All Episodes

In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, we’re talking about the business of being an athlete — and the money that comes with it. The Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era has created new opportunities for young athletes to profit from their personal brands, but with big checks come even bigger responsibilities.Joining me is Drew Hawkins, founder of EdYouCore, a financial education and consulting company helping athletes, entertainers, and professionals make smarter decisions with their money. Drew breaks down how NIL has transformed college sports, what financial literacy looks like for 18- to 23-year-olds stepping into six-figure deals, and the mindset shifts needed to build long-term wealth — not just short-term wins.We dive into:How financial education plays a crucial role in protecting athletes’ futuresWhy understanding money is just as important as earning itThe lessons we can all take from the NIL movement, no matter our industry✨ Connect with Zuryna & Live More AgencyInstagram (Zuryna): @ladyzsaysInstagram (Operations Unfiltered): @operationsunfilteredInstagram (Live More Agency): @livemoreagencyWebsite: www.livemoreagency.co🎙️ Connect with Drew Hawkins Website: www.EdYouCore.com Instagram: @EdYouCore

When reality TV gives you lemons, or in this case, bad breath rumors, you make minty-fresh marketing magic. In this quick episode, we break down how Real Housewives of Potomac’s Stacy could turn a shady storyline into a six-figure brand moment. From launching “Fresh by Stacy” luxury mints to collaborating with dental brands, we’re talking full PR redemption arc meets product rollout.Because let’s be real — in marketing, perception is power.🎧 Tune in for a quick, funny, and strategic take on turning reality TV shade into brand gold.

In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, we’re talking Marketing A&R, the art of scouting talent that turns campaigns into conversations 💬.We break down why Monaleo isn’t just a rapper on your workout playlist, she’s a marketing case study waiting to happen. From mental health advocacy to makeup collabs and tour synergy, we’re mapping out exactly how brands like Talkspace, Fenty Beauty, and Juvia’s Place could (and should) be tapping into Monaleo’s influence.Tune in for a mix of pop culture, strategy, and a little creative daydreaming...because sometimes the best campaigns start with a “what if?”🎧 Follow @ladyzsays and @livemoreagency for more pop culture–inspired marketing insights.

In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, we’re talking fashion, community, and the art of collaboration with Terrence — co-founder of City of Gods, a culture-driven fashion brand.Terrence breaks down how City of Gods went from an idea to a movement, landing partnerships with major players like Nike and Red Bull — all while staying true to its community-first roots. We also get into his newest venture, By Any Dreams Necessary, an initiative focused on helping people merge tech, fashion, and holistic living to reach their goals.From lessons in leadership and time management to his personal health journey and work with NBA Africa, Terrence proves that success isn’t just about what you build — it’s about how you build it and who you build it with.Connect with Zuryna & Live More AgencyInstagram (Zuryna): @ladyzsaysInstagram (Operations Unfiltered): @operationsunfilteredInstagram (Live More Agency): @livemoreagencyWebsite: www.livemoreagency.coConnect with TerranceInstagram (Terrance): @acityofgods

What happens when two former RAs link up to talk about weight loss and life after college?In this special Mustang Meetup edition of Operations Unfiltered, fitness coach Chris Shaw joins the show to share how he balances content creation, fatherhood, and corporate life—all while staying committed to his fitness journey.We take a trip down memory lane to our less-than-healthy Stevenson days, laugh about old RA moments, and, of course, Chris drops some gems for future Mustangs looking to prioritize wellness and discipline.💡 Fun Fact: This episode was originally planned as a virtual weight loss meeting—but when no one showed up, we pivoted into a Mustang Meetup. Classic RA move!This is an episode full of laughs, lessons, and nostalgia you won’t want to miss!✨ Connect with Zuryna & Live More AgencyInstagram (Zuryna): @ladyzsaysInstagram (Operations Unfiltered): @operationsunfilteredInstagram (Live More Agency): @livemoreagencyWebsite: www.livemoreagency.co✨ Connect with Coach Chris ShawInstagram (Chris Shaw): @cshawfit

