Mike and Kristen
Welcome to Mike and Kristen, the podcast where creativity meets community, and soulful conversations pave the path to self-discovery. Hosted by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Mike and Kristen, this show dives deep into the lives of artists, community leaders, and risk-takers who inspire us with their unique journeys and insights. Kristen, who left her six-figure job in politics to be a full-time artist, and Mike, who has nearly 20 years experience as a professional musician, each bring a distinctive outlook to the unfolding of living a creative life. Recorded in-person at the cozy and intimate Hot Jupiter Sounds in Nova Scotia, each episode offers long-form conversations that are as philosophical as they are hilarious, and as heart-warming as they are thought-provoking. Join us as we explore the essence of identity, the courage of creativity, and the power of community through the stories of those who dare to live life on their own terms.
Episodes

Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Wednesday Jun 26, 2024
Peter White, an engineer turned stand-up comic, quickly rose to prominence in the comedy scene, being named one of the “Top 5 Up and Coming Comedians in Canada” by CBC Radio’s “So, You Think You’re Funny?” within a year of his career. He has performed at top comedy clubs, corporate events, and theatres across Canada, including prestigious festivals like Just for Laughs, Winnipeg Comedy Festival, Montreal Comedy Festival, and the Halifax Comedy Festival for three consecutive years. Peter's comedic talents earned him an hour-long special on CTV and the Comedy Network’s Comedy Now. Beyond stand-up, he has established himself as a writer for the Gemini Award-winning "This Hour Has 22 Minutes" and the Gemini Award-nominated "That’s So Weird" on YTV. Peter's anecdotes about his university days shared with Mike at StFX, highlighting their former shenanigans and being in the loser residence! Peter has written a book on how to be funny (it’s possible for all of us!) and co-hosts his own podcast called, “30 Mins on High”. He eats only 5 types of food and is a self-proclaimed bad dresser.
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
Peter’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/peter.a.white/
Peter’s book: https://a.co/d/1T1cRhdLink to his viral video: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1686695994705893

Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Louisa Horne is the visionary founder of Epilog, a Nova Scotian company dedicated to reimagining funeral services and end-of-life care. Epilog offers a comprehensive range of options, including natural burials, celebrations of life, and support for seniors transitioning from their family homes. Their services extend to organizing moves and facilitating difficult family discussions around advance directives. The skilled team at Epilog features women who are licensed funeral directors, end-of-life doulas, funeral celebrants, senior move specialists, and coaches. Louisa, known for her extensive knowledge, articulate communication, and compassionate approach, expertly guides clients through the complexities of end-of-life planning. She normalizes conversations about death, helping individuals and families navigate these inevitable aspects of life with greater ease and understanding.
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
Epilog’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/epilog_ns/
Epilog’s website: https://epilog.ca/
Secret Show Ticket Link: https://curiosityclubcreative.com/event/5564619/679398341/the-town-heroes-secret-show-album-release-presented-by-curiosity-club
The Town Heroes Presale: https://thetownheroes.com/newalbum

Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
Wednesday Jun 12, 2024
With a SECRET album release show just around the corner, The Town Heroes take us on a trip down memory lane, starting with the wee corners of where it all began on Cape Breton Island. Loyal to each other, their fans and the music, TTH have continued to “Keep On Keepin’ On” through their lyrical genius and industry respect. Two of the hardest-working fellas in show biz, we learn about the places Mike and Bruce have traveled, how they developed an online community through Isolation BINGO and how their ridiculous sense of humour has kept friendship alive and well. Did you know: Bruce was once Mike’s boss and doesn’t really like hot sauce! Learn about these fun facts and so much more!
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
The Town Heroes IG: https://www.instagram.com/gooddeargood/
The Town Heroes website: https://thetownheroes.com/
Secret Show Ticket Link: https://curiosityclubcreative.com/event/5564619/679398341/the-town-heroes-secret-show-album-release-presented-by-curiosity-club
The Town Heroes Presale: https://thetownheroes.com/newalbum

Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Good Dear, Good is both an ECMA and Music Nova Scotia award-winning rock-pop band based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Their band name inspired by the endearing, commonly-heard Nova Scotian phrase. This rapidly rising band, known for their vibrant sound and inclusive ethos, was born from the camaraderie and shared passion of its members who met at NSCC. Growing up on Cape Breton Island, Tim and Bran developed a deep appreciation for nature and the tight-knit community spirit of small towns, which subtly permeates their music and lyrics. With newfound confidence fueling their stage presence, Good Dear, Good is poised to release a new EP that promises to capture their evolving artistry. Advocates for the queer community, the band emphasizes inclusion, safety, and fun at their shows, creating a welcoming space for all fans. As they continue to impress the Nova Scotia music scene, as their message of belonging resonates strongly. Oh, and Tim’s leg is almost healed! You’ll hear all about it…
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
Town Heroes Pre-Sale: https://thetownheroes.com/newalbum
Tickets to "Secret Show": https://thetownheroes.com/shows
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Good Dear, Good’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/gooddeargood/
Good Dear, Good’s website: https://www.gooddeargood.com/Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - romalley@allstate.ca or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

Wednesday May 29, 2024
Wednesday May 29, 2024
Unlike most approaches to modern medicine, Namit Holey wanted to test his higher education through personal experimentation. His lab? An Ashram in India where he would spend eight months learning about holistic health, the impact of the mind on our well-being and how finding our personalized approaches to life is our greatest defence mechanism. Namit is an accomplished researcher who has discovered the benefits of preventative health and developing a strong immune system. We learn about the intricacies of cancer from a scientific lens, and juxtapose that with eastern practices of yoga and mindful practices in effort to experience better health. A fascinating conversation with a brilliant scientist who is soon off to Harvard for his post-doc!
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
Namit’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/namitholay/
Isha Yoga Center: https://isha.sadhguru.org/en/center/isha-yoga-center-coimbatore
Tickets to The Town Heroes "Secret Show" - https://bit.ly/4b2TUXF
Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - romalley@allstate.ca or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

