Explore every episode of the podcast Perkins for the People
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meet Anthony Eid: Candidate for Michigan House District 9 | 24 juil. 2026 | 00:27:26 | |
Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Anthony Eid, a Detroit policy advocate, community leader, former commissioner and chairman of the Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, and candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives in District 9. Anthony discusses his path into public service, why he decided to run for state representative, and the experiences that have shaped his approach to leadership. The conversation examines the issues affecting Detroit families and neighborhoods, including housing affordability, healthcare access, transportation, education, economic opportunity, community development, and government accountability. In this episode:
What issue should the next representative for House District 9 address first? Join the conversation in the comments, share the episode, and subscribe to Perkins for the People for more discussions with the people shaping Detroit and Michigan. Websites Learn more about Anthony Eid and his campaign: Learn more about Attorney Todd Perkins and Perkins Law Group: #AnthonyEid #MichiganHouseDistrict9 #ToddPerkins #PerkinsForThePeople #DetroitPolitics #DetroitCommunity #MichiganPolitics | |||
| Wayne County Transit Millage 2026 Explained: Warren Evans on the August 4 Vote | 21 juil. 2026 | 00:36:06 | |
An eight-hour job should not require a six-hour commute. Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Wayne County Executive Warren Evans for a direct conversation about the Wayne County Transit Millage 2026, SMART bus service, DDOT, and what the August 4 election could mean for residents across Wayne County. Voters will decide on a 10-year, 0.9831-mill public transportation proposal estimated to raise approximately $57.6 million in its first year. The revenue would be distributed among Wayne County, SMART, DDOT, and other community and regional transit providers to operate, maintain, improve, and expand public transportation services. Wayne County says the existing millage supporting SMART expires at the end of 2026 and that communities currently receiving SMART service could lose that service if the proposal does not pass, with exceptions for DDOT and other locally funded transportation. SMART has also released proposed route extensions, new fixed routes, and expanded on-demand Flex service for currently underserved communities. In this episode, Attorney Perkins and Executive Evans discuss:
Transit is not only about getting people to work. It is also about getting them back home to their families. Whether you support the proposal, oppose it, or remain undecided, hear the facts, the costs, the promises, and the accountability questions before making your decision. Comment below: How has public transportation—or the lack of it—affected your family, job, education, or community? Subscribe to Perkins for the People for real questions, direct answers, and conversations about the decisions affecting everyday people. Episode: Wayne County Transit Millage 2026: Could SMART Bus Service End? Warren Evans Explains Need an attorney? www.perkinslawgroup.net Need Voter Information? https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/voting Want more information about the Transit Millage? https://www.waynecountymi.gov/Government/Boards-Authorities/WC-Transit-Authority #WayneCountyTransitMillage #WarrenEvans #SMARTBus #PerkinsForThePeople #DetroitTransit | |||
| Behind the Badge: Detroit’s Police Chief on Strategy, Stats, and Trust | 13 avr. 2026 | 00:52:23 | |
In this episode of Perkins for the People, host and attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Detroit Chief of Police Todd Bettison for an in-depth conversation on the city’s evolving approach to public safety. From his personal journey through law enforcement to the strategies driving Detroit’s recent crime reduction, Chief Bettison shares how community collaboration, data-driven policing, and innovative initiatives are reshaping the narrative around safety in the city. The discussion explores everything from gun safety education and retail crime prevention to the growing role of mental health response in modern policing. With a focus on transparency, trust, and continuous improvement, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what’s working—and what’s next—for Detroit. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or simply interested in the future of public safety, this conversation highlights how strong partnerships between law enforcement and the community can create lasting change. Please contact a trusted attorney if you have any questions: Podcast Episode Chapters 00:00 Chief Todd Medicine's Background and Education 03:26 Support from the Community and Administration 07:45 Collaboration and Crime Reduction Strategies 13:11 Statistics on Crime Reduction 18:17 Preventative Measures and Community Engagement 21:13 Future Plans for Detroit's Safety and Growth 26:03 Combatting Retail Fraud and Porch Pirates 27:40 Cultural Shift in Police Community Relations 30:21 Community Safety and Crime Reduction Strategies 33:44 Innovations in Mental Health Response 38:12 Addressing Mental Health Stigma | |||
