Marc Alexander is the President and Co-Founder of Ascending Capital Management.  After nearly three decades of investment management and estate planning strategies, Marc has earned a reputation for his commitment to personalized service.  He has built a successful team by empowering employees to own each client experience.   For Marc, it’s not work if you love what you do.  Offering meaningful advice for philanthropic and family legacy planning, caring for clients as well as team members is the very heart of his business.

In 1993, Marc launched his career at IJL Wachovia, a predecessor to Wells Fargo Advisors, where he dedicated much of his professional career.  In 2023, Marc co-founded Ascending Capital Management, an independent practice clearing through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network.

As a PIM Portfolio Manager, Marc is laser-focused on fully customizing investment solutions geared toward his clients’ goals.  The PIM designation is granted to a small percentage of Financial Advisors within Wells Fargo Advisors who have met the firm’s rigorous program criteria such as completing advanced training, having proven experience, and holding appropriate registrations.  Marc has been named on the Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list** from 2022-2025. 

Marc values the importance of continuing education to stay current on economic changes and emerging developments in wealth management.  After obtaining his BBA in Finance from the University of Georgia in 1992, Marc went on to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER^® professional.  He is also a Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA^®) and a member of the Investment Management Consultants Association^®.  Marc holds insurance licenses for life, long-term care and annuities.

Outside of the office, Marc prioritizes his free time with his wife Tanya, and their two children.  His passions include skiing, golfing, and exploring new destinations alongside his family.  He actively contributes to his community helping various charitable organizations, including his children’s school, Woodward Academy.

 

The PIM program is not designed for excessively traded or inactive accounts and is not appropriate for all investors. Please carefully review the advisory disclosure documents for a full description of our services. The minimum account size for this program is $50,000.

 

<sub>See full list of winners: www.forbes.com/lists/best-in-state-wealth-advisors/

2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors; Awarded April 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/23- 6/30/24 (Source: Forbes.com). 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com). 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.</sub>

Seth Asher is the Managing Partner for Ascending Capital Management (ACM), where he brings over 25 years of investment planning experience.  Merging the intimacy of a boutique-like feel along with the investment resources of Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, he co-founded ACM in 2023.

For Seth, being a financial advisor comes down to two things: listening to his clients’ needs and building a trusting relationship with his clients.  Seth develops relationships spanning the generations of his client’s families to understand all aspects of their wants and needs.  While keeping individuals at the center of every personalized strategy, Seth works closely with his clients to anticipate and help meet their evolving stages of financial needs. 

During his tenure at RBC Wealth Management, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo Advisors, Seth has dedicated his career to helping clients gain a better understanding of holistic investment planning, wealth preservation and estate planning strategies. Seth has been recognized by Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors** from 2022-2025.

Family is the most important thing to Seth which drives his passion for helping his clients while keeping their family at the center of investment planning strategies.  Being a husband, father, and entrepreneur, he knows and understands the complexity of financial decisions his clients face each day and throughout their lives. 

Seth attended the University of Georgia, obtained a dual Master Degree at Georgia State University and has continued his education through obtaining the certification for Accredited Wealth Manager.  Although he is a true Bulldog, Seth’s son attends GA Tech, so Seth proudly considers himself a “UGA Grad and Tech Dad”. 

Outside of the office, Seth actively supports the local community through organizations such as the Friends of the GA Holocaust Commission. He also spends quality time volunteering with his children’s athletic programs and their schools.  Time with his family is best spent at favorite destinations such as Hilton Head Island, Naples, Florida or Aspen, Colorado.

 

<sup>See full list of winners: www.forbes.com/lists/best-in-state-wealth-advisors/

2025 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors; Awarded April 2025; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/23- 6/30/24 (Source: Forbes.com). 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2024; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/22 - 6/30/23 (Source: Forbes.com). 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2023; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/21 - 6/30/22 (Source: Forbes.com). 2022 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors: Awarded April 2022; Data compiled by SHOOK Research LLC based on the time period from 6/30/20 - 6/30/21 (Source: Forbes.com). The Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rating algorithm is based on the previous year’s industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC. Investment performance is not a criterion. Self-completed survey was used for rating. This rating is not related to the quality of the investment advice and based solely on the disclosed criteria.</sup>

Armistead Burwell is a dedicated Financial Advisor who is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of his clients through exceptional service, investment knowledge, responsiveness, and genuine care. His approach to wealth management transcends more than just investment advice; it is a personal commitment to stewarding his clients' family legacies, both in the present and for generations to come.

With 30 years of experience, Armistead has honed his expertise in financial analysis, business consulting, and wealth management, paving the way for his role in establishing Ascending Capital Management. He holds a degree in Economics from the University of Virginia and earned the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2022 allowing him to offer his clients a comprehensive and holistic view of their financial picture.

Originally from Grosse Pointe, MI, Armistead's journey led him to Atlanta, Georgia, after completing his degree at Virginia. Outside of his professional endeavors, he enjoys running, fly-fishing, exploring National Parks, and indulging in culinary creations on his Big Green Egg grill. His free time finds him alongside his wife, Hannah, as they enthusiastically cheer on their kids during track competitions at Georgia Tech.

Doug Astrop is the Director of Investment Strategy of Ascending Capital Management.  With over 20 years of experience in money management, Doug is a seasoned portfolio manager, stock and options trader and financial adviser who specializes in designing and implementing customized investment strategies to help achieve each client’s long-term financial goals. For Doug, concocting the perfect investment mix is a delicate art form.

