Make It with Mike and Kristen
Creative people make things in an effort to “make it”. But what does making it really mean? Is it selling out stadiums, having your painting in the Louvre, making enough money from your art to pay your bills, or simply having the privilege of getting to create in your spare time? Success looks different for everyone, and we’re here to explore those paths and what it takes to make them a reality. Welcome to Make It with Mike and Kristen — where creative people talk about what they make, and what “making it” means to them. Whether you’re a painter, musician, writer, or someone simply looking to infuse more creativity into your daily routine, this show is a gathering space to discuss the struggles, triumphs, ideas, and inspirations that come with pursuing your passion. Hosted by husband-and-wife duo Mike Ryan and Kristen Herrington, Make It explores the beautiful, messy, and often hilarious journey of living a creative life. Mike is a professional musician with nearly two decades of experience on stage and in the studio. Kristen left a six-figure job in politics to become a full-time visual artist. Together, they bring honest conversations, personal stories, and insights from fellow creatives across all disciplines. Recorded in-person at Hot Jupiter Sounds in Nova Scotia, each episode blends real talk, big ideas, and heartwarming moments that’ll leave you feeling inspired—and maybe a little less alone on your own path. No matter where you are in your creative journey, this podcast is your reminder to keep going, keep making, and redefine what it means to make it.
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Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
This week, we sit down with none other than Luke Boyd, a.k.a. Classified – legendary Canadian rapper, record producer, and proud Nova Scotian – and his incredible wife Kim, who joins us for her very first podcast interview (and totally nails it). She declares, "I run the ship," and Luke replies, "I am the ship," and this pretty much sums up their dynamic and success!
We dive deep into:
- Luke’s lifelong relationship with Hip-Hop and staying grounded in Enfield, Nova Scotia- His rise to fame, working with icons like Snoop Dogg, Raekwon, DJ Premier, and more
- The stories behind his latest album "Luke’s View"- The power of family, fatherhood, and the rock-solid partnership he shares with Kim- The whirlwind of awards, accolades, and staying true to self, amidst it all
With over 285 million streams, multiple JUNO Awards, being a JUNO host, and a trophy shelf full of Much Music Video Awards and East Coast Music Awards, Classified has solidified his place as a Canadian hip-hop trailblazer. And behind the beats and bars is a tight-knit family, a deep respect for where he comes from, and a wife who keeps the whole thing moving.
We’re beyond grateful to have had both Luke and Kim join us for this heartfelt, hilarious, and honest conversation. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and you’ll walk away loving them even more than you thought possible.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikeandkristen
Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mikeandkristen
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: “A Day in the Life"
Outro song: “The Show" both by Mike (Michael S. Ryan) from his upcoming 88 song project Power Chords
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
We’re joined by the effortlessly charming sister duo Moira & Claire, whose lighthearted indie folk-pop is winning hearts from coast to coast. Born on one side of Canada and now rooted in Halifax, Nova Scotia, these two have been singing together since long before they started releasing music—and yes, they do break into harmonies during this episode. It’s like a second language for them!
We caught their sets at SXSW and knew we had to get them on the podcast. In this conversation, we talk about:
The first songs they ever wrote
How going viral with cover songs helped open creative doors
The delicate juggle of day jobs, passion projects, and defining success on your own terms
Why sometimes, you don’t realize you’ve “made it” until you’re living in the moment
Moira & Claire bring joy, humour, and a fresh perspective to what it means to pursue a creative life. Whether you’re just starting out or well into your artistic journey, this episode will leave you smiling—and maybe humming along.
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: “A Day in the Life"
Outro song: “The Show" both by Mike (Michael S. Ryan) from his upcoming 88 song project Power Chords
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Their site: https://moiraandclaire.bandcamp.com/
Moira & Claire’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/moiraandclaire/?hl=en
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
This week on Make It, we're sitting down with none other than Jimmy Rankin—yes, that Jimmy Rankin from the legendary Rankin Family!
With his unmistakable Cape Breton charm still fully intact, Jimmy takes us on a heartfelt stroll down memory lane. From his early days growing up in the small but mighty town of Mabou, Nova Scotia, to touring the world, winning countless awards, and becoming a staple in Canadian music history—this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a deep appreciation for the journey.
We talk about his musical beginnings (did you know he started out as a drummer?), the grind of selling cassette tapes door-to-door, and his influential neighbourhood pals like Robert Frank and June Leaf. Through it all, Jimmy remains grounded, generous, and wildly inspiring.
