Devin Scillian: Music, Writing and the Power of Storytelling

What happens when one of Michigan's most trusted voices steps away from the anchor desk and speaks his mind without a script? On this episode of The BOBcast, recorded at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, Bob Riney sits down with Devin Scillian, beloved WDIV anchor, award-winning author, musician, and one of the most recognizable faces in Michigan journalism, for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about the state of our state, the crisis facing modern journalism, and the power of storytelling to unite a divided nation. Devin opens up about Michigan's political whiplash, the dangerous disconnect between how Michiganders see themselves and where the state actually stands, and why truth, even when it's uncomfortable, must remain the North Star of journalism. From the anchor desk to the stage, from children's books written after midnight to a song born from the rubble of war, Devin Scillian reminds us that Detroit and Michigan have always needed great storytellers, and that we need them now more than ever. Time Stamps Devin Scillian's Multifaceted Career :22- Bob Riney introduces Devin Scillian, highlighting his diverse career as a journalist, author, musician, and actor. 2:26- Devin shares his love for storytelling, comparing his career to an abstract painting, where all his endeavors are interconnected. 2:50- He discusses his journalistic hero, Homer, and his fascination with storytelling, both fiction and non-fiction. Michigan's Political and Economic Challenges 3:52- Bob and Devin discuss the political dynamics in Michigan, particularly the "purple conundrum" and the whiplash effect of political changes. 4:40- Devin highlights the economic impact of policy changes, using the example of film incentives to illustrate the whiplash effect. 5:25- They discuss the need for Michigan to focus on forward-thinking strategies rather than nostalgically looking back. 5:45- Devin mentions a poll showing a disconnect between Michigan's actual status and the perception of its residents. Mackinac Policy Conference and Personal Reflections 6:19- Bob and Devin discuss their experiences at the Mackinac Policy Conference, including the excitement around the Final Four and the achievements of Michigan's Olympic athletes. 8:04- Devin reflects on his transition from being a news anchor to focusing on writing, music, and other creative pursuits. The State of Journalism and Media Consumption 9:20- Bob and Devin discuss the challenges facing journalism, including the blurred lines between journalism, infotainment, and AI. 11:24- Devin emphasizes the importance of truth and accuracy in journalism and the need for vigilance on the part of consumers. Devin Scillian's Musical Journey 11:32- Bob and Devin discuss Devin's career as a musician, including his favorite song, "A Tattered Little Shoe," inspired by a child's shoe found during the Iraq War. 13:08- They discuss the importance of acoustics in music venues and Devin's experiences playing in different locations, including a music theater in Lexington and Veterans Park in Saint Clair Shores. 13:50- Devin shares a humorous anecdote about a friend who moved Bob Riney to the back of the house during a performance.