‘Street-Wise & Real Talk’ is a guide for at-risk kids and teens

The Metro

‘Street-Wise & Real Talk’ is a guide for at-risk kids and teens

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Published on Jan 14, 2026, 2:58:26 PM
Total time: 00:15:34

Episode Description

Andre “Dre” Dukes is a living example of what happens when you get a second chance in life. Dre grew up in Detroit on the eastside and watched once thriving neighborhoods collapse. 

Dre lived a rough life, growing up in Detroit riddled with gun violence and drugs. He battled addiction and spent a decade in prison. Since his release, he has changed the way he approaches life. He works at recovery centers, and with at-risk kids and teens.

He has been motivated to make an impact to ensure the next generation of young Black boys have a blueprint to follow and learn a better way to escape their issues. 

"Street-Wise & Real Talk" is an autobiographical guide for boys who simply need to feel seen and heard. It's a fictional, age-appropriate book for at-risk youth that focuses on consequences and not glorifying crime.

Dre spoke with The Metro's Tia Graham about "Street-Wise & Real Talk."

More about The Metro

"The Metro" covers local and regional news and current affairs, arts and cultural events and topics, with a commitment to airing perspectives and uncovering stories underreported by mainstream media in Detroit.