The Zooquarium Podcast

Mike Bennett Studios

The Zooquarium Podcast is a deep dive into all of the questions YOU want answered about the animals and habitats of the land, sea, and air. On each episode, artist Mike Bennett and biologist Chanel Hason use their background as educators to answer YOUR questions and invite guests from the wildlife and creative worlds to explore the convergence of science and art together. The Zooquarium Podcast explores the imagucational world of animals and ecosystems in a way that’s engaging and accessible to kids of all ages.

Want more of The Zooquarium Podcast? BONUS content for each episode is posted every other Tuesday at thezooquarium.com/podcast and youtube.com/@mikebennettstudios

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29 episodes
Updated Tuesday

Episodes29

Newest first

Tuesday · 10 min
Carol Cleveland MEOWS! More on Cats & Creativity with Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes!
Mike and Chanel continue their conversation with Gretchen and Thomas of Carol Cleveland Sings! They talk about cats, their ideal animal collaborators, and writing podcast theme songs. RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Gretchen Lohse and Thomas Hughes, collectively known as Carol Cleveland Sings, are a music, video, and art duo from Philadelphia, PA. Known for their clever toy instrument videos across social media, Carol Cleveland Sings combines their talents with curated backdrops and the occasional cat to capture the attention of their many online followers. Carol Cleveland Sings is also the creator of The Zooquarium Podcast's incredible theme song! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Check out Carol Cleveland Sings on BandCamp Follow Carol Cleveland Sings on TikTok: @carolclevelandsings Follow Carol Cleveland Sings on Instagram: @carolclevelandsings Watch Carol Cleveland Sings' cat videos HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guests: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Question-Asker: Lita Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Lita & Lita's family, Gretchen Lohse, Thomas Hughes, Rags, Harpo, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and cats all around the world!
July 21 · 11 min
Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
Leta asks: Why Do Cats Have Whiskers? We've all seen them and they look so cool, but WHY are they there? Mike and Chanel are all set to answer Leta's question and talk all about cat whiskers with Gretchen Lohse and Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings! Gretchen Lohse and Thomas Hughes, collectively known as Carol Cleveland Sings, are a music, video, and art duo from Philadelphia, PA. Known for their clever toy instrument videos across social media, Carol Cleveland Sings combines their talents with curated backdrops and the occasional cat to capture the attention of their many online followers. Carol Cleveland Sings is also the creator of The Zooquarium Podcast's incredible theme song! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Check out Carol Cleveland Sings on BandCamp Follow Carol Cleveland Sings on TikTok: @carolclevelandsings Follow Carol Cleveland Sings on Instagram: @carolclevelandsings Watch Carol Cleveland Sings' cat videos HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Question-Asker: Leta Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Leta & Leta's family, Gretchen Lohse, Thomas Hughes, Rags, Harpo, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and cats all around the world!
July 14 · 17 min
BONUS: Leapin' Lemurs with Dr. Tim Eppley
Mike and Chanel continue their conversation with ecologist Tim Eppley about aye-ayes, all other lemurs, what it's like to study animal and plant-life in Madagascar, and they learn about his journey from animal-lover to Chief Conservation Officer at Wildlife Madagascar. Dr. Timothy Eppley is a conservation biologist and primatologist who has spent nearly two decades studying wildlife in Africa, with a particular focus on the lemurs and ecosystems of Madagascar. As Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, he leads research and conservation programs that help protect some of the world's most endangered species while supporting local communities. Tim's passion for wildlife began at an early age and has taken him from studying bonobos and lemurs in the field to publishing more than 100 scientific papers and helping shape conservation efforts across Madagascar. He loves sharing stories about the incredible animals he works with and helping people discover why biodiversity matters. Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about Wildlife Madagascar Check out Wildlife Madagascar's Aye-Aye page Follow Wildlife Madagascar on Instagram: @wildlifemadagascar Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Tim Eppley Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Milo & Milo's family, Dr. Tim Eppley, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and every single aye-aye!
July 7 · 13 min
Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long?
