Jennifer Conrad is the Founder, CEO, and Editor-in-Chief of Arizona Ascent, a media platform more than a magazine—uniting business, real estate, and community across Arizona. She builds brands and content that people remember, turning storytelling into strategy—and strategy into measurable impact.
Under her leadership, Arizona Ascent spotlights the leaders shaping Arizona’s future, positioning their work within the state’s broader momentum. Its stories don’t just inform—they elevate credibility, expand visibility, and connect leaders to the ecosystem that makes growth possible.
In this episode, we sit down with MariaLaura Boldini Creal, the founder of Fantastica Italia and a winner of the 2025 Small Business Impact Award, presented by Arizona Ascent Magazine. Fantastica Italia has been recognized for its significant contributions to Maricopa County, fostering cultural awareness and strengthening the Italian American community through heritage-based travel experiences.
For nearly two decades, Fantastica Italia has crafted immersive journeys that help travelers connect with their roots in a deeply personal way. From curating custom itineraries to working with the Italian Association of Arizona, Marialaura and her team are making a lasting impact—not just on those who travel, but also on the local economy by promoting cultural tourism and small businesses.
Why Listen?
Discover how heritage tourism is shaping the future of travel. Learn why Fantastica Italia was recognized as a 2025 Small Business Impact Award winner. Get inspired by Marialaura’s journey of passion, perseverance, and community impact.
Links & Resources:
🌍 Explore Fantastica Italia: www.fantasticaitalia.com
📍 Follow on Instagram & Facebook for travel inspiration.
Join the Conversation:
What does heritage mean to you? Share your thoughts and tag us on social media! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review for more inspiring stories.
