A Path from the Wild to Wellness
I’ve spent my life surrounded by nature — sometimes quite literally living in it. In my early career as a conservation biologist, I camped for months at a time, working to protect endangered species across the U.S. That connection to the natural world shaped who I am and how I see life: nature already gives us everything we need to live well.
Eventually, my path shifted toward brand management in the food, nutrition, and wellness industries, working with both global companies and small startups. But I kept noticing something — no matter how inspiring the mission statements sounded, the focus often came down to profits over people.
Discovering the Power of Hemp
In 2017, I became the marketing director at Charlotte’s Web, the largest CBD brand in the country at the time. It was here I saw firsthand the extraordinary potential of hemp — not as a trend, but as a plant that could truly change lives. I met trailblazing families and advocates who fought tirelessly to legalize hemp and destigmatize cannabis. Their courage moved me deeply, especially hearing from people who had almost lost hope, only to find relief and renewed joy thanks to this plant.
One meeting stands out in my memory: hearing Heather Jackson at Realm of Caring share stories of how hemp changed lives. That moment planted the seed for what would become Kyoto Botanicals.
Building Something Different
When I founded Kyoto Botanicals, I wanted to create a company that stayed true to three guiding principles:
1. Deliver CBD products made from the highest-quality ingredients
2. Make every customer interaction a positive, uplifting experience
3. Stay independent and private, so our focus remains solely on helping people, not on enriching outside investors
Our tinctures are USDA-certified organic. Our hemp is tested in the field, and every final product is verified by independent labs for cannabinoid content, pesticides, heavy metals, and impurities. We keep our product line intentionally small so we can perfect everything we offer — and so you can trust what you’re putting in your body.
Why THC-Free Matters
We chose THC-free CBD to ensure you get all the benefits of hemp without unintended consequences. That means you can trust every product to be as pure and predictable as possible — for you, your family, and even your parents (some of my favorite customer stories are when people convince their parents to try CBD and see life-changing results).
A Personal Connection with Every Customer
As an owner-operated business, I personally handle customer communications. No scripts, no call centers — just one-on-one conversations. Even if someone doesn’t love CBD or our products, I want them to walk away feeling respected and cared for. Wellness is a journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
Living the Wellness I Share
Two years ago, I began my own wellness journey, committing to daily exercise, giving up alcohol, and incorporating CBD into my routine. The results — better sleep, balanced mood, more energy — have been life-changing. I’m now training for my first half marathon, all while spending as much time as possible outdoors with my family and our dog, Pickles.
Why a Bonsai Tree?
Our logo, a bonsai tree, represents something I deeply believe: happiness comes from the process, not just the end goal. CBD isn’t a magic cure — it’s a small, consistent step toward being your best self, every single day.
An Invitation
Kyoto Botanicals is the CBD brand I wanted for myself and my family — pure, trustworthy, and deeply connected to nature. My hope is that it becomes a small but powerful part of your own wellness journey.
Here’s to balance, nature, and being your best you.
— Mark, Founder, Kyoto Botanicals
