/
ML broadcasts from an unlikely luxury retreat — his mother-in-law’s porch in Muskegon, complete with toast and tea — before heading north to the annual Mackinac Policy Conference, where politics, influence, and ambition collide on Michigan’s most famous island.
https://www.freep.com/story/news/columnists/ml-elrick/2026/05/22/mike-duggans-decision-created-winners-and-losers-i-reveal-whos-who/90199249007/
Why Duggan walking away shocked Michigan political insiders
- The Detroit Regional Chamber’s heavy investment in Duggan — and whether it leaves them politically exposed
- Questions about polling, money, and whether Duggan simply saw numbers he couldn’t overcome
- Speculation surrounding federal scrutiny over Detroit demolition programs and whether outside pressures mattered
- Why Duggan’s political instincts — and his obsession with numbers — may explain the move better than conspiracy theories
Then comes the question Michigan power brokers are quietly asking: What’s next for Duggan? The conversation explores whether Duggan could become the next president of the University of Michigan — despite lacking the traditional academic résumé. ML argues universities increasingly need operators, fundraisers, and fire-fighters as much as scholars. The episode also wanders — as Soul of Detroit always does — through:
- Mackinac Conference politics and Charlie LeDuff’s absence from the island
- Why campaign money and influence remain difficult to untangle in Michigan
- The Tigers’ struggles and whether fans are approaching frustration or indifference
- Muskegon’s transformation from paper-mill town to hidden Michigan gem
- Hockey, beaches, and why west Michigan keeps surprising people
Then the tone shifts. A Memorial Day reflection brings the conversation back to sacrifice, loss, and the lasting cost of war. ML shares a personal story connected to a family member lost in Vietnam — a reminder that Memorial Day isn’t about celebration, but remembrance. There’s also time for:
- Movie talk (Project Hail Mary)
- The strange disappointment of seeing famous landmarks in real life
- Theater nostalgia
GEEK OF THE WEEK:
Coachella and it's legal threats against a local animal charity event.
ROOM 7609:
Howard Jones, ‘80s music memories, and the curse of aging New Wave hairstyles.
OUR BENEFACTORS:
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/MLSoulofDetroit
DONATE OR SPONSOR US:
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at https://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 LEARN:
Find out more about the podcast at https://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
19 MAY 2026 · Shawn gets rooked by a crook who hooked his son's wreck and strippers in Montreal are on strike. SOLIDARITY!
STRAIGHT DOPE
http://www.detcityfc.com/
Shawn is back, and full of hot air -- especially at nationally-televised press conferences. Listen and learn what he and the geysers ML saw in Iceland have in common.
Unscrupulous tow truck drivers took Shawn's son -- actually, his broke-ass car -- for a costly ride. Shawn explains how the hustle worked, Marc mentions how towing has got a bunch of local folks in legal trouble, and ML reveals how hustlers turn scrap iron into gold.
Gas is $4.50 a gallon -- if you're lucky! ML explains why his 1985 Buick Riviera is among the collateral damage of the War on Iran.
Michigan's No Fault auto insurance is really Yo Fault insurance, as Marc learned after getting slammed by an uninsured driver. ML offers some advice on how to get his deductible back.
Strippers in Montreal are going on strike during the Canadian Grand Prix, which has ML calling for solidarity -- and giving an update on the status of legendary Club Super Sexe.
Shawn is concerned he may belly fart on an entire wedding party in Quebec. Welcome to America, 51st State!
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
MSU Board of Trustees pull another fast one, earning them ML's enmity -- and making them this week's Geeks.
ROOM 7609
The Pistons are done, but Kurtis Blow's "Basketball" lives forever! ML also bids a fond farewell to Afrika Bambaataa -- until Marc drops some disturbing news. Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACK
Bob has an issue with the MSU board of trustees' latest fiasco. We welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://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 LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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! Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
12 MAY 2026 · Turns 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 DOPE
http://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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
There are great chefs in Europe, but the ones who put canned corn on salads aren't among them.
