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 w ...
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We’re joined by the effortlessly charming sister duo Moira & Claire, whose lighthearted indie folk-pop is winning hearts from coast to coast. Born on one side of Canada and now rooted in Halifax, Nova Scotia, these two have been singing together since long before they started releasing music—and yes, they do break into harmonies during this episode…
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This week on Make It, we're sitting down with none other than Jimmy Rankin—yes, that Jimmy Rankin from the legendary Rankin Family! With his unmistakable Cape Breton charm still fully intact, Jimmy takes us on a heartfelt stroll down memory lane. From his early days growing up in the small but mighty town of Mabou, Nova Scotia, to touring the world…
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Mike and Kristen are back—with a fresh look, renewed perspective, and big plans for the podcast! In this kickoff episode, we introduce the season’s new theme: Make It—a double entendre that explores both the act of making things and the evolving idea of “making it” as an artist or creative. Today’s conversation centers around the importance of the …
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It’s the end of an era...but not forever! In this final episode of Mike and Kristen (as you know it), we take you along on our adventure through the U.S., sharing highlights from our second time attending SXSW, playing basketball in the rain in LA and how we were greeted with apologies in America. From a terrifying plane ride to an insane Austin bu…
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Episode 158: Mark Bezanson (Better Known as Mr.B) Reflects on 30 Years Teaching Music In the Annapolis Valley
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This week, we’re catching up with the one and only Mark Bezanson—a musician, educator, and all-around Nova Scotia treasure! From his early days studying at StFX to a decades-long teaching career (where Kristen even played in his band class!), Mark’s love for music has always been front and center. Now in his final year of teaching at Middleton High…
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This week, we’re hanging out with one of the biggest champions of East Coast music—Darcy Walsh! If you’re part of the scene, you already know his name. As the co-creator of East Coast DNA Podcast, Darcy has made it his mission to shine a light on the incredible talent coming out of Eastern Canada. Whether through interviews, live performances, or e…
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Episode 156: Terry Kelly is An Award-Winning Musician, Paralympic Athlete, and Order of Canada Recipient – Achieving It All by Seeing Beyond Limitations
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What happens when you mix unstoppable determination, a deep love for life, and a voice that can move a nation? You get Terry Kelly. Blind since childhood, Terry lost his sight but gained a vision for life that’s bigger than most of us could ever imagine. This episode is pure energy, wisdom, and inspiration wrapped up in a conversation with a guy wh…
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This week, we sit down with the incredibly talented Laura Rae—a musician, teacher, producer, and new mom who somehow manages to do it all! Growing up in northern New Brunswick, Laura was raised in a bilingual environment, which has shaped both her teaching career and her work as a musician. Now based in Dartmouth, she runs The Guest Room, a music s…
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This week, we sit down with Tisha Parker Kemp, founder and principal of Shift Ed Academy. With over 25 years of experience in training and education—including more than 20 years in online learning—Tisha is a powerhouse when it comes to building high-quality training programs. Whether you’re looking to launch your own online course, refine your busi…
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Episode 153: Rhys Waters Moved from Wales to Nova Scotia to Pursue Adventure, Possibility and Podcasting
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This week, we sit down with the incredibly talented Rhys Waters, a documentary filmmaker, television & radio producer for the BBC, and comedy creator from the UK who found a new home—and a new career path—in Nova Scotia. As co-founder of Podstarter and host of Canada is Boring, Rhys has become a powerhouse in the podcasting world, helping creators …
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Episode 152: Sean McMullen aka “Saltwater Sean” Explores Nova Scotian Waters for Hidden Treasures. His Brave Experience with Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Make Him a Treasure Himself
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In this episode, we sit down with Sean McMullen—better known as ‘Saltwater Sean’—a passionate photographer, musician, and avid diver who spends his time exploring Nova Scotian waterways in search of hidden treasures. From old bottles to action figures, Sean has uncovered some truly fascinating relics, but today, we're focusing on a different side o…
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Episode 151: Our Favourite Floridian David Beatriz Invites Us to His Home Studio to Talk All Things American Politics, How We Met at SXSW and the Importance of Community and Belonging
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In this episode, we sit down with our good friend, the one and only David Beatriz, in his home studio for an insightful conversation about American politics, tech, and the importance of community. We first met Dave at SXSW last March and immediately connected over his sharp mind and kind heart. This guy is not just a brilliant tech genius (he went …
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Episode 150: Gabriel Minnikin Talks All Thing Music, Sobriety, and the Power of Performance
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In this episode, we sit down with Gabriel Minnikin, one of Nova Scotia’s accomplished and versatile musicians. Gabe has played alongside some of the biggest names in Canadian music, from Blue Rodeo (where he played accordion) to Bahamas, Grammy Award-winning Gordie Sampson, Buck 65, and Kinley Dowling, he’s even changed a string on Travis Good’s (t…
