1. We’re so addicted to Thai food, we have to get our “fix” once a week at Thai Monkey Club.

Most of the company has their “usuals” and the waitress doesn’t even have to ask for their order. Talk about customer loyalty!

There is also an ongoing spice competition between Steven and Zofia to see who can handle the heat more. So far, it’s neck and neck.

2. Everyone at Ascend is self-taught in their specialty.

Chad in branding, Steven in web development, Katie in graphic programs, and Zofia in digital marketing.

We believe that self-taught people are more passionate because of the extra effort and discipline it takes to learn on your own.

3. 50% of the company’s native language is not English.

Steven was born and raised in Florence. He actually has spent more of his lifetime living in Italy than in the US.  

Zofia only spoke Polish until she was 5, though ironically, she was born and raised in Chicago.

Of course, Chad and Katie have been speaking English since day 1 (okay, probably more like day 550).

4. 100% of the company has blue eyes.

This is totally a coincidence and not creepy at all, we promise.

While we’re on a percentage roll, it’s also interesting that 50% of the company is made up of women. Girl power!

5. Chad was in a punk band named "Dieofawe" in college.

Sometimes, he was compensated in chicken wings.

We just can’t make this stuff up.

6. Steven got his solo pilot license before his driver’s license.

Who wants to drive when you can fly instead?

Evidently, Steven eventually veered away from a career as a pilot and became engrossed in web development instead.

7. Zofia was on track to be a career opera singer...until 2012.

Luckily, she did a 180 and now works for us instead.

8. Katie has a sister who is 22 years younger (and a brother who is only 17 months older).

You do the math.

9. Chad’s lifelong nickname is Chadius Maximus.

He and his friends were eating at Steak 'n Shake in college, and there was a dish called the Chili Mac Supreme.

A friend told Chad, “you’re the Chad Mac Supreme!” and another said, “no, you’re Chadius Maximus!!”

...and it stuck. For life.

10. Steven has a 1-year-old daughter who happens to be scared of Chad.

Every time she sees him, she cries.

We think it’s the bald head...and maybe the deep voice...and the height, too. 

Now it's your turn!

Everyone has some fun, quirky facts that make them special and unique. It’s what keeps things fun and interesting, in here and in the big world. What’s your best fun fact? We’d love to hear it!