Today we’d like to introduce you to Donny Wilson.
Hi Donny, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am Detroit born and raised on the east side, son of a Detroit Police Lieutenant (my mom, who ran a tight ship and encouraged me to follow my heart long before I ever knew what an influencer was). She passed in 2012, but her strength and dedication to community still guide everything I do.
I’m a Wayne State University grad with a degree in film, so storytelling has always been in my blood. Whether it was capturing life behind a camera, crafting social media posts, or reviewing my third burger of the day, I’ve always used stories to connect people. Social media became my creative playground—especially when I started sharing food finds, real-life reflections, and the occasional deep thought wrapped in usually corny humor (and too much coffee).
While working in youth development for over 15 years, I built a digital presence on the side—slowly growing a loyal following that appreciated the honesty, heart, and snack recommendations. Then, four months ago, I finally made the leap into full-time content creation. Since then, I’ve partnered with national brands, championed local businesses, and told stories that make people feel seen, hungry, or both.
I also serve as the Chair of the Arts and Cultural Diversity Commission for the City of Oak Park, where I get to help bring community-centered creativity to life—events, festivals, public art, you name it. It’s all part of the bigger picture: building spaces (online and off) that celebrate culture, uplift people, and remind us how powerful our voices can be. Everyone has a unique voice and I urge people to use them!
So how did I get here? A little Detroit grit, a lot of storytelling, and maybe one too many pastries along the way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road hasn’t always been smooth. Like so many other creatives, I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome—big time. That nagging voice in your head that says “this isn’t good enough,” or “no one’s gonna care,” or my personal favorite: “you should probably just delete that and go eat something instead.” I’ve definitely sat on content for so long that by the time I was ready to post it, it was already outdated and collecting digital dust. But even in those moments of self-doubt, I’ve tried to live by the same advice I give everyone else: keep going anyway. Press publish. Someone needs what you’re creating. Post the content!
On a deeper level, the past decade and a half have come with a lot of personal loss. I’ve lost many friends and family members, and there were seasons where I didn’t feel like myself at all. Grief doesn’t follow a schedule, and there were many days when being in front of or even behind the camera was a tall task. But I also know the people I’ve lost helped shape me—and they’d want me to keep showing up, keep creating, and keep sharing the gifts they helped cultivate in me.
So no, it hasn’t been smooth. But the bumps, bruises, and breakdowns have all been part of the story—and somehow, they’ve made the wins even sweeter and the creative energy even more potent.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a writer, filmmaker, content creator and influencer. My largest audience is on Instagram and TikTok, where I create reels that highlight food, places, and experiences—mostly around Metro Detroit, but sometimes wherever my appetite or curiosity takes me. Restaurants and businesses hire me to showcase what they bring to the table and I make it shine.
There are a lot of food, lifestyle, and travel creators out there. I think what sets me apart is my creative eye. My background in film helps me craft reels that aren’t just visually appealing—they’re mini-stories. I care deeply about the look, the feel, the pacing, the sound, I want to make Spielberg proud. Whether I’m showing off the best iced matcha in the city (spoiler: matcha is still gross) or taking you inside the best hole in the wall, I want it to feel cinematic, intentional, and authentic.
One thing I hear often from people is how much they love my voice—not just my actual voice (though apparently that too), but the tone, the humor, the honesty. I am a huge goof but I don’t do overhyped reactions or performances. I just talk to my audience like we’re friends and that creates a genuine connection.
I’m also proud to come from a place of kindness. I only share positive experiences. That doesn’t mean I’ve loved every meal—believe me, I’ve had some truly tragic food—but I’m not in the business of tearing people down for content. If something’s not great, I’ll give that feedback privately. There are enough “influencers” out there chasing clout by being cruel. I’d rather be known for building community, not burning bridges. And if you really listen to what I say in my videos…you’ll always know exactly what I think.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
A lot of different things inspire me—from books and podcasts to film and tech. Coming from a film background, I’ve always been influenced by the storytelling prowess of directors like Spike Lee and Steven Spielberg. They taught me that visuals can move people just as much as words. Detroit has always been a main character in my life as well. From the music, the art, and the people, Detroit has been a resource and influence.
On the more practical side, I use apps like Trello to stay organized (or at least try to), the built-in Apple Notes app to brain-dump ideas on the fly, and CapCut to edit my content when I’m not at my computer. YouTube channels like Film Riot have been a huge part of my creative education—they’re a great resource for filmmakers, content creators, or anyone who loves breaking down the craft.
I also get inspired just by watching how people move through the world. Sometimes my best ideas don’t come from a book or an app, but from a great meal, a random conversation, or a quiet moment that reminds me why I do what I do.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnylb/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donnylb/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DonnyLB
