We were lucky to catch up with Lisa Gaiter recently and have shared our conversation below.

Lisa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

Why I Founded Detroit Press Play
By Lisa Gaiter
Detroit Press Play was born out of passion, purpose, and the power of storytelling. My journey began with my first published novel, Scars, Sins, and Secrets: Part 1—a story about someone dear to me, based on true events. Written to shed light on the devastating reality of sexual abuse, the generational curses within families and to encourage survivors to find their voice. I wanted people to know that no matter how dark the past, healing and empowerment are possible.

But writing the book wasn’t enough. I needed to take the message even further—to create an experience that would resonate with people in a way that words alone sometimes cannot. That’s when the idea of turning Scars, Sins, and Secrets into a stage play came to life. I knew that by bringing this story to the stage, I could not only amplify the conversation but also provide a platform for artists in my own city.

Building a Movement Through Theater
To bring my vision to life, I partnered with some of the most incredible talents in Detroit. I was fortunate to collaborate with the incomparable Shawnta McDougle, who served as both director and acting coach. Then there was Stacey Johnson of Stacey J. Productions—who not only adapted my book into a stage play but served as the producer. Stacey ultimately became my business partner in what is now Detroit Press Play.

As we worked on the production, something amazing happened. I witnessed emerging actors and actresses blossom before my eyes. Some of my cast members had never been given the opportunity to showcase their talents, yet they were undeniably talented. I wouldn’t have replaced them for anyone in the world. Watching their growth during our eight-week process solidified my mission: Detroit Press Play would be a platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and elevating emerging artists.

The Mission of Detroit Press Play
Detroit has long been a city brimming with creativity, yet so many talented individuals go undiscovered. Detroit Press Play exists to change that. We are committed to empowering all creative artists by showcasing, providing training and providing opportunities in the performing arts. Our goal is to:

Showcase local talent through stage plays, film, concerts, and cultural events

Provide professional mentorship and training for aspiring performers

Revitalize Detroit’s arts and entertainment scene

Foster inclusivity, creativity, and excellence within our communities

Most importantly, we strive to be voices for change—using the power of storytelling to spark dialogue, promote awareness, healing, and uplift those who feel unheard.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Lisa Gaiter, decided to take a Leap of Faith into my Next Chapter
In 2024, I made a life-changing decision. After 25 years of service in my career, I took an early retirement to focus on my passion of creativity and entrepreneurial pursuits. This was not just about stepping into my dreams but about walking in my God-given purpose.

In addition to my work with Detroit Press Play, I continue to write. The sequel to Scars, Sins, and Secrets, Stuck in Traffick, has already made an impact, and my next novel, Dying to Fit In, is on the horizon. But my work doesn’t stop there—I also founded Directive Resource Services (www.directiveresourceservices.com), a business consulting company offering everything from business start-up guidance to grant writing services. My goal is simple: to use my knowledge, experience, and faith to uplift and empower others.

Detroit Press Play (https://detroitpressplay.net) is more than just a company—it’s a movement. It’s about giving artists, survivors, and dreamers a place where their voices matter. It’s about storytelling, artistry, and transformation. This is just the beginning.

I want to thank my family for their unwavering support and everyone who has been part of this journey. There is so much more to come for me, for Detroit Press Play, and for the talented individuals who are ready to take the stage.

Stay tuned—this is only the beginning!

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

In order to move forward I had to unlearn complacency. Growing up we learned that you go to college. obtain your degree to go to work for someone else. It was frowned upon to start your own business. So many people failed to invest in themselves or follow their own dreams because of what we heard growing up. You have to grow and go where God leads you. We have to teach generations to follow that there are opportunities to develop and follow your dreams, I stepped out and you can be successful. Don’t stay stuck!

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

I came up with an idea to do a stage-play. I knew that I would need help doing so. One of my good friends referred me to Stacey J Productions. Stacey taught me everything throughout the entire process. I could tell that she wanted me to win. During the play I had some concerns and she in turn reassured me that all would be fine, Stacey communicated that she would lie down her life before she allowed me to fail. That resonated with my heart and soul. Thou we didn’t always agree with one another; we kept a mutual respect. After the stage play and our business was over, we kept in weekly contact to hold one another accountable for our future endeavors. We discovered that together we made a great team and had such an impact on other individuals that we worked with. We both had all the ingredients to form the perfect partnership and that is how we began. We now have a podcast Detroit Press Play on Facebook every Tuesday at Noon. Detroit Press Play have recently partnered to become the voices, advocates and partners for the Michigan Crime Stoppers / 1-800-speak-up organization. There is so much more to come for us with no slowdown in sight.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://detroitpressplay.net
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573191367650
• Twitter: @pressplayintheD
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPvI9mlktQJoGtof-jmp-Rg

Image Credits

All permissions and credits for Images on page 7 belong to Lisa Gaiter