The Financial Griot

The Financial Griot

By Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Lovely Merdelus, Alainta AlcinSociety & CultureEducationSelf-ImprovementPersonal JournalsHow To
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The Financial Griot episodes

  • Maybe You’re Not Ugly… Maybe You Just Need Money

    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 about looks… or just access?

    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 share the stories that others don't. 

    Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

    Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

    Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

    So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunities are abundant and it's a Win-Win.

    Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

    • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
    • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
    • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
    •  

      45 min
    • Job Losses and Economic Opportunities

      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 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 share the stories that others don't. 

      Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

      Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

      Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

      So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunities are abundant and it's a Win-Win.

      Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

      • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
      • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
      • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
      • 39 min
      • You get to Evolve: Travels with Lovely

        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 your best self along the way.

        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 share the stories that others don't. 

        Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

        Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

        Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

        So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunities are abundant and it's a Win-Win.

        Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

        • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
        • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
        • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
        • 56 min
        • We’re the Byproduct of Our Family’s Economic Story

          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 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 share the stories that others don't. 

          Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

          Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

          Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

          So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunities are abundant and it's a Win-Win.

          Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

          • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
          • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
          • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
          • 1 hr 1 min
          • Lawrence’s Ministry: Keeping It Real (and Reckless)

            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 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 share the stories that others don't. 

            Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

            Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

            Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

            So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunities are abundant and it's a Win-Win.

            Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

            • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
            • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
            • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
            • 43 min
            • Inflation is Up & It’s Stuck

              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 economy that’s not letting up. 

              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 share the stories that others don't. 

              Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

              Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

              Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

              So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunity is abundant and a Win-Win.

              Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

              • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
              • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
              • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
              • 39 min
              • The Cost of Caring Without Rest

                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?

                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 share the stories that others don't. 

                Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

                Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

                Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

                So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunity is abundant and a Win-Win.

                Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

                • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
                • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
                • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
                • Show Less

                  31 min
                • The Total Reset: Body & Bank Account

                   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 + 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 share the stories that others don't. 

                  Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

                  Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

                  Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

                  So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunity is abundant and a Win-Win.

                  Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

                  • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
                  • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
                  • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
                  • 46 min
                  • Greener Grass or Just More Money?

                    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 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 share the stories that others don't. 

                    Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

                    Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

                    Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

                    So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunity is abundant and a Win-Win.

                    Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

                    • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
                    • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
                    • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
                    • 50 min
                    • Offline Energy vs. Online Chaos

                      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 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 share the stories that others don't. 

                      Stories about growth, opportunity, and even Wars. Beyond that, we tie it back to how it reflects on your finances. Specifically, we teach you how to become financially literate, incorporate actionable steps, and ultimately build generational wealth.

                      Can you imagine being a Millionaire in 20 years or less?

                      Yeah, it's possible. Eighty percent of millionaires are first-generation, meaning they didn't inherit wealth. We teach you how. Join a community of subscribers who welcome a fresh take on money.

                      So there you have it, The Financial Griot, or TFG for short. The hosts amassed over $3 million in wealth in about eight years and are on track to retire early. We will gladly share the secrets if you want them, since the opportunity is abundant and a Win-Win.

                      Find the TFG Crew Hosts on Instagram: 

                      • Alainta Alcin - Blogger, Travel and Money Enthusiast https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaintaalcin
                      • Lawrence Delva-Gonzalez, Financial Foodie and Travel Blogger @theneighborhoodfinanceguy
                      • Lovely Merdelus - Entrepreneur and Small Business Growth Specialist @lovelymerdelus
                      25 min

                    About The Financial Griot

                    From the publisher's feed

                    Welcome to the Financial Griot, TFG for short where three millennials talk about wealth and the stories that made and continue to make an impact on our journeys to be whole, happy and wealthy.