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
44 episodes
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...
How Does Wolf Conservation Become Ecosystem Conservation?
In this episode, Regina Mossotti, VP of Animal Care at the St. Louis Zoo, shares behind-the-scenes insights into wolf conservation; highlighting how science, partnerships, and bold strategies like pup fostering are making a real difference. You...
What Happens Inside the Chrysalis? The Science of Transformation
Discover mind-blowing facts about what happens inside the butterfly's chrysalis. From egg to butterfly, there are usually 4 stages of metamorphosis; but in this episode, Rick explores the fascinating processes inside the chrysalis. From enzymes...
Everything You Thought You Knew About Bees Is WRONG - with David Mizejewski
In this episode, TV talent, author and naturalist, David Mizejewski from the National Wildlife Federation busts myths about bees, highlights the importance of native bees & plants, and shares practical tips for supporting pollinators & ...
Behind the Scenes of My Wildlife Career
Rick dives into the first round of fan mail with a little Q and A from listeners. He shares insights on his career journey, spills some tea about being on national television and gives a few practical tips for aspiring zookeepers. From sc...
What is the Future of Conservation? Community? Innovation? Empathy?
Join Rick Schwartz in an insightful conversation with Kathayoon Khalil, Vice President and Director of the Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation at the Columbus Zoo. They explore the multifaceted world of conservation, empathy, and systemic...
All Thumbs, No Hands
Discover fascinating facts about the North American opossum, including its unique thumbs, behavior, and ecological role. Learn how this remarkable marsupial adapts to urban environments and why it’s vital for our ecosystem.
The Unexpected Path from Wildlife Rehab to Global Keeper Exchange - Part 2
Part 2 of 2Alice Vassallo started her career in animal care by volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center. And from there, her journey into zoo keeping, wildlife education, international travel and conservation grew.In thi...
The Unexpected Path from Wildlife Rehab to Global Keeper Exchange with Alice Vassallo
Part 1 of 2Alice Vassallo started her career in animal care by volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center. And from there, her journey into zoo keeping, wildlife education, international travel and conservation grew.In thi...
Animal Facts That You Otter Know
In this episode, host, Rick Schwartz dives into the fascinating world of otters, focusing on the differences between North American river otters and sea otters. From their adaptations and behaviors, to the importance of conservation efforts for...
Nature Walks and Mentorships - Making a Difference with Jungle Jordan
In this episode, Jungle Jordan shares stories of combining his love for wildlife with community work through outdoor education. Discover his program impacts underserved communities and inspires the next generation of conservationists, nature lo...
The Mighty Peregrine Falcon
In this installment of 10 Minute Tuesday, host Rick Schwartz explores the fascinating world of the peregrine falcon, its history, adaptations, and the importance of conservation efforts. Learn how scientific studies and environmental policies h...
Nature: The Transformative Power of Outdoor Education
In this episode, Rick interviews Tina Brower Kraska, the founder of Red Oaks Forest School, who shares her journey from a wildlife enthusiast to an educator dedicated to reconnecting children with nature. Tina emphasizes the importance of foste...
Popcorn Butt? Why Bearcat If Not Related to Bear or Cat?
In this episode, host Rick Schwartz shares his passion and love of the fascinating binturong, also known as the bearcat. Discover why they smell like popcorn, (or is it corn chips?) and their unique adaptations - like their prehensile tail. He ...
The Rhythm of Conservation: How a Drummer's Passion Turned into a Podcast Phenomenon
In this episode Rick interviews musician, actor, music director and podcaster, Jon Rossi. Earlier in the week Rick was a guest on Jon's podcast, Rossifari - but today Rick had Jon in the hot seat!In a world where music and wildlife conse...