Animals, Nature, and You

Rick Schwartz
  • 5.0 (6)
  • NATURE

“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!

  1. 1D AGO

    What Happens Inside the Chrysalis? The Science of Transformation

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Discover mind-blowing facts about what happens inside the butterfly's chrysalis. From egg to butterfly, there are usually 4 stages of metamorphosis; but in this episode, Rick explores the fascinating processes inside the chrysalis. From enzymes to imaginal cells and the "primordial goop" that becomes a butterfly... It sounds like science fiction, but its just the awesomeness of nature! Links mentioned in the episode: Butterflies Remember Caterpillar Experiences A Flutter of Memory Animals, Nature, and You on IG: 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.

    11 min

  2. 6D AGO

    Everything You Thought You Knew About Bees Is WRONG - with David Mizejewski

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick 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.

    1h 1m

  3. APR 28

    Behind the Scenes of My Wildlife Career

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Rick dives into the first round of fan mail with a little Q and A from listeners. He shares insights on his career journey, spills some tea about being on national television and  gives a few practical tips for aspiring zookeepers. From scooping poop and doing media appearances to podcasting and advocating for our everyday conservation heroes, this 10 minute Tuesday is a little different, but no less enjoyable. Animal Help Now (for sick or injured wildlife): https://ahnow.org/ Animals, Nature, and You on IG: 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.

    13 min

  4. APR 23

    What is the Future of Conservation? Community? Innovation? Empathy?

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Join Rick Schwartz in an insightful conversation with Kathayoon Khalil, Vice President and Director of the Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation at the Columbus Zoo. They explore the multifaceted world of conservation, empathy, and systemic change. Discover how innovative strategies, community engagement, and a deep understanding of animal perspectives are shaping the future of wildlife preservation. Kathayoon also discusses the importance of "less charismatic" species (looking at you fresh water mussels) and the reasons for deploying empathy in public outreach, resiliency in conservation and embracing risk. Animals, Nature, and You on IG Links mentioned in this episode: Columbus Zoo The Wilds Columbus Zoo Conservation Kathayoon Kahlil on LinkedIn 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.

    49 min

  5. APR 21

    All Thumbs, No Hands

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Discover fascinating facts about the North American opossum, including its unique thumbs, behavior, and ecological role. Learn how this remarkable marsupial adapts to urban environments and why it’s vital for our ecosystem. Animal Help Now - For sick or injured wildlife Opossum Society of the United States Animals, Nature, and You on IG 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.

    13 min

  6. APR 17

    The Unexpected Path from Wildlife Rehab to Global Keeper Exchange - Part 2

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Part 2 of 2 Alice Vassallo started her career in animal care by volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center. And from there, her journey into zoo keeping, wildlife education, international travel and conservation grew. In this episode, discover how her journey from studying Latin and working in wildlife rehab to shaping global keeper exchange initiatives and connection people to conservation is as amazing as it sounds. You'll hear her insights on the power of humor and accessibility in wildlife education, why investing in zookeepers is vital for our planet’s future, and how her innovative programs benefit people and wildlife alike. This episode is perfect for aspiring zoo professionals, conservation advocates, and animal lovers eager to make a difference. Alice’s heartfelt message reminds us that as the world continues to change, our approach to wildlife education and conservation should continue to evolve and grow as well. Animals, Nature, and You on IG: https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou Links mentioned in this episode: A*****e Animals with Alice on Instagram Keeper Exchange American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) Clouded Leopard Working Group Pardalis Talent 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.

    28 min

  7. APR 16

    The Unexpected Path from Wildlife Rehab to Global Keeper Exchange with Alice Vassallo

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick Part 1 of 2 Alice Vassallo started her career in animal care by volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center. And from there, her journey into zoo keeping, wildlife education, international travel and conservation grew. In this episode, discover how her journey from studying Latin and working in wildlife rehab to shaping global keeper exchange initiatives and connection people to conservation is as amazing as it sounds. You'll hear her insights on the power of humor and accessibility in wildlife education, why investing in zookeepers is vital for our planet’s future, and how her innovative programs benefit people and wildlife alike. This episode is perfect for aspiring zoo professionals, conservation advocates, and animal lovers eager to make a difference. Alice’s heartfelt message reminds us that as the world continues to change, our approach to wildlife education and conservation should continue to evolve and grow as well. Animals, Nature, and You on IG: https://www.instagram.com/animalsnatureandyou Links mentioned in this episode: A*****e Animals with Alice on Instagram Keeper Exchange American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) Clouded Leopard Working Group Pardalis Talent 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.

    41 min

  8. APR 14

    Animal Facts That You Otter Know

    Send "Fan Mail" to Rick In this episode, host, Rick Schwartz dives into the fascinating world of otters, focusing on the differences between North American river otters and sea otters. From their adaptations and behaviors, to the importance of conservation efforts for otters - Rick covers many of the otter facts you otter know! Animals Nature & You on Instagram: @AnimalsNatureandYou Go see sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Giant river otters at the LA Zoo River otters at the Columbus Zoo Connect with Rick: ZoologyRick.com Social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

    12 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

“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!

Information

  • Creator
    Rick Schwartz
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Animals, Nature, and You
  • Show Website
    Animals, Nature, and You

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