The Astrop family has worked in the investment business since the late-1960s, so investing is truly in Doug’s blood. Prior to his career in investing, Doug worked in the music and film industries in Los Angeles. Since pivoting to investments, beginning with a West Coast stint at Merrill Lynch, he has managed a boutique investment advisory firm and founded an alternative investment partnership (hedge fund).

Doug received his BS in business administration from Georgetown University and his MBA from the University of Southern California (Marshall School of Business). He is also a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner (CFP®) and Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®).

Prioritizing continual learning, Doug closely follows important economic and market developments and regularly discusses stocks and markets on various television programs such as Schwab Network, Cheddar and Bloomberg. He has also made the pilgrimage to Omaha to attend Warren Buffett’s annual Berkshire Hathaway meetings, a special gathering for diehard value investors.

Outside of the office, Doug is an accomplished pianist and music composer. He volunteers and supports numerous charitable organizations. As a co-founder of Zorro’s Crossing Horse Sanctuary, he rescues horses with his wife and twin sons on their farm in Chattahoochee Hills.

Dedicated to excellence, Phin Davis serves as the Branch Manager for the Alexander Investment Group at Ascending Capital Management. His commitment to precision is demonstrated through his proficiency in optimizing operations and effectively managing risks.

Having a strong understanding of rules and regulations within the brokerage industry, he works within the practice to mitigate risk. With over two decades of experience in regulatory compliance, Phin came to Ascending Capital after serving at Wells Fargo Advisors, Morgan Stanley, and Merrill Lynch. A graduate with a BA in Marketing from the University of Georgia, he combines his educational foundation with practical insights and motivation to help lead his team to success. 

A true Georgian at heart, Phin remains deeply rooted in his community. He actively contributes to the empowerment of youth by supporting Junior Achievement’s BizTown, fostering financial literacy and equipping young minds with essential life skills. Beyond his professional commitments, his strength and drive carry over to gym where he enjoys staying fit and healthy.  In his downtime, Phin enjoys traveling with his wife, Amanda and walks with their dog, Pepper

Phin – California Insurance License# 4189731 / Resident State: Georgia

Prior to joining Ascending Capital Management, Teresa Wells spent 22 years as a Legal Assistant and Business Development Coordinator in the Intellectual Property Group at Alston & Bird, LLP.  In her role there she played an integral part in the administration of complex IP litigation for Patents and Trademarks, working closely with Senior Partners of the firm.  She brings a wealth of experience working with high level executives implementing effective solutions and organizational management.  As the Marketing Director at Ascending Capital Management, she works closely with the team of advisors on all marketing and communications.  She is responsible for maintaining and expanding brand awareness, email campaigns, client swag and events.

After attending University of Toledo, Ohio, Teresa moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she studied with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.  Teresa is an avid health and wellness enthusiast and passionate about volunteering for environmental causes.  Outside of the office she spends her free time entertaining friends with fitness and food.

Teresa loves spending time with her family and friends skiing, fly fishing and cooking.  She is happiest hiking her favorite mountains in Big Sky, Montana or Aspen, Colorado.

Lisa is the Director of Operations at Ascending Capital Management.  With 26 years of industry experience, she is responsible for leading our broker-dealer and advisory operations team with a passion for serving the advisors and their clients. Lisa takes a collaborative approach to overseeing and enabling operations and growth. 

Prior to joining Ascending Capital Management, Lisa was Senior Relationship Manager at PFW Advisors, an Atlanta based RIA, where she served high-net-worth clients and ensured that the team provided the highest quality of service for clients as well as

maintaining the company's excellent reputation and operational efficiency. Lisa was also instrumental in developing promotional, compliance and risk strategies for firm awareness and creating business partnerships.

As a Florida State alumni and a native of South Florida, Lisa enjoys spending quality time at the beach with her family and loves cheering on the Atlanta Braves.

Bridgette Blaylock is a Senior Registered Client Associate who strives to provide the very best care for our clients.  She is a dedicated point of contact for all asset movement inquiries and the operational backbone at Ascending Capital Management.

With over 30 years of financial and customer service experience, Bridgette’s main goal is always ensure that new and current clients have an excellent service experience.  Bridgette began her career in the financial industry with A.G Edwards & Sons.  To better serve clients, she earned her Series 7 and Series 63 securities registrations which allows her to also place trades when needed.  She has been recognized as a Platinum Council client associate since 2012-2022.  The Wells Fargo Advisors Platinum Council Client Associate (previously Premier Client Associate) distinction is held by a select group of Registered Client Associates within Wells Fargo Advisors nominated by their management for their consistent display of professionalism, integrity and core leadership values.

Debi Chin is a Senior Registered Client Associate at Ascending Capital Management.  She holds her Series 7 and 63 registrations, qualifying her to aid in the sale or purchase of securities. 

She is a tremendous resource for all operational questions and issues, drawing upon her 40 years of experience in the financial industry.  In her professional approach, she provides clients with the personalized attention and goal-oriented service they deserve.

In 2011, Debi was recognized as a Platinum Council Client Associate. The Wells Fargo Advisors Platinum Council Client Associate (previously Premier Client Associate) distinction is held by a select group of Registered Client Associates within Wells Fargo Advisors nominated by their management for their consistent display of professionalism, integrity and core leadership values.