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
Wednesday Oct 26, 2022
Wednesday Oct 26, 2022
Creativity flows through Sarah as naturally as the breath through our bodies. She helps others tap into their subconscious to explore sexuality, guidance this same organic creative expression through intuitive art processes. Sarah was the former host of the popular podcast “Momgasm” and now offers beautiful guided sessions, often in collaboration with spiritual leaders, to help reveal our inner calling. “Sanctuary” encourages you to show up and get ugly! This is a truth bomb episode, with a few extra F-bombs for effect.
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 Instagram: @cometosanctuary
Sarah’s website: https://www.cometosanctuary.ca
Nourished event: https://app.squarespacescheduling.com/schedule.php?appointmentType=37570349&owner=22655851
Wednesday Oct 19, 2022
Wednesday Oct 19, 2022
This adventurous duo met on a 30-hour kayak trip to Sable Island. The unique (insane) experience was only the beginning of the outdoor thrills that Chris and Jan would eventually share. For more than a decade these Nova Scotian nature enthusiasts have brought awareness to land conversation, mental health through the outdoors, and how their kid’s book “A For Adventure” led them to a life of doing what they love. They also offer a crash course on ticks, so that alone is worth tuning in for!
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
A For Adventure’s Instagram: @a.foradventure
A For Adventure’s website: www.aforadventure.ca
Wednesday Oct 12, 2022
Wednesday Oct 12, 2022
A powerful episode as Brenda guides our listeners through an example of what life-coaching can do for our mental health and well-being. Having overcome a serious addiction and feelings of not belonging, we can all benefit from hearing Brenda’s story of discovering her true self. We talk about the importance of perspective, reflection and give tips on how you might apply this wisdom to your own life or business.
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
Brenda’s Instagram: @brendamailer
Brenda’s website: https://www.seabrightspirit.ca/
Meditations and Live Yoga: https://insighttimer.com/brendamailer
Life Coaching Insights, Yoga Videos, and Meditations: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrendaMailer
Wednesday Oct 05, 2022
Wednesday Oct 05, 2022
Kristine is an accomplished photographer, educator, marketer and entrepreneur. She left the creative corporate world just a few years ago and is already making multi-six figures as an artist. How’s that for taking a chance on yourself?! We talk about what inspired her to make the leap into full-time creativity, how her masterclass has grown beyond her expectations and what motivates her to take photos in the darkest, wee hours of the night. An inspiring episode for anyone who wants to light the creative fire under them!
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
Kristine’s Instagram: @ kristinerosephotography
Kristine’s website: https://www.kristinerosephotography.com/nightscapes
After Dark Podcast: https://www.afterdarkphotographypodcast.com/
Wednesday Sep 28, 2022
Wednesday Sep 28, 2022
Renée Hartleib got her first library card when she was only TWO years old! Is there any doubt that she would become a writer? Her new book is great for people who want to practice their own writing, and the daily exercises ALSO help us to discover the fine details and inner wisdom about ourselves. We learn about Renée’s brave leap into full-time creativity, what helps her clear her mind and stay present, and how she helps others find their authentic writing voice.
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
Renée Hartleib: @reneehartleib
Renée’s website: https://reneehartleib.com/
Wednesday Sep 21, 2022
Wednesday Sep 21, 2022
Is there anyone more savvy in the entertainment industry than Surettes Island (Yarmouth) own, Trevor Murphy?! We could have talked with Trev for hours more given his treasure chest of knowledge. We explore his creative work with Acadian communities, how being a teenager in a small town shaped his passion for music AND he recites the entire lineup, in order, from Summersault 2000. Trevor shares insight on the creative economy in Nova Scotia and how revisiting his Acadian heritage has led to new and exciting opportunities.
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
Trevor’s Instagram: @hfxisburning @sluicehfx @acadianembassy
Wednesday Sep 14, 2022
Wednesday Sep 14, 2022
A well-known leader in the entertainment industry, Steph Purcell is the Master of anticipating what we need. She shows up with confidence, decisiveness and thoughtfulness in both her work and personal life. Hear how building relationships has led to both a thriving business and a friend group that many envy. Oh, and there was that yacht party…
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
Stephanie’s Instagram: @purcell.steph
Vox Agency Instagram: @voxagency
Website: www.voxagency.ca
Wednesday Sep 07, 2022
Wednesday Sep 07, 2022
This powerhouse creative couple shares how the pandemic led them to sobriety, new jobs and “starting from zero” towards reinventing themselves. Zach bought Tori a sandwich on a tour in Germany and that is the key to any travelling artist’s heart! Both lifelong musicians, Zach and Tori share stories of their most memorable gigs, the impact of a live audience and how change can be the best way to keep life interesting.
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 Aug 31, 2022
Wednesday Aug 31, 2022
We eloped over six years ago in Jamaica and are often asked, “how did you do that?” Today’s episode shares the first chapter of our audiobook, “You and Me” which tells the story of our special wedding day. A drug dealer takes our photo, Mike sprains his wrist at our wedding party trying to crack open a piñata and Kristen encourages you to do things your own 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
Episode Sponsored by: Bello Day Spa
Instagram: @bello.day.spa
Wednesday Aug 24, 2022
Wednesday Aug 24, 2022
Artists need to take care of their minds and bodies to stay creative and in flow. Mental health and mindfulness are key drivers to overall health so we wanted to share some of our own successes on exercise, nutrition and mindful practices that help keep us going. Mike talks about reverse high heels and Kristen talks about coffee enemas. The rest is somewhere in between!
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.