PATRICE Grimball shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi PATRICE, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day begin with 5 AM prayer in the Servant Leaders Prayer Circle, led by my mentor, Angela Thomas Smith. From there, I shift into mommy mode—preparing my ten-year-old for school. Our mornings are filled with laughter, freshly pressed clothes, affirmations, and plenty of love to set the tone for her day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Patrice Grimball, and I wear many hats as a librarian specialist, community organizer, and advocate for literacy and storytelling. Through my work, I strive to create spaces where people can discover the power of books, culture, and connection. I’m also the founder of SCBookGal & Friends, a platform dedicated to uplifting authors, sharing book reviews, hosting engaging podcast interviews, and celebrating diverse voices in literature, with a focus on authors of color, who deserve to be heard.
What makes my work unique is the way I weave together community, creativity, and culture—whether it’s through organizing local events, curating literary celebrations, or helping new authors shine. My story is deeply rooted in service, family, and a passion for empowering others.
Currently, I am co-authoring a book titled Distant Treats with author Lakendrick Northern, while also developing a line of journals designed to inspire, motivate, and encourage creativity in others. These projects allow me to merge my love for writing with my commitment to building tools that uplift and empower people in their personal journeys.
In addition, I proudly serve with Charleston RISE, a grassroots initiative whose vision is to build and empower a network of informed and inspired community advocates. Together, we work to demand higher quality public schools and encourage others to join in the vital process of ensuring that all students receive an excellent education—one that prepares them for success in every phase of life.
At the heart of it all, my mission is simple: to inspire, uplift, and leave a meaningful impact through books, stories, education, and shared experiences.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would say that Angela Thomas Smith and the late Cynthia Graham Hurd saw me clearly before I ever saw myself. These incredible women believed in me long before I stepped into the person I am today. They pushed me, encouraged me, and continued to guide me until I caught a glimpse of who I could become—if only I committed to applying myself.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
I would have to say the first person who truly listened to me was my therapist, Tiffany Glover. She gave me insight into why I felt and thought the way I did, and for the first time, I began to understand myself on a deeper level. Tiffany created a complete no-judgment zone, which was exactly what I needed because, for so long, I had judged myself more harshly than anyone else ever could.
In those sessions, she reminded me that my feelings were valid and that healing takes time, patience, and self-compassion. She didn’t just listen—she empowered me to see that I had the strength to rewrite my own story. That safe space allowed me to release some of the weight I had been carrying for years, and it was there that I learned the importance of giving myself grace.
Her guidance helped me to break through old patterns, challenge my own inner critic, and start embracing the possibility of growth.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that my children mean everything to me. Making sure they feel loved is a priority in my life. Not a single day goes by without us saying “I love you” to one another. That simple phrase, which was rarely spoken during my own childhood, is a daily affirmation in my home. I want my son, James, and my daughter, Aniya, to always know that I am their biggest cheerleader. No matter what, I will be here to support them, encourage them, and guide them in the right direction.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I have to admit that one of my regrets is not going to college to become a librarian. After watching a recent documentary, I realized just how much of a difference I could have made by bringing my own unique flavor and perspective into the field. I also see how I could have helped shine a brighter light on authors of color, giving their voices the recognition and attention they truly deserve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.scbookgalandfriends.com
- Instagram: SBookGalandfriends
- Linkedin: Patrice Grimball
- Twitter: SCBookGal843
- Facebook: Patrice Grimball
- Youtube: SCBookGal and Friends
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
