The Griots
By Francois Nze
The GriotsMar 19, 2021
Noah Lyles, Coach Prime and World Champions
In today's episode of "The Griots," join us as we dive into lessons from the world of sports. First, our co-hosts tackle the incendiary sentiment of Noah Lyles calling out NBA winners for dubbing themselves as "World Champions." Later in the episode, The Griots delve into the remarkable success story of Deion Sanders, aka Coach Prime, as he exceeds all expectations in Colorado.
Editor's Note: Sorry for @EvyIvory mic's quality on this one, we hope you enjoy this discussion nonetheless.
Deciphering the Montgomery Brawl, folding chair memes & Niger's Coup
Join us in the captivating fifth episode of the third season. Our dynamic duo embark on a compelling journey between culture and politics that will leave you with fresh perspectives on both the past and present.
First, Mr. X & Ivory delve into the captivating Montgomery brawl, a moment that has left an indelible mark on our cultural tapestry. Then, they shift their focus to the complex political landscape of Niger, a nation grappling with the aftermath of a significant coup d'état.
The Griots engage in a thought-provoking discussion, seeking to unravel the motivations, influences, and intricate forces that will propel these pivotal moments into the history books.
The Girl Who Cried Wolf, Mental Health & Melting Pot vs. Salad Bowl Theory
In this episode, the boys discuss the curious case of Carlee Russell. The conversation then moves to cultural factors and stigmas that may affect how immigrants perceive and seek help for mental health issues. The episode ends with Mr. X & Ivory sharing their thoughts on cultural assimilation.
Keke Palmer, Usher & The French Riots
This episode opens up with Mr X & Ivory briefly talking about the recent series of riots in France following the killing of Nahel Merzouk by a police officer in Nanterre, a suburb of Paris. The hosts then deep dive into the Keke Palmer & Usher debate to finally end the show discussing various relationship "red flags."
Fake Jobs, MLM & Immigrants
This week, your favorite Griots examine multi-level marketing (MLM) scams and the tactics employed by MLM schemes to attract immigrants, drawing them into their networks with promises of financial freedom and success.
Love, Galentine's , and the Changing Face of Valentine's Day
In this episode, our two millennial hosts delve into the evolving perceptions and attitudes of younger generations towards Valentine's Day. Embark with us on a lighthearted exploration of how the romantic roots of this age-old holiday are being redefined and the diminishing pressure to find a partner for February 14th.
How to take a "L"
Life is all about the highs and lows, this one for the low life.
Curbing Your Integrity
In this Episode Ivory and Mr. X discuss how you can keep your integrity as you rise to the top... or can you even get to the top without losing a bit of it? Find out in this episode!
Gratitude as a Key to Success and the Story of Francis Ngannou
In the twelfth installment of the second season, Mr. X and Ivory discuss how remembering to be grateful can help us get through life's toughest time. Then, the Griots discuss how immigrants often use that added perspective to fuel their ambition and when it can become an insatiable curse.
Loyalty in relationships, Derrick Jaxn, Saweetie and Quavo.
In this episode, The Griots discuss how difficult it can be to put yourself first and leave toxic relationships. The boys use the two viral stories of social media influencer Derrick Jaxn and hip-hop ex-super couple Quavo and Saweetie, to illustrate the importance of self-love in relationships. #BlackMenDontCheat
Stop Asian Hate and Cardi B vs Candace Owen
In the 10th episode of this second season , Ivory and Mr. X discuss the roots of the recent terror attack targeting the asian community. The boys also share their unfiltered opinions on the online feud between Cardi B vs Candace Owen. #StopAsianHate
This Too Shall Pass
This episode is a bit down tempo bro, but it's all good! It's kinda like therapy... The Griots debate whether love is earned or given and then deep dive into the importance of having uncomfortable conversations. Enjoy!
