Make It with Mike and Kristen

Episode 143: Jen Boyne’s Wearable Art and Heartfelt Home Life Will Leave You (Be)Dazzled

Meet Jen Boyne, the mastermind behind some of the most dazzling hand-sewn Western and stage wear you’ve ever seen. From rhinestone-studded suits to capes adorned with album-inspired overlays, her designs are pure showstoppers. Jen’s creations have dressed stars like The Trailer Park Boys, Elliott Brood, Christina Martin, and, most recently, Morgan Toney—who shone in her suit at the Boston Tree Lighting!
But there’s more to Jen than her expert craftsmanship. As a single foster parent, she’s weaving more than fabric—she’s creating a life filled with generosity, resilience, and love. In this conversation, we explore how fostering has enriched her family and her journey as one of the hardest-working (and funniest) entrepreneurs we’ve had the pleasure of meeting. (P.S. We’re absolutely saving our pennies for a custom fit of our own!)
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
Jen’s site: www.jboynewestern.com
Jen’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/j.boynewesternwear/

Episode 142: Cassie Noble and Warren Frank (Gamekeeper) Make a Pit-Stop to Hot Jupiter Sounds on their East Coast Tour

Ontario based entertainers Cassie Noble and Warren Frank got to know each other on the road! They became fast friends and now cherish similar qualities like taking time in nature, thoughtful conversation and knowing how their styles complement each other in the house concert environment (that is, Gamekeeper balances out Cassie’s classic sad songs!). We talk about the writing process, Cassie’s influences and the brilliant concept behind her music videos. The role of a show-opener is a unique specialty and one that we’ve not truly explored until today’s 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
Cassie Noble’s website: https://cassienoble.bandcamp.com/album/nowhere-to-go-but-everywhere
Cassie Noble’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/cassienoblemusic/
Gamekeeper’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gamekeepertunes/

Episode 141: Tenille Goodspeed is the New Executive Director of Halifax Jazz Festival. She Shares the Festival’s History, Trajectory and How She Found Herself in This Impressive Role

Tenille Goodspeed is just under nine months into her new role as Executive Director of Halifax Jazz Fest, one of Halifax’s most prominent cultural celebrations. With a strong background in marketing, music, and community building, Tenille brings a wealth of expertise to this multi-day festival. In our conversation, she shared her passion for bringing people together, the initial spark that drew her to the role, and the importance of showcasing Halifax’s unique identity—a core value of the festival’s mandate. Halifax Jazz Fest, the oldest jazz festival and largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada, draws up to 65,000 visitors each year, with the support of 400 volunteers and over 350 local musicians. Designated a Hallmark Event by the Halifax Regional Municipality, it’s an experience like no other, and Tenille encourages holiday shoppers to consider festival passes as gifts. Funny, articulate, and a natural leader, Tenille left a lasting impression on us, and we’re excited to highlight one of our city’s inspiring industry trailblazers.
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
Halifax Jazz Fest’s website: https://www.halifaxjazzfestival.ca/
Halifax Jazz Fest’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/hfxjazzfest/

Episode 140: Jordan Harnum and Joelle Sunshine are the Beautiful Voices Behind Ever Sweet Band and Hosts of Olde House Shows in Twillingate, Newfoundland

We first met Jordan and Joelle at the East Coast Music Awards in Charlottetown, PEI, where a brief live-stage interview left us eager for a longer conversation. Recently, we got that chance during their Nova Scotia stop on the album release tour for their latest project, Red Sky. This talented duo from coastal Newfoundland has hosted countless house concerts and artist residencies, making their home a vibrant hub for creativity. Deeply rooted in Newfoundland’s culture, heritage, and traditions, they weave these influences into their storytelling and songwriting. Performing regularly aboard Adventure Canada Cruise ships, Jordan and Joelle share their music with audiences from all over the world. In our conversation, they spoke about life as a creative couple, their family influences, and even treated us to a live off-the-floor performance of a new track from Red Sky. We’re proud to share this episode with our inspiring new friends. 
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
Jordan & Joelle’s website: https://www.oldehouseshows.ca/
Ever Sweet Band’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/eversweetband/

Episode 139: Rachel Davis and Darren McMullen Accidentally Started a Band Many Moons Ago. Fast-forward to 2024, They’re the Winners of Music Nova Scotia’s Traditional Album of the Year!

Rachel and Darren are partners in both life and music, a dynamic that began with a fateful meeting in a gritty tour van—an unfiltered start to their journey together. Not long after, they launched their award-winning band, Còig, and have since been sharing their music across the globe. During the pandemic, they felt a calling to focus on what truly mattered: a sense of Home and a deeper connection with each other. This led to Home, their long-anticipated duo album, produced by renowned songwriter, musician, and producer Dave Gunning. The album showcases their impressive musicianship and harmonies, blending traditional tunes with original co-writes and timeless classics. Honored this year with Music Nova Scotia’s Traditional Album of the Year award, Rachel and Darren shared insights into their creative process, their Cape Breton roots, and their experiences working together as a couple. Darren shares enough mic drop moments that we decide he needs to publish a book and Rachel reflects on the influence of her family background that led her to pursue a career in music. Loved this chat with two of Nova Scotia's finest!
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
Rachel & Darren’s website: https://rachelanddarren.com/
 Rachel & Darren’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/rachelanddarrenmusic

Episode 138: Ria Mae Talks About the Moment Her Career Changed and How Following Her Own Instincts Has Paved the Way to Success

