Episodes

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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

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  • 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: [email protected]

    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.

  • 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: [email protected]

    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 - [email protected] or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

  • 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: [email protected]

    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 - [email protected] or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

  • With his unique approach to live performance, Rankin MacInnis orchestrates a musical journey that spans 11-weeks over the winter months, bringing together a diverse ensemble of up to a dozen musicians. His commitment to fostering community spirit and highlighting local talent has earned him the prestigious title of Entertainer of the Year at the 2023 Music Nova Scotia Awards. In our conversation, Rankin shares insights into the profound influence of Cape Breton's musical heritage on his career, his secrets for staying energized during demanding performances, and some of the most memorable moments from his illustrious career, including encounters with icons like Dolly Parton and sharing the stage with The White Stripes. Tune in for an unforgettable glimpse into the life and music of this Cape Breton born legend.

    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: [email protected]

    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

    Rankin’s site: https://www.rankinmacinnis.com/

    Rankin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rankinmacinnis/

    Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - [email protected] or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

  • Danni Mega has been kidnapped in Romania, starred on UK reality television, had her heart broken by a rock star and struggled with drug and alcohol addiction for most of her adult life. After reaching her rock-bottom, she completely turned her life around and is on a mission to self-improvement and supporting others on their journey to sobriety. A candid interview with a woman who has completely changed her life in a single year. There are tears, takeaways and truth bombs 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: [email protected]

    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

    Danni’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dannimega/

    Museum of Addiction & Recovery: https://www.recoverymuseum.co.uk/about

    Episode Sponsored by Ryan O’Malley at All State Insurance - [email protected] or phone: 1-902-210-1293 — https://g.co/kgs/XbKHH9s

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • 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: [email protected]

    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

  • 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: [email protected]

    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

  • 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: [email protected]

    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/

  • Multi award-winning artist, Jah'Mila discovered the Nova Scotia music scene during a visit with her mom, who had moved to eastern Canada to work in nursing. She found friendship, creative collaboration and loads of adoring fans in the place she now calls home. Her father – “Chinna” – played with Bob Marley’s “The Wailers” and was a strong influence on his children’s creative lives. But Jah’Mila has carved out her own path and established herself as one of the most powerful and impactful names in Reggae. An inspiring story of resilience, persistence and big dreams to come!

    Our current Fundraiser!!! https://mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser

    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: [email protected]

    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/

    Jah’Mila’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jahmilasings/?hl=en

  • Buckle up for this chat with the incredibly articulate, talented and soft-souled young woman, Sophia Rae. This grade 12 École Secondaire Du Sommet student reflects on her personal experience with trauma and mental health after losing her aunt in the Portapique massacre in 2020. Realizing that other teens were struggling with tools and conversations around mental health, she began offering her own public talks in effort to support her peers. She’s now an accomplished entrepreneur who is song-writing with the likes of Meaghen Smith, balancing school work with creative work.

    An astonishingly intelligent, compassionate and grounded soul whose wisdom is that of an elder. We’re blown away by Sophia’s approach to life. Her self-awareness and grounded nature shine!

    Our Fundraising Campaign: www.mikeandkristen.ca/fundraiser

    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: [email protected]

    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

    Sophia Rae’s website: https://sophiarae.ca/

    Sophia Rae’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiarae_official/

  • A profound conversation with multi-faceted artist Carmel Mikol as we dive into stories from her past. Leaving her patriarchal faith after suffering domestic abuse, Carmel shares details about the Jehovah Witnesses religion and how telling her personal experience through film (Apostate) has been a powerful way of adopting a new identity. We learn about the structure, history and inequities of being a “Witness” and how Carmel has been able to make a positive impact on the lives of so many others through her art. With a new album in the works, she’s leaning into her creative side.

    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: [email protected]

    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

    Carmel Mikol’s website: https://www.carmelmikol.com/

    Carmel Mikol’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmelmikol/

    Apostate film: https://www.carmelmikol.com/film