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PODCAST

Animals, Nature, and You

“Animals Nature and You” celebrates the curiosity around the connection we have with the natural world.In this podcast, we will be looking at the science and the personal experiences of experts, and everyday people. From conservationist and animal care staff to filmmakers and authors. We’ll talk to backyard birders, wildlife experts, naturalist, animal behaviorists, veterinarians and so much more.Join us on this curious odyssey, let’s explore and reconnect together! It’s all about the connections we

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All Episodes

52:18

Orangutans: More Noble Than Humans. A Conversation...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/07/16

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Most conservation efforts focus on facts and figures—but what if the key to saving endangered species also involved love, empathy, and understanding? Leif Cocks reveals how genuine connections with orangutans shaped his approach to conservation, advocating for a solutions rooted in compassion rather than conflict. This inspiring conversation uncovers the profound intelligence and autonomy of these remarkable primates and why understanding their complex social systems d...

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12:15

The Great Ape Approach to "Work/Life Balance"

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/07/14

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this episode, host Rick explores the true meaning of life balance by comparing human life to that of great apes, emphasizing that life is about relationships, health, play, wealth, and spirituality, not just work and personal life. He challenges the conventional work-life balance concept and encourages a holistic view of life’s many elements.Animals, Nature, and You on IGIf you find a sick or injured animal, please connect with someone who can help:Animal Help

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45:40

Elizabeth Johnson on Balancing Wildlife Work and...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/07/09

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Elizabeth Johnson shares her journey of starting the Mothering Wildlife podcast, exploring the unique challenges faced by moms in the zoo and conservation field. Our conversation on Animals, Nature, and You covers physical, mental, and emotional challenges, societal pressures, and the importance of community support for working mothers in niche professions. Link to Mothering Wildlife podcast Mothering Wildlife: Telling the stories of moms who work in zoo, wildlife, ve...

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9:45

Be On The Look Out: Young Wildlife in Urban Spaces

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/07/07

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this episode, host Rick Schwartz shares insights on wildlife behavior, specifically focusing on the young animals we tend to see out and about this time of year. Rick is always happy to encourage everyone to take the time to observe wildlife; as long as it is from a safe and respectable distance. After all, observations often lead to better understanding and appreciation of the wildlife and world around us. Animals, Nature, and You on IGIf you find a sick or

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46:44

The Power of Pet Therapy: The Human/Animal Connection

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/07/02

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Discover the transformative power of pet therapy as Robin Cohen from Helen Woodward Animal Center shares stories that bring joy, and foster profound human-animal connections. Whether it’s a children finding comfort in an unexpected animal encounter, or a someone reconnecting to memories of a pet skunk from the past; this episode reveals how animals not only heal but also teach us compassion, patience, and trust. Guest Robin Cohen, with over three decades of experience...

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14:30

Why Nature is Essential to Our Well-Being

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/30

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this 10 Minute Tuesday, host Rick Schwartz shares his "Is this even real life"experiences from a recent trip to the Redwoods. And he explores the scientific benefits of nature on well-being, and emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the natural world for our health, not just conservation.Animals, Nature, and You on IGLinks for Mentioned...Redwoods Rising on IGSave the Redwoods LeagueSequoia Park ZooFind Griff Griffith hereAnimals, Nature, and

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33:09

The Human Side of Conservation with Andrew Mooney...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/25

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Discover how collaborative efforts make the difference in wildlife conservation. In this insightful interview, Andrew Mooney from Dublin Zoo shares the multifaceted approach to conservation, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, native species projects, and the role of zoos in global conservation efforts. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links mentioned in this episode: Duklin Zoo Selamatkan Yaki More about the Sulawesi crested black macaque Find Andre...

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15:39

RePlay: The Real Raccoon Science Behind the Headlines

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/23

Send "Fan Mail" to RickThis is a RePlay of Episode 14 from March 2026...In this episode Rick discusses the media's misguided headlines and articles about a scientific study on raccoon that looked at domestication signals. Rick offers up information from the published paper and explains what the research actually indicates about raccoon evolution and domestication.While the idea of having a raccoon as a pet might sound enticing, there are significant challenges and ethical

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52:43

Replay: Meet the Founder of Global Conservation...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/18

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick This is a RePlay of Episode 06 from February 2026... In this episode, Mike Veale, the founder and CEO of Global Conservation Force, discusses the organization's multifaceted approach to wildlife conservation. Global Conservation Force brings together a team of experts, volunteers, and community members to work towards saving endangered species. Mike shares the pillars of conservation work, the founding of the GCF, the importance of conservation efforts, and how individ...

