The Financial Griot

In this episode, the crew discusses Haiti and explores how the land nurtures hope and resilience. Through the history of local farmers, community leaders, and sustainable agriculture initiatives, we discover how healthy soil, determination, and innovation are helping communities strengthen Haiti—one harvest at a time. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Fina...

Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance + Griot) that together signify closing the wealth gap while embracing our differences. Alainta Alcin, Lovely Merdelus, and Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez share their perspectives on current events that impact your personal finances and wealth mindset. In the New York Times, Bankrate, and other publications, the hosts shar...

2/3 of the crew is back, and we dive into the excitement, passion, and global buzz surrounding the world's biggest football (soccer) game now. FIFA continues to unite millions across the globe with the beautiful game's cultural impact.  Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance + Griot) that together signify closing the wealth gap while embracing our diffe...

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest questions surrounding higher education today: are some college degrees actually worth less than others? We dive into the reality of student debt, job market demand, salary expectations, and the growing debate over whether college is still the best path to success. From passion-driven majors to high-paying careers, we explore what truly makes a degree v...

TFG crew is back together again. In this episode, we unpack the uncomfortable truth behind beauty, confidence, and social status: how much of being considered “attractive” is actually tied to money. From skincare and fashion to fitness, cosmetic procedures, and lifestyle, we explore how wealth shapes perception in today’s world — and why the “glow-up” economy is bigger than ever. Is it really abou...

Today's episode, we explore how economic shifts, technology, and changing industries are reshaping the workforce. While job losses can bring uncertainty and hardship, they can also create pathways for innovation, entrepreneurship, and new career opportunities. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance + Griot) that together signify closing the wealth gap w...

TFG is back together, and in this episode, we explore Lovely's current travel experiences to Europe. And her take on the beauty of growth, meaningful connections, and new journeys. We discuss how stepping outside your comfort zone, embracing change, and traveling through life with the right people can shape who you become. Learning with Lovely's about self-discovery, connection, and evolving into...

TFG is all back again, and more spicier (mainly Lawrence). In this episode, we unpack how our family’s financial history quietly shapes who we become. From inherited money mindsets to unspoken beliefs about scarcity, success, and security, we explore how the economic stories we grow up in influence our decisions, relationships, and sense of self.  Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Grio...

TFG is back, and Lawrence shares that his “ministry” is anything but traditional. In this episode, we unpack what it really means to keep it real. From unfiltered opinions to hard truths people avoid, Lawrence challenges the line between honesty and online mental chaos. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance + Griot) that together signify closing the we...

The TFG crew is back from a short break. Inflation isn’t just “up”—it’s stuck, and we’re all feeling it. In this episode, we break down what rising prices really mean for your everyday life—from groceries and rent to lifestyle choices and long-term financial goals. Is this the new normal, or is relief on the way? We discuss strategies to stay afloat, protect your money, and move smart in an econom...

The TFG crew takes an honest look at what happens when constantly showing up for others starts to take a toll on your own well-being. The episode explores the emotional, physical, and even financial impact of burnout—and why rest isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. Lovely shares thoughtful insights that will help her be for others without losing yourself in the process. Wait, what's a Financial Griot...

 TFG crew is back again. In this episode, we explore how small, intentional changes can transform both your physical health and your financial well-being. The crew shares practical insights and motivating strategies that have helped one to feel stronger, spend smarter, and build momentum in every area of your life. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance...

In this episode,  Lawrence and Alainta unpack the age-old belief that more money automatically means a better life. Is the “greener grass” we’re chasing actually fulfillment—or just a bigger paycheck? We explore the difference between financial growth and personal satisfaction, the hidden costs of constantly chasing more, and how comparison can distort what success really looks like. Wait, what's...

In this episode, Lawrence and Alainta unpack the clash between real-life vibes and nonstop online noise. From social media posts and digital drama to choosing peace over posting. Hot takes and a few laughs about navigating life both on and off the feed--- an honest conversation about finding balance when the online world feels louder than ever. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot i...

The crew is back again, and we hunker down to discuss all things winter in the Northeast—from relentless snowstorms and neighborhood parking wars to the personal life updates that come with a new season. Between icy sidewalks and heated street debates, we catch up on what’s changing in our lives and reflect on how these moments shape our community.  Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Gr...

TFG is back! As 2026 gets underway, we reunite to catch up on life, travel, and the money lessons that came with both. From navigating new places to resetting financial priorities, the crew shares honest reflections on how recent experiences are shaping their goals, habits, and perspectives. In the attempt to balance memories with money and to start the year with intention. Wait, what's a Financia...

As 2025 comes to a close, the TFG crew sits down for an honest, introspective conversation about growth, lessons learned, and the moments that shaped them over the past year. Through shared reflections and personal insights, they look inward at how they’ve evolved—individually and together—while setting intentions for the road ahead. It’s a thoughtful year-end check-in about progress, perspective,...

Everyone’s talking about the “affordability crisis”—but what does that actually mean? In this episode, we dig into the numbers, the headlines, and the lived reality of trying to make ends meet in 2025. From rent hikes to grocery bills to the myth of the “latte problem,” we explore whether the crisis is as bad as it sounds—or if something deeper is driving the feeling that everything’s out of reach...

The crew is back together again. And yes, Lawrence, I'm still furloughed, still figuring it out. In this episode, he shares updates from his extended time off and what it’s taught him about work, purpose, and the strange calm of uncertainty. Meanwhile, New York City makes history by electing its first millennial mayor, Mamdani. We dive into what this generational shift in leadership could mean for...

In this episode, the crew explores what it means to question purpose, direction, and identity in a rapidly changing world. From career changes and digital burnout to redefining success and fulfillment, they discuss how uncertainty can actually bring clarity. This conversation looks at how to stay grounded, find meaning, and move forward—even when everything feels uncertain. Wait, what's a Financia...

In this solo episode, Lawrence discusses how slowing down and simplifying can actually move you forward. The courage it takes to pause, reassess priorities, and let go of what no longer serves your goals. From career shifts to personal habits, he dives into how scaling back can create space for clarity, balance, and meaningful growth. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play o...

In this episode, Lawrence opens up about his unexpected journey after being furloughed from his federal job. Amid the disruptions of the past year and the ongoing uncertainty, he’s found this experience to be a powerful catalyst for reflection, reinvention, and growth. The crew joins in to discuss the emotions, challenges, and ways they’ve each redefined their sense of stability and purpose during...

The crew explores how ChatGPT is reshaping modern spaces—both at work and in daily life, as well as in the realm of creativity. We highlight real examples of AI streamlining workflows, sparking innovation, and balancing technology with human creativity. Tune in to see how ChatGPT is helping people and businesses thrive in today’s evolving digital world. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financia...

In this episode,  Lawrence and Alainta dive into the often difficult yet essential conversations around aging parents and planning for a healthy, fulfilling retirement. We discuss Alainta's TikTok video on supporting aging loved ones, addressing financial and emotional concerns, and preparing both parents and their children for the changes that lie ahead. We discuss how to create a roadmap for a s...

In this solo episode, Lawrence unpacks how media narratives shape public perception of Black unemployment. He explores the importance of media literacy in distinguishing fact from stereotype, examining how coverage influences policy, opportunities, and community empowerment. Wait, what's a Financial Griot? The Financial Griot is a play on two words (Finance + Griot) that hold significance in closi...