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 feel and the connections we long for.
It’s about Animals, Nature, and You!
Episodes
58 episodes
The Emotional Cost of Loving Animals for a Living Pt.2
(Part 2 of 2)Most animal care professionals face grief that’s often silenced or overlooked. What if understanding and embracing this grief could actually transform how we care, both for the animals and ourselves? Brigid Dodge, a former d...
The Emotional Cost of Loving Animals for a Living Pt.1
Most animal care professionals face grief that’s often silenced or overlooked. What if understanding and embracing this grief could actually transform how we care, both for the animals and ourselves? Brigid Dodge, a former dolphin trainer turne...
What is the Science of Animal Nutrition?
Ever wonder how a zookeeper knows what to feed a tuatara, a splendid sunbird or a red panda? In this episode, Dr. Andrea Fidget shares her expertise in comparative and conservation animal nutrition, exploring how understanding species-specific ...
What, Who, and HOW? Your Questions Answered!
In this 10-Minute Tuesday episode of Animals, Nature, and You, host Rick Schwartz jumps into the "mailbag" to answers some listener questions. From favorite animals and conservation challenges to what podcasts he listens to. He shares personal ...
Orangutans: More Noble Than Humans. A Conversation with Leif Cocks
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...
The Great Ape Approach to "Work/Life Balance"
In 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 challe...
Elizabeth Johnson on Balancing Wildlife Work and Parenthood
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 emotiona...
Be On The Look Out: Young Wildlife in Urban Spaces
In 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...
The Power of Pet Therapy: The Human/Animal Connection
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 encou...
Why Nature is Essential to Our Well-Being
In 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 Human Side of Conservation with Andrew Mooney from the Dublin Zoo
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, n...
RePlay: The Real Raccoon Science Behind the Headlines
This 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 pu...
Replay: Meet the Founder of Global Conservation Force, Mike Veale
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 bri...
Fascinating Facts About Turkey Vultures
In 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 in...
Bird Behaviorist, Zookeeper, and Now Spokesperson: Marco Wendt's Conservation Journey
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...
Beyond the Fluff: The Incredible Survival Skills of Rabbits
This 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.
Unlocking Nature's Secrets: Insights from 'Just the Zoo of Us' - Part 2
(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...
Unlocking Nature's Secrets: Insights from 'Just the Zoo of Us' - Part 1
(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...
Did You Notice? The Wildlife is Watching You.
In 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. ...
Connecting People to Nature: Inside Woodland Park Zoo's New Forest Trailhead
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 ...
How to Coexist with Snakes: Myths, Facts, and Safety Tips
In 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 sna...
Finding the Hidden Wonders of Our State Parks
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 discove...
The Animal that Looks Like a Zebra, Deer, and Giraffe All in One
Zebra-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...
How Apparel Can Save Animals: The Animals Anonymous Story
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 app...
Why Celebrate Endangered Species?
In this 10 Minute Tuesday, Rick discusses the reason we celebrating Endangered Species Day, and why awareness around conservation efforts really does help. He highlights the importance of community support, reaching out to law makers, and perso...