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The Griots

The Griots

By Francois Nze

A griot is a West African historian, storyteller, 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. The Griots discuss current social issues through the eyes of two West African Millenials living in the U.S. What makes our discussions even more compelling? Elom & Evrard often have diverging opinions and a refreshingly bold takes that will keep you thinking long after you are done listening.
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The Capitol Riots (part 2): Aftermath & Nietzsche Paradox.

The GriotsJan 15, 2021

00:00
36:42
Noah Lyles, Coach Prime and World Champions

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.

Sep 18, 202333:40
Deciphering the Montgomery Brawl, folding chair memes & Niger's Coup

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.

Aug 10, 202347:53
The Girl Who Cried Wolf, Mental Health & Melting Pot vs. Salad Bowl Theory

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.

Jul 23, 202340:25
Keke Palmer, Usher & The French Riots

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."



Jul 10, 202333:04
Fake Jobs, MLM & Immigrants

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.

Jun 04, 202301:04:46
Love, Galentine's , and the Changing Face of Valentine's Day

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.

Jun 02, 202332:33
How to take a "L"

How to take a "L"

Life is all about the highs and lows, this one for the low life.

Jun 12, 202136:39
Curbing Your Integrity

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!

May 23, 202145:06
Gratitude as a Key to Success and the Story of Francis Ngannou

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.

Apr 07, 202134:14
Loyalty in relationships, Derrick Jaxn, Saweetie and Quavo.

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

Mar 31, 202148:13
Stop Asian Hate and Cardi B vs Candace Owen

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

Mar 19, 202145:51
This Too Shall Pass

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!

Feb 27, 202137:51
Valentine's Day and How to Date an African Man

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

Feb 12, 202136:33
Day Trading, Black History Month & Who Traded the African American Slaves?

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.

Feb 08, 202141:10
Winners write history
Jan 23, 202134:49
The Capitol Riots (part 2): Aftermath & Nietzsche Paradox.

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.

Jan 15, 202136:42
The Capitol Riots (part 1): What actually happened?

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.

Jan 12, 202132:00
Coping with our own mortality

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.

Nov 28, 202046:01
Nigeria's Special Anti-Robbery Squad & Police Brutality in Africa

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!

Oct 13, 202048:58
Trump tests positive for COVID & the realities of healthcare for Minorities in America

Trump tests positive for COVID & the realities of healthcare for Minorities in America

In the very first installment of Season 2, Ivory and Elom discuss the challenges of creating a podcast, question the logic of cancel culture for musicians, react to Trump testing positive for coronavirus and uncover the reality of the American healthcare system for minorities. Enjoy and don't forget to send us some messages, feedback, reactions or words of encouragement if you enjoy our content, that's all we ask from you :)
Oct 02, 202049:38
Cancel Culture

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! 

Jul 25, 202047:59
The Power of Now.
Jul 18, 202046:25
U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement

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.

Jul 11, 202054:59
Jada Pinkett, Polygamy and the Divine Masculine.

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.

Jul 03, 202046:30
Shaun King wants to cancel "white Jesus"

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. 

Jun 27, 202001:07:44
Oluwatoyin Salau

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. 

Jun 20, 202001:09:16
Is it Safe To Go Out Yet?

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

Jun 13, 202059:11
#BlackLivesMatter

#BlackLivesMatter

Elom and Evrard discuss the effectiveness of social media activism.

Jun 07, 202057:49
Elom Rants - Justice for George Floyd!

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. 

May 30, 202049:08