Meet the facilitators
The ones behind The Breaking Biscuits Experience
Mark Marshall
At the heart of Mark's journey lies an insatiable curiosity for life's deeper truths and a profound connection to spirituality. With a wealth of experience serving and leading individuals on the quest for ancient wisdom, Mark's voyage has taken him far and wide, crisscrossing the nation and intersecting with the lives of thousands along the way.
From addressing vast audiences to cultivating intimate gatherings, Mark has discovered his calling lies in the transformative power of small group dynamics, where transparency and vulnerability flourish. He thrives on witnessing the metamorphosis from brokenness to beauty, guiding individuals to perceive themselves through the lens of their divine origin rather than their earthly circumstances.
Entrepreneurial by nature, Mark has not only embarked on his own business ventures but also illuminated how spiritual principles seamlessly integrate into relationships and everyday existence. Yet, his journey hasn't been without its trials. Mark intimately understands the agony of betrayal, having weathered the storm of shattered trust in both personal and professional realms.
However, from the ashes of betrayal, Mark emerged renewed, drawing upon the spiritual reservoirs that sustained him through the darkest of times. His unique gift lies in translating these profound experiences into practical, relatable wisdom that resonates deeply with others.
Mark stands as a beacon of hope, a steadfast guide on the path of spiritual evolution, illuminating the way toward inner healing, growth, and authentic living. With him, individuals discover the power to transcend their circumstances and embrace their true selves, basking in the light of divine love and redemption.
Toby Lavine
Toby brings an invaluable wealth of experience and wisdom honed over nearly four decades of leadership in diverse business environments. From running his own successful enterprise to navigating the intricacies of private equity and serving as an executive in a public company, Toby's journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep understanding of people.
Throughout his illustrious career, Toby has crossed paths with individuals from all walks of life and cultures, honing his ability to connect with and understand people on a profound level. He recognizes that each person's journey is shaped by their unique experiences, beliefs, and aspirations.
Yet, Toby's journey has not been without its share of challenges. Amidst the towering achievements in the business world, he has faced personal crises, including setbacks and failures in relationships and health disappointments. Through these trials, Toby has gained firsthand insight into the feeling of being stuck, despite outward appearances suggesting otherwise.
Drawing from his own experiences of resilience and personal growth, Toby is committed to guiding others on their own transformative journeys. With a deep sense of empathy and understanding, he seeks to facilitate healing and discovery in those who, like him, yearn for profound and lasting change.
Whether you're navigating professional challenges, seeking to overcome personal obstacles, or striving for inner fulfillment, Toby stands ready to accompany you on your journey. Through his guidance and support, he empowers individuals to unlock their full potential and create the meaningful change they desperately desire.
Mara Lavine
Mara's journey has been a testament to resilience and transformation. As a facilitator, she draws from her own experiences, having navigated the depths of despair and emerged stronger on the other side.
Sent to a group home during her early teens, Mara experienced firsthand the feeling of being lost in the system for months, a profound sense of abandonment searing her young soul. This tumultuous beginning catalyzed a troubled early adult life marked by experimental drug use and fractured relationships.
But amidst the chaos, Mara found a beacon of hope in an "awakening moment" with her faith. With unwavering courage, she took a leap of faith into a new life, leaving behind the shackles of substance abuse.
Now, a decade free from addiction, Mara has dedicated herself to helping others find their own path to recovery. Armed with a degree in addiction counseling, she offers empathy, understanding, and practical guidance to those struggling with similar battles.
Yet Mara's journey was not without further trials. The devastating loss of her husband to suicide plunged her into a vortex of trauma and hopelessness. However, from the depths of her grief, Mara emerged with a newfound purpose: to walk alongside others through their darkest moments and guide them toward healing.
As a mother of four boys, Mara intimately understands the complexities of navigating grief and loss. Her personal journey of leading her children through the throes of bereavement has equipped her with invaluable insights into the healing process.
With compassion as her compass, Mara's life is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the human capacity for transformation. Through her own trials and triumphs, she illuminates the path toward healing, offering hope to those who feel lost in the shadows of despair.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Breaking Biscuits accommodate dietary restrictions?
Breaking Biscuits takes dietary restrictions seriously. Prior to the retreat, couples are asked to fill out a form indicating any dietary needs or allergies they may have. This allows us to plan and prepare meals that meet everyone's requirements, ensuring that all participants feel included and cared for during their stay.
What if I don't feel comfortable sharing about the bad stuff in my life?
It's completely normal to feel hesitant about sharing personal struggles, especially in a group setting. At Breaking Biscuits, we prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where you can share at your own pace. Participation in discussions is encouraged but not mandatory; you are welcome to engage only as much as you feel comfortable. Our facilitators are trained to respect your boundaries and provide individual support if needed. Remember, the retreat is a journey of healing, and it's important to honor your own process.
Will the Breaking Biscuits Experience really help my marriage?
Absolutely! The Breaking Biscuits Experience has a proven track record of transforming marriages. Since our inception, we've held several events, and we're thrilled to share that every single couple who has participated has found healing and renewal in their relationship. The power of our 4-day retreat lies in its unique blend of faith-based guidance, professional support, and the profound encounters couples experience while here.
Can I attend the retreat alone, or does it have to be a couple?
Breaking Biscuits is designed as a couples' retreat to help heal and strengthen marriages. We recommend attending as a couple to get the full benefit of the experience.
What happens if I need to cancel my reservation?
Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel. We'll provide our cancellation policy, including any applicable fees or deadlines, when you register.
Are there any age restrictions for participants?
Breaking Biscuits is designed for adult couples. There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, but the retreat is geared towards married or committed couples seeking to improve their relationships.
How do you ensure a safe and supportive environment during the retreat?
We prioritize creating a safe and confidential space for all participants. Our mentors and teachers sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to ensure your privacy. We also foster a supportive community atmosphere where participants can share and heal together.
Is there a specific schedule for the retreat?
Yes, the retreat follows a structured 4-day program. While we don't share the exact schedule publicly to maintain the transformative nature of the experience, you can expect a mix of group sessions, couple activities, personal reflection time, and meals throughout each day.