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In this episode, we sit down with Beck Keen, a master business coach, risk-taker, and powerhouse who blends spirituality, strategy, and science to guide entrepreneurs to real freedom in their coaching and consulting businesses. Beck opens up about her incredible journey—from sailing the world after a profound connection with the underwater world, t…
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Episode 148: Exploring the Mind of Asif Illyas: From Classical Composer to Film Score Innovator
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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 compositio…
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Episode 147: Navigating 2025: Insights from Deborah Young on Astrology, Intuition, and the Shifting Global Landscape
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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 w…
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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 …
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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 ho…
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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 fran…
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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 …
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Episode 142: Cassie Noble and Warren Frank (Gamekeeper) Make a Pit-Stop to Hot Jupiter Sounds on their East Coast Tour
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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!)…
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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
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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 bringi…
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Episode 140: Jordan Harnum and Joelle Sunshine are the Beautiful Voices Behind Ever Sweet Band and Hosts of Olde House Shows in Twillingate, Newfoundland
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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 hous…
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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!
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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…
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Episode 138: Ria Mae Talks About the Moment Her Career Changed and How Following Her Own Instincts Has Paved the Way to Success
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Halifax’s powerhouse pop star, Ria Mae, joins us in the studio just before hitting the road for her Canadian tour with Classified! We dive into the highs and lows of the music industry, discovering how collaboration—sometimes until the early hours of the morning—can open up new perspectives on creating music. Ria shares how one pivotal phone call c…
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Episode 137: Elliott BROOD Have Been Writing & Playing Music, Touring and Creating for Over 20 Years and Today They Perform LIVE From Hot Jupiter Sounds
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Elliott BROOD is a three-piece Canadian alternative country band featuring Mark Sasso (lead vocals, guitar, banjo, ukulele, harmonica), Casey Laforet (guitar, lead vocals, backing vocals, bass pedals, keys, ukulele), and Stephen Pitkin (percussion, sampler, backing vocals). Known for embracing a “van life” tour style, the band thrives on exploring …
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Episode 136: Bethany Fulde Is an Indie-Rock Experimenter Who Has Handwritten Us a Note, Filed with Introspection, Motherhood and Curiosity
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Bethany Fulde’s new album Handwritten Notes is a stunning collection of songs that explore themes of searching, reflection, and questioning, with emotional outcomes that range from fulfilled to unresolved. Each track carries the weight of lived experience, delivered with her powerful vocal range that brings listeners on an intimate journey of the h…
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Episode 135: Newbridge Is the New Band on The Block But is Comprised of Some of the Most Seasoned Musicians in the Province
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Keith and Glen join us for a lively conversation about reconnecting with music—this time through the lens of what some (including us!) might call a supergroup. These talented musicians have found harmony not only in their sound but also by creating space for each other’s creative ideas, families, opinions, and lifestyles. Their band, Newbridge, del…
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Episode 134: Jim Gilbert Is an Actor Based in Toronto, With a Thriving Career in Both Canadian and International TV and Film—All Rooted in His Small-Town Beginnings in Nova Scotia!
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Jim Gilbert's acting credits include CBC's Moonshine, The Handmaid's Tale, Suits, The Girlfriend Experience, Salvation, and The Tudors, among others. As a writer, his original work has been optioned and developed by production companies in both the U.S. and Canada. His role in Moonshine is especially personal, as the show's setting and storylines m…
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Episode 133: Liam Hennessey of Applehead Studio Knows How to Make His Clients Feel At Ease In Front of the Camera But That Wasn’t Always His Career Plan
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Liam Hennessey, founder of Applehead Studio, is a bold risk-taker who thrives on pushing the boundaries of business, photography, and life. Known for challenging traditional business norms, Liam has a reputation for embracing almost any wild opportunity that comes his way. His career has not only allowed him to travel but also led to meeting his wi…
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Episode 132: Joss MacNeil Has All of the Creative Bones! Accomplished Singer, Writer, Performer, Traveler and a Philosophical Soul.
