Erick Picardo: Afro-Caribbean Artist for Peace

Drug violence forced Erick Picardo to leave his successful art studio in the Dominican Republic and seek a better life in a "freedom country," the United States. Today, this renowned Michigan painter celebrates his Afro-Caribbean heritage on canvas and in his drumming group. Listen as he talks about his special anti-violence, pro-peace marathon mural project.

Alan Headbloom

Alan advises Americans how to be global citizens and expats how to fit in to Michigan culture without annoying their native coworkers and clients. He also tweets and blogs at the intersection of language and culture. Over decades, he's traveled, studied, or lived on six continents, putting strange foods into his mouth and emitting strange sounds from it. His use of English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Swedish, Hausa, and Japanese all improve with alcohol use. He gives invited public presentations on culture and unsolicited private advice on English grammar and usage; the latter isn't always appreciated. Visit his website for information on consulting, coaching, or speaking engagements.