Black history is not just something we look back on—it’s something we’re living and building every day,” said Dee Star whose Outtadeebox, podcast has been formally archived by the Wisconsin Historical Society and inducted into the Sun Prairie Historical Museum, a rare distinction which ensures that both his podcast and authored work remain part of the state’s permanent historical record. In 2024, the Milwaukee Hip Hop Museum also inducted the podcast for its cultural impact.
A resident of Sun Prairie since 2020, Star was recently honored by the City of Sun Prairie which officially proclaimed Feb 3, 2026 “Demancea ‘Dee Star’ Day”, recognizing the extraordinary cultural, historical, and community impact of the award-winning podcaster, author, and media producer.
The multiple recognitions arrive during Black History Month, underscoring the importance of contemporary Black voices shaping local and state history in real time. Dee Star’s journey—from adversity to advocacy—reflects the power of media as a tool for accountability, healing, and unity.
Star became a member of the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce and put effort into building a relationship with the city and local business community. In addition to the podcast, he published Mad Town: Betrayed by The Code in May of 2025. The book is a cautionary tale for troubled teens. Star wrote the book as a tool to teach, a tangible item that teens could take with them and be inspired by, that he hopes can potentially save lives.
“If I could tell my younger self anything it would be to be careful of your influences.: Star shares. “Including the music you listen to, the books you read, the people you have around you, the advice you choose to take, the clothes you wear. Be mindful of how it shapes you and others perception of you.”
To that end, he surrounds himself with many positive people in the community. He wears clothes from Holy Godz, created by friend Kingston Robertson who describes his clothing line as “a living case study in how Black history is carried forward through individual responsibility, community labor, and purposeful reinvention.” Robertson was featured on the podcast where he spoke on transformation, accountability, and the responsibility of Black men to lead with discipline, purpose, and service.
He hopes to continue to lift others through his platform and in his future endeavors which will include art and more sharing of the history that he and others are currently making.