On this special Moms Unfiltered edition of Operations Unfiltered, I’m keeping it local in Baltimore and highlighting an incredible organization that’s doing life-changing work in our city.I had the pleasure of chatting with Lauren Eaton, the new Executive Director of Itineris, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting autistic adults in living full and meaningful lives. Lauren walked me through her journey from Senior Director of Operations to leading the entire organization, and she gave us a behind-the-scenes look at what a “day in the life” really looks like as an executive director and mom.We talk about:How she balances early mornings, motherhood, and leadership.The “same but different” shift from operations to executive director.Why people and connection are at the heart of Itineris’ mission.How nonprofits like Itineris are shaping Baltimore in powerful ways.This conversation is a reminder that moms wear so many hats and sometimes that includes changing lives through leadership, service, and advocacy. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to juggle family, career, and community impact, this episode will leave you inspired.✨ Connect with Zuryna & Live More Agency Instagram (Zuryna): @ladyzsays Instagram (Operations Unfiltered): @operationsunfiltered Instagram (Live More Agency): @livemoreagency Website: www.livemoreagency.co✨ Connect with Itineris Website: www.itinerisbaltimore.org Instagram: @itinerisbaltimore Facebook: Itineris Baltimore LinkedIn: Itineris, Inc.

In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, I dive into the impact of recession indicators on everyday life, from digital coupons to the rising popularity of consignment. We break down complex economic trends into relatable terms and discusses the practical side of managing household budgets with a project management twist. Joining her is Robyn, the founder of TotSwap Consignment, who shares her journey from event planning to creating a successful consignment business. We explore how consignment is transforming family finances and the eco-friendly shopping landscape. Tune in for insights, real-life experiences, and an inspiring conversation about financial flexibility and sustainability.Follow Zuryna (@LadyZSays) and (@OperationsUnfiltered)Keep up with all things TotSwap by visiting www.totswap.net

This week on Operations Unfiltered, we’re doing a “lessons learned” review,  project management style.In What’s Going Well, we celebrate Taylor Swift’s New Heights move into podcasting, Beyoncé’s Emmy win and brand mastery, and Chris Brown’s Breezy Bowl, a masterclass in long-term elite craftsmanship.In Areas for Improvement, we break down American Eagle’s “good genes” moment with Sydney Sweeney and how brand language can make or break a campaign, plus Southwest Airlines’ shift from standout to “just another airline” after introducing bag fees.You’ll also hear my recommendations for how these brands can course-correct, reclaim their edge, and reconnect with their audiences.Follow along on Instagram @operationsunfiltered and @ladyzsays.

In this episode, I’m joined by Krista Grubb Tracy, Client Relationship Manager at the Dr. Nancy Grasmick Leadership Institute at Towson University. Krista’s work centers on helping organizations reshape their workplace culture and leadership pipelines through transformative, accessible programs.We talk about:The magic that happens when women support women in professional spacesThe quiet strength required to lead from behind the scenesAnd more! Krista brings compassion, clarity, and reminds us that leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about impact.Follow Zuryna (@LadyZSays) and (@OperationsUnfiltered)

Welcome to the first episode of Moms Unfiltered, where we spotlight the women managing motherhood, leadership, and life with intention.In this kickoff conversation, I’m joined by Kanika Watson—leadership coach, strategist, and my former manager turned mentor. We met at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, and today we’re talking about the real behind-the-scenes of building a life and business led by faith.We dive into:How a government layoff became divine redirectionWhat “soft CEO life” really meansThe difference between surviving and thriving in leadershipWhy authenticity matters more than always being strongKanika keeps it honest, faith-filled, and full of practical gems for anyone navigating career transitions or motherhood while chasing big dreams.Follow Zuryna (@LadyZSays) and (@OperationsUnfiltered)Connect with Kanika online at kanikawatson.com

In this week’s episode of Baltimore County Unfiltered, Zuryna’s got the scoop on what’s poppin’ around the County!🍽️ Baltimore County Restaurant Week wraps this weekend—so grab those crab tots while you can (she’s team Lib’s Grill, btw). 📚 The library is doing the most—from free kids’ vision exams to cooking demos. It’s giving community hub energy. 🎤 Zuryna’s also hosting The Business of Influence & Content Creation at Perry Hall Library on July 24—perfect for creators & small biz owners ready to grow with intention. 📢 And yep, the Baltimore County Redistricting Report just dropped. Here’s what you need to know & why it matters.✨ Episode Highlights:✨ Where to eat before Baltimore County Restaurant Week ends Library gems you probably didn’t know about Upcoming influencer workshop deets📬 Got a story, event, or concern? DM @operationsunfiltered or @ladyZsays