ROOM 7609
Iceland 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKML 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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 X Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
5 MAY 2026 · This 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 panic
- Also: maybe don’t mess with snakes in the first place
As Sergei puts it: “Safety is about opportunity — don’t give the snake one.”🍻
Culture Shock: Ireland vs. Everywhere Else
From 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 experience
- The eternal mystery of Temple Bar
- Public urination as a cultural gray area
- And 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 matches
- Use promo code SOUL
- And support the squad at Keyworth Stadium
🛠️ Sponsor Love (and mild threats)
- Artisan Interiors: Fix your house before it fixes you
- Pinnacle Wealth Strategies: Because retirement shouldn’t be a gamble
- Cadieux Cafe: Where Detroit eats, drinks, and occasionally sings karaoke
GEEK OF THE WEEK:
- The Met Gala takes heat for peak excess and celebrity absurdity
- Billionaire bunker-builders also catch a stray
- Consensus: we hate it… but we’re still watching
ROOM 7609:
Hopeless Wanderer by Mumford & Sons
A 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:
https://www.freep.com/story/news/columnists/ml-elrick/2026/05/03/kahlilia-davis-judge-secretary-state-ballot/89880123007/
https://www.freep.com/staff/2646295001/shawn-windsor/
https://www.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.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
28 APR 2026 · Detroit'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 DOPE
http://detcityfc.com/detcityfc.com
http://www.historicdetroit.org and https://austinpastfuturefund.org/
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.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/prevention-infographic.html
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
GOW will be back next week!
ROOM 7609
Please send us your suggestion for a song — along with a great story — to mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
Rusty 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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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 X Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
21 APR 2026 · Deadline Detroit thinks the Michigan Democratic Party may have a Jewish problem. Editor Allan Lengel tells ML and Marc what that means.
STRAIGHT DOPE
https://deadlinedetroit.com/articles/34482/michigan_democratic_convention_leaves_some_jews_wondering_if_they_still_belong_in_the_party_israel_is_at_issue
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.
http://www.freep.com
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
Marc and ML finally find something about college football on which they agree ... until they don't.
ROOM 7609
Mr. 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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 X Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ml-soul-of-detroit--5780647/support.
Transcribed
14 APR 2026 · Erika, 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 DOPE
http://www.detcityfc.com/tickets.http://www.detcityfc.com/tickets.
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!
https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/investigations/2026/04/11/mom-says-her-son-was-urinated-on-in-shower-now-michigan-wrestling-program-back-under-investigation/
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
Life 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 7609
Listener 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
Miguel 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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKWilliam 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://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.
Transcribed
7 APR 2026 · Rob 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 DOPE
ML 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.
https://www.freep.com/story/news/columnists/ml-elrick/2026/04/05/detroit-mayor-mary-sheffield-financials-detroit/89442924007/?tbref=hp
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
OUR BENEFACTORS
Just 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.
https://www.patreon.com/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKWe welcome all your questions, comments – and constructive criticism – at mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://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 LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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.
Transcribed
31 MAR 2026 · Kwame 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 DOPE
LIMITED 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.
https://www.freep.com/story/news/columnists/ml-elrick/2026/03/29/michigan-lawmakers-mileage-reimbursement-lame-duck/89335301007/
https://www.freep.com/story/news/columnists/ml-elrick/2026/03/30/michigan-republicans-move-toward-the-middle-in-a-bid-to-win-again/89372963007/
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.
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/columnists/shawn-windsor/2026/03/30/michigan-womens-basketball-hits-march-madness-wall-lesson-from-texas/89394210007/
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: https://subscribe.freep.com/subscriber?gps-source=CPSUBFOOTER&itm_campaign=subfooter&itm_content=subfooter&itm_medium=onsite&itm_source=subfooter
Please 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: http://www.patreon.com/c/MLSoulofDetroit
GEEK OF THE WEEK
ML nominates Meatball Ron for groveling while Marc chooses the Secret Service agent who shot himself in the butt looking for his cell phone.
ROOM 7609
Listener 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
OUR BENEFACTORS
Just 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/MLSoulofDetroit
FEEDBACKBob 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 mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com
DONATE OR SPONSOR US
Support us on Patreon or make a donation via Venmo or PayPal at http://mlsoulofdetroit.com/. Or drop us a line at mailto:mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com to find out how cheap and easy it is to advertise on our show!
LISTEN AND LEARN
Find out more about the podcast at http://www.mlsoulofdetroit.com/, where you’ll find previous episodes and so much more!
SUBSCRIBE/SHARE/RATE/WATCH
Subscribe 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.
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Information
| Author | M.L. Elrick |
| Organization | M.L. Elrick |
| Categories | News Commentary , Music Commentary , Society & Culture |
| Website | www.spreaker.com |
| mlsoulofdetroit@gmail.com |
Copyright 2026 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
