About AZ Big Media
For more than 35 years, AZ Big Media has been bringing readers the state's most compelling business, real estate and lifestyle news through the print editions of Az Business and AZRE magazines, Ranking Arizona, Az Business Leaders, Experience AZ, People & Projects to Know, Arizona Business Angels and Play Ball, the only official spring training publication of The Cactus League.
The company has the fastest-growing news website in the U.S. at AZBigMedia.com. The website serves as a complement to its print publications and incorporates up-to-the-minute breaking news, compelling business stories, C-Level executive editorial profiles and much more. Additionally, AZ Big Media's social media following is interested and engaged, and provides additional opportunities for azbigmedia.com news to be read, shared and discussed.
It takes a lot of enthusiastic individuals to keep our publications up-to-date with the latest and greatest Arizona information and news on a daily basis! Meet the team behind the magazines that make it happen.Mike Atkinson, CEO & President, proudly leads the talented team at AZ Big Media.

Amy Lindsey
Publisher

Dedicated Wife, Mother and Grandmother. My favorite hobby is spending time with my family beachfront or in the woods camping (I prefer glamping when possible).
I’ve worked in the media industry for over 30 years for large business as well as being a small business owner. I love to share my experiences gained along the way to help others succeed.
My Superpower is laughter. Life is an adventure – learning to laugh at ourselves and help others along the way is the best part of the journey.

Michael Gossie
Editor in chief

I am an Ironman triathlete and have earned more than 50 journalism awards for writing, editing and design. I’m most proud of being the founding president of the Arc of Steuben Foundation in New York, which serves individuals with developmental disabilities, including my sister.

Erin Thorburn
Staff Writer

A lover of coffee, books, yoga, Sci-Fi, birds and all things Star Wars, my writing experience is as diverse as my interests. In my time writing for AZ Big Media I’ve covered anything from mining and economic development to Arizona Ballet performances and resort staycations. My writing portfolio also includes LiveWell magazine, Better Living magazine, national newspapers (Tribune News Services), WESTMARC, Rox Media, and a host of other digital content clients ranging from orthopedic companies, plastic surgeons, and dental clinics to office furniture, cherry orchards, restaurants, and more.
When I’m not in journalist mode, you’ll still find me writing — and illustrating — children’s books: “Stick to it Chick” and “Scaredy Cat.” (Tiny Hippo Press)When I’m not writing (which is rare), you’ll find me at home with my sweetie, three teenage girls (gah!), five birds, a bunny and one extremely excitable Doberman.
SUPERPOWER: To innately know where all my children’s dirty dishes are hidden!

Kyle Backer
Staff Writer

My family has been in Phoenix since the early 1940s, so I’m a born and bred Arizonan living in the North Valley with my wife, our two dogs and two shrieking birds. Reading and listening to podcasts — mostly on history and current events — takes up most of my free time. I also enjoy riding my motorcycle, cooking and going to shows.
Superpower: My cheery disposition!

Lynette Carrington
Marketing/Events Specialist

I absorb trivia and pop culture info like a sponge! I love movies and entertainment as much as I love marketing, business, events and PR. Mom of three, friend to all. I once danced with Jeff Bridges in a school library. Super Power: Telling Punny and Corny Jokes

Lorenzo Zesati
Software Integrations Manager

Dedicated husband and father of three creative and smart kids. Love coaching and playing baseball. I also enjoy working out, yoga, hiking, biking, and boogie boarding. I attended and graduated from CSULB with a BS in Engineering. I have worked in the tech industry for over 25 years and supported small to mid-size businesses. My first little league baseball team was the Oakland A’s therefore I will always be a big A’s fan and root for the Dallas Cowboys.
My Superpower: Is being a nerd and making technology easy for others to understand and implement.

Sheri King
Director of Sales

Since 2005 I have enjoyed several positions with AZ BIG Media but love my Ranking Arizona assignment best! My free time is spent making memories with family & friends, volunteering, antique treasure-hunting, home improvement projects & exploring this beautiful state of Arizona! Super Power: INSTINCT and knowing better than to ever ignore its’ advice.

April Rice
Sr. Account Executive

Beach lover and world traveler. Kansas State University football fan. Oldest of five so I’m a little bossy. Wife of a retired Veteran and mother of two boys.

Maria Hansen
Account Executive

Sandy beaches and sunsets are my favorite! I love diamonds and anything that sparkles, but you’ll find my weekends are mostly spent with my husband and two kids, getting dusty in our CanAm while enjoying the beautiful Sonoran Desert. In my spare time, I enjoy trying out new recipes and catching up with family and friends. To me, being happy is having something to look forward to, and someone to share it all with.

Chrissy Souders
Multimedia Marketing Specialist

I am an Arizona native and mother of two boys. My favorites in life are my family and traveling as much as possible!
I have been in the media industry for over 18 years working for small and large businesses. I strive to learn new and unique ways to help expand my industry knowledge and pass that along to my work team and clients.

Ann McSherry
Director of Sales

I love traveling to tropical destinations………my philosophy is “where there’s a beach, there’s a way”. I am also a foodie, a sports fan and volunteer for several non-profit organizations.

David Harken
Sales Director

I enjoy spending time with my family and rescue dog. I’m a sports enthusiast and can often be found rooting for the home team at Chase Field. I enjoy good long hikes, traveling and spending time with friends.

Sheri Brown
Director of Sales

I really enjoy spending time at the gym, biking and doing yoga. I also spend countless hours boating during the summer and going for joy rides on the Harley up to my second home in the White Mountains. I’m a very proud Mom to Stepson Cody who is in the Army and Stepdaughter Jessica who is currently attending school to become a Nurse.

Bruce Andersen
Production Manager

Bruce Andersen is the production manager at AZ Big Media and oversees all visual aspects of AZ Big Media’s publications and events. He is a native of Minneapolis, Minn., and moved to Arizona 21 years ago to escape the snowy Minnesota winters. He is married to Julie and is the proud father of Drew and Nicole.

Lauren Laird
Graphic Designer

I love listening to podcasts, coming up with difficult and strange recipes to cook for family and friends, and of course designing! My first logo design was for NASA when I was in elementary school. I also enjoy painting and have held a few shows displaying my artwork throughout Arizona!

Mike Mertes
Art Director

“A portrait is not made in the camera but on either side of it.” -Edward Steichen

Sara Fregapane
Special Projects Manager

I hail from the great state of Wisconsin and will always be a Packer/Brewer/Bucks fan. I love anything furry (especially cats), hiking, my Kindle and spending time with my family and friends.
My super hero power would be to disappear.

Michelle Zesati
Office Administrator

Plants, road trips, candles, dark chocolate, great music and visiting the beautiful outdoor wonders of our world fill up my joy tank! Sedona and Monterey Bay are two of my favorite places. My three kids keep me busy and laughing all the time. Over 20 years of making memories with my amazing husband who is a master of shopping cart organization. My superpower is adaptability. I can adjust & prosper in any environment or situation.

Amanda Bruno
Database Specialist

I just recently returned to Arizona after spending 11 years in Madison, WI. When not working, you can usually find me guzzling coffee while playing MMORPGs.