Mark Steven Porro
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Mark Steven Porro
@markporro.bsky.social
Mark is an award-winning designer, director, and the multi-award-winning author of "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." He lives in the South of France where the locals insist his French isn’t so bad—at least that’s what he thinks they’re saying.
You’ll Laugh Out Loud. You’ll Cry Out Loud.

Sorry for the crying part. If you have a mother, you WANT to read this book. If you love your mother, you NEED to read this book. And moms need to give this book to their kids to make sure they know how to treat you in your "Golden Years." A recent…
You’ll Laugh Out Loud. You’ll Cry Out Loud.
Sorry for the crying part. If you have a mother, you WANT to read this book. If you love your mother, you NEED to read this book. And moms need to give this book to their kids to make sure they know how to treat you in your "Golden Years." A recent reviewer wrote, "Overall, this touching story celebrates ‘the strength of family, the power of memory, and the quiet heroism of everyday love’.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
November 24, 2025 at 2:00 PM
For a Limited Time the Kindle Edition is just $6.99

We don't know how long the sale will last, but for a limited time the Kindle Edition is just $6.99. It's good to be back in the Top Ten in Eldercare. Check out this lovely review from "Book Reviews Cafe." “A Cup of Tea on the Commode: My…
For a Limited Time the Kindle Edition is just $6.99
We don't know how long the sale will last, but for a limited time the Kindle Edition is just $6.99. It's good to be back in the Top Ten in Eldercare. Check out this lovely review from "Book Reviews Cafe." “A Cup of Tea on the Commode: My Multi-Tasking Adventures of  Caring for Mom. And How I Survived to Tell the Tale.”
acupofteaonthecommode.org
November 18, 2025 at 2:00 PM
November is National Family Caregivers Month

November is National Family Caregivers Month. Let's celebrate those who not only care for their loved ones, but those who care for others as well. "The number of people 80 years or over is projected to triple to 426 million by 2050. In the US alone,…
November is National Family Caregivers Month
November is National Family Caregivers Month. Let's celebrate those who not only care for their loved ones, but those who care for others as well. "The number of people 80 years or over is projected to triple to 426 million by 2050. In the US alone, there are currently over 50 million seniors eighty years or older. And when the time comes, women assume the role of caregiver.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
November 10, 2025 at 3:43 PM
A Conversation with Calvin

CONVERSATIONS WITH CALVIN WE THE SPECIES with host CALVIN SCHWARTZ Meet MARK STEVEN PORRO: “Thinking about what to write after my interview with Mark. One word popped. Sonnet. Let me count the ways Mark Steven Porro amazed. A life beyond. A devoted son who became…
A Conversation with Calvin
CONVERSATIONS WITH CALVIN WE THE SPECIES with host CALVIN SCHWARTZ Meet MARK STEVEN PORRO: “Thinking about what to write after my interview with Mark. One word popped. Sonnet. Let me count the ways Mark Steven Porro amazed. A life beyond. A devoted son who became caretaker of his 89-year-old mother. Yes, the word ‘Commode’ is in his best-selling book title.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
November 3, 2025 at 2:44 PM
A Halloween Treat

Happy Halloween. As a low-calorie treat, here's a chapter from "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Enjoy! Halloween, both a strange and wonderful tradition, conjures up mostly fond memories for me. Strange because the night before—Cabbage Night to us in New Jersey, Mischief Night to…
A Halloween Treat
Happy Halloween. As a low-calorie treat, here's a chapter from "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Enjoy! Halloween, both a strange and wonderful tradition, conjures up mostly fond memories for me. Strange because the night before—Cabbage Night to us in New Jersey, Mischief Night to others—we smashed pumpkins, toilet-papered trees, shave-creamed front doors, and egged everything in sight. And yet wonderful because the next evening we returned to those same houses, in disguise, said “trick or treat,” and collected a sweet reward.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
October 31, 2025 at 1:01 PM
Every Now and Then We Do Enjoy a Good Crow

I've always preferred even numbers, and especially when they're in double digits. As we cruise toward November, we received this delightful email announcing our 18th literary award for A Cup of Tea on the Commode. Certainly something to crow about. "We…
Every Now and Then We Do Enjoy a Good Crow
I've always preferred even numbers, and especially when they're in double digits. As we cruise toward November, we received this delightful email announcing our 18th literary award for A Cup of Tea on the Commode. Certainly something to crow about. "We are pleased to announce that our judges of the 2025 PenCraft Book Awards for literary excellence voted your book "
acupofteaonthecommode.org
October 28, 2025 at 1:03 PM
What happens when life throws you the ultimate curveball?

