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 Feb 19, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025
This week, we sit down with the incredibly talented Rhys Waters, a documentary filmmaker, television & radio producer for the BBC, and comedy creator from the UK who found a new home—and a new career path—in Nova Scotia. As co-founder of Podstarter and host of Canada is Boring, Rhys has become a powerhouse in the podcasting world, helping creators bring their ideas to life with expert tech, sound, and promotion strategies.
We chat about his journey from TV and documentaries to full-time podcast production, the growth of his business in Halifax, and what makes a great podcast stand out. Rhys is also the mastermind behind some of our favourite shows, including Nancy Regan’s Canadian Love Map—which we were lucky enough to be guests on!
With his signature humour, storytelling skills, and industry expertise, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to start their own podcast or level up their existing show.
If you’ve ever dreamed of starting a podcast, this episode will give you the inspiration, knowledge, and laughs to get started!
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
Rhys’s Website: https://www.podstarter.io/
Rhys’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhyswaters/
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
Wednesday Feb 12, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Sean McMullen—better known as ‘Saltwater Sean’—a passionate photographer, musician, and avid diver who spends his time exploring Nova Scotian waterways in search of hidden treasures. From old bottles to action figures, Sean has uncovered some truly fascinating relics, but today, we're focusing on a different side of his journey.
After a diving accident, Sean was left coping with hearing loss and tinnitus, the constant ringing in his ear that has become a relentless part of his daily life. In this candid and vulnerable conversation, Sean opens up about his personal struggles with these invisible conditions and the emotional toll they take. His story resonates deeply with our host, Kristen, who also lives with tinnitus, creating an instant bond between the two.
Sean's openness sheds light on the challenges of living with a condition that’s often unseen by others. His courage to speak out aims to support anyone who feels isolated by similar experiences, reminding us that even the smallest moments in life can be forever changed by invisible illnesses.
This episode is a heartfelt and powerful conversation for anyone navigating difficult times, seeking a sense of understanding, support, and connection. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about resilience, empathy, and the importance of feeling seen.
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
Sean’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/seandmcmullen/videos
Sean’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/saltwater_sean/
Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
Wednesday Feb 05, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with our good friend, the one and only David Beatriz, in his home studio for an insightful conversation about American politics, tech, and the importance of community. We first met Dave at SXSW last March and immediately connected over his sharp mind and kind heart. This guy is not just a brilliant tech genius (he went to MIT at 14!), but also an incredible storyteller and thoughtful friend.
During our time in Orlando (which aligned with) Trump’s inauguration, we became fascinated with the political landscape in the U.S., and who better to discuss it with than Dave? He shares his perspectives on the current political climate, what it’s really like living in the U.S. right now, and how his journey from coding on his junior high school’s first computer to becoming a leading tech expert shaped his view of the world.
We dive into topics like:
How Dave's human-centric values guide his daily interactions
The importance of belonging and community in today’s world
His experience growing up as a young tech prodigy
The state of American politics and what it’s like to navigate it as someone deeply embedded in the tech world
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of politics, tech, and human connection. Dave is one of the smartest and most genuine people we know, and we’re sure you’ll love him just as much as we do.
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
Dave’s Website: https://soundcloud.com/the-beat-treez
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Gabriel Minnikin, one of Nova Scotia’s accomplished and versatile musicians. Gabe has played alongside some of the biggest names in Canadian music, from Blue Rodeo (where he played accordion) to Bahamas, Grammy Award-winning Gordie Sampson, Buck 65, and Kinley Dowling, he’s even changed a string on Travis Good’s (the Sadies) Gretsch guitar. But beyond his musical achievements, Gabe is a kind individual with a thoughtful perspective on life and creativity.
We dive into Gabe’s creative process, his experiences living abroad, and the personal journey of getting sober. Despite being an introvert at heart, Gabe shares how he finds joy in performing live with his band, revealing the quiet power of music and performance in expressing what words sometimes can’t.
Gabe’s latest album, Anne Lorraine, is a heartfelt tribute to his new wife, and in a beautiful twist, they held their wedding on the very day of the album's release! In this episode, Gabe talks about the inspiration behind his new tunes, takes us down memory lane with stories of “the Guthries,” and reflects on how even the most introverted person can speak volumes through their music.
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
Gabriel’s Website: https://gabrielminnikin.ca/
Gabriel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielminnikin/
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
Wednesday Jan 22, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Beck Keen, a master business coach, risk-taker, and powerhouse who blends spirituality, strategy, and science to guide entrepreneurs to real freedom in their coaching and consulting businesses. Beck opens up about her incredible journey—from sailing the world after a profound connection with the underwater world, to walking away from a "dream job" to pursue her true calling.
Beck shares how trusting the universe and embracing a mindset of possibility has helped her align with her purpose, both personally and professionally. With insights from her vast life experience, she’s developed a unique approach to business that emphasizes the importance of mindset and stepping into your authentic self.
