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.
Episodes

Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Rooted in the concept of living a virtuous life, Stoicism was born from ancient Greek ideologies of being a good person. Stoicism teaches us self-reflection, how to manage emotional reactions to things we cannot control, practicing discipline and living harmoniously with nature. Brandon embodies these qualities and maintains a sense of the Stoic practice through developing daily routines and habits. A fascinating chat that explores spirituality, logic and how Nova Scotians might have a head start in this was of thinking.
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
Brandon’s podcast, “The Strong Stoic”: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-strong-stoic-podcast/id1537596440
Brandon’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestrongstoic/

Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Amanda Ring has known since she was a child that she was attuned to the energy around her. Her craft and language around her work has only strengthened with time, and now she’s imparting her knowledge upon others. Her beautiful presence is palpable in this chat where we explore themes of transformation, self-discovery and childhood memories. Amanda offers a balanced perspective of “traditional” methods (she’s a former Occupational Therapist) with the “Wu”. You’re going to learn so much from her work and wisdom. AND, she now has her own podcast called, “Flight of the Feminine” that you’ll want to add to your rotation.
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
Amanda’s website: https://www.amanda-ring.com/
Amanda’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amanda_ring_wellness/

Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
We’re back from a week-long adventure in Austin, Texas where we experienced our first South by Southwest (SXSW) festival! We dig into the conference itself – how it started/how it functions, and exchange takeaways in real time. Listen to our debrief of session learnings, who we met, what we ate, how it’s shaped our future strategies, how it was funded, you name it! This was a beautiful, impactful experience for us that we hope we can share with all of you in a meaningful way. We also walked nearly 200000 steps while we were away and are still recovering!
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
SXSW YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=sxsw+channel

Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Our dear friend, the legendary Nancy Regan has taken over the mic to host this week’s episode of Mike and Kristen! She takes us down memory lane asking how we met, what we love about each other, and how we’ve managed to maintain both collaboration and connection after 13 years of being a couple. We reveal one of our closest secrets – Mexican Superbowl – as one of our key ingredients to longevity. A behind the curtain glimpse at our lives, with the brilliance of Nancy’s guidance. Let’s GO for year three everyone!
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
Nancy’s Website: https://www.nancyregan.ca
Nancy’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novascotianancy/

Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
Wednesday Mar 06, 2024
JT, Jonovision, J-Roc, we know him by many names but he’s consistently known as our favourite Canadian icon. Jonathan Torrens started an acting career at just 15-years-old on Street Cents and we have been celebrating him ever since in shows such as Trailer Park Boys, Moonshine and Vollies. One of the kindest, funniest, most intelligent guests we’ve ever had the privilege of spending time with. We chat about living in other parts of the world (and how that stacks up to Nova Scotia!), how he met his wife, values, fame and so much more. Forever grateful for the opportunity to meet one of our idols. At his incredible home, no less!
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
Jonathan’s IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0868474/
Jonathan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjonathantorrens/

Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Dale Murray has performed with the best – everyone from Matt Mays to Christina Martin, to his famous aunt – Nova Scotia royalty, Anne Murray. His intention is to support others to help them sound and perform to their top potential. A humble approach to the music industry. Dale’s unique spectrum of talent makes him the perfect guest to reflect on the creative process, stories from the road, taking care of himself as age creeps up on up, AND he got a new haircut for the occasion! A true gentleman, Dale brings humour, light and friendship to this week’s 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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Dale’s website: https://dalemurray.bandzoogle.com/
Dale’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalemurraystudio/

Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Wednesday Feb 21, 2024
Though born and raised in Ontario, Steve Luxton now calls Nova Scotia home. Blame it on meeting a girl and falling in love! We’re happy to have his expertise in the music community, in particular his students at Nova Scotia Community College, who cherish his talent and guidance. We chat about his time spent at esteemed Humber College to running his own studio in Cape Breton. Steve has loads of stories, insights and pro tips to share in this 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
M & K Fundraiser: https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser
Steve’s website: https://www.steveluxton.ca/
Steve’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steve_luxton/

Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Episode 100: 100-Year-Old Shirley Hilchie Helps Us Celebrate our 100th Episode!
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
For our 100th episode we wanted to share a very special chat with our new friend, Shirley. Shirley reflects on her long and vibrant life, sharing bits of advice on longevity, hard-work, family, friendship and how it all changes with age. This inspiring centenarian found the love of her life in her early school days and shares how much their marriage offered purpose and adventure. Thank you Shirley (and Shannex) for this wonderfully special experience.
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

Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Wednesday Feb 07, 2024
Music has been a part of Mike Morrison’s life since he was just a kid, influenced by the talents of his father. He has played with many bands, including Rock Ranger with the late Jay Smith and now with some of his closest friends in Fire Valley Fire. We talk about musical “feel,” how he doesn’t know the origin story of his band name (LOL) and the release of a brand-new album. Have a listen to this seasoned Cape Bretoners stories of family, fun and what’s so come!
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
Fire Valley Fire’s website: https://firevalleyfire.bandcamp.com/album/fire-valley-fire
Fire Valley Fire’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firevalleyfire/?hl=en

Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
Wednesday Jan 31, 2024
There’s nothing like a good break-up to set life on a new path, and that’s exactly what led Jennifer Blair to a glass shop in Toronto. It wasn’t long before she was “secretly” learning the art of glass fusion and has since launched her successful business of turning glass “blobs” into beautiful masterpieces. Learn about the process of glass fusion, how Jen’s family made a major life change during covid and how remining in a place that feels content is the secret to happiness. This market mastermind has loads of great life and business tips!
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
Urban Fusions’ website: http://www.urbanfusions.ca/
Urban Fusions’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanfusions/

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.







