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 Jul 23, 2025
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
In this week’s heartfelt episode, we explore something we never set out to build—but has become the foundation of everything we do: community.
From Togetherland to touring, podcasting to painting, we’ve realized that the thread running through all of our creative pursuits is the people around us. We didn’t plan to be “community builders,” but here we are—surrounded by a web of connection, support, and shared purpose.
Join us as we chat about:
The difference between community and audience
How being from small towns shaped our understanding of showing up for each other
The role of the arts in gathering people and sparking connection
The magic of people who have supported us time and again—whether in person or online
Why maintaining and giving back to community is critical to “making it” as an artist
This episode is both a reflection and a thank-you—to you, our community. Your presence and support fuel our creative journey every single day.
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 Jul 16, 2025
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
What does "making it" look like when the path you were on is suddenly gone? In this compelling live episode of Make It with Mike and Kristen, we sit down with writer, filmmaker, musician, and cultural force Tara Thorne, whose creative journey took an unexpected turn—and ultimately led her to new forms of artistic freedom.
Captured live at Togetherland Art Gallery during the STAGES Theatre Festival, this episode was recorded in front of a beautiful, engaged audience—some of whom ask their own questions at the end of the interview!
Tara is a pillar of the Nova Scotia arts community. With nearly two decades at The Coast and 15 years with CBC Radio, she’s been a relentless champion for local creatives across media, music, and film.
We dive into:- Her latest film Lakeview – a queer comedy set during a divorce celebration at a lakeside retreat starring Screen NS award-winning actress Nicole Steeves- Her long-standing contributions to the East Coast music scene- Identity, reinvention, and what happens when your career is redirected overnight- Why she continues to fight for the voices of underrepresented artists in Nova Scotia
-Her thoughts on modern media and who to trust
This conversation is full of honesty, humour, vulnerability, and the fire of a woman who doesn’t back down. We close with a special moment as Tara performs an original song featured in her latest film, Lakeview.
Huge thanks to:
Tara Thorne for her time, truth, and tireless contribution to the arts in Nova Scotia
Our live audience at Togetherland
Eastern Front Theatre and the STAGES Festival
The Province of Nova Scotia’s Creative Industries Fund for making this series possible
Artistic Director Kat MacCormack
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
Tara’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/thorneyhfx/?hl=en
Tara’s Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5639685/
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
This week, we sit down with Bruce Hughes—author of the bestselling memoir A Stroke of Luck: Music, Medicine, and a Miraculous Recovery. Bruce's story begins in May 2017, when a series of rare strokes left him paralyzed from the neck down. What followed was an extraordinary journey of healing, hope, and yes—luck. But Bruce is quick to point out: the real miracle wasn’t divine intervention—it was the strength of community, expert medical care, and a deep belief in possibility.
Now a passionate advocate for stroke survivors, Bruce serves as the Patient Experience Advisor of Therapeutic Services at Horizon Health. He shares his lived experience with compassion, humour, and a desire to pay it forward—offering support to others who are facing the unthinkable.
We talk about how his book, published through our friends at Purple Porcupine Publishing, climbed to the top of the Atlantic Canadian Best Sellers List for three consecutive months—two of those at number one. But Bruce never set out to "make it" as an author or musician. For him, the fact that he’s here—writing, speaking, playing music—is more than enough.
Speaking of music, Bruce is also the rhythm guitarist for The UnHeard, a 70s-style rock band that brings his love of storytelling to the stage. He’s a songwriter, a singer, and a lifelong believer in the power of a good tune—and a good team.
In this episode, Bruce opens up about:
The terrifying moment everything changed
His path to recovery and the people who made it possible
Why he doesn’t see himself as a miracle, but a product of care and connection
The making of A Stroke of Luck and how it’s helping others
And how rock ’n’ roll is still very much part of the healing
Plus, we meet Willow—Bruce’s four-legged lifesaver—and reflect on what it really means to "make it." This is a story about resilience without ego, survival with soul, and the way music and medicine can sometimes dance together in unexpected harmony.
