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 Dec 06, 2023
Wednesday Dec 06, 2023
Terra Spencer didn’t grow up with the dream of singing in front of sold-out audiences, touring the world sharing her creativity or accepting multiple awards for her talents, but that’s exactly what happened to her! She listened to the clues along the way and has always been open to making a cold-call that might lead to the next exciting adventure. Her hilarious personality and humble approach to taking on a new career path mid-life had us instantly enamoured. Learn why she loves the colour orange, how she’s building confidence and what cool gifts she brought 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
Terra’s Instagram: @orangeterra
Terra’s Website: https://terraspencer.ca/
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show with Elyse Aeryn, Skunk Motel, and Jackson Weldon: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Wednesday Nov 29, 2023
Bonded by shared values, the Skunks show up exactly as they are and invite their fans to do the same. Sarah Ellen Morrison (vocals), Maya Taraschi (drums), Sara Eve (bass) and Katelyn Bo (guitar) share stories of representing women, feeling seen, sweating on stage and how doing it together is the band’s priority. We even had all four of them in the studio, Sara Eve on Facetime! Just over a year old (with an undetermined anniversary date!) Skunk Motel tells us about their dreams, mentors, style and how they came up with this catchy name. We love this band and their important message. New music on the way!
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
Skunk Motel’s Instagram: @skunkmotel
Skunk Motel’s Video, “Pretty Good For a Girl”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruRW1vgLjHU
Tickets to Mike AND Skunk Motel's Dec 8th show: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Nov 22, 2023
Wednesday Nov 22, 2023
Dustin Harvey approaches his work with a wide lens, considering the philosophical “whys” and experiential outcomes. His audience is often incorporated into the performance, connecting for moments, feeling both present and pleasant. We learn about how sports offered an early-influence of challenging himself and how lessons from coaches and athletics are instilled in the creative process too. Secret locations, touring, grants, experiments and creating tension in the mainstream all packed in this episode too!
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
Secret Theatre’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xosecrettheatre/
Dustin’s Website: http://xosecret.org
Links to Dustin’s Work
(We) Are Here - a live film made by hand:
https://vimeo.com/secrettheatre/wearehere
Farewell - a goodbye party for a city:
https://vimeo.com/41254465
Landline - a game of unlikely rendezvous:
https://vimeo.com/270431709
Less + More - a performance created with the help of an audience:
https://vimeo.com/363904686
How Quickly Things Change - a life story told through a costume quick change:
https://vimeo.com/720399030
Alone Together - self-generated theatre:
https://vimeo.com/secrettheatre/attrailer
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show Dec 8th: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Wednesday Nov 15, 2023
Now in the role of producer, accomplished singer-songwriter and ROCK-STAR John Mullane reflects on his creative process. He is someone who allows his gut to guide him, and isn’t afraid to challenge himself. John has a beautiful wisdom when it comes to the music industry and lives his life with equal parts self-awareness! Did we mention he’s the guy with the delicious coffee supply at all the music conferences?! Another inspiring chat with one of the greats!
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
John’s Instagram: @future.dad.music
John’s Website: http://www.futuredadmusic.com
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show Dec 8th: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Nov 08, 2023
Wednesday Nov 08, 2023
Krista McNally guides us through the nine Enneagram types, evaluating each of the qualities discovered in each personality. This type of model unlocks and supports your journey of self-discovery and uncovers the patterns of behaviour that subconsciously drive and motivate us to behave in certain ways. Krista not only facilitates guided discovery session for individuals and couples, she also hosts international retreats, offers hot stone restorative sessions with Lawrencetown Wellness and has launched her own podcast with Deedee Morris called Heartventures. A beautiful chat for self-discovery and insight.
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
Krista’s Instagram: @kristamcnally
Krista’s Website: http://teambuildagency.com/about
Heartventures podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/heartventures/id1712505501
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show Dec 8th: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Nov 01, 2023
Wednesday Nov 01, 2023
Leith Fleming-Smith recognizes the most important part of a performance is simply being yourself! Starting piano lessons with his next-door neighbour in small town Hubbards has since led to stadium shows, tours across the country, sold out venues and an adoring fan base. Leith shows us a different side to his life and how his guiding philosophy is embodied both on and off stage. A man who cherishes friendship, has music in his veins, and is always the sweetest person in the room. We’re so lucky to sit down with one of the greatest souls in Canadian music.
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
Leith’s Instagram: @leithfs
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show Dec 8th: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
Wednesday Oct 25, 2023
Occupational Therapist by day and performing musician in every other spare moment, Max Bujold is simply having a great time. Prioritizing friendship and family have rooted him in northern New Brunswick where he and his band are touring, making videos and being nominated for awards already! Max talks about going through personal struggles and witnessing close friends experience mental health challenges. These life happenings have led him to both work in mental health and look for avenues to include humour and kindness into his work. A super great guy that we’re so happy to have 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
Max’s Instagram: @maxbujold
Krista’s website: https://www.maxbujoldmusic.com
Wednesday Oct 18, 2023
Wednesday Oct 18, 2023
Inspired by the resilience and bravery of her rescue pup Stella, Krista Keough has just released her first children’s book that outlines the story of how this special connection was made between human and dog. She dreamed of this very circumstance, this very dog, and together they have created a beautiful story complimented by illustrations from Gina Stavrou. With a long history in artist management, grant writing and teaching, we talk about how playing the role of the artist is a whole new experience. A great episode for anyone with an adoration for animals or those needing an uplifting reminder of true love!
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
Krista’s Instagram: @kristakeough
Krista’s website: https://www.kristakeough.com
Tickets to Mike's Marquee show Dec 8th: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Oct 11, 2023
Wednesday Oct 11, 2023
This interview reveals a completely new perspective on musicianship and the music industry. Aaron MacDonald reflects on his career in music, sharing stories of using calling cards and pay phones to communicate with gig venues, how rehearsing a song isn’t always the most authentic approach to entertainment and how having a family has shifted his values. A true inspiration, Aaron speaks of the joy and therapeutic nature of playing music. It’s in his blood and bones and we’re so grateful for his gifts!
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
Aaron’s Instagram: @aaronmacdonaldmusic
Aaron’s website: https://aaronmacdonaldmusic.ca/
Tickets to Mike’s show at The Marquee: https://www.showpass.com/the-town-heroes-the-marquee/
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
Wednesday Oct 04, 2023
After an intense period of creation, out newest collaborative show “Galactic Pie” is almost ready. We explore ideas of connectivity, inclusion, what happens after we die, how we feel about religion and why this show in particular is a full-circle moment. This special show has taught us new things about ourselves and hope it does for you as well. Shout outs to our friends Sara Mader and Erin Lacerra who we reference in 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" by The Town HeroesOutro song: "Galactic Pie" from the upcoming project Galactic Pie by Michael S. Ryan
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Erin’s Instagram: @erinlacerraart
Sara’s Instagram: @sara.anne.mader
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.