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Joss MacNeil is a versatile artist who sings in the band The Public Service, alongside her brothers in Sunday Open Mac, and explores her unique sound through her solo project, Tall Poppy. A wandering soul, Joss recently embarked on a journey through Europe and Colombia, where she embraced the newness, adventure, and even the stillness that fueled h…
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Episode 131: LIVE Podcast Recording from Christina Martin’s Album Premiere “Storm” Featuring Audience Q&A
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Mike and Kristen's first live podcast recording at Alderney Landing Theatre followed a magnificent performance by award-winning musician Christina Martin, who premiered her ECMA-nominated album Storm with a full band and a stunning string quartet. The atmosphere was electric, with roses falling from the ceiling and a breathtaking moment of gang voc…
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Episode 130: Acclaimed Actors Jennifer Finnigan and Jonathan Silverman Welcome us Into Their Home for an Exclusive Interview, Revealing the Untold Stories Behind their Hollywood Lives
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On today's episode, we're thrilled to share the story of Emmy award-winning actor Jennifer Finnigan— known for her roles in CBC's Moonshine, The Bold and the Beautiful, plus many more— and her husband, the prolific actor Jonathan Silverman, famous for his performance in Weekend at Bernie's, plus countless other iconic films and shows. This dynamic …
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Tyler Mullendore, born from the soul of Lake Ainslie Cape Breton (the witness protection capital of the world according to Mike!), masterfully blends rough-and-tumble roots rock with the electrified emotion of southern-fried Americana. His music channels the heart-wrenching wistfulness of Bob Seger and the lyrical introspection of John Prine, all d…
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Episode 128: Serena Haines is a Sex & Intimacy Expert Who Coaches Individuals and Couples to Learn, Connect & Nurture Their Sexuality
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Serena Haines is a Certified Sexologist, Sex and Intimacy Coach, and Somatic Sex Educator with a deep commitment to helping individuals and couples explore and expand their understanding of intimacy and sexual desires. With her extensive training in Clinical Sexology and relationship counseling through The Gottman Institute, Serena guides clients t…
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Episode 127: Andrew Shaver has done it all. From music, travel, theatre, radio hosting and so much more, we take a deep dive into the wise-world of this incredibly kind and talented friend
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Andrew Shaver is an accomplished actor (anyone else go to French Clown School out there?), radio host at 107 Go Rock & CoveFM, podcaster, director, musician, and best bud to many. His band, Clever Hopes, has two albums out and a global audience to boot! Andrew's talent, charm, and whiskey-smooth vocals truly captivate listeners. Guided by wild expe…
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Episode 126: The Green Reflectors are both brothers and bandmates. Together they share a stage of surf rock, jump splits and too many inside jokes to keep up with!
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Kyle and Aaron, brothers from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, create instrumental music that's impossible to ignore, blending surf rock influences with a stage presence marked by matching outfits and dance moves that seem impossible for anyone over 19 years old. True creative engineers, they also build and race Soapbox derby cars like the champions they …
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Episode 125: Mallory Gorman is a recreation therapist, teaching us how to use leisure activity as a means of healing and defining purpose
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Mallory Gorman is an accomplished recreation therapist, artist, mother, and, to us, a fast friend. In this episode, we delve into the unique and powerful approach of recreation therapy, where Mallory helps individuals identify activities that bring comfort and invigoration, using them as a path toward self-discovery and life purpose. She shares her…
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Episode 124: Brynn Knickle, a Nova Scotia native now thriving in Los Angeles, is an accomplished actress, model, singer, and fight director.
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Brynn Knickle has worked on a number of Nova Scotia shot films, and divides her time between Halifax and Los Angeles. With an impressive array of talents, Brynn lives by the philosophy of "throwing spaghetti at the wall" to see what sticks, embracing life's unpredictability and allowing it to guide her journey. After honing her craft in New York Ci…
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Episode 123: Justin Huston and Kristen Morse Allow Each Other to Truly be Themselves. Through Their Authentic Support for One Another, a Beautiful Band Called "No-K" Was Born.