Milo asks: Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long? What a fascinating question about a fascinating animal! Mike and Chanel are joined by ecologist Tim Eppley, the Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, to answer Milo's question and teach us more about these elusive animals! Dr. Timothy Eppley is a conservation biologist and primatologist who has spent nearly two decades studying wildlife in Africa, with a particular focus on the lemurs and ecosystems of Madagascar. As Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, he leads research and conservation programs that help protect some of the world's most endangered species while supporting local communities. Tim's passion for wildlife began at an early age and has taken him from studying bonobos and lemurs in the field to publishing more than 100 scientific papers and helping shape conservation efforts across Madagascar. He loves sharing stories about the incredible animals he works with and helping people discover why biodiversity matters. Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about Wildlife Madagascar Check out Wildlife Madagascar's Aye-Aye page Follow Wildlife Madagascar on Instagram: @wildlifemadagascar Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Tim Eppley Question-Asker: Milo Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Milo & Milo's family, Dr. Tim Eppley, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and every single aye-aye!
June 30 · 14 min
BONUS: Books Are Magic with John Sazaklis
Mike and Chanel continue their conversation with author John Sazaklis about red-eyed tree frogs, Mad Magazine, the joy of animal education, and how John became a best selling children's book author! John Sazaklis is the New York Times bestselling author of over 100 titles. He has illustrated Spider-Man books for Marvel, made pop-culture props for MAD magazine, written for the BEN 10 animated series, and even voiced The Grinch for a Dr. Seuss audiobook. John loves to learn. Art and Science are two of his favorite subjects. He loves animals and nature and creatively combines them in his work. John lives in New York City with his wonderful wife, dazzling daughter, and a bunch of books! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about John Sazaklis Buy John's books Follow John on Instagram: @johnnysaz Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: John Sazaklis Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Maybelline & Maybelline's family, John Sazaklis, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and red-eyed tree frogs all over the world!
June 23 · 12 min
Why Do Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Have Multiple Eyelids?
Maybellene asks: Why Do Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Have Multiple Eyelids?That's such a great question. It's a good thing that Chanel has the answer, plus a few extra red-eyed tree frog facts for Maybellene, Mike, and special guest John Sazaklis, author of My Life as a Red-Eyed Tree Frog! John Sazaklis is the New York Times bestselling author of over 100 titles. He has illustrated Spider-Man books for Marvel, made pop-culture props for MAD magazine, written for the BEN 10 animated series, and even voiced The Grinch for a Dr. Seuss audiobook. John loves to learn. Art and Science are two of his favorite subjects. He loves animals and nature and creatively combines them in his work. John lives in New York City with his wonderful wife, dazzling daughter, and a bunch of books! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about John Sazaklis Buy John's books Follow John on Instagram: @johnnysaz Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: John Sazaklis Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Maybellene & Maybellene's family, John Sazaklis, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and red-eyed tree frogs all over the world!
June 16 · 10 min
BONUS: Talkin' Tigers with Megan Hagedorn
Mike and Chanel continue their conversation with Zoologist Megan Hagedorn about tigers, what inspired her to study animals, and how she blends the classics with animals as an artist! Megan Hagedorn is a zookeeper at the Oregon Zoo. Although she has a background in Marine Biology, Megan has gotten a chance to work with almost all areas of the zoo! She is originally from southern Illinois, and moved to Oregon in 2013 to work with the animals. Tigers became a fast favorite and I've she's gotten to know several! They all have unique personalities and it's especially rewarding for Megan to build relationships with them. Working at the Oregon Zoo gave her the opportunity to learn that tigers really ARE all that they're cracked up to be! What a fun and dynamic animal! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn about the tigers Megan works with at the Oregon Zoo Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Megan Hagedorn Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Henley & Henley's family, Megan Hagedorn, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, tigers in general
June 9 · 14 min
Why Do Tigers Have Stripes?
