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.
Listen on:
Episodes
Wednesday Sep 06, 2023
Wednesday Sep 06, 2023
Kristyn Green is the definition of a FIRECRACKER! She has followed the breadcrumbs to create an exciting and diverse career. Growing up in a small town made her feel like BEING ON TV wasn’t necessarily an option. Fast forward life and she is a successful stand-up comedian, television show host (Maritime Ink), live events host, producer and we imagine, everyone’s best friend. We chat about learning the hard way, managing nerves, where woman hide tampons and how the Green family throws the best holiday gatherings in the Maritimes. Try and keep up with this amazing woman!!
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
Kristen’s Instagram: @kristyngreenwhatsyours
Wednesday Aug 30, 2023
Wednesday Aug 30, 2023
Cape Breton born and based siblings wouldn’t want to partner with anyone else! Their connection is apparent having established their strengths, values and sound in an incredibly short period of time. We chat about the benefits of being faced with challenges and how those hardships help us grow into better versions of ourselves. Hearts of Kin’s music is authentically representational of the kindest gals on the island! Managed by Danielle’s husband Brent, the sisters are able to focus on their bursting songwriting talent, touring, and purpose.
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
Hearts of Kin’s Instagram: @hearts.of.kin
Hearts of Kin website: https://www.heartsofkin.com/about
The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture
Wednesday Aug 23, 2023
Wednesday Aug 23, 2023
Kate (Harnish) grew up in the iconic Shore Club Hubbards family and when she met her now husband BJ in high school, he too became part of the dance halls’ electric fun. Fast-forward twenty years and the two now run their own business! BJ, an HRM firefighter cuts intricate wood pieces that Kate then paints with bright, Nova Scotia scenes and inspirations. Their collaborative approach results in the most fun, playful, pristine work! This duo will be part of the first annual Moonshine Imaginarium arts festival that is coming to the CBC Moonshine Lodge film set this last weekend of August 2023 at Hubbards Beach.
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
Kate & BJ’s Instagram: @salt.sky.studio
Kate & BJs website: https://www.saltskystudio.com/
The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture
Wednesday Aug 16, 2023
Wednesday Aug 16, 2023
A true showman, Tommy Green Jr. is what you might call the ideal podcast guest! Honest, funny and sweet as a family of pea-pods, we adored this time together! We chat about psylocibin exploration, what’s it’s like to undergo a creative lull, working on cruise ships, singing and skating with the Halifax Mooseheads and so much more! An energetic conversation with one of Nova Scotia’s most celebrated entertainers!
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
Tommy’s Instagram: @tommygreenjr
The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture
Wednesday Aug 09, 2023
Wednesday Aug 09, 2023
Only 19-years old, this young-gun has stolen the hearts of many, including ours! On the heels of releasing his first single track (played at the end of the episode!), his first ticketed show and lots of press, we wanted to follow-up with Jackson on how the perception of this creative life measures up against the reality. We chat about the highs and lows, managing nerves and how youthful perspective can benefit us all.
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
Jackson’s Instagram: @jacksonweldonn
The Town Heroes Shore Club Tickets:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-town-heroes-with-daniel-james-mcfadyen-and-the-public-service-tickets-627843415557
Wednesday Aug 02, 2023
Wednesday Aug 02, 2023
Allow us to introduce to the definition of power couple! Clear visions and intentional goal setting have led Katie and Brad to appreciate a shared spirit. Katie founded the “We Are Young” (WAY) Organization as a way of highlighting and celebrating our senior population through funding experiential “wishes”. Her recognition of these special souls has resulted in almost 50 fulfilled dreams for local “young-guns”. Her newlywed hub’s founded Purple Cow Internet, Was Season 1’s Winner of Canada’s Ultimate Challenge and is currently training for the next winter Olympics. Oh yea, he also swam the English Channel and is going to put hotels in space… But what we loved the most about this couple is their commitment to their goals, their drive for life and their love and support of each other. You’ll be inspired!
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
We Are Young (WAY)’s Website: https://www.weareyoung.ca/
Purple Cow Internet: https://www.purplecowinternet.com
Wednesday Jul 26, 2023
Wednesday Jul 26, 2023
2023 has been GOOOOOOD to Nicole Ariana whose sister is building her a shelf to hold all of her well-deserved hardware! Her provocative music videos, powerful lyrics and creative breadth have led this Nova Scotia singer to amazing accomplishments. We dig into the big stuff – what it’s like being in the middle of a transition and wanting people to see all sides of ourselves; how to balance work and play; and how collaborating with others extends our artistic minds. Both sultry and sweet, you’re going to fall in love with this powerhouse performer!
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
Nicole’s Website: https://www.nicoleariana.net/
Nicole’s Instagram: @nicolearianamusic
Wednesday Jul 19, 2023
Wednesday Jul 19, 2023
Originally from Newfoundland, Alicia Simms found her Nova Scotian home in Truro and has been celebrating the small-town vibe ever since! Her tattoo artwork has a recognizable style and she has certainly paid her dues in establishing herself in the industry. She started highlighting small businesses and towns SO WELL, she was offered her own TV show to keep doing more of the same. We love this organic career path! She’s also hosting events, promoting body-positivity and doing it all from an airstream with her hubs. Alicia is diverse, daring and adored!
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
Alicia’s Website: https://www.aliciaetattoo.ca
Alicia’s Instagram: @aliciaetattoo
Wednesday Jul 12, 2023
Wednesday Jul 12, 2023
A lifetime painter, sculpture, writer, gardener and inspiration leader, Sarah Irwin has no shortage of creative projects and stories. Her quirks and humour are reflected in the imaginative paintings she makes, and her sweet advice to other aspiring artists resonates deep. A long-time member of the Peggy’s Cove Area Festival of the Arts (PCAFA), represented artist at 14 Bells Gallery and even a treasure map maker, Sarah has found a way to allow her creative voice to evolve over and over and over again!
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
Sarah’s Website: http://www.sarahirwin.ca/
Sarah’s Instagram: @irwinsarah.artist
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
We spend an unforgettable day on location of Hope For Wildlife’s animal rehabilitation facility in beautiful Seaforth, Nova Scotia. Hope shares her journey to developing the infrastructure, staff and philosophy that sees over 7000 wild animals a year! Hope talks about everything from funding to food to furry favourites, recorded live from her impressive sanctuary. We’re so grateful for this unique opportunity and know you’ll enjoy learning about Hope’s amazing work.
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
Hope For Wildlife’s Website: https://www.hopeforwildlife.net/
Hope For Wildlife’s Instagram: @hopeforwildlife
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.