In this special segment of Baltimore County Unfiltered, Zuryna breaks down a major policy change that could hit your pockets—especially if you run a service-based business in Maryland. Starting July 1, 2025, the state will begin taxing certain digital services at 3%, including web design, cloud storage, SEO, and more.Who’s impacted? What services are taxable? What should you do to stay compliant? Lady Z did the research so you don’t have to—and she’s giving you clear, action-oriented steps to keep your business protected.🔍 Key highlights:Which services are now taxableThe NAICS codes that matterWhat to do right now to prepareWho's exempt and how to prove itIf you’re a freelancer, virtual assistant, marketing agency owner, or tech entrepreneur, this is not the episode to skip.📬 Got a tip or concern for your neighborhood? DM @operationsunfiltered or email info@livemoreagency.co. 📱 Follow @operationsunfiltered and @ladyzsays for more updates and resources.Episode Resources State of MD Comptroller Site WBAL Article 

This week's episode is equal parts juice, joy, and just keep going.This week on Operations Unfiltered, I’m chopping it up with Kelly, the founder of Mova Nature, a Black woman-owned holistic juice brand born right here in Baltimore City. We get into how she built this business from scratch during the pandemic, turned pain into purpose, and why she's not just making juice—she's building a whole movement centered on wellness, community, and healing.We also talk about the real side of entrepreneurship: cash flow spreadsheets, scaling struggles, and why every founder needs a little AI in their life. Kelly keeps it 100 about the mental load of building something meaningful—and how she’s learning to delegate, rest, and stay rooted in self-care (even when life is lifing).This episode is for the dreamers, the doers, and the women in wellness who are figuring it out as they go.Keep up with all this Zuryna and Operations UnfilteredBe sure to follow Zuryna on Instagram and Operations Unfiltered on Instagram  Follow Kelli and Mova Nature Be sure to follow Kelli (IamMovaKells) on Instagram and Mova Nature on Instagram

In this special Operations Unfiltered segment, Zuryna breaks down two big updates for Baltimore County:🍽 Free Summer Meals are available for youth 18 and under at select libraries from June 23–August 15. Meals must be eaten on-site and are first come, first served.🗺 Redistricting Update: Baltimore County may move from 7 to 9 council districts. Councilman David Marks shares his concerns, and Zuryna explains what it means—and how to get involved.📬 Got a tip or concern? Email info@livemoreagency.co or DM @operationsunfiltered.Episode ResourcesBaltimore County Public Library (link)Baltimore Banner Article (link) 

This week, I’m joined by Adriana, the powerhouse behind Black Girls Love Football, a movement that started as a passion project and grew into a vibrant online space that celebrates sisterhood, sports culture, and showing up boldly in male-dominated arenas.In this heartfelt and unfiltered conversation, Adriana shares her journey from falling in love with football to building a brand rooted in joy, visibility, and authenticity. We talk mom life, managing imposter syndrome, staying organized, and what it really takes to grow a movement while keeping your peace. From NFL Media Day to surprise moments at the Draft, Adriana gives us an inside look at the hustle, the highlights, and the heart behind the brand.Whether you're into sports, storytelling, or just love seeing Black women win...you’ll feel seen in this one.🎧 Follow Zuryna on Instagram @OperationsUnfiltered | @LadyZSays | @LiveMoreAgencyKeep up with all things Black Girls Love Football @BlackGirlsLoveFootball (Instagram) (Threads)

In this quick solo episode, I’m sharing a full-circle career moment — I’ve officially joined the Executive Advisory Board for the PATIENTS Program at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy. If you’ve followed my A Seat at the Table journey, you know how much this means to me.It’s a milestone rooted in purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to community and equity.Learn more about the PATIENTS Program here. Follow my journey on social @LadyZSays and @OperationsUnfiltered

