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.
What does it take to build an entire ecosystem that helps small businesses not just survive—but thrive?
In this episode, we sit down with Kelley Keffer, a 20-year veteran in entrepreneurship and economic development, and the powerhouse behind Mesa Business Builder. From wet labs to tuition-free business training to podcasting studios built by the city itself, Kelley reveals how Mesa is rewriting the playbook for small business support.
We talk about the power of “economic gardening,” what it means to truly listen to local business needs, and how programs like LaunchPoint and The Studios are helping everyone from medtech startups to solo consultants build their legacy—right here in Arizona. Whether you’re a founder, a policymaker, or a fan of homegrown innovation, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible when a city leads with intention.
🔗 Learn more: MesaBusinessBuilder.com
🎧 Listen now and get inspired to build where you’re planted.
1 comment
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