We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mackenzie Biehl. Check out our conversation below.
Mackenzie, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Writing is where I feel most myself. There’s something about the quiet click of the keyboard, the blank screen slowly filling with words, that feels like an escape.
As a kid, I was always writing things down. Feelings I didn’t know how to say out loud, thoughts that felt too big or too jumbled to untangle in conversation. But somehow, words on paper helped everything feel clearer and more manageable. I’d fill journals with everything from daily observations to full-blown letters- to no one in particular. It was how I made sense of the world. And to be honest, it still is.
There’s something still sacred about writing with pen on paper, but most days, my phone’s notes app does the job. I type down thoughts during my commute or, sometimes, even in the middle of a workout. Often, the clearest insights come when I least expect them.
Recently, I was asked to share my thoughts for Better Homes & Gardens and became fully absorbed in the process, losing track of time and everything else around me. I was simply present.
It’s a rare feeling when you become so connected to what you’re doing that time seems to bend around it. That’s how writing feels for me. It brings out parts of me that I didn’t even realize needed to be expressed. Writing is where I rediscover my voice-sometimes stronger, sometimes softer, but always a little surer of itself.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Mackenzie Biehl, Florida-born, Gator-bred, and currently making my mark in Tallahassee with my supportive husband and partner Taylor, our two lively kiddos, Harper and Hudson, and an 80 pound Goldendoodle who thinks he’s a lap dog.
I’m a food and entertaining content creator with a lifestyle lens: quick hosting hacks, approachable recipes, and everyday moments that feel a little elevated. I also share mom hacks, because I’m in the thick of it with two young kids, and sometimes a good shortcut is pure gold.
I’m an identical twin, I have the treasure of being best friends with my two sisters. I am a proud University of Florida alumni, and a lifelong lover of creative chaos.
My sales and marketing background allowed me to merge big-picture thinking with a hands-on creative approach, building a brand focused on content that is inspiring, achievable, and actionable. Think fresh, flavorful recipes, easy hosting hacks, and floral arrangements that say, “effortless elegance” (even if I was still blow-drying my hair when the doorbell rang).
I believe success is a mix of passion, humility, and follow-through, with a dash of good humor and a solid support system (marrying one helps). Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you, ask thoughtful questions, and stay endlessly curious. If we’re not friends on Instagram yet, let’s fix that: @MackenzieBiehl.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I was raised by two driven parents who lived by example-showing me what it means to work hard, stay grounded, and move through life with intention. My mom was a powerhouse. She balanced her career with motherhood so gracefully that it felt like she was always fully present in both roles. She made time for what mattered, including her own well-being, and taught me that caring for yourself isn’t selfish-it’s essential, a lesson that continues to guide how I prioritize my own well-being. My dad brought a different kind of wisdom and the balance our household needed most. He reminded me to pause, reflect, and grow through the tough moments. Whenever I came home discouraged or overwhelmed, he’d help me step back and see the bigger picture. His calm, steady presence taught me that resilience doesn’t come from never failing-it comes from getting back up with a clearer understanding of yourself.
Because both of my parents are self-employed, I saw firsthand the grit it takes to work for yourself. If they didn’t work, they didn’t get paid-and yet, they showed up every day with drive and purpose. Long hours, late nights, early mornings-it was all part of building a life for our family. From them, I learned what it means to earn what you have, and why it’s important to value every dollar and every opportunity.
Some of my favorite memories are our family vacations. They weren’t just getaways-they were the payoff. After months of dedication and nonstop work, we’d pack up and take a real break together. Those trips taught me that hard work is worth it, not just for the success it brings, but for the meaningful moments it makes possible.
My parents never pushed me toward a certain path. Instead, they gave me room to explore. After college, they supported me through the uncertainty of finding my footing-cheering me on as I tried new jobs, made mistakes, and figured out what felt right. They raised me to think critically and independently, push boundaries, and lead with as much kindness as ambition.
They taught me that success isn’t linear, and it is not defined by titles. Rather, my parents taught me the values of showing up for myself, taking risks, and staying open to what inspires me. Those principles led me to where I am now: doing work that energizes me, growing in ways that feel personal and fulfilling, and carving out a space I can turn creative ideas into intentional action. I’m grateful every day for the foundation they instilled.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I wrote my family asking them to remind me of some of my failures (and not to roast me) LOL.
My dad responded…
Mackenzie, I don’t think you ever failed at anything. You faced challenges and f**king jumped in. Both feet. Maybe you didn’t “win”, but you gave it a go. You always gave it a go. I love that about you. There is no reason to explain anything different- You jumped in when most people would not even try. It didn’t matter if it was running a half-marathon, debating against country folk in Lake City, managing the “best lives” for senior citizens in Tallahassee, or figuring out your passion. That is what separates you from other people. Failure, what does that mean?? Not being “the best “at what?? Failure happens only to people who do not try. You are not in that group- love you.
I love you dad.
P.S. My dad, Josh Hellstrom, wrote a children’s book called No Dogs Sleeping in My Bed 🐶📚. Grab a copy on Amazon-for your kids, grandkids, or hey… even for yourself!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
The recognition that everyone is fighting their own unseen battles. I’m very aware of the struggles people face both on a global scale and in individual lives. I stay informed by reading and watching the news regularly. However, I choose not to bring those battles onto my social media. For me, it’s about protecting my emotional energy and maintaining personal boundaries in a space that can sometimes amplify stress or conflict. Keeping these “unseen battles” off my social platforms helps me stay grounded and focused, while still holding empathy and awareness privately.
At the same time, I try to support others in meaningful ways behind the scenes-whether that’s through financial contributions, writing letters, being involved with organizations, or sending supplies and donations. It’s my way of caring deeply and making a difference without overwhelming myself or others publicly.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I was born to create.
I’m a strategist, a storyteller, a time management ninja, and a natural host. I thrive when I’m building something meaningful; whether it’s a brand campaign, a dinner party, or a deeper connection with my community.
I was born to be a mom.
I was born to bring ideas to life.
I was born to lead with intention, not just follow expectations.
I don’t just do the work; I give it purpose. And that purpose is what drives everything I create.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/mackenziebiehl
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzie-biehl-3b36294a/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MackenzieGBiehl/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mackenziebiehl
Image Credits
me