In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, your favorite marketing project manager girly, Zuryna, chats with Tyra Sellers — the visionary founder of Ty’s Garden, a holistic wellness brand rooted in intention, luxury, and community. Based in the DMV, Tyra opens up about her journey from concept to community cornerstone, blending skincare rituals, wellness teas, trauma-informed yoga, and dry vegan brunches into a movement that prioritizes healing and connection.You’ll hear how Tyra is expanding into Pilates, why partnerships matter, and how she stays grounded as a solo entrepreneur. Plus, Zuryna and Tyra dive into the operations behind it all. Everything from staying organized to maintaining a mindset of flow and self-care.Whether you're a wellness enthusiast, a founder in the making, or just someone trying to balance business and burnout, this episode is for you.About Zuryna Zuryna is a marketing project manager with a knack for turning chaos into strategy. She founded Live More Agency LLC to help small businesses, professional athletes, and content creators streamline their marketing efforts.🎧 Follow the journey on Instagram @OperationsUnfiltered | @LadyZSays | @LiveMoreAgencyAbout Tyra / Ty's GardenTyra Sellers is a Public Health and Community Health Advocate, Wellness Curator, and founder of Ty’s Garden Company, based in the DMV area. A Bowie, Maryland native, Tyra earned her degree in Health Education from Morgan State University and a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Maryland College Park. Currently training to become a certified Pilates instructor, Tyra is a passionate advocate for mind-body connection experiences, self-care, and holistic health. Her 20-year pescatarian lifestyle reflects her dedication to wellness and environmental sustainability.Keep up with all things Ty's Garden on Instagram. This Week's Episode Partner: A.Rose Wellness Bar - visit www.arosewellnessbar.com for more details! 

What happens when a finance brain meets a creative heart?You get Nick Valenti, co-founder and CEO of MĀDIN, a bicoastal creative agency that’s redefining strategy, storytelling, and influence. In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, Nick joins me to talk about his journey from private equity to brand campaigns, the origin of the MĀDIN name (hint: it’s not a typo), and how his agency blends intentionality with creativity to serve numerous brands across the globe.If you’re a founder, creative lead, or just tired of marketing buzzwords with no backbone—this one’s for you. ✨About Zuryna Zuryna is a marketing project manager with a knack for turning chaos into strategy. She founded Live More Agency LLC to help small businesses, professional athletes, and content creators streamline their marketing efforts.🎧 Follow the journey on Instagram @OperationsUnfiltered | @LadyZSays | @LiveMoreAgencyAbout Nick ValentiNick is a serial entrepreneur with a background in private equity. He currently is the CEO and head of strategy for Mādin, a full service creative agency that helps many founder led brands reach their full potential. He has also worked with global brands including Formula1, Palm Tree Crew, and San Diego FC.

The Today Show tried it with a TV mom bracket (Claire Huxtable vs. Carol Brady? Be serious), but it sparked something deeper—moms have always been the blueprint for marketing. No PR team. No big budget. Just strategy, vibes, and unmatched relatability.In this episode of Operations Unfiltered, we take a walk down memory lane and a scroll through today’s feed to explore how mom creators like @jalisaevaughn, @carmenreneeblog, and @jaylabrenae are carrying that legacy forward—turning everyday chaos into community, connection, and conversion. From packing lunches to pitching brands, they’re doing it all, often with a toddler on one hip and a contract in the inbox.We’re breaking down the systems behind the content, the emotional resonance that makes it stick, and why brands that really get it are already winning. Spoiler alert: mom influencers aren’t just relatable—they’re reliable marketing powerhouses.So whether you’re a PTA president, content queen, or both—this one’s for you. 🎙️🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts and follow @ladyzsays + @operationsunfiltered for more behind-the-scenes gems.

This week we are talking all about the dollars behind the dupe deals.In this episode, we’re diving into the ripple effect of increased tariffs on Chinese imports and what that really means for content creators, small business owners, and marketing teams alike. With recent announcement from Shein and Temu about upcoming price hikes, pending shifts in packaging costs and vendor timelines, this conversation is less about panic—and more about preparation.We’ll talk project management moves, marketing pivots, and why transparency is your best friend right now. And later in the episode, we’re answering one of the most common identity questions out there: Am I a content creator or an influencer?This episode is a quick but essential download for anyone building a personal brand or business in a shifting economy.Don't forget to follow along on social  (@OperationsUnfiltered), (@LadyZSays) and (@LiveMoreAgency).