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Ticketmaster selects Vision Fuel Media to Implement Social Media Campaign for NFL Ticket Exchange

Last year provided more twists and turns than Magic Mountain, the corkscrew, and blue streak combined. A historic change in government, turbulent workforce and highest unemployment we’ve seen in decades caused so many to reassess their career path and life goals. Social Media, New Media, or Digital Communication (whichever you prefer) became the hot buzz words in 2009 and shows no sign of letting up. While many view this past year as one to be forgotten, I see things in a different light.

Last night I heard a teenager say he was happy for the recession, made people reflect on what’s truly important in life. Interesting how the glass half full theory is viewed by some while others looking at the same glass see it half empty. While many struggled last year, it was a year of opportunity for others who took calculated risks and focused on the possibilities as opposed to those who wallowed in misery. Take a look at this video. Matt Stafford could have easily succumbed to the pain and anguish after being drilled by a 300 pound lineman who had just separated his shoulder. Instead he seized the opportunity created by a Cleveland timeout to re-enter the game and deliver the game winning touchdown, albeit in extreme discomfort.

Think about that the next time you’re up against incredible odds. It’s that adversary that shapes the true essence of our human fiber. Matt Stafford demonstrated the courage that each of us has to find when things look bleak.

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When Larry Henry and I sat down for coffee in February of this year, I had no idea the birth of Voices of Detroit would occur. As a recruiter and born and bred Detroiter seeing those around me struggle during our most recent recession was starting to take its toll emotionally. More and more candidates were being referred to me from massive downsizing and the inability to find them a potential opportunity made me feel helpless. I needed an outlet and even though I didn’t know it at the time, Voices of Detroit has provided more happiness than I could have imagined.

For starters, take a look at this post between two former Voices of Detroit guests and tell me the connections we’ve made don’t matter. I’ve always fancied myself as a connector, dating back to my social work days and being given the opportunity to meet and interview local professionals doing good things in our community was an exciting mission I looked forward to embracing. In addition, the opportunity to highlight some of the most popular eateries around town being a self appointed ‘foodie’ has been the icing on the cake.

Michigan and Detroit specifically have taken a PR beating nationally stemming from a failing auto industry and highly questionable political antics. When unemployment hit staggering new highs, those in Metro Detroit knew the road to recovery would be longer and harder than most cities. Many professionals found themselves out of work for the first time in decades. Instead of taking the gloom and doom attitude, Larry and I decided to go the other way and we haven’t looked back since.

Your feedback and support is greatly appreciated. This is a grassroots effort by all of us, help spread the word and please do not hesitate to share your feedback on how we can improve the show.

11/5/09 -Voices of Detroit mentioned in today’s Oakland Press

Take a look at all our guests to date on our FB fan page.

Included on our page:

Photo Gallery of our guests

Selected photos from some of our venues

Breaking news from VofD

Video footage from selected VofD events

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/VoicesofDetroit

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Voices of Detroit Wine Tasting at Vintner’s Cellar

Voices of Detroit Wine Tasting at Vintner’s Cellar from David Benjamin on Vimeo.

Voices of Detroit – Wrap up interview

VofD Wrap Up Show from David Benjamin on Vimeo.

Voices of Detroit visits Soup-n-Scoop