Make It with Mike and Kristen

Episode 148: Exploring the Mind of Asif Illyas: From Classical Composer to Film Score Innovator

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/

Episode 147: Navigating 2025: Insights from Deborah Young on Astrology, Intuition, and the Shifting Global Landscape

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/

Episode 146: Shaina Falcone Offers Easy Health and Fitness Advice For 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

Episode 145: Mike and Kristen’s Holiday Traditions

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

Episode 144: Jenny Johnson: From Starships to Stardom Through Oil Paint Mastery

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/

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