Wednesday May 22, 2024
Wednesday May 22, 2024
Mat Elliott, a Halifax-based musician and producer, is gearing up to release his brand-new EP titled "South Endings." His music is a breath of fresh obscure air, offering listeners a unique blend of sounds, styles, harmonies, and unexpected twists. With his inaugural solo project, Mat showcases his incredible talent and creativity. In our chat with him, we discuss how he balances his creative pursuits with a full-time government job, as well as his marriage to music therapist despite him leaving the very same program! Mat shares how mentors have influenced his journey and reveals that activities like running and spending time in nature keep him energized. He's not only incredibly talented but also a genuinely nice guy, and we feel lucky to spend time with him.
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
Mat’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/matelliptt/
Togetherland’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/togetherland_artgallery/

Wednesday May 15, 2024
Wednesday May 15, 2024
With its catchy, sing-along chorus, Hockey Fights celebrates the energy of a bringing people together. Lead singer Mike Ryan poured his heart into the song, managing quick turnarounds and making sure the hockey anthem was ready for the play-offs! He also shares stories of idolizing the Inverness Maroons hockey team, how the song turned from folk to fun and how he has his own story of falling in love at a Halifax Mooseheads game over a flask of fireball.
The accompanying music video, created in just three hours, features a real musician’s league hockey game, young actors who met 5 minutes before their love scene and lots of enthusiastic extras! Directed by Matt Corkum, the video is truly Canadian, complete with ketchup chips and jean jackets. "Hockey Fights" earned its place on the band's upcoming album set for release on June 21.
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
The Town Heroes IG: https://www.instagram.com/thetownheroes/
Link to Hockey Fights:
https://push.fm/fl/hockeyfights
Hockey Fights Music Video:
https://youtu.be/hbAXNoBW-RI

Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Donna Leon is a multi-talented journalist, filmmaker, mentor, radio host, and cook, whose remarkable career spans over several decades. With nearly 700 television episodes to her credit, Donna has earned numerous awards for her outstanding work. Born and raised in Cape Breton, she has showcased the beauty and culture of the Maritimes through her television programs, including "The Colours of Celtic" and "And They Danced." Donna's contributions to Canadian media have been recognized with seven Gemini nominations, two ACTRA awards, and several Alliance for Children’s Media Awards of Excellence. As President and Executive Producer of Genuine Pictures Inc. and Westmount Road Inc., Donna continues to create captivating content while mentoring aspiring filmmakers. Her return to Nova Scotia in 2017 has allowed her to pursue projects that bring her joy. She shares stories of her gorilla encounter, her kids, showcasing her skills as an all-star pickleball player, and indulging her passion for sourdough!
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
Donna’s latest doc: Mi Nombre Es Alex - Official Trailer | Fibe TV1
MI NOMBRE ES ALEX has been nominated in the Main Category for Best
Documentary: Social/Political and as one of the finalists in the Mental Health category, which honours programs in any genre that promote the understanding of, and/or depict the realities of those living with mental health issues.

Wednesday May 01, 2024
Wednesday May 01, 2024
Mike and Kristen are eagerly on their way to the East Coast Music Awards on Prince Edward Island, where they've been nominated for Media Person of the Year. In their latest podcast episode, the couple offers heartfelt shout-outs to everyone who supported their fundraiser, and share updates on exciting events like: The Town Heroes Secret Show on June 22, curated by Curiosity Club, and the grand opening of Togetherland Art Gallery. They're thrilled to announce that they'll be hosting a live Q&A at Christina Martin's album premiere for "Storm" this fall and express their gratitude to all their listeners. This episode is a big thank-you and a celebration of all the exciting creative projects they have in the works!
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
Togetherland’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/togetherland_artgallery/
The Town Heroes Secret Show TIX: https://bit.ly/4b2TUXF
Go Fund Me for Christine Tizzard: https://gofund.me/25d0b522
Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - romalley@allstate.ca or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Having conquered both the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail, Whistler's journey is one of triumph over adversity and the unwavering support of those around him. He regales listeners with tales of meticulous preparation, the invaluable assistance of his devoted wife, his loyal hiking companion "Scooby," and the kindness of trail angels encountered along the way. Surviving a harrowing 67-foot fall in the mountains on his 60th birthday, Whistler's story is one of resilience and the profound depths of the human spirit. Through his experiences, he offers insights into the emotional and spiritual dimensions of the trail, alongside his enthusiasm for the culinary delights (Nutella anyone?!) enjoyed during his epic hikes. Join us for an inspiring episode as we delve into the extraordinary adventures of this American-Canadian icon.
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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Tickets to The Town Heroes "Secret Show" - https://bit.ly/4b2TUXF
Buy Bill’s Book: https://www.amazon.ca/Whistlers-Way-Thru-Hikers-Adventure-Pacific/dp/1952019028
Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - romalley@allstate.ca or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

Mike and Kristen
Kristen quits her 6-figure government job to become a full time artist, Mike offers her tricks and tips from his 12 year career as a musician. The husband and wife duo discuss following dreams, living the life of a ”creative”, and all the ridiculous stories along the way. They share chapters from their travel/relationship book ”You and Me” and interview guests about their path to following their own dream. Hilarious, philosophical, and heart warming all at the same time. All music is Mike’s original songs.