This is part one of an anticipated two-part conversation—because one episode just wasn’t enough. Stay tuned for more with Jimmy down the road!
In this episode:
Life in Mabou and its influence on Jimmy’s music
The early days of the Rankin Family’s rise to fame
Jimmy’s evolution as a solo artist and multi-instrumentalist
Stories from the road, the studio, and everywhere in between
Reflections on “making it” while staying true to your roots
We’re humbled to share space with such a Nova Scotian treasure.
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: “A Day in the Life"
Outro song: “The Show" both by Mike (Michael S. Ryan) from his upcoming 88 song project Power Chords
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Jimmy’s site: https://jimmyrankin.com/
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Mike and Kristen are back—with a fresh look, renewed perspective, and big plans for the podcast! In this kickoff episode, we introduce the season’s new theme: Make It—a double entendre that explores both the act of making things and the evolving idea of “making it” as an artist or creative.
Today’s conversation centers around the importance of the pause. Whether it’s a five-minute breather, a weekend retreat, or stepping away from a major project (like... a podcast), we break down the value in slowing down to speed up.
We share personal stories of rest, recalibration, and how stepping back often brings the clarity needed to move forward with more intention and energy. From burnout recovery to creative breakthroughs, we unpack the ways intentional pauses have impacted our own journeys—and how you can integrate simple, sustainable pauses into yours.
In this episode:
Why we paused the podcast—and what we learned
The many forms a creative pause can take
How short, medium, and long breaks can benefit your work and well-being
Real-life strategies to help you integrate rest and reflection into your routine
Our new vision for the show and what you can expect going forward
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: “A Day in the Life"Outro song: “The Show" both by Mike (Michael S. Ryan) from his upcoming 88 song project Power Chords
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
It’s the end of an era...but not forever! In this final episode of Mike and Kristen (as you know it), we take you along on our adventure through the U.S., sharing highlights from our second time attending SXSW, playing basketball in the rain in LA and how we were greeted with apologies in America. From a terrifying plane ride to an insane Austin bus adventure, we embraced every unexpected twist with open arms.
We dive into the biggest lessons we learned—about happiness, human connection, extraterrestrials (!), quantum computing, AI, the future of humanity, and what it means to be Canadian on a global stage. We also reflect on sacred moments, like working through life on Venice Pier and feeling the weight of inspiration from some of our greatest role models and thought leaders such as Michelle Obama, John Fogerty, Brené Brown, and Dr. Laurie Santos.
And, as we soak in all these experiences, we’ve realized that it’s time to hit pause. We’re stepping back from podcasting—not to say goodbye, but to make space for everything we’ve learned over the past while and come back with a fresh show! We’ll return with incredible guests, creative guidance and Nova Scotia pride.
Thank you for being on this journey with us. We can’t wait to share what’s next! Listen now & stay tuned for our return!
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk"Outro song: "The Jam" both by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
Wednesday Mar 26, 2025
This week, we’re catching up with the one and only Mark Bezanson—a musician, educator, and all-around Nova Scotia treasure! From his early days studying at StFX to a decades-long teaching career (where Kristen even played in his band class!), Mark’s love for music has always been front and center.
Now in his final year of teaching at Middleton High School, he’s riding the emotional rollercoaster of retirement while looking ahead to new adventures—travel, performing with Joker’s Right Band, and celebrating his solo album Wire and Wood. We chat about our shared love for the Annapolis Valley, the beauty of Nova Scotia, and the importance of community in both music and life.
Mark is one of the kindest souls you’ll ever meet, and his passion for music and people shines through in every story he shares. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation with someone who was truly born to play!
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk" by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Mark’s Website: https://markbezanson.com/
Mark’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/mbezansonmusic/
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
Wednesday Mar 19, 2025
This week, we’re hanging out with one of the biggest champions of East Coast music—Darcy Walsh! If you’re part of the scene, you already know his name. As the co-creator of East Coast DNA Podcast, Darcy has made it his mission to shine a light on the incredible talent coming out of Eastern Canada. Whether through interviews, live performances, or event spotlights, he’s always got his finger on the pulse of the music we love.
In this episode, Darcy takes us back to his roots in Pictou County, sharing how his first exposure to music sparked a lifelong passion. We dive into the joy he finds in sharing artists’ stories through East Coast DNA, the platform he built from the ground up—now earning him an ECMA nomination in the Media category!