| Transforming Futures: Foster Care, Education, and Opportunity with Alexis Ramsey | 16 mars 2026 | 00:44:42 | |
Attorney Todd Perkins speaks with Alexis Ramsey, Executive Director of We Care Foster Care, about the foster care crisis, the foster-care-to-prison pipeline, and how education, mentorship, and housing can help vulnerable youth build self-sufficient futures. What happens when children in foster care age out of the system without the support they need to succeed? In this episode of Perkins for the People, Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Alexis Ramsey, Executive Director of We Care Foster Care, to discuss the realities facing youth in foster care, and the innovative programs working to change their trajectory. Alexis shares her journey from a 25-year career in education, including teaching in Detroit, Malawi, Beijing, and Hanoi, to leading an organization focused on helping foster youth build stable, self-sufficient lives. The conversation explores the challenges many foster children face, including trauma, educational barriers, and housing instability, and the community-driven solutions that can help break cycles of poverty, incarceration, and homelessness. About Alexis Ramsey: Alexis Ramsey is the CEO and Executive Director of We Care Foster Care, a Michigan-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth in foster care. Before leading the organization, Alexis spent 25 years as an educator, beginning with Detroit Public Schools and later teaching internationally in Malawi, China, and Vietnam while working alongside organizations such as USAID and the United Nations International School. Throughout her career, Alexis has been deeply committed to advocating for children's access to quality education and supporting the development of the whole child. Her work now focuses on creating pathways for foster youth to achieve education, stability, and independence. What You'll Learn in This Episode The Foster Care Crisis in America Children in foster care often face significant barriers that impact their long-term success. Alexis explains that:
These statistics highlight the urgent need for programs that support foster youth beyond basic placement. What We Care Foster Care Is Doing to Change the Outcome We Care Foster Care focuses on helping youth build a roadmap to self-sufficiency through three core initiatives: Education & Workforce Development Providing tutoring, GED programs, and career training opportunities that prepare youth for stable employment. Health & Wellbeing Supporting the emotional and physical health of youth who have experienced trauma. Agency & Advocacy Helping young people develop confidence, independence, and the ability to advocate for themselves. Connect with We Care Foster Care Learn more or get involved: Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram TikTok YouTube | |||
| From Alabama Cotton Fields to Detroit’s Streets: The Journey of Hartford Smith Jr. | 23 févr. 2026 | 01:33:07 | |
In this compelling interview, Hartford Smith Jr. shares his inspiring life journey, from Alabama to Detroit, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by Black Americans and the ongoing fight for justice. Drawing from history, politics, and firsthand community activism, he offers powerful insight into the roots of inequality and presents practical strategies for meaningful social change. His story serves as both a blueprint for action and a testament to resilience.
Watch the Youtube Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@PerkinsforThePeoplePodcast
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| Detroit Black History: Judge Joseph Baltimore on Grit, Grace, and Justice | 04 févr. 2026 | 01:02:44 | |
This Black History Month, Perkins for the People honors a living chapter of Detroit Black history with Judge Joseph Norvell Baltimore, retired former Chief Judge of Detroit’s 36th District Court. Judge Baltimore takes us from the Virginia farm where he started working at seven years old to the courtrooms of Detroit, sharing the discipline, faith, and determination it took to build a life in the law when the odds weren’t designed in his favor. He reflects on what it meant to be a Black lawyer in a predominantly white legal system, how those experiences shaped him on the bench, and why respect, compassion, and dignity have to be part of justice. This isn’t just a career story. It’s a reminder that Black history isn’t something we only read about, it’s something we carry, build, and pass forward. Judge Baltimore shares:
Black history isn’t only behind us, it’s living, breathing, and still being written. This episode is proof. Please contact a trusted attorney if you have any questions: | |||
| Inkster Mayor Byron Nolen on Public Service, Politics, and the Power of the People | 20 janv. 2026 | 00:56:55 | |
In this episode of Perkins for the People, Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Inkster Mayor Byron Nolen for a real, unfiltered conversation about leadership, justice, and the fight for community power. Mayor Nolen shares his journey from attorney to public servant, explaining what pushed him to step up when his community needed a voice. | |||
| Protecting Our People: Legal Tools for Uncertain Times | 16 janv. 2026 | 00:50:12 | |
