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.
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.
Episodes

Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Dale Murray has performed with the best – everyone from Matt Mays to Christina Martin, to his famous aunt – Nova Scotia royalty, Anne Murray. His intention is to support others to help them sound and perform to their top potential. A humble approach to the music industry. Dale’s unique spectrum of talent makes him the perfect guest to reflect on the creative process, stories from the road, taking care of himself as age creeps up on up, AND he got a new haircut for the occasion! A true gentleman, Dale brings humour, light and friendship to this week’s 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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Dale’s website: https://dalemurray.bandzoogle.com/
Dale’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalemurraystudio/

Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Though born and raised in Ontario, Steve Luxton now calls Nova Scotia home. Blame it on meeting a girl and falling in love! We’re happy to have his expertise in the music community, in particular his students at Nova Scotia Community College, who cherish his talent and guidance. We chat about his time spent at esteemed Humber College to running his own studio in Cape Breton. Steve has loads of stories, insights and pro tips to share in this episode!
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Steve’s website: https://www.steveluxton.ca/
Steve’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steve_luxton/

Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Episode 100: 100-Year-Old Shirley Hilchie Helps Us Celebrate our 100th Episode!
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
For our 100th episode we wanted to share a very special chat with our new friend, Shirley. Shirley reflects on her long and vibrant life, sharing bits of advice on longevity, hard-work, family, friendship and how it all changes with age. This inspiring centenarian found the love of her life in her early school days and shares how much their marriage offered purpose and adventure. Thank you Shirley (and Shannex) for this wonderfully special experience.
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser

Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Music has been a part of Mike Morrison’s life since he was just a kid, influenced by the talents of his father. He has played with many bands, including Rock Ranger with the late Jay Smith and now with some of his closest friends in Fire Valley Fire. We talk about musical “feel,” how he doesn’t know the origin story of his band name (LOL) and the release of a brand-new album. Have a listen to this seasoned Cape Bretoners stories of family, fun and what’s so come!
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Fire Valley Fire’s website: https://firevalleyfire.bandcamp.com/album/fire-valley-fire
Fire Valley Fire’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firevalleyfire/?hl=en

Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
There’s nothing like a good break-up to set life on a new path, and that’s exactly what led Jennifer Blair to a glass shop in Toronto. It wasn’t long before she was “secretly” learning the art of glass fusion and has since launched her successful business of turning glass “blobs” into beautiful masterpieces. Learn about the process of glass fusion, how Jen’s family made a major life change during covid and how remining in a place that feels content is the secret to happiness. This market mastermind has loads of great life and business tips!
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Urban Fusions’ website: http://www.urbanfusions.ca/
Urban Fusions’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanfusions/

Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Wednesday Jan 24, 2024
Multi award-winning artist, Jah'Mila discovered the Nova Scotia music scene during a visit with her mom, who had moved to eastern Canada to work in nursing. She found friendship, creative collaboration and loads of adoring fans in the place she now calls home. Her father – “Chinna” – played with Bob Marley’s “The Wailers” and was a strong influence on his children’s creative lives. But Jah’Mila has carved out her own path and established herself as one of the most powerful and impactful names in Reggae. An inspiring story of resilience, persistence and big dreams to come!
Our current Fundraiser!!! https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/
Jah’Mila’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahmilasings/?hl=en

Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Wednesday Jan 17, 2024
Buckle up for this chat with the incredibly articulate, talented and soft-souled young woman, Sophia Rae. This grade 12 École Secondaire Du Sommet student reflects on her personal experience with trauma and mental health after losing her aunt in the Portapique massacre in 2020. Realizing that other teens were struggling with tools and conversations around mental health, she began offering her own public talks in effort to support her peers. She’s now an accomplished entrepreneur who is song-writing with the likes of Meaghen Smith, balancing school work with creative work.
An astonishingly intelligent, compassionate and grounded soul whose wisdom is that of an elder. We’re blown away by Sophia’s approach to life. Her self-awareness and grounded nature shine!
Our Fundraising Campaign: www.mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
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
Sophia Rae’s website: https://sophiarae.ca/
Sophia Rae’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiarae_official/

Wednesday Jan 10, 2024
Wednesday Jan 10, 2024
A profound conversation with multi-faceted artist Carmel Mikol as we dive into stories from her past. Leaving her patriarchal faith after suffering domestic abuse, Carmel shares details about the Jehovah Witnesses religion and how telling her personal experience through film (Apostate) has been a powerful way of adopting a new identity. We learn about the structure, history and inequities of being a “Witness” and how Carmel has been able to make a positive impact on the lives of so many others through her art. With a new album in the works, she’s leaning into her creative side.
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
Carmel Mikol’s website: https://www.carmelmikol.com/
Carmel Mikol’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmelmikol/
Apostate film: https://www.carmelmikol.com/film

Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
Wednesday Jan 03, 2024
How do you explain something that doesn’t yet exist on the creative business landscape? This chat will help explain the background, concept and intentions of the “Curiosity Club”. Curiosity Club is a trio of professional artists and entrepreneurs who specialize in facilitating creative experiences. Erin Bulger, Kristen Herrington and Steph McNamara met in 2020 and have been curating one-of-a-kind experiences ever since. Each woman offers a unique skill-set and area of expertise with the shared mission to help bring your idea to life.
If you are looking for support in event management, photography, hosting, developing your creative "why" or one on one guidance, the club is here to help! On January 17, they will be launching their first virtual program. A 12-week online community to work through the infamous teaching of Julia Cameron's, "The Artist's Way" .
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
Curiosity Club website: https://curiosityclubcreative.com/
Curiosity Club Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiosityclubcreative

Wednesday Dec 27, 2023
Episode 93: Year End Review with Mike & Kristen
Wednesday Dec 27, 2023
Wednesday Dec 27, 2023
We wrap up 2023 by reflecting on what we’ve learned from guests, career highlights, mental health ups and downs, adventures and the wonderful new friends we’ve made along the way! Our intention was to record a “quick” episode, but it’s the same length as all the rest LOL. We reveal some exciting news about the podcast for 2024, plus our new year’s intentions. Thank you for being here with us! Lots more to come, friends xo
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

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.