If you love discovering new artists, supporting local music, or just hearing from someone who genuinely lives and breathes the East Coast sound, this one’s for you. Tune in and celebrate the guy who spends his time celebrating everyone else!
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk"Outro song: "The Jam" both by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Darcy’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@eastcoastdna
Darcy’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/eastcoastdna/
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
Wednesday Mar 12, 2025
What happens when you mix unstoppable determination, a deep love for life, and a voice that can move a nation? You get Terry Kelly. Blind since childhood, Terry lost his sight but gained a vision for life that’s bigger than most of us could ever imagine. This episode is pure energy, wisdom, and inspiration wrapped up in a conversation with a guy who doesn’t believe in limits.
Terry’s done it all—award-winning musician, world-traveling performer, motivational speaker, and even a record-breaking athlete. But what truly sets him apart is his ability to connect with people on a heart level. He’s always up for an adventure (whether that’s running a sub-five-minute mile or performing for troops in Afghanistan) and we love that about him!
Losing his sight as a child never stopped Terry from seeing the world in his own way. He shares stories of resilience, of finding joy in the journey, and of using his challenges as fuel rather than barriers. His perspective will have you rethinking your own limits and maybe even pushing past a few of them.
This one’s a feel-good, can’t-miss conversation with a man who truly embodies what it means to live wide open. Tune in for some laughs, some wisdom, and maybe even a little inspiration to push your own boundaries.
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk"Outro song: "The Jam" both by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Terry’s Website: https://www.terry-kelly.com/
Terry’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/terryjosephkelly/
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
Wednesday Mar 05, 2025
This week, we sit down with the incredibly talented Laura Rae—a musician, teacher, producer, and new mom who somehow manages to do it all! Growing up in northern New Brunswick, Laura was raised in a bilingual environment, which has shaped both her teaching career and her work as a musician.
Now based in Dartmouth, she runs The Guest Room, a music studio and rehearsal space where she supports local artists—especially women—through recording, production, and French translation. As one of the few female producers in the industry, Laura is carving out space for more inclusivity in the Nova Scotia music scene.
Her latest album, Sad Songs, showcases her multi-instrumental talent and deep emotional storytelling. Between teaching in the French school system, running a business, and embracing new motherhood, Laura is an inspiration for anyone juggling multiple creative passions.
Laura Rae is a true powerhouse—don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation!
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk"Outro song: "The Jam" both by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Laura Rae’s Website: https://www.laurarae.ca/
Laura Rae’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/laura_raemusic/?hl=en
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
Wednesday Feb 26, 2025
This week, we sit down with Tisha Parker Kemp, founder and principal of Shift Ed Academy. With over 25 years of experience in training and education—including more than 20 years in online learning—Tisha is a powerhouse when it comes to building high-quality training programs. Whether you’re looking to launch your own online course, refine your business strategy, or step into leadership, Tisha has the tools and expertise to help you succeed.
In this conversation, we cover:
Defining Your Target Audience – How to connect with the right people and build meaningful engagement. Gaining Confidence in Your Work – Lessons from Tisha’s journey from a secure corporate role to thriving entrepreneurship. Maintaining Passion and Purpose – How to keep your work aligned with what truly excites and fulfills you.
Tisha’s story is proof that sometimes, the work finds you! She now teaches and coaches others on how to uncover their own passion-driven paths. Whether you’re considering a career shift, launching your own program, or looking to lead a strong community, this episode is packed with insight to help you take the next step. Tune in, get inspired, and start shaping the future you want!
Us on the web: www.mikeandkristen.ca
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mike_and_kristen/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikeandkristencreative
Shoot us a message! Say hello, tell us who you think we should have on the podcast, and your deepest and darkest secrets: mikeandkristencreative@gmail.com
Review our book "You and Me" on Amazon (it helps a lot!!): https://amzn.to/3qqNCMo
Intro song: "The Walk"Outro song: "The Jam" both by Mike’s band The Town Heroes - www.thetownheroes.com
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Tisha’s Website: https://www.shiftedacademy.ca/
Tisha’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tishaparkerkemp/
Mike and Kristen
Creative people make things in an effort to “make it”. But what does making it really mean? Is it selling out stadiums, having your painting in the Louvre, making enough money from your art to pay your bills, or simply having the privilege of getting to create in your spare time? Success looks different for everyone, and we’re here to explore those paths and what it takes to make them a reality.