ScienceNatureEducation

Animals, Nature, and You

Rick Schwartz

“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!

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25 episodes
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English

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S1 · E65
Thursday · 37 min
Can a Board Game Save Rhinos? Global Conservation Force Updates
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, Mike Veale from Global Conservation Force shares updates on their recent activities, innovative conservation tools like a rhino-themed board game, and upcoming events supporting rhino conservation efforts. Discover how education, community involvement, and strategic funding are making a difference in protecting endangered species. And of course, don't forget about World Rhino Day coming up on September 22nd! Animals, Nature, and You on Instagram Connect Global Conservation Force GCF Website September Event Mentioned in this Episode Education Donation Link GCF on Facebook GCF on Instagram Other links of interest American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) website Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E64
Tuesday · 10 min
Why Bother Saving Pandas, Cheetahs, and Condors Anyway?
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, Rick Schwartz explores the complexities of wildlife conservation, focusing on species like cheetahs, giant pandas, and California condors. He discusses the importance of understanding ecosystem roles, animal behavior, and human impact to foster sustainable conservation efforts. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links to look at: Cheetahs Giant Pandas California Condors Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E63
August 27 · 37 min
Why Cheetah Conservation Starts with Dogs, Not Fences
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, Janet Rose-Hinestroza discusses the vital work of the Cheetah Outreach Trust in South Africa, focusing on cheetah conservation, community involvement, and innovative strategies to support free-ranging cheetahs amidst habitat fragmentation. Discover how community efforts, scientific research, and targeted programs are making a difference for this iconic species. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Cheetah Outreach Trust Website: Cheetah Outreach Trust On FB: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA On IG: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA Other links of interest: More about cheetahs: About Cheetahs Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E62
August 25 · 10 min
Battle for the Throne: How Naked Mole-Rats Pick Their Queen
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, host Rick Schwartz digs into the royal archives of naked mole-rats. How do they pick their queen? How does the queen stay in charge? What exactly is this "eusocial behavior" that naked mole-rats live by, and is it the same as honey bees and ants? Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links mentioned in this episode: Phsy.org: "NMR Queens Produce Odorous Chemical..." Nature.com Scientific article: "A queen odour mediates reproductive suppression..." Naked Mole-Rat facts via Zoo Atlanta Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E61
August 20 · 37 min
Gentle Giants of the Galapagos Islands
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, Christian Flores shares his insight and knowledge of the Galapagos tortoises, their evolution, behavior, and conservation efforts. Christian discusses some of the scientific theories about these ancient giants, from how they likely reached the islands in the first place to why some developed the iconic saddleback shell while others stayed dome-shaped. Within this episode, host Rick Schwartz and Christian also tackle the myths most people get wrong about turtles and tortoises. As well as discussing the finch response, the role of giant tortoises in island ecosystems, and the real reasons these species are now under threat. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Christian Crikey It's Christian on IG Crikey It's Christian on YouTube Artemis Paleozoological Reserve on IG Artemis Paleozoological Reserve on YouTube Links mentioned in this episode Galapagos Conservancy Turtle Conservancy Turtle Survival Alliance Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E60
August 13 · 37 min
What Happens When AZA & Non-AZA Facilities Work Together?
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, we explore the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation, the benefits of collaboration between AZA and non-AZA facilities, and practical ways for local communities to engage with their ecosystems. Jacob Reiter shares insights from his work at Pace University and discusses how local actions can make a global impact. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Jacob: Email: jreiter@pace.edu Jacob on Linkedin Links mentioned in this episode: Pace Univ. Department of Environmental Studies and Science Association for Advancing Participatory Sciences Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E59
August 6 · 1 hr 1 min
RePlay - Everything You Thought You Knew About Bees Is WRONG!
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick (This is a RePlay from April 2026) 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 & wildlife in your own yard. David also covers why planting native plants is now easier than ever thanks to NWF's Garden for Wildlife website where you can order the right plants at the right time. Animals, Nature, and You on IG David's Book: Attracting Birds, Butterflies and Other Backyard Wildlife Connect with David: David Mizejewski on IG David Mizejewski on FB David Mizejewski website National Wildlife Federation links: Garden for Wildlife website Garden for Wildlife on IG NWF Website NWF on IG NWF on FB Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick on social media: INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK BLUESKY THREADS Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E58
July 31 · 48 min
The Emotional Cost of Loving Animals for a Living Pt.2
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick (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 dolphin trainer turned grief coach, shares the raw truths about the hidden toll of working with animals and how loss shapes us in ways we’re often unprepared for. In this powerful episode, Brigid opens up about her journey from marine mammal training to coaching professionals through grief and burnout. She explores how grief isn’t a linear process and how cultural norms in the animal care industry can make it even harder to express or process loss. You'll discover: how guilt, identity shifts, and rituals play crucial roles in healing, and why many of us are woefully underprepared for the emotional aftermath of loss. Brigid also shares practical tools, including simple rituals and goal-setting strategies, that help cope with the chaos of grief and burnout. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Brigid: Website: Literally Working Through It Facebook LinkedIn Studies mentioned in this episode: Zoo professionals and volunteers... burnout, mental health and animals loss (published paper) Mental Health for Zoo Professionals (video presentation) Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E57
July 30 · 52 min
The Emotional Cost of Loving Animals for a Living Pt.1
