Afrocentric.

Morgan Gray

Mission: To redefine and expand the understanding of Afrocentrism by illuminating the deeper, often untold histories and lived experiences of the Black Aboriginal peoples of North America—those later labeled as African American. The podcast bridges these truths with the ancestral narratives of Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, fostering a renewed global appreciation for Black heritage, resilience, and cultural continuity. Purpose: This podcast exists to challenge limited historical frameworks, such as the dominant 1619 narrative, by restoring depth, dignity, and context to the story of the original dark-skinned, swarthy peoples of the Americas. Through dialogue, storytelling, and scholarship, it seeks to empower listeners to see the continuum between ancient ancestry, contemporary identity, and future potential. Embrace the Movement. Join the Movement. Afrocentric.

  1. 3D AGO

    Reflection VI: When I Speak Truth to Power

    In this introspective episode of the Afrocentric Podcast, we journey into the heart of truth-telling — and the cost that often comes with it. Drawing from personal experience and historical insight, the host explores what it really means to speak truth to power in a world that prizes comfort over authenticity. The reflection begins with a raw acknowledgment: truth is no lullaby. It disrupts, demands, and reshapes. Through the wisdom of Bayard Rustin and the symbolism of alchemy, truth emerges as a force that refines both speaker and listener. The episode traces a pivotal moment in the host’s life — securing an $18,000 grant from the Southern Poverty Law Center to challenge white supremacy — a triumph that leads from Mississippi to the March on Washington. Yet, amid celebration, an uncomfortable reality surfaces. In a room full of leaders, authenticity often takes a back seat to performance. Confronting this, the host dares to name the despair within Mississippi’s Black communities — and faces resistance for doing so. This moment becomes a mirror reflecting society’s obsession with respectability over honesty. The conversation deepens with a discussion of code-switching and W.E.B. Du Bois’s double consciousness, questioning how long Black voices must contort themselves to be heard. True empowerment, the host insists, begins when we stop splitting ourselves to fit systems that never meant to hold us whole. Reflection 6 stands as a meditation on courage, discomfort, and the alchemy of authenticity. It reminds us that speaking truth to power may isolate us, but it also transforms us—and, in time, the world around us.

    16 min
  2. FEB 12

    Reflection III: N***a-Rigged

    In today's fast-paced world, the ability to innovate and create from seemingly nothing is more crucial than ever. In a recent episode of the Afrocentric Podcast, the host passionately discusses the term "n****r rigging"—a concept that embodies resourcefulness and creativity in the face of adversity. This blog post delves into the essence of this philosophy, illustrating how it can empower us to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and self-expression. Understanding 'N****r Rigging': At the heart of the podcast discussion is the term "n****r rigging," which refers to the ability to fix or create something using makeshift methods and available materials, rather than relying on conventional tools or resources. The host reflects on how even traditional soul food, like chitlins, originated from discarded parts, exemplifying the art of making something delicious from virtually nothing. This practice of innovation isn't just a survival tactic; it's a celebration of creativity and resilience. A Year of N****r Rigging: Morgan emphasizes the importance of embracing this mindset in the current year, suggesting that we will face circumstances that require us to innovate and adapt. As we move into a future where convenience may not always be accessible, the ability to create from limited resources will become invaluable. She encourages listeners to approach this concept with enthusiasm, viewing it as an opportunity to cultivate their creativity and problem-solving skills. Personal Journey of Innovation: Drawing from personal experience, the host shares the story of launching the podcast with minimal resources—just a laptop and a few ideas. Despite facing setbacks, including the loss of recording equipment and a vehicle, the host continues to find ways to produce content. By utilizing an Android phone to record and creatively editing audio, the host demonstrates that determination and resourcefulness can lead to meaningful work, even in challenging situations. The Philosophy of Bootlegged Solutions: The podcast also touches on the broader philosophy behind "n****r rigging"—the idea that we should take pride in our ability to make do with what we have. The host shares anecdotes of fixing personal possessions, like cars, with simple solutions, emphasizing that it's not about perfection but about functionality and creativity. This philosophy encourages listeners to shift their mindset, focusing on the value of their efforts rather than the perceived shortcomings of their methods. Conclusion and Key Takeaways: The conversation on the Afrocentric Podcast serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of innovation and resourcefulness in our lives. Embracing the concept of "n****r rigging" can empower us to overcome ob