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14:44

Fascinating Facts About Turkey Vultures

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/16

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this 10 Minute Tuesday episode of Animals, Nature, and You, explore the fascinating world of turkey vultures, their social behavior, unique adaptations, and vital role in the ecosystem, inspired by Rick Schwartz's personal experiences and insights.Animals, Nature, and You on IGLearn more about Turkey Vultures:All About Turkey VulturesVultures of the WorldDo Birds Have a Sense of Smell? (Audubon)Find Rick here:ZoologyRick.comRick's social media

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52:43

Bird Behaviorist, Zookeeper, and Now Spokesperson:...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/11

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Join host Rick Schwartz as he reunites with former cohost Marco Wendt as they explore wildlife conservation, bird personalities, and the importance of collaboration in zoos and conservation efforts across borders. Discover insights from decades of experience, including work with cassowaries, bird behavior, and overcoming burnout in the wildlife care field. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links mentioned in this episode: All About Birds - Crested Caracara All About Bir...

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8:50

Beyond the Fluff: The Incredible Survival Skills of...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/09

Send "Fan Mail" to RickThis 10 Minute Tuesday episode explores the incredible adaptations and superpowers of rabbits; highlighting their speed, agility, and survival strategies that make them true super-powered superheroes of the animal kingdom. Animals, Nature, and You on IGLearn more about Rabbits:PBS Nature - Rabbits FactsAnimals, Nature, and You on IGLinks mentioned in the episode:Yale News: Wildlife is Watching Us Too and Changing Their Behavior In ResponseScience.org: Interacting

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36:00

Unlocking Nature's Secrets: Insights from 'Just the...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/05

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick (This is Part 2 of 2) Most people underestimate how deep their connection to nature really is—and how the smallest action can reshape our relationship with the environment. Imagine discovering that your passion for animals and wildlife could be your pathway to influencing conservation, even if your career path didn’t follow the traditional route. Join host, Rick Schwartz for an engaging conversation with Ellen Weatherford, host of the popular podcast 'Just the Zoo of ...

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49:18

Unlocking Nature's Secrets: Insights from 'Just the...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/04

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick (This is Part 1 of 2) Most people underestimate how deep their connection to nature really is—and how the smallest action can reshape our relationship with the environment. Imagine discovering that your passion for animals and wildlife could be your pathway to influencing conservation, even if your career path didn’t follow the traditional route. Join host, Rick Schwartz for an engaging conversation with Ellen Weatherford, host of the popular podcast 'Just the Zoo of ...

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11:16

Did You Notice? The Wildlife is Watching You.

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/06/02

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this 10 Minute Tuesday, Rick explores how human activity impacts wildlife behavior, highlighting recent scientific studies and personal insights. Discover how animals adapt to human presence and what this means for conservation efforts. Rick also discusses the use of drone technology to deploy environmental monitoring tools with little human impact, giving researchers a "cleaner" read of the habitat.Animals, Nature, and You on IGLinks mentioned in the

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42:47

Connecting People to Nature: Inside Woodland Park...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/05/28

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Join Rick in a fascinating discussion with Woodland Park Zoo's Chief Engagement Officer, Rebecca Whitham as she shares the concepts, ideas and opening of the new habitat, Forest Trailhead. From community involvement and input to the importance sharing the stories of the ecosystem, you will discover how Woodland Park Zoo is telling global stories through local connections and engaging visitors in wildlife preservation. This episode builds on previous discussions with o...

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13:26

How to Coexist with Snakes: Myths, Facts, and Safety...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/05/26

Send "Fan Mail" to RickIn this episode, Rick Schwartz explores the fascinating world of snakes, debunking myths, sharing interesting facts, and offering practical advice for coexisting with these vital creatures. Learn how to identify, respect, and live alongside snakes safely and responsibly.Animals, Nature, and You on IGFind Rick here:ZoologyRick.comRick's social media stuff...InstagramYouTubeFacebookThreadsBlueSkyPodcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk PopArtist: BurgbergUsed with

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41:14

Finding the Hidden Wonders of Our State Parks

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/05/21

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, host Rick Schwartz explores the hidden wonders of state parks with husband and wife duo, Chris and Moe. Their journey from theater and television to nature and state parks, reveals how simply getting outside led them to discover the vibrant life in California’s state parks and more. They share insights on identifying native plants and the importance of these species for ecosystem health, offering practical tips for anyone looking to connect with nature...

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13:26

The Animal that Looks Like a Zebra, Deer, and Giraffe...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/05/19

Send "Fan Mail" to RickZebra-deer? Forest giraffe? Explore the fascinating world of the Okapi, its unique adaptations, characteristics, and conservation efforts. Learn how this elusive animal was "discovered," its adaptations for survival in the thick forest, and the importance of conservation projects in protecting this rare species.Animals, Nature, and You on IGLinks mentioned in the episode:Okapi Conservation ProjectZoo partners with Okapi Conservation ProjectIUCN Red List

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43:22

How Apparel Can Save Animals: The Animals Anonymous...

Animals, Nature, and You ·

2026/05/14

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this engaging interview, Alexis Fitch shares her inspiring journey from zookeeper to founder of Animals Anonymous Apparel, highlighting her passion for lesser-known animals and supporting conservation efforts. Discover how her innovative approach combines education, community building, and fundraising to make a significant impact on wildlife conservation. Alexis and Rick discuss burnout and compassion fatigue, two topics well known in the zoo keeper and conservatio...

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74 results

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