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 01, 2025
Wednesday Oct 01, 2025
This week on Make It with Mike and Kristen, we sit down with the extraordinary Gabrielle Papillon — a multi-dimensional artist with roots in dance, music, theatre, academics, and producing. Despite her long list of accomplishments, Gab speaks honestly about what it means to “make it” as an artist in today’s world, and how her own definition of success continues to evolve.
Her latest project, Mind the Light, is a two-act original queer musical inspired by her family history. Drawing from the story of her great-grandmother’s birth in a storm-battered lighthouse, Gabrielle reimagines a world where her ancestors stayed and fought to keep the light. The workshop concert reading debuts December 10 at The Sanctuary in Dartmouth.
In this raw, authentic, and wide-ranging conversation, Gabrielle opens up about everything from perimenopause to the cultural industries in Nova Scotia, to the joys and struggles of creating ambitious work on her own terms. She’s a true creative spirit, and we’re proud to celebrate her story.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Gabrielle’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gabpapillon/
Gabrielle’s Website: https://www.gabriellepapillon.com/
Mind the Light Tickets: https://www.gabriellepapillon.com/mind-the-light
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
This week’s episode is a bittersweet one. After three years of concerts, workshops, markets, open mics, art-making, and friendship building, we’re officially closing the doors of Togetherland Art Gallery. What started as a temporary home for us after being evacuated from our house grew into a vibrant creative hub that fostered connection, bravery, and joy in our community.
It has been an incredibly emotional summer—filled with feelings of grief, fear, and even failure—but also hope and excitement for what’s ahead. In this conversation, we share the story of closing Togetherland while we’re still in the thick of transition, not just looking back once everything feels comfortable.
If you’ve ever faced a major life change—expected or not—we hope this episode feels like sitting down with friends who understand. Endings are never easy, but they can be the start of something new.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
This week we’re joined by writer and comedian Bryn Pottie, who proves that sometimes the best material is hiding right in your hometown. Bryn takes us on a hilarious tour of his journey from “comedy college” in Toronto (where, as he admits, none of the credits transferred) to performing on stages across North America, writing for TV, and eventually returning to Nova Scotia’s South Shore.
We dive into his debut novel, The Great Lunenburglary, a witty love letter to Lunenburg that’s capturing the attention of both tourists and locals alike. It’s a story of how a group of teenagers steal the Bluenose. We can all relate to the mischievous temptation!
Bryn shares how his comedy roots shaped his storytelling, why being back in Nova Scotia inspired him to finally write his first book, and what it’s like to balance humor, nostalgia, and a touch of mischief on the page.
It’s a conversation full of laughs, local pride, and proof that you really can come home again—especially if you bring a few good punchlines with you.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Bryn’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/brynpottie/?hl=en
Bryn’s Website: https://www.brynpottie.com/
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
This week on Make It with Mike and Kristen, we’re joined by the incomparable Richie Wilcox — performer, playwright, and co-founder of the trailblazing performance company, HEIST.
Richie takes us home to New Waterford, Cape Breton, where his latest show Coal Bowl Queen was inspired by the legendary Coal Bowl basketball tournament that’s been bringing teams together since 1982. We talk about the show’s launch at Alderney Landing on September 11, and how Richie’s deep roots continue to fuel his creativity.
From sharing the stage with Rita MacNeil as a child, to placing in the top 10 on Canadian Idol, to meeting his husband Aaron Collier at Halifax’s own Reflections, Richie’s story is one of fearless authenticity and constant reinvention. We explore his decision to leave behind an academic path for a life devoted to art, how he’s carved out space for bold, unconventional work, and why he continues to inspire audiences across Canada.
Funny, thoughtful, and endlessly talented, Richie is a reminder that true artistry comes from living unapologetically and making space for others to do the same.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Richie’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/newwaterfordboy/
Coal Bowl Queen Tickets: https://www.easternfronttheatre.com/coal-bowl-queen
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Our guest this week is the wildly talented Stef Bénac — a musician, tarot reader, and all-around energy factory. You might know Stef from her work with Factory Girls, dreamy new project Bring Me Sleep, or her spiritual and creative practice, Bénac Magick.
We dive into Stef’s world of music and meaning — from the influences that shaped her sound to the powerful role of songwriting as deep storytelling. Stef opens up about energy work, reiki, and even ghostly encounters, sharing how intuition and creativity intertwine in both art and life. She even shared a tarot reading with us after the mics shut off. A truly profound experience from one of the best intuitive workers we’ve encountered!
We also explore the origin story behind Factory Girls, how collaboration fuels inspiration, and the values that ground Stef’s unique style and community-driven approach.
