DETROIT, MI – As we approach the end of the year, it is time to reflect on the stories that engaged our audience here at WWJ. In 2023, the hosts of the Daily J podcast made it their mission to bring compelling storytelling to the people of Metro Detroit.
Throughout the year, the podcast delved into a variety of topics, ranging from nostalgic trips down memory lane to important discussions on crime and politics. These were the top 10 most-listened to episodes of the year:
First, the episode titled “After 15 years of ‘It’s So Cold in the D’, it’s time to give T-Baby the credit she deserves” delved into the impact of a viral video by Detroit artist T-Baby. The podcast revisited the story of the global hit, “It’s So Cold in the D,” and how it changed the artist’s life.
Additionally, the episode “Using the power of anonymity and cash rewards — How Crime Stoppers of Michigan helps to solve the area’s most heinous crimes” shed light on how Crime Stoppers of Michigan plays a crucial role in obtaining tips from the public to solve crimes using anonymity and cash rewards.
In another episode titled “Nesting right here in Metro Detroit, the once endangered peregrine falcon captivates thousands,” the podcast explored the resurgence of the peregrine falcon from near extinction, thanks to a nesting box atop the GM Tech Center in Warren.
Furthermore, the podcast discussed the return of millions of insects to Michigan each spring in the episode “Millions of insects — including the dreaded mosquito — return to Michigan every spring. And there is nothing you can do about it,” revealing that mosquitoes and similar insects are actually a necessary part of the ecosystem.
The podcast also examined the age-old question of “How old is too old to be President?” in an episode that looked at the 2024 presidential election and the age of the candidates.
Additionally, the presence of coyotes in Metro Detroit was discussed in an episode that explored whether their increasing numbers pose a threat.
Moreover, the podcast addressed the spike in wrong-way driving deaths in the Metro Detroit area, prompting a deeper dive into the causes and solutions for this deadly trend.
Finally, the podcast engaged listeners with discussions on local nostalgia, such as the significance of the “Gibraltar Man” and the plans for the rejuvenation of Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights.
In conclusion, the Daily J podcast made a deep impact throughout the year by engaging the Metro Detroit community with riveting storytelling and thought-provoking discussions on a variety of topics.