Halifax’s powerhouse pop star, Ria Mae, joins us in the studio just before hitting the road for her Canadian tour with Classified! We dive into the highs and lows of the music industry, discovering how collaboration—sometimes until the early hours of the morning—can open up new perspectives on creating music. Ria shares how one pivotal phone call completely changed the trajectory of her career. One of the hardest-working, hyper-creative, and experienced performers we’ve had the pleasure of sitting down with, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and insights. As Ria looks forward to spending winter in Australia with her wife and kids (lucky!), she’s leaning into her own instincts, desires, and individuality for her upcoming record.
Thanks for listening, friends—this one’s truly special!
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
Ria Mae’s website: https://www.riamae.com/
Ria Mae’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/riaisawake

Episode 137: Elliott BROOD Have Been Writing & Playing Music, Touring and Creating for Over 20 Years and Today They Perform LIVE From Hot Jupiter Sounds

Elliott BROOD is a three-piece Canadian alternative country band featuring Mark Sasso (lead vocals, guitar, banjo, ukulele, harmonica), Casey Laforet (guitar, lead vocals, backing vocals, bass pedals, keys, ukulele), and Stephen Pitkin (percussion, sampler, backing vocals). Known for embracing a “van life” tour style, the band thrives on exploring global venues and connecting with diverse audiences. Growing up in Windsor, Ontario the band has dazzled us with their talents and storytelling having shared stages with the likes of Wilco, War On Drugs, The Head and the Heart, Blue Rodeo, The Black Crowes, Corb Lund and The Sadies. Their latest albums “Town” and “Country” capture themes of nostalgia and celebration of where they are in their lives today. 
In this episode, we go behind the scenes of the music industry, discussing the importance of authentic storytelling through lyrics and why perfection isn’t the goal. Fresh off an East Coast tour, Mark and Casey reflect on the influence of Gord Downie, the unique journey of being a Canadian band, and how trust and friendship have fueled their longevity. We exchange presents, pleasantries and pumpkin truffles with these new friends! Plus, stick around for a special treat—Mark and Casey perform live just for us! 
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
Elliott BROOD’s website: https://www.elliottbrood.com/
Elliott BROODs IG: https://www.instagram.com/elliottbrood/

Episode 136: Bethany Fulde Is an Indie-Rock Experimenter Who Has Handwritten Us a Note, Filed with Introspection, Motherhood and Curiosity

Bethany Fulde’s new album Handwritten Notes is a stunning collection of songs that explore themes of searching, reflection, and questioning, with emotional outcomes that range from fulfilled to unresolved. Each track carries the weight of lived experience, delivered with her powerful vocal range that brings listeners on an intimate journey of the heart. In our conversation, Bethany shares the fun of her album release show at Gus’s Pub, where thoughtful touches—like handwritten notes left on tables, carefully curated stage decor, and expressive fashion—created an atmosphere that felt deeply personal and connected. We delve into the meaning of art, discussing how moments of “awe” are what make creative experiences truly transformative. Bethany also opens up about how motherhood has unlocked new layers of self-discovery, expanding her perspective on life and inspiring her to explore both inner and outer worlds in new ways.
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
Bethany’s site: https://www.bethanysings.com
Bethany’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/bethany.hfx/

Episode 135: Newbridge Is the New Band on The Block But is Comprised of Some of the Most Seasoned Musicians in the Province

Keith and Glen join us for a lively conversation about reconnecting with music—this time through the lens of what some (including us!) might call a supergroup. These talented musicians have found harmony not only in their sound but also by creating space for each other’s creative ideas, families, opinions, and lifestyles.
Their band, Newbridge, delivers a powerful blend of Americana, folk, and roots-rock straight from Halifax, Nova Scotia. The lineup features Canadian music veterans Keith Maddison (Maddison Avenue), Glen Nicholson (In-Flight Safety), Jeff Mosher (The Mellotones, Matt Andersen), Warren Robert (Myles Goodwyn, Pogey), and Robbie Crowell (Sturgill Simpson, Deer Tick, Midland, Matt Mays)—each bringing a wealth of experience and a shared drive to craft a distinctive sound.
The group’s musical journey took them to Nashville, TN, where they recorded their debut album at the legendary Creative Workshop Studio (CWS), with production helmed by the multi-talented Robbie Crowell. Originally built in 1971, CWS has played host to icons like Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, the Doobie Brothers, and Rod Stewart, and served as the setting for the influential music documentary Heartworn Highways.
In this episode, the band reflects on their time in Nashville—complete with stories of Keith’s kids as temporary roommates—and shares how mutual respect has been the secret ingredient to creating stellar new music. Expect plenty of laughs, insights, and captivating stories throughout this 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
Newbridge’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/newbridgemusic/

Episode 134: Jim Gilbert Is an Actor Based in Toronto, With a Thriving Career in Both Canadian and International TV and Film—All Rooted in His Small-Town Beginnings in Nova Scotia!

Jim Gilbert's acting credits include CBC's Moonshine, The Handmaid's Tale, Suits, The Girlfriend Experience, Salvation, and The Tudors, among others. As a writer, his original work has been optioned and developed by production companies in both the U.S. and Canada. His role in Moonshine is especially personal, as the show's setting and storylines mirror his own experiences growing up on Nova Scotia's South Shore.
In this episode, we chat with Jim, a natural storyteller, about Nova Scotia’s rich history, his family's connection to Kristen's art gallery "Togetherland"—they live right next door and have lent a hand on many occasions—and how his lifelong career in the arts parallels Mike's journey in music. Kindred spirits truly shine through in this conversation. We also celebrate Jim's recent marriage, his career successes, and his contagious adventurous spirit!
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
Jim’s IMBD: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2766221/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm