Griot Connects Podcast

In this episode of Slaves to Fashion, we take yet another look into the fascinating history of the Black dandy, tracing his roots from 18th century England to his modern presence in the cosmopolitan art scenes of London and New York. I still think dandyism is such an odd thing for the colonialists to have come up with and adopted.  Weird.  I encourage you to pick up the book to take a look into the lives of iconic figures like Julius Soubise, a freed slave renowned for his flamboyant style in 18th century London, and Yinka Shonibare, a contemporary Afro-British artist who uses his art to offer a unique commentary on Black dandyism.And then poke out your chest in pride as you get familiar with how Black individuals transformed dandyism into a tool for self-expression and social commentary.

This stunning coffetable book is a collection of images caught my attention and I couldn’t wait to share it.“The pages of "Equestrian Noire" come alive with breathtaking photographs that capture the power, beauty, and grace of horses. Each image showcases the harmonious bond between these majestic creatures and the women who share their lives, creating an intimate and emotive visual narrative”. It’s not only a unique look at the connection between man (or woman) and beast, but it’s a reminder that books can inspire new kinds of ways to explore the world.  I hope this inspires you to take a leap into the world of equestrianism.

Although this book is described as YA genre, I read it as an adult book clubber and thoroughly enjoyed it.I challenge you this year to discover how Tomi Adeyemi’s bold approach to storytelling and representation have made an impact on the Young Adult fantasy genre.Pick up this read to follow Zélie, a young diviner, on her dangerous quest to restore magic to the kingdom of Orïsha. Explore themes of oppression, resistance, and the fight for freedom as Zélie and her companions face challenges and enemies.

Buckle up for a heart-pounding ride into the world of psychological thrillers! This week, we're diving deep into "Why Now?" with the brilliant Barbara Mostella.  Her new book explores the life of an investigator whose past has been mysteriously erased. They must grapple with a shattered memory and unravel a tangled web of lies to uncover the truth.Join us as Barbara and I discuss the twists and turns of this mind-bending story, the challenges of crafting a protagonist lost in their own identity, and the shocking revelations that will leave you breathless.Get ready to question everything you know about memory, identity, and the power of the truth. This episode will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!Don't miss out! Part 2In this interview we delve into the protagonist's terrifying loss of memory and identity, and how this creates a chilling vulnerability, leaving them open to manipulation and deceit. We'll discuss the challenges of navigating a world without a past, the desperate search for answers, and the constant fear of the unknown.

Journey to the 9th century Iberian Peninsula, a land ravaged by brutal battles and cruel dungeons, yet also home to perfumed harems and the erotic mysteries of the Orient. Amidst the clash of Christians, Muslims, and Jews, rises the Visigoth nobleman, Alaric Teudisson.That dang Tina got us reading about Visigoths.  Whattha?  She’s the true bookie of the team.I believe her when she says it’s a great read by a renowned author whose works are highly acclaimed.  And that’s one of the reasons why we do this podcast….’cause I just learned something new. I hope you did too.

In this episode of the book review, we take a peek into the captivating world of "Dandy Lion: The Black Dandy and Street Fashion." We explore the origins of the Black dandy, tracing its roots back to the complex and unsettling concept of the "luxury slave." We discuss how enslaved individuals, forced to dress in fine attire, used fashion as a tool of resistance and self-expression, laying the foundation for the Black dandy tradition.  We also examine how Black dandies challenged prevailing stereotypes and asserted their humanity in the face of dehumanization by presenting themselves with elegance and sophistication. Listen in while folding those clothes and feel good as we celebrate the resilience and agency of enslaved people and their profound impact on fashion and identity.

This episode discusses Michelle Sumrall's book, "Scattered," which details her experiences as a caregiver for her aging parents. The emotional rollercoaster of caregiving is explored, including depression, anger, denial, and anticipatory grief. Sumrall emphasizes the importance of a support network and having financial and long-term care plans in place. She also touches on the impact of geographical distance on family awareness of a loved one's decline and the challenges of navigating caregiving decisions. This discussion was informative and, at times, funny….in that kinda way where you laugh to keep from cryin’.  Enjoy this listen!

Join us as we delve into Isabel Wilkerson's groundbreaking book, "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents." Discover how Wilkerson redefines American racism through the lens of a hidden caste system, drawing parallels to India's ancient hierarchy and Nazi Germany. We'll explore the eight pillars of caste, uncover how race became a visible marker in America's social order, and examine the devastating impact of this system on individuals and society.This episode challenges conventional narratives, sparks dialogue, and inspires action towards a more just and equitable world. Whether you're a history buff, a social justice advocate, or simply curious about the complexities of human behavior, this thought-provoking discussion will leave you with a deeper understanding of America's past, present, and future.