What happens when life throws you the ultimate curveball — going from Hollywood auditions and bachelor life in L.A. to caregiving for your mom back in New Jersey? Our guest this week, Mark Steven Porro, not only lived it, he wrote an…
What happens when life throws you the ultimate curveball?
What happens when life throws you the ultimate curveball — going from Hollywood auditions and bachelor life in L.A. to caregiving for your mom back in New Jersey? Our guest this week, Mark Steven Porro, not only lived it, he wrote an award-winning book about it "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Mark joins Hafa & David to talk about the funny, awkward, and downright absurd side of caregiving.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
October 15, 2025 at 1:01 PM
How do you cope when the mother and child roles get reversed?

This article first appeared in "The Ridgewood News" and "The Record" In his book, "A Cup of Tea on the Commode," Ridgewood native Mark Porro recounts his 3½ years of caring for his 89-year-old mother, Genevieve, at her village home.…
How do you cope when the mother and child roles get reversed?
This article first appeared in "The Ridgewood News" and "The Record" In his book, "A Cup of Tea on the Commode," Ridgewood native Mark Porro recounts his 3½ years of caring for his 89-year-old mother, Genevieve, at her village home. Porro was the least likely of Genevieve's six children to assume charge of her care in 2011. The 54-year-old single man had pursued an "adventurous" career path since graduating from Ridgewood High School in 1975 and Ohio State University in 1980 with a degree in industrial design: Hollywood actor, snack business entrepreneur, and helping with his sister's Michigan design firm.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
October 9, 2025 at 1:03 PM
Win the Ultimate Nonfiction Book Giveaway featuring 10 inspiring titles. The Grand Prize winner receives a signed copy of "LET THEM" by Mel & Sawyer Robbins and one copy of each author’s book. The runner up winner receives one copy of each author’s book.

booksweeps.com/giveaway/non...
Win The Ultimate Nonfiction Book Giveaway! - BookSweeps
Enter to win the ultimate nonfiction book giveaway, featuring a signed copy of The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins!
booksweeps.com
October 4, 2025 at 9:42 AM
Why Are You Doing This?

I never believed in angels, but for some reason they believed in me, and I’m truly thankful for it. They kept watch over me during the many crazy, death-defying stunts I indulged in as a kid. I hopped on freight and passenger trains, and—only after learning the hard…
Why Are You Doing This?
I never believed in angels, but for some reason they believed in me, and I’m truly thankful for it. They kept watch over me during the many crazy, death-defying stunts I indulged in as a kid. I hopped on freight and passenger trains, and—only after learning the hard way—made sure to hit the ground running when hopping off. Still, chances were, momentum slammed me ass-first onto the sidewalk.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
September 30, 2025 at 1:04 PM
Still Not Alone in Our Middle Age Mess

Take 50+ years of life, add thousands of traumatic experiences, sprinkle in a touch of arrogance and what do you get? A Middle Age Mess, where noted author/curmudgeon Dan Indante walks you through everything you need to know to stumble, bumble and fail your…
Still Not Alone in Our Middle Age Mess
Take 50+ years of life, add thousands of traumatic experiences, sprinkle in a touch of arrogance and what do you get? A Middle Age Mess, where noted author/curmudgeon Dan Indante walks you through everything you need to know to stumble, bumble and fail your way through your Not So Golden Years. Or as my Dad would say, "The Golden Years, the ham with them!"
acupofteaonthecommode.org
September 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM
That time I lied to Mel Brooks 

Yes, I lied to one of my heroes, but I didn’t lie to get the job.  I enjoyed many highlights in Hollywood. My first and second came when filming an episode of Hill Street Blues, my first television role. Booking that role alone was a highlight, as my goal in coming…
That time I lied to Mel Brooks 
Yes, I lied to one of my heroes, but I didn’t lie to get the job.  I enjoyed many highlights in Hollywood. My first and second came when filming an episode of Hill Street Blues, my first television role. Booking that role alone was a highlight, as my goal in coming to Hollywood was to get on that show. And less than two years later, voilà.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
September 15, 2025 at 2:33 PM
We’re Golden, and Global