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 turned grief coach, shares the raw truths about the hidden toll of working with animals and how loss shapes us in ways we’re often unprepared for. In this powerful episode, Brigid opens up about her journey from marine mammal training to coaching professionals through grief and burnout. She explores how grief isn’t a linear process and how cultural norms in the animal care industry can make it even harder to express or process loss. You'll discover: how guilt, identity shifts, and rituals play crucial roles in healing, and why many of us are woefully underprepared for the emotional aftermath of loss. Brigid also shares practical tools, including simple rituals and goal-setting strategies, that help cope with the chaos of grief and burnout. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Brigid: Website: Literally Working Through It Facebook LinkedIn Studies mentioned in this episode: Zoo professionals and volunteers... burnout, mental health and animals loss (published paper) Mental Health for Zoo Professionals (video presentation) Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E56
July 23 · 51 min
What is the Science of Animal Nutrition?
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 diets and natural history informs better animal care and conservation efforts. Discover the science behind animal diets, the importance of nutritional wisdom, and the future of wildlife nutrition research. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Connect with Dr. Andrea Fidgett on Linkedin Websites Mentioned: AZA Nutrition Advisory Group EAZA Nutrition Group National Animal Nutrition Program Zoo Diet Navigator Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E55
July 21 · 13 min
What, Who, and HOW? Your Questions Answered!
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 stories, favorite species, and insights into staying motivated in the face of conservation setbacks. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Podcasts Mentioned: *Rossifari Podcast All Creatures That's So Wild Just The Zoo of Us Mothering Wildlife Pangolin The Conservation Podcast 10% Happier Radiolab Buzzcast *Honorable mention - I completely spaced mentioning Jon Rossi's podcast, Rossifari when listing off what is in my podcast library! Sorry Jon, you know I love your podcast! Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E54
July 16 · 52 min
Orangutans: More Noble Than Humans. A Conversation with Leif Cocks
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 demands a shift in how we see all wildlife. In his conversation with host Rick Schwartz, Leif shares stories from his decades of work rescuing and rehabilitating orangutans. Leif also explains the vital importance of habitat conservation, ecosystem integrity, and cultural respect for indigenous communities. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Book mentioned: Wild Lessons (no link available yet) The Orangutan Project on IG The Orangutan Project on FB The Orangutan Project on Linkedin The Orangutan Project International Tiger Project International Elephant Project Forest For The People Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E53
July 14 · 12 min
The Great Ape Approach to "Work/Life Balance"
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 challenges the conventional work-life balance concept and encourages a holistic view of life’s many elements. Animals, Nature, and You on IG If you find a sick or injured animal, please connect with someone who can help: Animal Help Now Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E52
July 9 · 45 min
Elizabeth Johnson on Balancing Wildlife Work and Parenthood
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, vet, and conservation organizations. Working with wildlife brings a unique set of challenges for working mothers. Join me every other week as I interview moms working primarily in the zoo field as we discuss their journey as moms, navigating the mental, emotional, and often physical challenges that come with caring for wildlife and caring for kids. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Mothering Wildlife podcast on IG Email Elizabeth: MotheringWildlife@gmail.com Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E51
July 7 · 9 min
Be On The Look Out: Young Wildlife in Urban Spaces
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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; 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 IG If you find a sick or injured animal, please connect with someone who can help: Animal Help Now Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E50
July 2 · 46 min
The Power of Pet Therapy: The Human/Animal Connection
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 at Helen Woodward Animal Center, highlights the surprising science behind pet therapy’s physical and emotional benefits—from blood pressure drops to reduced aggression in at-risk youth. She shares inspiring stories of animals like a snake that helped a fearful man conquer his phobia, and a dog's loving intuition that helped comfort a man and his family. Robin explains how organizations worldwide can replicate programs like theirs through accessible training, volunteer efforts, and community education, emphasizing that every animal, regardless of species, has the potential to change lives. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links for Helen Woodward Animal Center... Website: AnimalCenter.org Helen Woodward Animal Cenetr Pet Encounter Therapy HWAC on YouTube HWAC on Instagram HWAC on Facebook HWAC on Linkedin HWAC on Tik Tok Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E49
June 30 · 14 min
Why Nature is Essential to Our Well-Being
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 natural world for our health, not just conservation. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links for Mentioned... Redwoods Rising on IG Save the Redwoods League Sequoia Park Zoo Find Griff Griffith here Animals, Nature, and You Episode with Griff Griffith Links to Studies Mentioned: Exposure and Connectedness to Nature Noticing Nature: Individual and Social Benefits Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E48
June 25 · 33 min
The Human Side of Conservation with Andrew Mooney from the Dublin Zoo
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 Andrew Here: Andrew Mooney on Linkedin Dublin Zoo on Social Media: Dublin Zoo FB Dublin Zoo IG Dublin Zoo TikTok Dublin Zoo YouTube Find Rick here: ZoologyRick.com Rick's social media stuff... Instagram YouTube Facebook Threads BlueSky Podcast Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E47
June 23 · 15 min
RePlay: The Real Raccoon Science Behind the Headlines
Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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 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 considerations that must be addressed. Raccoons are not domesticated animals; they are wild creatures with specific needs. PLEASE adopt a dog or cat from your local shelter. You will save a life and you will be much happier with truly domesticated animal in your home. Link to published study mentioned in this episode: "Tracking domestication signals across populations of North American raccoons (Procyon lotor) via citizen science-driven image repositories" Shout out to Big Bear Alpine Zoo (just because) Big Bear Alpine Zoo website Big Bear Alpine Zoo in Instagram Rick's website: ZoologyRick.com Find Rick on social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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S1 · E46
June 18 · 52 min
Replay: Meet the Founder of Global Conservation Force, Mike Veale
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 individuals can contribute. Mike shares personal experiences and highlights the interconnectedness of wildlife and human communities, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and education in conservation. Rick wraps up this episode with a facts about rhinos and rhino poaching, and how you can help animals like the rhinoceroses from your own home. Connect with Global Conservation Force: GCF Website GCF on Instagram GCF on Facebook GCF on YouTube Rick's website: ZoologyRick.com Find Rick on social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.
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