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Halifax-based power couple Justin Huston and Kristen Morse, both American-born, discovered a common love for Nova Scotia, music, and each other. Justin serves as the Deputy Minister of the Department of the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, while Kristen co-owns the iconic, open, and relaxed Nordic spa "Nature Folk." Their r…
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Episode 122: Postfun Is Always Looking For Fun in Both Life and Their Music. We Sit Down With Jack and Mackenzie to Learn All About This Young Band’s Dynamic and Dreams
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Jack Murtha and Mackenzie Adams play in a band called Postfun, a name inspired by those after-hours moments once all the crazy wildness of a night has concluded. Hailing from Shad Bay, Nova Scotia, Postfun is an indie-rock band that seamlessly blends alt-country, emo, and post-hardcore influences. Their emotional lyricism is occasionally accompanie…
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In this episode, we talk about what's coming up for Mike and Kristen this summer! From releasing the second edition of our book "You and Me," doing a live podcast recording with Christina Martin at her release show this September, planning a podcast workshop (who owns an airplane?!) Mike's festival circuit, to Togetherland events; We offer an overv…
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Episode 120: Writer Lindsay Kyte and Music Therapist Darrel Cameron’s Love For Music Brought Them Together to Celebrate Home, Life and Rita MacNeil
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Lindsay Kyte, a talented playwright and actress, and Darrel Cameron, a skilled music therapist and producer with Blue Acres, share a profound love for the arts that forms the bedrock of their relationship. Their mutual understanding of the creative lifestyle helps them stay strong and connected as a couple, with late nights at rehearsals or in the …
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Episode 119: Comedian Peter White, Aka 'Fat Tiger,' Rises as a Prominent Voice in the Comedy Scene Across Canada, England and the World
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Peter White, an engineer turned stand-up comic, quickly rose to prominence in the comedy scene, being named one of the “Top 5 Up and Coming Comedians in Canada” by CBC Radio’s “So, You Think You’re Funny?” within a year of his career. He has performed at top comedy clubs, corporate events, and theatres across Canada, including prestigious festivals…
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Episode 118: Louisa Horne of Epilog Encourages Conversations and Planning Around End Of Life With Her Environmentally Considerate Approaches to Death
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Louisa Horne is the visionary founder of Epilog, a Nova Scotian company dedicated to reimagining funeral services and end-of-life care. Epilog offers a comprehensive range of options, including natural burials, celebrations of life, and support for seniors transitioning from their family homes. Their services extend to organizing moves and facilita…
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Episode 117: The Town Heroes Are Releasing Their 7th Full-Length Album! We Welcome Bruce Gillis To The Studio To Reflect on 20 Years of Friendship, Music, and Shenanigans
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With a SECRET album release show just around the corner, The Town Heroes take us on a trip down memory lane, starting with the wee corners of where it all began on Cape Breton Island. Loyal to each other, their fans and the music, TTH have continued to “Keep On Keepin’ On” through their lyrical genius and industry respect. Two of the hardest-workin…
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Episode 116: Halifax's Award-Winning Rock-Pop Band Good Dear, Good Embraces Nova Scotian Roots, Advocates for Inclusion, and is Rapidly Rising to Stardom
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Good Dear, Good is both an ECMA and Music Nova Scotia award-winning rock-pop band based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Their band name inspired by the endearing, commonly-heard Nova Scotian phrase. This rapidly rising band, known for their vibrant sound and inclusive ethos, was born from the camaraderie and shared passion of its members who met at NSCC. …
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Episode 115: Namit Holay Has a PhD in Medical Immunity Research Where He Joins the Crusade to Cure Cancer. But He Approaches This Work in A Completely New Way
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Unlike most approaches to modern medicine, Namit Holey wanted to test his higher education through personal experimentation. His lab? An Ashram in India where he would spend eight months learning about holistic health, the impact of the mind on our well-being and how finding our personalized approaches to life is our greatest defence mechanism. Nam…
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Episode 114: Mat Elliott Has Played With Dozens Of Talented Artists and Is Now Releasing His Very Own Songs!
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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…
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Episode 113: The Town Heroes' Latest Single, "Hockey Fights," Is a Spirited Anthem Inspired by Canada's Favorite Game, Falling In Love, Nostalgia, And the Power of Community
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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…
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