Mike and Kristen

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/

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/

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/

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/

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/

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

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/

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/

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 Heroes Outro 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

Newlywed Matt Kliffer is fresh off a band reunion tour this summer with his beloved Halifax band “Three Sheet” that has recently released some fresh re-mixes (cleverly called Re-Sheet). We chat about the band’s fast success, awards won and how they always felt they were best experienced live. Mike reminiscences about Three Sheet Thursdays at Elephant and Castle and Kristen asks Matt to read lines from “You and Me” so we can indulge a little more in his decadent voice! A great glimpse into the life of a man and his band who created a genre all of their 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 Matt’s Instagram: @expedyte_music Three Sheet Remixes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otEQvovvfXw

We would describe James Mullinger as a risk-taker, boot-strapper and socially awkward kid turned life of the party. Oh, and he’s HILARIOUS!!! A true story of career determination and love for his family led James from London to Saint John, New Brunswick. Or was it Rothsay? Either way, he’s a true Canadian now and we’re so grateful to share this chat about the rocky entertainment industry road, how Maritimers like being made fun of and “glory holes”. You’ll see. James is a successful media mogul having published “Brit Happens” in 2022 and is the editor of curated, creative magazine “Edit”. You’re gonna love this bloke! 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 James’ Instagram: @jamesmullinger James’ website: https://www.jamesmullinger.com/

“Who cares?” is Deedee Morris’ response to everyone suddenly having a camera in their pocket. It’s the person, the approach and the commitment to the craft that sets photographers like her apart from the rest. Finding home in Nova Scotia, Deedee embraces nature and authenticity in her work. We chat about being seen through the lens, understanding a client’s emotion and how making time and space for creative recharge is a critical part of entrepreneurial longevity. 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 Deedee’s Instagram: @deedeemorrisphotography

Kristyn Green is the definition of a FIRECRACKER! She has followed the breadcrumbs to create an exciting and diverse career. Growing up in a small town made her feel like BEING ON TV wasn’t necessarily an option. Fast forward life and she is a successful stand-up comedian, television show host (Maritime Ink), live events host, producer and we imagine, everyone’s best friend. We chat about learning the hard way, managing nerves, where woman hide tampons and how the Green family throws the best holiday gatherings in the Maritimes. Try and keep up with this amazing woman!! 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 Kristen’s Instagram: @kristyngreenwhatsyours

Cape Breton born and based siblings wouldn’t want to partner with anyone else! Their connection is apparent having established their strengths, values and sound in an incredibly short period of time. We chat about the benefits of being faced with challenges and how those hardships help us grow into better versions of ourselves. Hearts of Kin’s music is authentically representational of the kindest gals on the island! Managed by Danielle’s husband Brent, the sisters are able to focus on their bursting songwriting talent, touring, and purpose. 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 Hearts of Kin’s Instagram: @hearts.of.kin Hearts of Kin website: https://www.heartsofkin.com/about The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture

Kate (Harnish) grew up in the iconic Shore Club Hubbards family and when she met her now husband BJ in high school, he too became part of the dance halls’ electric fun. Fast-forward twenty years and the two now run their own business! BJ, an HRM firefighter cuts intricate wood pieces that Kate then paints with bright, Nova Scotia scenes and inspirations. Their collaborative approach results in the most fun, playful, pristine work! This duo will be part of the first annual Moonshine Imaginarium arts festival that is coming to the CBC Moonshine Lodge film set this last weekend of August 2023 at Hubbards Beach. 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 Kate & BJ’s Instagram: @salt.sky.studio Kate & BJs website: https://www.saltskystudio.com/ The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture

A true showman, Tommy Green Jr. is what you might call the ideal podcast guest! Honest, funny and sweet as a family of pea-pods, we adored this time together! We chat about psylocibin exploration, what’s it’s like to undergo a creative lull, working on cruise ships, singing and skating with the Halifax Mooseheads and so much more! An energetic conversation with one of Nova Scotia’s most celebrated entertainers! 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 Tommy’s Instagram: @tommygreenjr The Coast Best of Halifax Award VOTES: https://vote.thecoast.ca/arts-and-culture

Only 19-years old, this young-gun has stolen the hearts of many, including ours! On the heels of releasing his first single track (played at the end of the episode!), his first ticketed show and lots of press, we wanted to follow-up with Jackson on how the perception of this creative life measures up against the reality. We chat about the highs and lows, managing nerves and how youthful perspective can benefit us all. 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 Jackson’s Instagram: @jacksonweldonn The Town Heroes Shore Club Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-town-heroes-with-daniel-james-mcfadyen-and-the-public-service-tickets-627843415557

Allow us to introduce to the definition of power couple! Clear visions and intentional goal setting have led Katie and Brad to appreciate a shared spirit. Katie founded the “We Are Young” (WAY) Organization as a way of highlighting and celebrating our senior population through funding experiential “wishes”. Her recognition of these special souls has resulted in almost 50 fulfilled dreams for local “young-guns”. Her newlywed hub’s founded Purple Cow Internet, Was Season 1’s Winner of Canada’s Ultimate Challenge and is currently training for the next winter Olympics. Oh yea, he also swam the English Channel and is going to put hotels in space… But what we loved the most about this couple is their commitment to their goals, their drive for life and their love and support of each other. You’ll be inspired! 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 We Are Young (WAY)’s Website: https://www.weareyoung.ca/ Purple Cow Internet: https://www.purplecowinternet.com

2023 has been GOOOOOOD to Nicole Ariana whose sister is building her a shelf to hold all of her well-deserved hardware! Her provocative music videos, powerful lyrics and creative breadth have led this Nova Scotia singer to amazing accomplishments. We dig into the big stuff – what it’s like being in the middle of a transition and wanting people to see all sides of ourselves; how to balance work and play; and how collaborating with others extends our artistic minds. Both sultry and sweet, you’re going to fall in love with this powerhouse performer! 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 Nicole’s Website: https://www.nicoleariana.net/ Nicole’s Instagram: @nicolearianamusic

Originally from Newfoundland, Alicia Simms found her Nova Scotian home in Truro and has been celebrating the small-town vibe ever since! Her tattoo artwork has a recognizable style and she has certainly paid her dues in establishing herself in the industry. She started highlighting small businesses and towns SO WELL, she was offered her own TV show to keep doing more of the same. We love this organic career path! She’s also hosting events, promoting body-positivity and doing it all from an airstream with her hubs. Alicia is diverse, daring and adored! 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 Alicia’s Website: https://www.aliciaetattoo.ca Alicia’s Instagram: @aliciaetattoo