Just when we thought awards season was over, we received this announcement. Not only are we golden, but we're global. "Congratulations! Your book  A Cup of Tea on the Commode has been awarded the GOLD medal in the category Parenting & Relationships - Aging at the Global…
We’re Golden, and Global
Just when we thought awards season was over, we received this announcement. Not only are we golden, but we're global. "Congratulations! Your book  A Cup of Tea on the Commode has been awarded the GOLD medal in the category Parenting & Relationships - Aging at the Global Book Awards." The Global Book Awards recognizes author with global appeal in the publishing industry.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
September 8, 2025 at 1:08 PM
Heartfelt Journey with Humor and Love

In this episode of The On Purpose Podcast, host Jerrod Hardy welcomes guest Mark Steven Porro, author of "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Mark shares his deeply personal and unexpectedly humorous experiences as a caregiver for his aging mother. Through candid…
Heartfelt Journey with Humor and Love
In this episode of The On Purpose Podcast, host Jerrod Hardy welcomes guest Mark Steven Porro, author of "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Mark shares his deeply personal and unexpectedly humorous experiences as a caregiver for his aging mother. Through candid storytelling, he reveals the emotional challenges and delightful moments that come with elder care, emphasizing the importance of humor and empathy.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
September 1, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Genevieve’s Vision

Today, in honor of the anniversary of Genevieve's journey to Heaven, here's the final chapter of "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." I stand frozen in that surreal moment, staring at Mom. The pulsating air mattress continues to breathe, keeping her lifeless body afloat. I should turn…
Genevieve’s Vision
Today, in honor of the anniversary of Genevieve's journey to Heaven, here's the final chapter of "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." I stand frozen in that surreal moment, staring at Mom. The pulsating air mattress continues to breathe, keeping her lifeless body afloat. I should turn it off, but I don’t. The sound comforts me. Then a strange force compels me to look out her bedroom window.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 25, 2025 at 1:02 PM
Small Worlds

As we approach the eleventh anniversary of my mother's passing, the spitting image of her appeared in my little village in the South of France. And she was, of course, shopping, just like Mom. Small worlds. Some images of the real Genevieve can be found here. And you can get your…
Small Worlds
As we approach the eleventh anniversary of my mother's passing, the spitting image of her appeared in my little village in the South of France. And she was, of course, shopping, just like Mom. Small worlds. Some images of the real Genevieve can be found here. And you can get your multi-award-winning A Cup of Tea on the Commode here. #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #smallworlds
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 21, 2025 at 2:20 PM
Finding Joy in Caregiving: A Son’s Journey

Mark walks us through taking care of his mother in her last days, the slow death he grieved along the way, and his humor he brought to the story. Mark's book, "A Cup of Tea on the Commode," has won 16 awards (and counting!) and shows the real and raw…
Finding Joy in Caregiving: A Son’s Journey
Mark walks us through taking care of his mother in her last days, the slow death he grieved along the way, and his humor he brought to the story. Mark's book, "A Cup of Tea on the Commode," has won 16 awards (and counting!) and shows the real and raw moments of caregiving while working with his siblings' strengths and boundaries. You can find Mark's book ⁠here⁠ and find him ton his website ⁠here. #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #beentheredunnthat #AngelaDunn-Cartledge
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 18, 2025 at 1:01 PM
Equal parts Heart, Humor, and Hope

This episode is equal parts heart, humor, and hope. Mark Steven Porro shares with host Shawn Perry the hilariously honest story of caring for his mom in "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Click here to listen.…
Equal parts Heart, Humor, and Hope
This episode is equal parts heart, humor, and hope. Mark Steven Porro shares with host Shawn Perry the hilariously honest story of caring for his mom in "A Cup of Tea on the Commode." Click here to listen. #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #seniorzone @shawnperry
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 11, 2025 at 1:00 PM
From Hollywood to Hospice

What happens when an actor, designer, and entrepreneur becomes a devoted caregiver to his aging mother? In this inspiring episode, Kim Sorrelle sits down with Mark Steven Porro, author of A Cup of Tea on the Commode, to share the extraordinary, often hilarious, and deeply…
From Hollywood to Hospice
What happens when an actor, designer, and entrepreneur becomes a devoted caregiver to his aging mother? In this inspiring episode, Kim Sorrelle sits down with Mark Steven Porro, author of A Cup of Tea on the Commode, to share the extraordinary, often hilarious, and deeply touching story of how he turned his mother’s final years into a time of dignity, laughter, and love. #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #kimsorrelleloveispodcast
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 4, 2025 at 1:00 PM
Get Your Cup of Tea for an even Sweeter Price