Valentine's Day and How to Date an African Man
In this special Valentine's Day episode, Mr. X and Ivory talk about the cultural differences and stereotypes that can make relationships between African men and black women challenging. Oh, and they also chat a bit about interracial relationships. Thanks for the support. We love you
Day Trading, Black History Month & Who Traded the African American Slaves?
In this episode the Griots reacts Robinhood and the recent surge in popularity of Day Trading. In the latter half of the episode, Ivory and Mr. X deep dive into what really went down the European settlers arrived in Africa and how black slaves ended up in America.
Winners write history
In this 6th installment of the second season, Mr. X and Ivory discuss the case of Kristen Antoinette Gray: an African American lesbian graphic designer deported from Bali after going viral on Twitter. In the later part of the episode, the Griots explore how our perception of reality is influenced by the course of history.
The Capitol Riots (part 2): Aftermath & Nietzsche Paradox.
In episode 5 of the second season, Mr. X and Ivory discuss the ethical ground for banning Trump off Twitter and warn against the risks of becoming the very thing you fight against when your rhetoric is divisive rather than unifying.
The Capitol Riots (part 1): What actually happened?
In this latest installment, Mr. X & Ivory discuss the U.S. capitol riots in 2021 and the implications for democracy worldwide.
Coping with our own mortality
In the third episode of the second season, the Griots discuss death across cultures, how we mourn high-profile personalities, and different coping mechanisms one can use to make sense of their own mortality.
Nigeria's Special Anti-Robbery Squad & Police Brutality in Africa
On episode 2 of the Season 2, Evrard & Elom discuss the #EndSARS Movement and how it relates to the more deeply rooted issue of policing on the African continent. Follow us on Instagram at @2griots!
Trump tests positive for COVID & the realities of healthcare for Minorities in America
Cancel Culture
In the 9th episode of the first season, Elom & Evrard discuss the pros & cons of cancel culture and the importance of balance in every aspect of our lives. Follow @studios.essence on Instagram for information on our upcoming Griots show on IG Live!
The Power of Now.
In this 8th installment, The Griots joined by special guest, Martin Uche (@martigram19), discussed the price of the American dream and how being able to live in the moment is a major key to success. For more meditative techniques on how to control your inner self, visit the UCLA guided meditation page at www.uclahealth.org/marc/mindful-meditations
U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement
In Episode 7, Elom & Evrard discuss the U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement. If you're a college student, click the link below to help International students find on-campus classes: https://www.tinyurl.com/yb9w8b8h
We understand switching classes like this is HEAVILY frowned upon, but when injustice has been written into law it is meant to be broken for reform to take place.
Jada Pinkett, Polygamy and the Divine Masculine.
In this 6th installment, Evrard & Elom discuss what it means to be a man and the truth behind open relationships.
Shaun King wants to cancel "white Jesus"
In this episode, the Griots reacts to American activist Shaun King calling the euro-centric depiction of Jesus Christ a symbol of white supremacy.
Oluwatoyin Salau
Oluwatoyin Ruth "Toyin" Salau was a Nigerian-American high school graduate and Black Lives Matter activist who disappeared on Saturday, June 6, 2020, shortly after tweeting about being sexually assaulted. In this episode, the Griots discuss accountability among Black men when it comes to protecting and respecting Black women.
Is it Safe To Go Out Yet?
In this third installment, the griots discuss police funding reforms, the consequences of quarantine on mental health, and the Ethiopian diaspora response to COVID-19.
If you are interested in helping slow the curve in Ethiopia or simply would like to put your coding/engineering/grant writing/anything tech-related skills to good use contact ethiopia.covid19@gmail.com
#BlackLivesMatter
Elom and Evrard discuss the effectiveness of social media activism.
Elom Rants - Justice for George Floyd!
A griot is a West African historian, praise singer, poet, or musician. He is a repository of oral tradition and is often seen as a leader due to his or her position as an advisor to royal personages. In this first episode, Elom and Evrard, joined by a special guest discuss the murder of George Floyd at the hand of the Minneapolis police.