In this special episode, we sit down with legendary Nova Scotian songwriter, performer, and producer Joel Plaskett in his dreamlike Dartmouth studio—an inspiring space where history, creativity, and aliveness are immediately felt.
Joel's music career is the stuff of Canadian legend (seriously, he’s won more awards than we can count and shared the stage with one of the BEATLES), but this conversation goes beyond the performance. We dig into the soul behind the sound: Joel as the deep thinker, the kind soul, the reflective artist who's just as passionate about philosophy, family, and authenticity as he is about songwriting.
We also talk about the incredible surprise his management team pulled off for his 50th birthday: a tribute album featuring his songs, reimagined by a who’s who of Canadian music—The Arkells, City and Colour, Jenn Grant, and so many more.
We cover:
- How Joel’s lifelong journey in the arts has always felt like the only road forward
- His thoughts on creativity, legacy, and why making music still matters
- The story behind the surprise album that included all his best buds
- What it means to feel truly at home in a creative space
Joel is funny, philosophical, generous, and just downright brilliant. This is a conversation for anyone who’s ever wanted to live a life aligned with their art. Listen in, and let Joel’s soulful reflections remind you why making stuff matters.
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mikeandkristen
Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/mikeandkristen
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: “A Day in the Life"
Outro song: “The Show" both by Mike (Michael S. Ryan) from his upcoming 88 song project Power Chords
Mike's site: www.michaelsryan.com
Kristen’s site: www.kristenherringtonart.com
Joel’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/joelplaskett
Joel’s Website: https://joelplaskett.com/
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