Henley asks: Why Do Tigers Have Stripes? Tigers do have such a distinct look, so let's find out why! Mike and Chanel welcome tiger expert Megan Hagedorn to the Podcast to answer Henley's question and tell us all even more about our stripey feline friends. Megan Hagedorn is a zookeeper at the Oregon Zoo. Although she has a background in Marine Biology, Megan has gotten a chance to work with almost all areas of the zoo! She is originally from southern Illinois, and moved to Oregon in 2013 to work with the animals. Tigers became a fast favorite and I've she's gotten to know several! They all have unique personalities and it's especially rewarding for Megan to build relationships with them. Working at the Oregon Zoo gave her the opportunity to learn that tigers really ARE all that they're cracked up to be! What a fun and dynamic animal! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn about the tigers Megan works with at the Oregon Zoo Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Megan Hagedorn Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Henley & Henley's family, Megan Hagedorn, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, tigers in general
June 2 · 8 min
BONUS: Crickets, Clay, and the City of Roses with Chuck Duke
Mike and Chanel chat with legendary animator Chuck Duke about his background with Will Vinton Studios, observing actual dogs for Wes Anderson's Isle of Dogs, animating special characters for Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), and more! Chuck began his professional career in animation in his early twenties and has since contributed to a wide range of feature films and television productions in the animation and visual effects departments. Aside from James and the Giant Peach, his credits include Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of Dogs, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, as well as stop-motion animation and effects on Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019), and Star Wars: Mandalorian and Grogu (2026). Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about Chuck Duke Follow Chuck on Instagram: @cdook Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Chuck Duke Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Willa & Willa's family, Chuck Duke, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, crickets in general
May 26 · 15 min
Where Are Crickets' Ears Located?
Willa asks: Where Are Crickets' Ears Located? Are the on their heads? Their wings? Someplace else?? Chanel answers Willa's question and tells Mike more cricket information than he ever though he'd need to know. Then, they welcome back guest Chuck Duke to talk about his experience animating Sebastian J. Cricket for Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio. Chuck began his professional career in animation in his early twenties and has since contributed to a wide range of feature films and television productions in the animation and visual effects departments. Aside from James and the Giant Peach, his credits include Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of Dogs, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, as well as stop-motion animation and effects on Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019), and Star Wars: Mandalorian and Grogu (2026). Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify! Learn more about Chuck Duke Follow Chuck on Instagram: @cdook Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Chuck Duke Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Willa & Willa's family, Chuck Duke, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, crickets in general
May 19 · 6 min
BONUS: Chanel in the Wild - Animal conversations with kids!
Chanel interviews kids at Mike Bennett Studios in Portland, OR about their favorite animals & animal facts! A big thanks goes out to all of the kids who participated, as well as their families. And shout out to Goat It Solutions for letting their furry friends join in on Chanel's interviews 🐐 Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Chanel Hason and Sonny the Snail Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to All of our participants, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Goat it Solutions, orcas in general, all of the animals mentioned in this bonus episode
May 12 · 24 min
Why Are Orcas So Deadly?
Eva asks: Why Are Orcas So Deadly? Great question, Eva. Are killer whales truly KILLER WHALES? Luckily, Mike and Chanel are joined by Orca conservationist, Kendra Nelson. Kendra Nelson is a marine conservationist focued on species recovery and coastal restoration in British Columbia. She is the Board Secreary for Orca Conservancy. With a background in biology, she’s worked with sharks, coral, salmon, and killer whales. Passionate about advocacy and ecosystems, Kendra combines scientific knowledge and outreach to protect ocean life and support healthy coastal communitiues. Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Learn about the Orca Conservancy Follow Kendra on Instagram: @intertidalkendy Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Kendra Nelson Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Eva & Eva's family, Kendra Nelson, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, orcas in general
May 5 · 8 min
BONUS: Animating Animals - More With Stop Motion Animator, Adam Taylor
This bonus episode features more of Mike and Chanel’s conversation with Adam Taylor all about his experience as an animator! They continue their conversation about chickens, but also discuss octopuses, monkeys, and bunnies. Adam Taylor is a stop-motion animator from the Pacific Northwest who has animated lots of animals in quite a few movies, including Wendell and Wild (Octopus), Guillermo del Torro's Pinocchio (monkey, and cricket), Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget(Chickens!, and rats), Wildwood (rabbits, coyotes, and an owl), and Shaun the Sheep: The Beats of Mossy Bottom (sheep, a dog, and a raven!) Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Follow Adam on Instagram: @adamtaylor_animator View Adam's work on Vimeo Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Adam Taylor Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Maggie & Maggie's family, Adam Taylor, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chickens in general
