Be More Positive

Be More Positive with Ron Legler

In this episode of Be More Positive, host Zuryna Livermore sits down with Ron Legler, President of the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, home of Baltimore’s historic Hippodrome Theatre. Ron shares the story behind the iconic theater—from its beginnings as a 1914 vaudeville house to its transformation into a cultural hub that brings Broadway productions, community events, and arts education to Baltimore. The conversation explores how Broadway in Baltimore helps drive energy downtown, create opportunities for local artists and unions, and introduce new audiences—especially young people—to the power of live theater. Ron also reflects on his own journey from theater kid to arts leader and why ensuring access to the arts for everyone remains central to the center’s mission. Plus, they discuss the excitement around upcoming productions, including Hell’s Kitchen, and why experiencing live theater can be both inspiring and deeply personal. Throughout the conversation, one message is clear: show up, support the arts, and celebrate the stories that bring communities together. Visit https://www.france-merrickpac.com/ [https://www.france-merrickpac.com/] for more information ______________________________________________________________________ Follow along online and social for more positive stories about positive people. @BTimesOnline [https://www.instagram.com/btimesonline/?hl=en] @LadyZSays [https://www.instagram.com/ladyzsays/] https://baltimoretimes-online.com/ [https://baltimoretimes-online.com/]

Be More Positive with Tiffany Bethea

In this episode of Be More Positive, Zuryna sits down with Tiffany Bethea, Executive Director of the Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce, to talk about what it really takes to build—and sustain—a business in today’s climate. Tiffany shares her journey from Hampton University to leading one of Baltimore’s most impactful business organizations, along with how her background in coaching shapes the way she supports entrepreneurs. At the core of her work is helping business owners understand what stage they’re in so they can focus on the right problems and grow with intention.  The conversation touches on: *  Baltimore’s current business “boom” and opportunity for growth  *  The power of intentional networking and community  *  Why listening is the most underrated business strategy  *  The importance of building with impact, not just metrics  Plus, Tiffany shares how the Chamber is creating a clearer path for entrepreneurs to access resources, scale their businesses, and win. If you’re navigating entrepreneurship or looking for your next level, this episode is both practical and inspiring—with a reminder that in Baltimore, we grow stronger together. ________________________ Follow along online and social for more positive stories about positive people. @BTimesOnline [https://www.instagram.com/btimesonline/?hl=en] @LadyZSays [https://www.instagram.com/ladyzsays/] https://baltimoretimes-online.com/ [https://baltimoretimes-online.com/]

Be More Positive with Cassandra Ferguson

In this episode of Be More Positive, host Zuryna Livermore sits down with Baltimore media entrepreneur Cassandra Ferguson, founder of Elevation Global Media Group, for a conversation about storytelling, entrepreneurship and the power of showing up with intention. Ferguson shares how her experience in radio revealed a gap in the industry—many creators had the talent, but lacked the tools, branding and support needed to grow. That realization led her to build Elevation Global Media Group, a full-service media company helping individuals, businesses and organizations develop their voice through production, branding and marketing. She also discusses her commitment to giving back through media literacy programs in Baltimore City and County schools, where students gain hands-on experience in content creation, podcasting and vision-building—empowering them to see new possibilities for their future. Plus, Ferguson offers advice for aspiring creators navigating today’s digital space, emphasizing authenticity over imitation and encouraging others to stop overthinking and simply start. ________________________ This episode was produced in partnership with Elevation Global Media Group and The Baltimore Times. Host: Zuryna Livermore Executive Producer: Harold Booker ________________________ Follow along online and social for more positive stories about positive people. @BTimesOnline [https://www.instagram.com/btimesonline/?hl=en] @LadyZSays [https://www.instagram.com/ladyzsays/] https://baltimoretimes-online.com/ [https://baltimoretimes-online.com/]

Be More Positive with Simone Phillips (@CharmCityTable)

In this episode of Be More Positive, host Zuryna Livermore sits down with Baltimore content creator and entrepreneur Simone Phillips, founder of Charm City Table, for a conversation about food, culture and the creativity that defines Baltimore. Born in Baltimore City and raised in the Woodlawn/Windsor Mill area, Simone shares how family traditions, community gatherings and home-cooked meals helped shape her love for food. She also reflects on how Charm City Table evolved from a personal food diary into one of Baltimore’s most recognizable platforms for highlighting local restaurants and diverse culinary voices. Plus, in a round of “Be More Baltimore,” Simone shares some of her favorite local experiences—from where to take first-time visitors for a crab cake to the traditions that make a Baltimore summer complete. ____________________________________________ This episode was produced in partnership with Elevation Global Media Group [https://www.elevationglobalmediagroup.com/] and The Baltimore Times [https://baltimoretimes-online.com/]. Host: Zuryna Livermore Executive Producer: Harold Booker

Be More Positive with Hana Scott

In this episode of Be More Positive, host Zuryna sits down with Baltimore City’s First Lady, Hana Scott, for an honest conversation about life beyond the headlines. Raised in Northeast Baltimore, Hana shares her journey from Baltimore City Public Schools to earning a full scholarship to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and how her path evolved from biology and vaccine research to entrepreneurship and operations strategy. Hana also opens up about motherhood, postpartum mental health, and navigating life in the public eye while remaining deeply committed to Baltimore and the communities she serves. Plus, in a round of “Be More Baltimore,” she shares some of her favorite local gems—from snowballs to crab cakes. ___________________________ This episode was produced in partnership with Elevation Global Media Group [https://www.elevationglobalmediagroup.com/] and The Baltimore Times [https://baltimoretimes-online.com/]. Host: Zuryna Livermore Executive Producer: Harold Booker Photographer: Hugh Williams