An engaging conversation with Dr. Earyn McGee, also known as Afro Herper on social media, shares her journey from a graduate student to a prominent figure in herpetology and science communications. She discusses her innovative social media initiative, 'Find That Lizard,' which combines research with community engagement. The conversation delves into the importance of lizards in ecosystems, her personal experiences in the field, and her advocacy for diversity in conservation. Dr. McGee emphasizes the need for inclusivity in science and shares her current projects aimed at educating and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.

Dr. McGee's Website: EarynMcGee.com

Dr. McGee on Social Media:

IG: @Afro_Herper

TikTok: @Doc.McGee

Support her on Patreon: FindThatLizard

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.

With awesome interviews happening every Thursday, 10 minute Tuesdays will be short, solo episodes where I can expand on something covered in the previous week's interview. Or, an opportunity to dive into and explore a topic that is current, discuss new finding or just get curious for the sake of being curious.

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.

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.

Gabrielle Katanic, creator of "Talk Nerdy To Me California" shares her journey from a nature enthusiast to a nature educator and influencer. She discusses the importance of reconnecting with nature, the role of curiosity in learning, and how guided experiences can transform people's perspectives on the natural world. Gabrielle also introduces her Nature Nerd Academy, aimed at teaching others how to observe and appreciate nature more deeply, while encouraging listeners to embrace their inner nerd and explore their passions.

Find Gabrielle's "Talk Nerdy To Me" and her Nature Nerd Academy on social media:

Instagram

TikTok

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.

This is Part 2 of a 2 part episode.

In this episode of Animals, Nature and You, we delve into the fascinating world of big cats, specifically cheetahs, with Janet Rose-Hinostroza, a seasoned expert who has dedicated her life to working with these majestic animals. From her childhood passion to her professional experiences, Janet shares invaluable insights that inspire aspiring wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

We learn that Janet embraced opportunities as they came, including a significant role at the Cincinnati Zoo’s Cat Ambassador Program. This program allowed her to work closely with cheetahs, marking the beginning of her journey, dedicated to understanding and caring for these incredible animals.

Janet’s journey into the world of cheetahs is a testament to the power of passion, preparation, and seizing opportunities. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to pursue a career in wildlife care and conservation.

Connect with Cheetah Outreach Trust USA:

Website: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

Instagram: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

Facebook: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

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.

This is Part 1 of a 2 part episode.

In this episode of Animals, Nature and You, we delve into the fascinating world of big cats, specifically cheetahs, with Janet Rose-Hinostroza, a seasoned expert who has dedicated her life to working with these majestic animals. From her childhood passion to her professional experiences, Janet shares invaluable insights that inspire aspiring wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.

We learn that Janet embraced opportunities as they came, including a significant role at the Cincinnati Zoo’s Cat Ambassador Program. This program allowed her to work closely with cheetahs, marking the beginning of her journey, dedicated to understanding and caring for these incredible animals.

Janet’s journey into the world of cheetahs is a testament to the power of passion, preparation, and seizing opportunities. Her story serves as an inspiration for those looking to pursue a career in wildlife care and conservation.

Connect with Cheetah Outreach Trust USA:

Website: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

Instagram: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

Facebook: Cheetah Outreach Trust USA

Connect with Rick:

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.

Does nature play help children self-regulate? Can urban gardens be a source of income, pride and strengthen community? Does walking nature help us process grief? Film director, James Parker discusses why the stories within the new film "In Or Nature" are so profound and important.

In this episode we find out more about the impact of nature on community building and education. James discusses with Rick the motivation behind creating the film, the importance of connecting with nature, and the challenges posed by technology and political divides.

Producer Juliet Grable was unable to connect due to internet difficulties, but her information is include below. Thank you both James & Juliet for putting this film together and for all the work you do.

If you are interested in learning more or possibly screening the film, please visit the film's website: In Our Nature.

Connect with Synchronous Pictures & In Our Nature:

Synchronous Pictures on the web

Juliet Grable's website

Follow on socials:

In Our Nature on Instagram

Synchronous Pictures on 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.

How did Jungle Jordan get his start as a wildlife educator and content creator? In this episode Jordan opens up to share how his childhood passion for animals helped him navigate through tough times and put him on an incredible path.
"They didn’t judge me; they accepted me."

Reflecting on his journey, Jordan reveals that he initially believed he was saving animals, but ultimately, they were the ones saving him. The connection he felt with the animals helped him manage his emotions and provided him with a purpose. He shares a poignant moment at the zoo when a hippo recognized him after years apart, illustrating the deep bonds that can exist between humans and animals.

Throughout the podcast, Rick and Jordan emphasize the need for inclusivity in wildlife education. Jordan's experiences have driven him to advocate for opportunities for those who might not traditionally see themselves in animal care or conservation roles. He believes in shining a light on diverse pathways to encourage everyone to explore their passions, just as he did.

Jungle Jordan Veasley is a wildlife educator and content creator whose mission is to make it fun to learn about the animal world. His passion for wildlife education and conservation is contagious and he hopes to inspire younger generations to be participants in conserving and repairing the natural world.

Jordan's Website: Jungle Jordan

Find Jordan on social media:

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

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.