April 28 · 11 min
Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?
Maggie asks: Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg? Ah yes, the age old question! Hosts Mike Bennett and Chanel Hason can certainly handle that one, along with a special guest - Adam Taylor, a stop motion animator who worked on Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget! Adam Taylor is a stop-motion animator from the Pacific Northwest who has animated lots of animals in quite a few movies, including Wendell and Wild (Octopus), Guillermo del Torro's Pinocchio (monkey, and cricket), Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget(Chickens!, and rats), Wildwood (rabbits, coyotes, and an owl), and Shaun the Sheep: The Beats of Mossy Bottom (sheep, a dog, and a raven!) Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Follow Adam on Instagram: @adamtaylor_animator View Adam's work on Vimeo Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Adam Taylor Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Maggie & Maggie's family, Adam Taylor, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chickens in general
April 21 · 6 min
BONUS: In Living Color - The Wild World of Chameleons with Jenna Lamping
This bonus episode features more of Mike and Chanel’s conversation with Jenna Lamping all about CHAMELEONS! They continue their conversation about these fascinating reptiles, including their unique eyes and hands. PLUS, they talk about other animals that can change color. Visit https://www.thezooquarium.com/podcast to download activity sheets and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's website! Listen to the Cincinnati Zoo Tales podcast Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or here on YouTube so you’re informed when new episodes come out! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Jenna Lamping Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Bianca & Bianca's family, Jenna Lamping, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chameleons in general
April 14 · 10 min
How Can Chameleons Change Color?
Bianca asks: How Can Chameleons Change Color? What an amazing question! It's pretty well known that they can change color, but how they do it is definitely a mystery. Luckily hosts Mike and Chanel know a lizard expert, Lenna Lamping from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, who can help explain this unique characteristic. Jenna has been a Reptile Keeper at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden since 2018. Jenna's passion/goal in life is to encourage people to understand and appreciate all wildlife, especially those that are greatly misunderstood - just like her favorite, the American Alligator. Reptiles have such a special and important part to play in our ecosystem. Jenna loves getting outside, observing these animals in their natural environments, and teaching others why they are to be revered instead of feared. Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's website! Listen to the Cincinnati Zoo Tales podcast Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Jenna Lamping Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Bianca & Bianca's family, Jenna Lamping, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chameleons in general
April 7 · 17 min
BONUS: Act Like an Animal - More with actor Derrick Baskin from Disney's The Little Mermaid on Broadway
This bonus episode features more of Mike and Chanel’s conversation with Derrick Baskin all about EELS! They continue their conversation about eels, the experience of performing on stage for kids, and embodying all different types of animals. PLUS, Chanel and Mike share their own experiences acting on stage for a live audience. Visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download activity sheets and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! Visit Derrick's website Follow Derrick on Instagram: @derrick.baskin Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube so you’re informed when new episodes come out! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Derrick Baskin Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Agatha & Agatha's family, Derrick Baskin, Tyler Maynard (Flotsam), Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, eels in general.
March 31 · 18 min
Why Are Moray Eels' Faces So Long?
