Mark was born with a hearing deficiency in the mid frequency range where most human voices project within. With the help of two kind and able speech therapists, Mark was eventually able to sound like most of his elementary aged peers. In undergraduate study of advertising, Mark was asked to be a co-presenter of a campaign for a prospective client, and upon accepting the charge despite his fears of speaking in front of large groups of people, the experience came to be one of liberation. While residing in Wilmington NC as a part time music video director, Mark directed a film short entitled 'Interstate' where he cast himself in the film. The film headlined at the 1st annual Cucalorus film festival and eventually led the way to an audition opportunity for the feature 'Empire Records'. Mark has worked both behind and in front of the camera in various capacities. He holds advanced degrees in Psychology, Sociology / Gerontology, and Interdisciplinary Arts.