In this urgent episode of Perkins for the People, Todd Perkins delivers powerful legal guidance in response to rising fears in our communities—from ICE raids to surprise visits from law enforcement. He answers real questions from his producer, Connie Smith about the follow: What are your rights if someone knocks on your door? What should you tell your kids? How do we protect each other legally and constitutionally? This episode is a critical listen for anyone trying to stay safe, stay smart, and stay free in Detroit and beyond. Protecting yourself from I.C.E. If You Open the Door, Get Caught Outside, or They Say They Have a Judicial Warrant:
Check the Warrant for These:
If it doesn’t meet those requirements, you do NOT have to let them in. Say: Whether they enter or not:
Please contact a trusted attorney if you have any questions: www.perkinslawgroup.net Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media: | |||
| Who Advocates for the People? A Conversation with Detroit Ombudsman Sherry Gay-Dagnogo | 07 janv. 2026 | 01:02:28 | |
In this powerful and timely conversation, Detroit City Ombudsman Sherry Gay-Dagnogo joins host Attorney Todd Perkins to discuss community leadership, education, justice, equity, and political accountability—and why all of it matters now more than ever. As Detroit’s Ombudsman, Sherry Gay-Dagnogo serves as an advocate for residents, working to hold city departments accountable while ensuring voices from the community are heard. In this episode, she shares her personal journey in public service, her deep commitment to education as a tool for change, and how understanding history, governance, and civic responsibility shapes stronger policies and more equitable outcomes. This conversation explores:
Sherry Gay-Dagnogo also reflects on the evolving political landscape in Detroit, the importance of youth involvement, and future initiatives focused on education, outreach, and resident advocacy. If you care about Detroit politics, civic engagement, government accountability, education reform, and community leadership, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and real-world perspective from someone doing the work on the ground. Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, law, politics, and community impact More about Sherry Gay-Dagnogo: https://detroitmi.gov/government/ombudsman The Perkins Law Group: | |||
| Rethinking Child Support with Macomb County Prosecutor Pete Lucido | 09 déc. 2025 | 00:43:33 | |
In this episode of Perkins for the People, Detroit Attorney Todd Perkins sits down with Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido to unpack Michigan’s $312 million child support crisis—and a bold new vision to fix it. Lucido outlines a first-of-its-kind child support specialty court, designed to help parents behind on payments get jobs, avoid felonies, and support their families. Together, he and Perkins explore how family dynamics, rehabilitation, and mental health must take center stage in true justice reform. They also get real about cultural understanding, integrity in public service, and what it means to build the next generation of leaders—with accountability, not punishment. This is more than policy—it’s people-powered change. Key Topics covered:
The Perkins Law Group: To Watch the Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e9IvtDTyhc Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media: https://www.instagram.com/toddrussellperkins_/ https://www.facebook.com/ToddRussellPerkins | |||
| Bridging the Gap: Why Detroit and Wayne County Must Move As One | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:46:47 | |
In this engaging conversation, Attorney Todd Perkins and Wayne County Executive Warren Evans discuss the importance of community service, collaboration, and effective governance. Evans reflects on the financial turnaround of Wayne County, the significance of regional transit, and the challenges in healthcare. The county executive also shares insights on the recent election, personal interests like vacationing in Michigan's historic Idlewild, and highlighting his commitment to serving the community. The Perkins Law Group: To Watch the Video: https://www.youtube.com/@PerkinsforThePeoplePodcast Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media: https://www.instagram.com/toddrussellperkins_/ https://www.facebook.com/ToddRussellPerkins https://www.tiktok.com/@perkinsforthepeople | |||
| Bringing Justice to the Community The Journey of Judge Sean Perkins | 10 nov. 2025 | 01:24:06 | |
In this inaugural episode of 'Perkins for the People', Judge Sean B. Perkins shares his journey from a family man and lawyer to a judge in Detroit's 36th District Court. He discusses the importance of community engagement in the legal system, the role of unions, and the challenges facing Detroit today. The conversation also touches on his viral moments including the Detroit Officer with no pants on.f The Perkins Law Group: To Watch the Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8e9IvtDTyhc Follow Attorney Todd Perkins on social media: https://www.instagram.com/toddrussellperkins_/ https://www.facebook.com/ToddRussellPerkins https://www.tiktok.com/@perkinsforthepeople https://www.youtube.com/@ToddPerkinsforThePeople Follow Judge Perkins on Instagram: | |||