What Sets Arizona Ascent Magazine Apart 

At Arizona Ascent Magazine, we do more than cover business and real estate—we see how they’re all connected. Unlike other publications that focus solely on numbers, transactions, or breaking news, we uncover the interwoven stories of people, industries, and communities shaping Arizona’s future.

While traditional business and real estate magazines often operate in silos, we bring it all together. We connect the dots between market trends, economic shifts, local businesses, and the communities they serve. By showing how these elements interact, we empower our readers with a holistic understanding of Arizona’s evolving landscape.

Business magazines may spotlight the most prominent players, and real estate publications might focus on properties. At Arizona Ascent, we explore how real estate shapes businesses, how businesses shape communities, and how communities inspire progress. It’s not just about transactions; it’s about transformation.

We don’t just cater to CEOs or investors. Our content is designed for everyone—from entrepreneurs and business owners to families searching for their dream homes. We recognize that the decisions people make in one area of life, like buying a home, often ripple across other places, like growing a business or building a community.

Where others focus on isolated data points, we focus on the ecosystem. Our stories weave together the connections between economic development, housing trends, and community initiatives, showing how they work together to create opportunities and drive success in Arizona.

At Arizona Ascent, we understand that every decision—launching a business, investing in real estate, or supporting a local cause—is part of a larger story. Our mission is to bring those stories to life, helping our readers see the individual pieces and the bigger picture of how everything is connected.

We’re not just a magazine but a platform for insight and action. By showing how business, real estate, and community unite, we empower our readers to make informed decisions and play an active role in Arizona’s growth.

Meet The Arizona Ascent Editorial Team

Jaki Underwood

Editor-in-Chief

As the editor-in-chief and co-creator of Arizona Ascent Magazine, I help shape the direction of our publication. My team and I focus on the vital connections between real estate, jobs, and prosperity here in Arizona because they play a massive role in the state’s future. We work hard to give our readers the information they need to succeed, aiming to build a stronger, more prosperous Arizona.

Jennifer Conrad

Managing Editor

At Arizona Ascent, Jennifer and her team are dedicated to shedding light on the interconnected realms of real estate, jobs, and prosperity, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping our collective future. Through comprehensive coverage, they aim to empower individuals with the knowledge needed to thrive in these domains, fostering a stronger and more prosperous community.

Ava Marie LaMonica

Senior Editor

Ava graduated in 2021 from Wagner College, in her hometown of Staten Island, NY, with a BA in English and a minor in Film and Media Studies. Ava began her professional journey as a freelance copywriter, where she developed a passion for creating engaging and persuasive content. After gaining valuable experience, she transitioned to a full-time role as a copywriter at marketing company, REV77, where she writes for a diverse range of companies.

Justin Quen

Tax Editor

My name is Justin Quen, and I’m a Scottsdale native. I earned my Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of Arizona and am a licensed CPA here in the state. As an independent CPA, I provide a wide range of accounting and tax services to individuals and small business owners. I founded my own business to offer a more personalized experience for my clients and to give back to the community by sharing my knowledge and expertise.