An artist who radiates kindness, good vibes, and limitless creativity. This conversation is a reminder of how art, energy, and spirit can lift us all up.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Stef’s IG: Benac Magick: @benac.magick, Bring Me Sleep: @bring.me.sleep, Factory Girls: @factorygirls.band
Stef’s YouTube (Factory Girls): https://m.youtube.com/@factorygirlsband?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwMS2AZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHlebzs0jGoqcjbumXkYXgBYJSd9C2cvzu3VihpxNNY-V9fi-vyXlzT9t9ETr_aem_Zg4picx4RRatQYy02unjOA
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
This week we’re joined by Andrew MacLeod, frontman of the Windsor-based rock band Years of Ernest. Growing up in Cape Breton as the youngest of seven, Andrew reflects on the creative influence of his father, award-winning Canadian author Alistair MacLeod, and his equally inspiring mother who helped shape his artistic mind. Now a full-time teacher, Andrew is home for a summer visit and found time to join us in the Hot Jupiter Sounds studio!
Andrew and Mike go way back—bonding first on the basketball court before starting a band together and eventually chasing music full-time after a fateful summer decision to quit school. In this episode, you’ll hear hilarious tales from the early “Billy’s Flick” days, stories of shenanigans on and off the stage, and how their lifelong friendship has been woven through both The Town Heroes and Years of Ernest songs.
Andrew’s thoughtful reflections, quick wit, and genuine storytelling make this a deep dive into a brilliant (and busy) mind.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Andrew’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/yearsofernest/?hl=en
Andrew’s Website: https://yearsofernest.bandcamp.com/album/sort-it-out
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Cape Breton’s latest rising star, Taylor Jensen, joins us for a heartfelt conversation about her music, her roots, and the winding path that’s brought her to this moment.
Taylor’s style is the perfect mix of classic country storytelling with a modern pop-country edge—like a sip of sweet tea with just the right amount of spice. Her debut single End the Road earned her a spot on Spotify’s New Music Friday Country and Fresh Finds Country playlists, and her latest single “Strange” is everything you want in a beautifully executed work of art. She is a gentle spirit with fire and spice in her creative approach.
We dive into:- Growing up in a small Cape Breton town of 1200 and finding her voice in the music scene- Her connection to spirituality and how she’s embracing her “witchy” side- Navigating some of the biggest performances of her career while experiencing the grief of losing her mother- The balance of being soft yet fierce, vulnerable yet resilient
-Her upcoming Songwriter’s Circle at Togetherland Art Gallery (August 30) with collaborators Timothy Hatcher and Avery Dakin
Taylor is an old soul with a youthful heart, and one of the most exciting voices in country music right now. We’re so proud to share her story and can confidently say: she’s absolutely one to watch.
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Taylor’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/itsjusttaylorjensen/
Taylor’s Website: https://taylordelaneyjensen.com/home
Songwriter’s Circle at Togetherland: https://kristenherringtonart.com/event/6195507/730065768/songwriters-circle-featuring-taylor-jenson-timothy-hatcher-and-avery-dakin
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Whether you’re brand new to making things, stuck in a creative rut, or just looking for fresh ideas, this episode is packed with quick, practical tips that have personally worked for us.
We’re sharing our top six ways to spark creativity—covering everything from carving out dedicated time to create, to why simply starting is the most important step, to rethinking what creativity can look like beyond traditional art forms.
Fast, fun, and full of takeaways to get you moving on your next creative idea!
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
This week’s guest is the incomparable Hughie Batherson—a man who doesn’t just talk about what matters to him, he acts on it. From learning French as an adult to becoming a bilingual performer, Hughie embodies dedication, curiosity, and courage. His first-ever attempt at standup comedy? He won a Juste pour rire (Just for Laughs) competition. Since then, he’s become a sought-after comic and motivational speaker across the country.
Hughie shares how he doesn’t consider himself funny in his day-to-day life, but brings infectious energy to the stage—where humour becomes his tool for connection, education, and impact. A former teacher and professor with a Master’s in Education focused on the role of humour in learning, Hughie brings both heart and hilarity to every audience he meets.
We chat about language, taking creative risks, and the power of storytelling—and we were surprised and thrilled when he gifted us a signed Drake Batherson jersey (his NHL-star nephew!). We also chat about his Cape Breton roots, his recent performance at Togetherland Art Gallery’s Open Mic night and how we all know we’ll be friends well beyond the show!
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Noel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/hughie.batherson/?hl=en
Hughie’s Website: https://hughiebatherson.com/biography
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
In this episode, we’re joined by Noel Morgan, an aspiring musician based in the Annapolis Valley whose soulful, feel-good energy radiates through both his music and his everyday life. Noel has been steadily making waves across Nova Scotia, performing with his 6-piece band Noel Morgan & The Salty Groove, delivering modern blues tunes inspired by the likes of Bahamas, Joel Plaskett, and The Grateful Dead.
We chat about the delicate balance of making music while working construction jobs, and how the contrast between physical labour and artistic creation helps keep him grounded—and inspired. Noel opens up about his creative process, his love for collaboration and community, and how he's carving out a path in an ever-changing music industry.
Noel recently released a unique 8-song, 8-music video visual album, described as a complete film. It's a visually rich, creatively ambitious project that showcases not only his songwriting but his commitment to storytelling and artistic vision. And of course, we talk about what making it means in today’s industry!
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
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Noel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/noelmorgangroove/
Noel’s Website: https://www.noelmorgan.ca/
The Salty Groove: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRTJjTPI5Uk&list=RDmRTJjTPI5Uk&start_radio=1
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.