About Griot Connects
A New Era of Podcasting for Authors
Griot Connects celebrates the rich and diverse voices that shape our culture. Join us as we uncover hidden gems in the literary community and provide a platform for these authors to share their craft with the world. Whether you’re a book lover, an aspiring writer, or simply curious about the vast landscape of African American literature, Griot Connects is your gateway to discovering new, thought-provoking, and inspiring works.
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About the Host
Yolanda Rascoe
Yolanda’s foray into podcasting started with the production and hosting of two seasons of the Carvana Corporate Podcast, #StayingSharp; a discussion on the culture and product development of the organization. Then during the COVID phase she ventured into the creation of the life-skills and personal growth series, YoR Show. As current Host of Griot Connects Yolanda gets to share her passion for literature and have a great time doing it.
As the Executive Director and Founder of the Army of Do-gooders volunteer corps, Yolanda is deeply involved in her legacy passion projects to safeguard the future of our youth and building a platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized communities.
Yolanda Rascoe, a Thought Leader and radical force in the realm of personal transformation. Known for her wit, curiosity, and comfortably disruptive approach.
Yolanda’s journey is a story of how a resilient spirit can become the catalyst for living your best life. In her pursuit of a fresh start, Yolanda committed to a complete do-over, resulting in a refined and tested methodology for achieving higher levels of personal growth and evolution, she calls “The Practice.” And yes, she wrote a book about it.
Tina Wise
Tina is an accomplished communicator, community advocate, and co-host of the celebrated podcast Griot Connects. This podcast spotlights brilliant yet often overlooked African American authors. Alongside her co-host, Yolanda Rascoe, Tina takes listeners on a 30-minute journey into the lives, inspirations, and unique literary contributions of these talented writers. Her work amplifies voices that must be heard, celebrating the richness of African American perspectives.
With over 20 years of diverse experience in management, administration, and creative ventures, Tina brings an intelligent and insightful perspective that illuminates listeners’ points of view. From finance to philosophy, Tina’s unique take on everything resonates with notable guests and the audience.
She attended Florida A&M University, majored in marketing, and is certified in fashion. Tina’s creative flair has been expressed in various roles and is captured in the lively and poignant on-air exchanges with her co-host and their guests. Whether she’s on the road as a professional truck driver, supporting nonprofit initiatives, or sharing powerful stories on Griot Connects, Tina delivers no-nonsense common sense with panache.
Yolanda and Tina's Path to the Griot Connects Podcast
Yolanda and Tina’s story began in the hallowed halls of Philadelphia High School For Girls, a prestigious institution with a legacy of fostering accomplished, community-minded women. From 1974 to 1977, they were part of Class 221, a group of idealistic and rambunctious young women who were living at a time when the world around was rapidly changing and they were all eager to make their mark. At Girls High (as it was affectionately known), Yolanda and Tina’s paths intertwined at AP classes, they sang in the choir – Yolanda Alto, Tina Soprano. They even sold donuts to fund the senior class trip. These shared experiences coupled with the school’s nurturing environment fostered what may be considered the initial foundations for the now life-long relationship.
Their journey continued in the fall of 1977 when they both received academic scholarships to the School of Business at Florida A&M University. Arriving in Tallahassee as roommates, they embraced dorm life and later shared an apartment, their friendship deepening amidst the excitement and challenges of college life. However, life had other plans. Both Yolanda and Tina married while in school. Crazy….right. That dynamic was the start of a new chapter for everyone; namely building a family and career. As tends to happen, distance and the demands of life led to a period where there were only the unexpected holiday calls and marathon two-hour chats that kept the embers of their friendship alive.
Then fate intervened when Tina moved to Atlanta for retirement. Yolanda and Tina effortlessly picked up where they had left off. Their conversations flowed seamlessly, filled with intelligent banter, a shared passion for literature, and a deep mutual admiration. It was during these rekindled moments that the idea for the Griot Connects Podcast was born. Recognizing their unique chemistry and shared interests, they decided to embark on this new venture together. And so, from the classrooms of Girls High to the bustling streets of Atlanta, Yolanda and Tina’s journey led them to become the dynamic host and co-host of the Griot Connects Podcast.