Agatha asks: Why Are Moray Eels' Faces So Long? Seriously - they're SO LONG! But why? Mike and Chanel answer Agatha's question with the help of actor Derrick Baskin, who played Jetsam in Disney's The Little Mermaid on Broadway. Together, they discuss scientific facts about eels in addition to learning how Derrick embodied one of fiction's most famous eels for a live audience. Derrick Baskin is a Grammy and Tony Award-nominated actor best known for his performance as Otis Williams in the Broadway hit Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations. His Broadway credits include Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Memphis the Musical , and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. His television and film appearances include Law & Order: SVU, The Good Lord Bird, The Offer, and Marshall. As a former cast member of The Little Mermaid, he feels uniquely qualified to talk about life under the sea…including eels. Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Visit Derrick's website Follow Derrick on Instagram: @derrick.baskin Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Derrick Baskin Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Agatha & Agatha's family, Derrick Baskin, Tyler Maynard (Flotsam), Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, eels in general Footage of the Rose City Raindrops courtesy of the Rose City Raindrops. Video filmed by Dane Sawyer.
March 24 · 6 min
BONUS: Deep Dive on SHARKS with Alex McInturf!
This bonus episode features more of Mike and Chanel’s conversation with Alex McInturf all about SHARKS! They continue their conversation about shark sleeping habits and talk more about sharks in pop culture (Sharknado!), how to study sharks, Alex's favorite shark, and Oregon's new "Vibrant Ocean" license plates. Visit https://www.thezooquarium.com/podcast to download activity sheets and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! Visit Alex's website Learn more about Big Fish Lab Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow Big Fish Lab on Instagram: @big_fish_lab Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or here on YouTube so you’re informed when new episodes come out! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Alex McInturf Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Griffin & Griffin's family, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Sharks in general
March 17 · 14 min
Do Sharks Sleep With Their Eyes Open or Closed?
Griffin asks: Do Sharks Sleep With Their Eyes Open or Closed? What a great question! Mike and Chanel get down to the bottom of Griffin's question with the help of shark expert, Alex McInturf from Oregon State University's Big Fish Lab. Not only do they answer Griffin's question, but they also talk about other shark facts that will blow your minds! Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Alexandra McInturf received her PhD in Animal Behavior from the University of California, Davis in 2021 and is currently a Research Associate at Oregon State University’s Big Fish Lab and Graduate Faculty in OSU’s Departments of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences and Environmental Sciences. Her research generally focuses on how marine organisms respond to biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) environmental variables and uses this information to contextualize and predict behavior, movement patterns, and survival. Alex explores this topic in threatened marine fishes. She is currently examining the foraging ecology of salmon sharks in Oregon and Alaska (including microplastic ingestion), the distributions of Chinook salmon and their overlap with salmon sharks, the movements of Pacific spiny dogfish, the social lives of sharks generally, and many more species and topics! SO COOL! Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions! RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify! Visit Alex's website Learn more about Big Fish Lab Learn about the Portland Aquarium Shop the Mike Bennett Studios store Follow Big Fish Lab on Instagram: @big_fish_lab Follow us on Instagram: @thezooquarium Follow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettart Follow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettart Subscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube Channel Follow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanel Learn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast Credits Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel Hason Guest: Alex McInturf Produced & Edited by: Jon Richardson Music by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings Intro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle Animation Artwork by: Fuzzzbrain Special thanks to Griffin & Griffin's family, Alex McInturf, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Sharks in general

The Zooquarium Podcast

Carol Cleveland MEOWS! More on Cats & Creativity with Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes!

Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?

BONUS: Leapin' Lemurs with Dr. Tim Eppley

Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long?

BONUS: Books Are Magic with John Sazaklis

Why Do Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Have Multiple Eyelids?

BONUS: Talkin' Tigers with Megan Hagedorn

Why Do Tigers Have Stripes?

BONUS: Crickets, Clay, and the City of Roses with Chuck Duke

Where Are Crickets' Ears Located?

BONUS: Chanel in the Wild - Animal conversations with kids!

Why Are Orcas So Deadly?

BONUS: Animating Animals - More With Stop Motion Animator, Adam Taylor

Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?

BONUS: In Living Color - The Wild World of Chameleons with Jenna Lamping

How Can Chameleons Change Color?

BONUS: Act Like an Animal - More with actor Derrick Baskin from Disney's The Little Mermaid on Broadway

Why Are Moray Eels' Faces So Long?

BONUS: Deep Dive on SHARKS with Alex McInturf!

Do Sharks Sleep With Their Eyes Open or Closed?