In this episode, Beck also gives us a sneak peek into the book she’s currently working on, and how her personal adventures and lessons continue to inform her work with clients. Whether you're looking to make a bold move in your business or simply need a dose of inspiration, this conversation is sure to spark new ideas and insights.
We’re thrilled to share Beck’s wisdom, warmth, and transformative perspective in today’s episode. Tune in for an adventure in both life and 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
Beck’s Website: https://beckykeen.com/
Beck’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/beck_keen/
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
Wednesday Jan 15, 2025
In this episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Asif Illyas, a veteran of the Canadian music scene and an ECMA Award-winning composer and musician. Asif has additionally made a name for himself in the world of film and television scoring, blending his classically trained musicianship with intuitive, innovative approaches to composition. A true intellect, we explore the depths of his creative process, spanning across analytical techniques, emotional intuition, and the bridge between the worlds of music and technology.
Originally from Sri Lanka, Asif’s journey to Canada was sparked by his father’s academic pursuits at Dalhousie University, and now, Asif has firmly planted his roots on the East Coast of Canada. In this episode, he shares how his lived experiences shape his work and reflects on how music—especially film scores—has the power to deeply connect with people. We also dive into his personal projects, including his YouTube channel where he showcases some of his work, and of course, we couldn't resist talking about the fact that Asif is also a proud creator of his very own flight simulator (on display at the Nova Scotia Aviation Museum!)—because, well, why not?
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
Asif’s Website: http://asifillyas.com/
Asif’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/asif_illyas/
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
Wednesday Jan 08, 2025
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Deborah Young, a well-known intuitive astrologer based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, who offers us a deep dive into the powerful energies of astrology and how they’ll shape our lives in 2025 and beyond. Deborah brings her vast knowledge and experience to help us better understand our natal charts, and how we can lean into our own intuition as we prepare for a year of significant change.
2025 promises to be a wild year, and Deborah explains why—highlighting how planetary alignments in 2025 will bring about shifts that haven’t been seen in hundreds of years. With her unique insights, Deborah shares how we can harness these energies and align with the cosmic flow.
She also reminds us of the importance of unity in times of division, offering hope for a shifting global landscape. As we navigate 2025, Deborah points to key months—January and March—as moments of powerful transformation. These shifts will not only affect us individually but will be felt on a global scale as we collectively rise in strength and solidarity.
Whether you're a seasoned astrology enthusiast or just curious about how the stars can offer insight into your life, Deborah’s thoughtfulness and wisdom will leave you feeling inspired and ready for the year ahead.
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
Deborah’s Website: https://www.deborahyoungastrology.com/
Deborah’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/deborah_young_astrology/
Wednesday Jan 01, 2025
Wednesday Jan 01, 2025
Shaina Falcone is a certified group fitness instructor, personal trainer, Pilates instructor, and nutrition coach with a passion for helping people build healthy habits that last. As a mom of two boys, Shaina understands the challenges of balancing health goals with a busy life, making her one of the relatable influencers out there! Her philosophy is rooted in creating manageable, step-by-step changes that fit seamlessly into her clients’ lives and we share some of those strategies on today’s episode.
We discuss how to set small, achievable goals for the new year, the power of taking things one day at a time, and why focusing on health—rather than weight—is the key to lasting change. Shaina offers 1:1 and group classes at her home studio in Hubbards, has free and fun posts on her ever-growing Instagram page and even has an app so you can download programs! We love her friendly and accessible approach to discussing health and well-being.
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
Shaina’s Website: https://www.shainafalconefitness.com/
Shaina’s IG: @shainafalconefitness
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
Wednesday Dec 25, 2024
Sending holiday wishes to all of our listeners this season! We reflect on our past and current Christmas traditions; from food to films to buying our Charlie Brown tree from Santa Claus himself. Kristen gets her childhood Desert Storm card back and Mike releases a new song called, “Everyone’s Crying on Christmas Day”. From our family to ours, we hope you have a wonderful celebration!
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 Dec 18, 2024
Wednesday Dec 18, 2024
Jenny Johnson paints what she loves—pop culture, Star Trek, sci-fi, and all things fantasy! Her meticulously crafted oil paintings, born of detailed planning and an undeniable passion for the futuristic and otherworldly, have garnered international attention. From showcasing her work at Hal-Con to connecting with creatives behind the Star Trek franchise, Jenny's art has truly taken off, with custom commissions keeping her booked well into next year.
In our chat, Jenny reflects on the formalities of art school, the challenges of balancing artistry with running a business, and a serendipitous moment that led to a teaching opportunity at Dalhousie University. Through hard work and intuition, she has charted a path to success, proving that following your passions can take you to galaxies far, far away. A lively and inspiring conversation with one of the most talented painters we've ever met!
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
Jenny’s site: https://jennyrjohnson.com/
Jenny’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/jennyrjohnsonart/
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.