This episode is a grounded reminder that presence is a daily choice. Mark Gillilan shares how entrepreneurship, mindfulness, and outdoor rituals helped him stay connected to his kids while navigating work and life in the digital age. Mark’s breakthrough came when he realized presence isn’t found, it’s chosen. That insight reshaped his work, his parenting, and the way he creates connection every day.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

1. Why presence is a daily choice and how it reshapes both parenting and entrepreneurship
2. How outdoor rituals and shared experiences create deeper connection than perfect schedules
3. What building a business taught Mark about time, attention, and being truly available
4. How to navigate screen time and digital pressure without disconnecting from your kids
5. Why learning new things alongside your children strengthens trust and confidence
6. The quiet power of kindness, flexibility, and playing hooky to create lasting family memories

Featured Guest: Mark Gillilan

Mark Gillilan is the founder of Kyoto Botanicals and a father of two who helps purpose-driven parents rethink time, attention, and connection. His work blends wellness education, nature-based rituals, and transparency in business to model what intentional parenting can look like in the digital age.

Follow Mark Gillilan

https://kyotobotanicals.com

https://www.pinterest.com/kyotobotanicals/

https://www.youtube.com/@kyotobotanicals

https://www.instagram.com/kyotobotanicals/

Meet the Host: Adrienne Giffen

Adrienne Giffen is an executive recruiter, author of Unravel You, and creator of the intergenerational board game Now You’re Talking™. Through her podcast, she invites families and friends to trade screens for stories, sparking heartfelt conversations that bridge generations. Her work is rooted in a passion for helping people rediscover connection, courage, and joy in today’s digital world.

Connect with the Host:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennegiffen/

https://unravelyou.com/

https://nowyouretalkinggame.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@NowYoureTalkingPodcast

https://www.instagram.com/nowyouretalkinggame/

Do you ever feel like you and your kids are in the same room, but not really together?START TALKING TODAY : 5 Questions to Spark Real Conversations With Your Kids