Yes, that's right. You can now get your Cup of Tea for an even sweeter price. This multi-award-winning memoir is just $5.99 on Amazon. To get yours now, click here. For more information, click here. #Humor #Memoir #eldercare #agingparents
Get Your Cup of Tea for an even Sweeter Price
Yes, that's right. You can now get your Cup of Tea for an even sweeter price. This multi-award-winning memoir is just $5.99 on Amazon. To get yours now, click here. For more information, click here. #Humor #Memoir #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #amazon
acupofteaonthecommode.org
August 2, 2025 at 1:45 PM
Love, Loss & Caregiving

When Mark Steven Porro picked up the phone one day in Los Angeles, he didn’t know it would change everything. His 89-year-old mother was on her deathbed. Or so they thought. What followed wasn’t just a surprise recovery. It was a complete role reversal. Mark left behind his…
Love, Loss & Caregiving
When Mark Steven Porro picked up the phone one day in Los Angeles, he didn’t know it would change everything. His 89-year-old mother was on her deathbed. Or so they thought. What followed wasn’t just a surprise recovery. It was a complete role reversal. Mark left behind his fast-paced creative life and moved home to New Jersey, stepping into a role he never rehearsed: full-time caregiver.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
July 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM
From Laughter to Tears…

In this heartfelt conversation, Mark Steven Porro shares his journey of caring for his mother during her final years, as chronicled in his memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode. He discusses the challenges and joys of caregiving, the importance of humor, and the profound…
From Laughter to Tears…
In this heartfelt conversation, Mark Steven Porro shares his journey of caring for his mother during her final years, as chronicled in his memoir, A Cup of Tea on the Commode. He discusses the challenges and joys of caregiving, the importance of humor, and the profound lessons learned about unconditional love and dignity in aging. Through anecdotes, including a touching pumpkin pie moment and a special 'Day of Beauty' for his mother, Mark illustrates the deep bond they shared and the impact of his experiences on his life. To listen, click here. #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #beautifullybuiltpodcast
acupofteaonthecommode.org
July 18, 2025 at 8:28 AM
Porro Sits Down for Some Salty Ginger Talk

What happens when a Hollywood creative trades scripts and dreams for caregiving and diapers? In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Salty Ginger Talk, we sit down with Mark Steven Porro, the award-winning author of the Amazon best-selling memoir A…
Porro Sits Down for Some Salty Ginger Talk
What happens when a Hollywood creative trades scripts and dreams for caregiving and diapers? In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Salty Ginger Talk, we sit down with Mark Steven Porro, the award-winning author of the Amazon best-selling memoir A Cup of Tea on the Commode to explore what happens when a son becomes a full-time caregiver for his 90-year-old mother.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
July 14, 2025 at 1:01 PM
Blending Humor, Heartbreak, and Resilience

Welcome to The Life Unscripted Podcast with Rosabel Zohfeld — where honest conversations inspire transformation! In this heartwarming episode, Rosabel sits down with Mark Steven Porro—award-winning designer, director, and bestselling author of the memoir…
Blending Humor, Heartbreak, and Resilience
Welcome to The Life Unscripted Podcast with Rosabel Zohfeld — where honest conversations inspire transformation! In this heartwarming episode, Rosabel sits down with Mark Steven Porro—award-winning designer, director, and bestselling author of the memoir A Cup of Tea on the Commode. Mark shares his unforgettable journey of becoming a 24/7 caregiver for his 89-year-old mother, who miraculously recovered from her deathbed.
acupofteaonthecommode.org
July 7, 2025 at 1:02 PM
Get Your Cup of Tea for a Sweet Price

Apparently there was some money left over from the Bezos/Sanchez wedding, so Amazon decided to lower the price of A Cup of Tea on the Commode just in time for summer. Add this multi-award-winning memoir to your summer reading list for just $6.74. To get yours…
Get Your Cup of Tea for a Sweet Price
Apparently there was some money left over from the Bezos/Sanchez wedding, so Amazon decided to lower the price of A Cup of Tea on the Commode just in time for summer. Add this multi-award-winning memoir to your summer reading list for just $6.74. To get yours now, click here. For more information, click here. #Humor #Memoir #eldercare #agingparents #acupofteaonthecommode #amazon
acupofteaonthecommode.org
July 3, 2025 at 1:03 PM