Animals, Nature, and You

Finding the Hidden Wonders of Our State Parks

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2557474/fan_mail/new] 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. Chris and Moe’s unique storytelling approach bridges the gap between education and the entertainment, making connecting to nature accessible to all. They emphasize the power of community and storytelling in fostering a passion for the environment. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a curious beginner, this episode is a reminder that everyone can contribute to conservation and become a steward of the natural world. Animals, Nature, and You on IG [https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou] Links mentioned in this episode: State of the State Parks Website [https://stateofthestateparks.com/] State of the State Parks  on IG [https://www.instagram.com/stateofthestateparkspodcast/] State of the State Parks on FB [https://www.facebook.com/stateofthestateparks?mibextid=LQQJ4d] State of the State Parks YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@StateoftheStateParks] Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com [https://www.zoologyrick.com/] Rick's social media stuff... Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/zoologyrick] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@RickSchwartz] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ZoologyRick] Threads [https://www.threads.com/@zoologyrick] BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/zoologyrick.bsky.social] Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

The Animal that Looks Like a Zebra, Deer, and Giraffe All in One

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2557474/fan_mail/new] 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 importance of conservation projects in protecting this rare species. Animals, Nature, and You on IG [https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou] Links mentioned in the episode: Okapi Conservation Project [https://www.okapiconservation.org/] Zoo partners with Okapi Conservation Project [https://www.okapiconservation.org/zoo-partners] IUCN Red List page for Okapi [https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/15188/51140517] Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com [https://www.zoologyrick.com/] Rick's social media stuff... Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/zoologyrick] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@RickSchwartz] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ZoologyRick] Threads [https://www.threads.com/@zoologyrick] BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/zoologyrick.bsky.social] Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

How Apparel Can Save Animals: The Animals Anonymous Story

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2557474/fan_mail/new] 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 conservation world. As well as how they have both continued to follow their passion while shifting out of zoo keeper work. Animals, Nature, and You [https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou]on IG Links mentioned in this episode: Animals Anonymous Apparel [https://animalsanonymousapparel.com/]website Animals Anonymous on FB [https://www.facebook.com/AnimalsAnonymousApparel/] Animals Anonymous on IG [https://www.instagram.com/animalsanonymousapparel] Animals Anonymous on TK [https://www.instagram.com/animalsanonymousapparel] Animals Anonymous on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@UC2oOrhFrHYXtLvncR3QI31A ] Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com [https://www.zoologyrick.com/] Rick on social media: INSTAGRAM [https://www.instagram.com/zoologyrick] FACEBOOK [https://www.facebook.com/ZoologyRick] BLUESKY [https://bsky.app/profile/zoologyrick.bsky.social] THREADS [https://www.threads.com/@zoologyrick] Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

Why Celebrate Endangered Species?

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2557474/fan_mail/new] 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 personal curiosity in protecting endangered species. Any one can help animals, nature and in turn, help all of us. Animals, Nature, and You on IG [https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou] Links mentioned in the episode: USF&WS Endangered Species Act [https://www.fws.gov/law/endangered-species-act] Endangered Species Day website [https://www.endangered.org/] Endangers Species Coalition members [https://www.endangered.org/view/member-organizations/] The International Union for Conservation of Nature [https://iucn.org/] Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com [https://www.zoologyrick.com/] Rick's social media stuff... Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/zoologyrick] YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@RickSchwartz] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ZoologyRick] Threads [https://www.threads.com/@zoologyrick] BlueSky [https://bsky.app/profile/zoologyrick.bsky.social] Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

How Does Wolf Conservation Become Ecosystem Conservation?

Send "Fan Mail" to Rick [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2557474/fan_mail/new] 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'll discover how the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone transformed entire ecosystems, from regulating deer and elk populations to restoring plant life, and even boosting fish and bird populations, all through the lens of ecological balance. Regina dives into the fascinating science behind "umbrella species," explaining why protecting wolves benefits the entire food web and humanity alike. Join us for a compelling look at species revival, showing how bold science, heartfelt collaboration, and your voice can help safeguard the wild wonders of North America and beyond. Conservation isn't just for scientists and zoos; it's a collective effort—and your support makes a difference. Animals, Nature, and You [https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou]on IG Links mentioned in this episode: Regina's TED Talk [https://youtu.be/yxEGg_nFKt8?si=xGRV0H6S5bywTK-U](via YouTube) St. Louis Zoo [https://stlzoo.org/] AZA SAFE Programs [https://www.aza.org/aza-safe] USFWS Red Wolf Recovery Program [https://www.fws.gov/project/red-wolf-recovery-program] USFWS Mexican Wolf Recovery Program [https://www.fws.gov/program/conserving-mexican-wolf]  Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com [https://www.zoologyrick.com/] Rick on social media: INSTAGRAM [https://www.instagram.com/zoologyrick] FACEBOOK [https://www.facebook.com/ZoologyRick] BLUESKY [https://bsky.app/profile/zoologyrick.bsky.social] THREADS [https://www.threads.com/@zoologyrick] Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.