YOUR NEW FAVORITE ANIMAL PODCAST

Season 2 | Episode 1

The harpy eagle, once feared in Panama for its massive size and powerful talons, has now soared to national hero status. Today, it’s celebrated as the country’s national bird. Wildlife expert Ron Magill chats about these incredible birds, how he helped bring the harpy eagle into the spotlight in Panama, and how original Wild Kingdom host Jim Fowler’s influence inspired him to become a zookeeper, shaping his lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation.

Season 2 | Episode 2

Every year, boat strikes injure and kill tens of thousands of manatees. In this episode, Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant and Peter Gros explore the challenges these gentle mammals face in the wild and the ongoing efforts to protect them. Guest expert Dr. Claire Erlacher-Reid, senior staff veterinarian at SeaWorld Rescue, who specializes in marine mammal rehabilitation and rescue, discusses the threats manatees face, the critical work being done to help them; and the wonderful experience of rehabilitating and releasing these magnificent animals back into the wild.

Season 2 | Episode 3

With fewer than 360 North Atlantic right whales remaining in the wild, these incredible marine giants are critically endangered. In this episode, New England Aquarium Marine Biologist Orla O'Brien discusses this urgent wildlife crisis and the challenges facing this species. O’Brien explains why right whales are often overlooked — an "out of sight, out of mind" issue — and how innovative technology plays a crucial role in protecting them, offering hope for their future.

Season 2 | Episode 4

Fewer than 100 ocelots remain in the United States, making these rare wildcats incredibly difficult to study and protect. Filmmaker and Wildlife Biologist Ben Masters discusses the importance of documenting endangered species, and how his work has led him to capture rare footage of these elusive cats. He uncovers the many challenges ocelots face, from habitat loss to the struggle for visibility in conservation efforts, and why it's crucial to continue fighting for their survival.

Season 2 | Episode 5

Every year, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) hosts its annual conference, bringing together zoo and aquarium professionals dedicated to wildlife conservation. In this episode, we hear stories from the conference. First, Ben Jones, vice president of conservation and education at the Houston Zoo, shares his mission to protect endangered mountain gorillas. Then, Dr. Chase LaDue, National Geographic Explorer, conservation scientist at the Oklahoma City Zoo and executive director of the Sri Lanka Elephant Project, discusses fostering coexistence between humans and elephants. Their stories reveal the critical importance of protecting the wild — and why it matters for all of us who share this planet.

Season 2 | Episode 6

Ever wondered why some people and animals form such strong bonds? Or why these connections are so vital to our well-being? In this episode, we continue with more stories from the AZA conference, speaking with Dr. Kathayoon Khalil, a conservation psychologist with the New England Aquarium, about the powerful role of empathy in human-animal connections. We also dive into the world of tarantulas with Sarah Bowser from the Oakland Zoo to explore fascinating facts about these misunderstood creatures and the threats they face in the wild. Thom Demas from the Tennessee Aquarium wraps up the episode with a deep dive into the underwater world of a little-known fish that shows how stream health impacts us all — wildlife and humans.

Season 2 | Episode 7

Episode description coming soon!

Season 2 | Episode 8

For seven years, North American zoos saw no coati births, leaving their population shrouded in uncertainty. But at Brevard Zoo in Florida, a groundbreaking milestone changed everything — welcoming the first coati litter in nearly a decade. Lauren Hinson, director of animal programs and coati studbook keeper, takes us behind the scenes of this incredible journey. From the challenges of understanding this species to the joy of seeing new life thrive, she reveals what it took to make this conservation success story a reality, and why it matters now more than ever.

Season 2 | Episode 9

Episode description coming soon!

Season 2 | Episode 10

Episode description coming soon!

Season 2 | Episode 11

Episode description coming soon!

Season 2 | Episode 12

Episode description coming soon!