Operations Unfiltered

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 ,...

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...

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, laug...

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 j...

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 jou...

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 Swee...

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 spaces The quiet streng...

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 l...

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 Infl...

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...

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 m...

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 Zury...

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...

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 PAT...

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...

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...

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 @jali...

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 conv...

Let’s talk about the logistics behind the legacy. In this episode, we’re diving into the behind-the-scenes of one of Baltimore’s most iconic events— The Fells Point Fun Festival . Now in its 59th year, this historic neighborhood celebration draws thousands each fall with live music, local vendors, and waterfront vibes—but what does it really take to pull it off? From coordinating 300+ vendors to g...

In this episode, we’re showing love to the woman who’s quietly making major moves in the world of sports—Nicole Lynn. If her name doesn’t ring a bell yet, don’t worry... it will. Nicole isn’t just in the room, she’s running it. As the first Black woman to represent a top NFL draft pick and the current President of Football Operations at Klutch Sports (yes, the same Klutch that reps LeBron, Jalen H...

Let’s talk about the money behind the highlights.  In this episode, we're getting into the world of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and how student-athletes are turning their influence into income. From beauty brand sponsorships to social media game plans, we’re unpacking what it means to market yourself while still running drills and midterms. This isn’t just about sports—it’s about strateg...

In this special episode of Operations Unfiltered, we're back with Simone Phillips, aka Charm City Table, a prominent influencer in Baltimore and the DMV. We discuss upcoming plans for Charm City Table, she shares some candid social media experiences with business owners, and offers invaluable advice on thriving as a content creator or collaborating with influencers as a business owner. Tune in for...

90s fashion is officially back, and it’s not just about the clothes—it’s about the culture shift bringing malls back to life. On this episode of Operations Unfiltered , we're breaking down the resurgence of brands like Levi’s, GAP, and Old Navy while questioning how Forever 21 fell off so hard. Is this all thanks to influencer marketing? Are shopping malls really making a comeback? And what can br...

Ever wondered how social media plays a role in local government? In this episode of Operations Unfiltered , Zuryna sits down with Baltimore County Councilman David Marks to break down the intersection of digital engagement and civic service. From improving community spaces to tackling food deserts and traffic safety, Councilman Marks shares how he’s using creative solutions to keep District 5 thri...

This week, I’m diving into my second week of the Board Member Pipeline Leadership Program with Associated Black Charities, and let me tell you—this is not just a seat at the table, it’s a masterclass in what it actually means to serve on a board. From breaking down the roles of board members (yes, everyone and their mama has a job to do) to case studies that had my inner professional student thriv...