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
Bruce’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/purpleporcupinepublishing
Bruce’s Website: https://nimbus.ca/store/a-stroke-of-luck.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqrP7jY1IW_lA0oxScplUznNtBGwdY-GJU7BsGXzQyGlXjC1y5O
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
In this special episode, we sit down with legendary Nova Scotian songwriter, performer, and producer Joel Plaskett in his dreamlike Dartmouth studio—an inspiring space where history, creativity, and aliveness are immediately felt.
Joel's music career is the stuff of Canadian legend (seriously, he’s won more awards than we can count and shared the stage with one of the BEATLES), but this conversation goes beyond the performance. We dig into the soul behind the sound: Joel as the deep thinker, the kind soul, the reflective artist who's just as passionate about philosophy, family, and authenticity as he is about songwriting.
We also talk about the incredible surprise his management team pulled off for his 50th birthday: a tribute album featuring his songs, reimagined by a who’s who of Canadian music—The Arkells, City and Colour, Jenn Grant, and so many more.
We cover:
How Joel’s lifelong journey in the arts has always felt like the only road forward
His thoughts on creativity, legacy, and why making music still matters
The story behind the surprise album that included all his best buds
What it means to feel truly at home in a creative space
Joel is funny, philosophical, generous, and just downright brilliant. This is a conversation for anyone who’s ever wanted to live a life aligned with their art. Listen in, and let Joel’s soulful reflections remind you why making stuff matters.
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
Joel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/joelplaskett
Joel’s Website: https://joelplaskett.com/
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
Wednesday Jun 25, 2025
After asking so many of our guests “What does it mean to make it?”, it felt like time to answer the question ourselves.
In an honest, raw, and personal conversation, we sit down—just the two of us—to reflect on what making it means right now in our own lives. We talk about the reality of being full-time creatives, how our definitions of success have shifted, and why some parts of life feel magnificent... while others feel messy, uncertain, and a little scary.
We touch on:
The impact of the global economy on the arts (and our own projects)
The invisible pressures of creative entrepreneurship
Our evolving relationship with money, meaning, and momentum
What’s been bringing us joy—and what’s been keeping us up at night
Why vulnerability can feel like a risk and a relief
This episode is an invitation to sit with us in the in-between. To hear us reflect—not as polished hosts or curated guests—but as humans trying to make art, make sense of the world, and still, somehow, make it.
If you’ve ever questioned your path or wondered if anyone else feels like they’re still figuring it out—this one’s for you.
You're not alone. And we’re glad you’re here.
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 Jun 18, 2025
Wednesday Jun 18, 2025
This week, we sit down with none other than Luke Boyd, a.k.a. Classified – legendary Canadian rapper, record producer, and proud Nova Scotian – and his incredible wife Kim, who joins us for her very first podcast interview (and totally nails it). She declares, "I run the ship," and Luke replies, "I am the ship," and this pretty much sums up their dynamic and success!
We dive deep into:
- Luke’s lifelong relationship with Hip-Hop and staying grounded in Enfield, Nova Scotia- His rise to fame, working with icons like Snoop Dogg, Raekwon, DJ Premier, and more
- The stories behind his latest album "Luke’s View"- The power of family, fatherhood, and the rock-solid partnership he shares with Kim- The whirlwind of awards, accolades, and staying true to self, amidst it all
With over 285 million streams, multiple JUNO Awards, being a JUNO host, and a trophy shelf full of Much Music Video Awards and East Coast Music Awards, Classified has solidified his place as a Canadian hip-hop trailblazer. And behind the beats and bars is a tight-knit family, a deep respect for where he comes from, and a wife who keeps the whole thing moving.
We’re beyond grateful to have had both Luke and Kim join us for this heartfelt, hilarious, and honest conversation. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod, and you’ll walk away loving them even more than you thought possible.
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
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
Wednesday Jun 11, 2025
We’re joined by the effortlessly charming sister duo Moira & Claire, whose lighthearted indie folk-pop is winning hearts from coast to coast. Born on one side of Canada and now rooted in Halifax, Nova Scotia, these two have been singing together since long before they started releasing music—and yes, they do break into harmonies during this episode. It’s like a second language for them!
