Front Row Seat: Alicia Quarles, Executive Producer & Co-Host of Positively Charlotte

Photo: Alicia Quarles

Welcome to the first edition of Front Row Seat for 2025! This month marks two years of Front Row Charlotte, a platform dedicated to showcasing the very best of the Queen City. It’s only fitting that we kick off the new year—and celebrate this milestone—with someone who brings an undeniably positive perspective to Charlotte.

Alicia Quarles, an Emmy Award-winning media maven, has spent the past two decades as a distinguished voice and prominent presence in entertainment journalism. Her career recently brought her from the bright lights of New York City to the crown jewel of the South, where she now co-hosts Positively Charlotte—a weekday morning show she also executive produces. Now a fixture in Charlotte's social scene, I sat down with Alicia for a conversation about all things Queen City—her journey here, her favorite spots, and even the rumor about her almost becoming a Real Housewife!

I usually ask my guests to introduce themselves, but you truly need no introduction. With a journalism career spanning over two decades, you’ve been a familiar face in our homes as a correspondent on GMA3, E! News, DailyMailTV, and more. So, when I saw the first commercial for Positively Charlotte, my immediate reaction was, Wait—what is Alicia Quarles doing in the Queen City? Can you share a bit about the journey that led you to become the Executive Producer and Co-Host of Positively Charlotte?

I actually have very strong roots in the Carolinas. My parents moved to Raleigh during my freshman year of college. My dad, Orage, was the President and Publisher of the newspaper there, The Raleigh News & Observer, for many years before retiring. My mother, Linda, was an educator. My older sister Amber attended UNC Chapel Hill and later moved from New York to Charlotte when she started her family. When I got pregnant with twins, I decided to move down temporarily to give birth and take my maternity leave. From there, I was flying back and forth weekly on average for work. It came to the point where I received a big job offer in New York at the same time I had this amazing opportunity to executive produce and co-host my own show. It really was a no-brainer. Charlotte is such an awesome community, and the chance to stay close to my family, start a show from scratch, build a team, and tell positive and uplifting stories was a win-win.

One of the things I love about Positively Charlotte—and what sets it apart from other morning shows in the city—is that both you and your co-host, Liza Mahacek, aren’t Charlotte natives. That gives newer residents the sense that they’re discovering the city right alongside you. Was this an intentional part of the show’s concept? And how has being slightly unfamiliar with Charlotte shaped your perspective and approach to your role?

It wasn’t an intentional part of the concept. We simply wanted the best person for the co-hosting job, and Liza is that person. What is intentional is being authentic. We wanted to be honest with the audience by letting them know we are not from Charlotte but are going to invest in the community and shine a light on the best people, places, and things in our city. Charlotte has so many people moving here daily, and we know viewers will be able to relate and have fun exploring the city with us.

Having lived in Charlotte for over four years now, I often hear both longtime residents and transplants say that the city lacks culture. As someone whose job is to highlight the best of Charlotte—and who moved here from New York, a city often described as a cultural melting pot—what’s your take on that critique?

I have to be honest, I have been pleasantly surprised by the diversity in Charlotte. On the surface, you might not think the city has culture, but all you have to do is look for it, and it’s there. I just look at the friend group I’ve created here over these past two years, and we are from all walks of life. Plus, working on Positively Charlotte has allowed me to discover and enjoy the arts in our city, ranging from plays to museums, all kinds of culinary experiences, and more.

Let’s talk lifestyle and entertainment. As an award-winning entertainment journalist, you’ve had access to some of the most exclusive parties and red-carpet events in New York. Now, as a mother of two beautiful twins, I imagine your nightlife looks a little different. But when you do go out, how would you describe Charlotte’s social scene? Are there any restaurants, events, or shopping destinations currently on your must-visit list?

My evenings certainly look a lot different now, but in the best way possible. The great thing about having kids later in life is that I have done it all in terms of going to big events, so I am embracing this time of my life of being calmer and Charlotte is perfect for that. I think if you look hard enough, you can find the scene you are looking for in Charlotte. When I want to feel the vibes and energy of what it feels like to be in a New York restaurant, I head over to Barcelona Wine Bar. I love a Sunday fun day which includes duck bowling with friends or going to one of the breweries. I also enjoy Postino in Ballantyne or walking the gardens of the Duke mansion. One thing is for sure though, my club days are long gone! As for shopping, I love Boem. It is my go-to. I’ve also gotten on the charity gala circuit which has been great to support local causes and meet new people.

Speaking of entertainment, there was a rumor a few years ago that you were approached to join The Real Housewives of New York City. Any truth to that? And if Bravo ever decided to bring The Real Housewives franchise to Charlotte, would you consider joining The Real Housewives of Charlotte?

There is some truth to it. I was in the running to be a Housewife. Here’s the thing: I’ve learned in life to never say never. I have a lot of really close friends who are cast members and have had positive experiences. Still, for me, journalism is my first priority career-wise, and I love what I’m doing.

Beyond being a mother and the incredible work you're doing with Positively Charlotte, is there anything else on the horizon that our readers should be on the lookout for from Alicia Quarles?

I’ve really learned the art of balancing. Before, my life was ALL work, and now I really try to put my children first and my work second. In addition to Positively Charlotte, I have a podcast with my best friend, Valerie Greenberg, called The AV Effect. It’s all about inspiring women, and every episode features a celebrity guest. I also have a couple of projects in the works that I’m not able to speak about yet, but great things are coming.