    10 min
  3. FEB 5

    Reflection II: Save the Children

    In a world that often seems to overlook the needs of its youth, one passionate voice stands out, advocating fiercely for the children of today. This blog post explores the heartfelt narrative shared in a recent podcast episode, where the speaker reflects on her experiences working with children, the challenges she faced, and the crucial lessons learned about nurturing the next generation. Section 1: Growing Up in the Boys and Girls Club The speaker begins her journey by recounting her childhood spent at the Boys and Girls Club. Here, she found a sense of community and belonging that shaped her social skills and personal growth. "I spent the majority of my childhood nowhere but the Boys and Girls Club," she shares, emphasizing how this environment influenced her life trajectory. Section 2: A Passion for Teaching Fast forward to her collegiate days, she returned to the same Boys and Girls Club, this time as a staff member. Her dedication to the children was evident as she passionately worked with them, stating, "They were all black and I preferred to work with young black children like this because so many people in this world do not have the patience, the fortitude... to be able to yield the results of having what is considered a good class." However, her unwavering love for the children led to her dismissal, which she describes as a shocking and painful experience. The speaker recalls, "I was shell shocked. I was crying." Section 3: The Impact of Generational Mindsets The narrative shifts to a broader reflection on generational differences in caring for youth. The speaker notes that many from older generations fail to understand the struggles faced by today's youth. "The youth have nothing to look forward to. They are watching their earth die," she laments, highlighting the disconnect between generations. Her call for empathy and understanding is a poignant reminder that the burden of today's challenges often falls heavily on the shoulders of the young. Section 4: Empowering the Next Generation A recurring theme throughout the podcast is the importance of prioritizing the needs of children. The speaker's mantra, "Everything that I do is for the kids," encapsulates her commitment to advocacy and support. She recounts how her students remembered her as a safe space, saying, "My students see me to this day and they remember me because they knew that wherever I was was a judge-free zone." Section 5: The Reality of Parenting The podcast also addresses the complexities of parenting and its impact on children. The speaker shares her experiences witnessing domestic violence and its potential consequences on unborn children. "The amount of stress that the mother feels, the baby can feel it as well," she explains, stressing the need for awareness of how adult actions affect the younger generation. Conclusion: Key Takeaways The podcast serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of nurturing and protecting our children. It calls for a collective effort to understand their struggles, advocate for their needs, and create a supportive environment where they can thrive. As the speaker poignantly asks, "What are you going to do to save the children?" This question resonates as a challenge for us all to reflect on our roles in shaping the future.

    16 min
  4. FEB 5

    Reflection I: Mo Wept

    In a world that often equates strength with stoicism, the act of crying is frequently misunderstood. In a recent podcast episode, the host shares profound insights about the significance of tears, not just as a sign of sadness but as a powerful tool for emotional liberation. This blog post dives deep into that conversation, exploring the transformative power of vulnerability and the healing nature of tears. Understanding the Weight of Tears The host begins by recounting a deeply personal experience from 2025, where a conversation with the divine in a car late at night opened the floodgates of emotion. This moment marked a turning point, as they realized that crying is not a sign of weakness but an essential part of the human experience. The discussion touches on biblical references, including how Christ wept, emphasizing that even the strongest figures in history expressed their emotions through tears. The Impact of Societal Norms The narrative shifts to reflect on societal expectations surrounding emotions. The host recounts their own journey of being labeled as 'too emotional' throughout their life, from childhood to adulthood. This societal conditioning often leads individuals to suppress their feelings, which can result in emotional stagnation. The host's experience with a friend battling cancer highlights the importance of allowing oneself to feel deeply, as this is a natural response to life's challenges. Crying as a Form of Detoxification One of the most enlightening messages from the podcast is the biological and emotional benefits of crying. The host explains that tears are not just a physical response but a form of detoxification. The salt in tears is a natural crystal, and the act of crying can cleanse one’s energy and provide mental relief. This perspective encourages listeners to embrace their tears as a method of emotional release rather than viewing them as something to be ashamed of. Normalizing Vulnerability The podcast also emphasizes the need to normalize crying, especially among men who are often socialized to hide their emotions. The host shares experiences of crying in public and the empowering feeling that came with it. They argue that vulnerability should be celebrated, not stigmatized, and that showing one’s feelings can foster deeper connections with others. Conclusion: Key Takeaways The conversation serves as a reminder that crying is a natural and healthy expression of emotion. It is an invitation to embrace vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. By allowing ourselves to cry, we can detoxify our emotions, understand our burdens better, and ultimately liberate ourselves from the constraints of societal expectations. The host’s journey illustrates that tears can be a source of strength, connection, and healing.

    12 min
5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Mission: To redefine and expand the understanding of Afrocentrism by illuminating the deeper, often untold histories and lived experiences of the Black Aboriginal peoples of North America—those later labeled as African American. The podcast bridges these truths with the ancestral narratives of Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, fostering a renewed global appreciation for Black heritage, resilience, and cultural continuity. Purpose: This podcast exists to challenge limited historical frameworks, such as the dominant 1619 narrative, by restoring depth, dignity, and context to the story of the original dark-skinned, swarthy peoples of the Americas. Through dialogue, storytelling, and scholarship, it seeks to empower listeners to see the continuum between ancient ancestry, contemporary identity, and future potential. Embrace the Movement. Join the Movement. Afrocentric.