We caught their sets at SXSW and knew we had to get them on the podcast. In this conversation, we talk about:
The first songs they ever wrote
How going viral with cover songs helped open creative doors
The delicate juggle of day jobs, passion projects, and defining success on your own terms
Why sometimes, you don’t realize you’ve “made it” until you’re living in the moment
Moira & Claire bring joy, humour, and a fresh perspective to what it means to pursue a creative life. Whether you’re just starting out or well into your artistic journey, this episode will leave you smiling—and maybe humming along.
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
Their site: https://moiraandclaire.bandcamp.com/
Moira & Claire’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/moiraandclaire/?hl=en
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
Wednesday Jun 04, 2025
This week on Make It, we're sitting down with none other than Jimmy Rankin—yes, that Jimmy Rankin from the legendary Rankin Family!
With his unmistakable Cape Breton charm still fully intact, Jimmy takes us on a heartfelt stroll down memory lane. From his early days growing up in the small but mighty town of Mabou, Nova Scotia, to touring the world, winning countless awards, and becoming a staple in Canadian music history—this episode is packed with stories, laughs, and a deep appreciation for the journey.
We talk about his musical beginnings (did you know he started out as a drummer?), the grind of selling cassette tapes door-to-door, and his influential neighbourhood pals like Robert Frank and June Leaf. Through it all, Jimmy remains grounded, generous, and wildly inspiring.
This is part one of an anticipated two-part conversation—because one episode just wasn’t enough. Stay tuned for more with Jimmy down the road!
In this episode:
Life in Mabou and its influence on Jimmy’s music
The early days of the Rankin Family’s rise to fame
Jimmy’s evolution as a solo artist and multi-instrumentalist
Stories from the road, the studio, and everywhere in between
Reflections on “making it” while staying true to your roots
We’re humbled to share space with such a Nova Scotian treasure.
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
Jimmy’s site: https://jimmyrankin.com/
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Wednesday May 28, 2025
Mike and Kristen are back—with a fresh look, renewed perspective, and big plans for the podcast! In this kickoff episode, we introduce the season’s new theme: Make It—a double entendre that explores both the act of making things and the evolving idea of “making it” as an artist or creative.
Today’s conversation centers around the importance of the pause. Whether it’s a five-minute breather, a weekend retreat, or stepping away from a major project (like... a podcast), we break down the value in slowing down to speed up.
We share personal stories of rest, recalibration, and how stepping back often brings the clarity needed to move forward with more intention and energy. From burnout recovery to creative breakthroughs, we unpack the ways intentional pauses have impacted our own journeys—and how you can integrate simple, sustainable pauses into yours.
In this episode:
Why we paused the podcast—and what we learned
The many forms a creative pause can take
How short, medium, and long breaks can benefit your work and well-being
Real-life strategies to help you integrate rest and reflection into your routine
Our new vision for the show and what you can expect going forward
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 Apr 02, 2025
Wednesday Apr 02, 2025
It’s the end of an era...but not forever! In this final episode of Mike and Kristen (as you know it), we take you along on our adventure through the U.S., sharing highlights from our second time attending SXSW, playing basketball in the rain in LA and how we were greeted with apologies in America. From a terrifying plane ride to an insane Austin bus adventure, we embraced every unexpected twist with open arms.
We dive into the biggest lessons we learned—about happiness, human connection, extraterrestrials (!), quantum computing, AI, the future of humanity, and what it means to be Canadian on a global stage. We also reflect on sacred moments, like working through life on Venice Pier and feeling the weight of inspiration from some of our greatest role models and thought leaders such as Michelle Obama, John Fogerty, Brené Brown, and Dr. Laurie Santos.
And, as we soak in all these experiences, we’ve realized that it’s time to hit pause. We’re stepping back from podcasting—not to say goodbye, but to make space for everything we’ve learned over the past while and come back with a fresh show! We’ll return with incredible guests, creative guidance and Nova Scotia pride.
Thank you for being on this journey with us. We can’t wait to share what’s next! Listen now & stay tuned for our return!
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.