Animals, Nature, and You

Rick Schwartz
  • 5.0 (5)
  • 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. 10H AGO

    Monarch Population Surges 64%: Why We Can't Stop Now

    As recent headlines celebrate a 64% increase in monarch butterfly populations, many may wonder: is this the turning point for these vital pollinators? In this episode, host Rick Schwartz explores what this increase means, the ongoing challenges monarchs face, and how you can take action to support their conservation. While the increase in monarch populations is encouraging, it is critical to remain vigilant in conservation efforts. Monarchs are still at risk, and their recovery requires ongoing support and action from all of us. It’s not time to celebrate and move on but rather to continue our efforts to protect these vital pollinators. Animals Nature & You on Instagram: @AnimalsNatureandYou Connect with Rick: ZoologyRick.com Social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

    14 min

  2. 5D AGO

    How to Save Forests, Creeks and Local Ecosystem with Griff Griffith

    In this episode Rick speaks with Griff Griffith about forest restoration, the power of curiosity and why having native plants in your yard (or on your patio) is so important to local ecosystems. Griff is a powerhouse of knowledge and experience when it comes to ecology, wildlife conservation and empowering others to participate.   During their conversation, Griff also shares the importance of many different groups of people coming together to make a difference for the planet. He even shares how you can help too – Get curious, get to know your local flora & fauna and maybe even volunteer to help with habitat restoration. After all, supporting your local ecosystems supports pollinators, birds, and insects, especially caterpillars that feed our songbirds. This episode is essential listening for anyone who cares about the planet—whether you're a seasoned conservationist or just starting to glimpse the power of native plants and habitat restoration. Griff’s hopeful message: the more curious you are, the more you'll want to learn, do, and share, igniting a movement to heal our earth—one native seed at a time. Animals, Nature, and You on Instagram Connect wth Griff: Website: GriffGriffith.info Instagram: @TheNatureNut TikTok: @GriffWild Other sites mentioned: Jumpstart Nature Redwoods Rising Home Gown National Park Redwood Parks Conservancy Connect with Rick: ZoologyRick.com Social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

    45 min

  3. MAR 17

    Why Some Animals Have Quills and Others Have Spines

    In this episode, Rick explores the fascinating world of quills and spines in mammals, debunking myths and explaining the differences between various species like porcupines, hedgehogs, echidnas, and tenrecs. Discover how these adaptations evolved and their unique functions in animal defense mechanisms. Animals Nature & You on Instagram: @AnimalsNatureandYou Connect with Rick: ZoologyRick.com Social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

    11 min

  4. MAR 12

    Can One Person Educate, Entertain, and Empower Others? Stephanie Arne Does It.

    This episode is like sitting down with a coupe of old friends. Join host Rick Schwartz in his thoughtful conversation with Stephanie Arne as they explore the deep connections between humans, animals, and nature. Stephanie shares her journey as an educator and advocate for wildlife, discussing her various roles in conservation and education. They delve into the importance of reconnecting with nature, the impact of personal experiences on their work, and the significance of travel in understanding different cultures and ecosystems. Stephanie also introduces her new travel company and conservation academy, aimed at inspiring others to engage with the natural world.  Animals Nature & You on Instagram: @AnimalsNatureandYou Connect with Stephanie Arne: StephanieArne.com Instagram: @StephanieArne Facebook: @StephanieArne TickTok: @Stephanie.Arne *Bonus link to Stephanie's husband's work - Tim Davison Art: https://www.davisonart.com/ Connect with Rick: ZoologyRick.com Social media: Instagram Threads Facebook YouTube Music: Positive Carefree Folk Pop Artist: Burgberg Used with Full Music Standard Lic.

    43 min

  5. MAR 10

    The Real Raccoon Science Behind the Headlines

    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.

    14 min

  6. MAR 5

    Zombie Spiders? Asteroid Blasters? The Curiosity That Drives Science with Maynard Okereke

    In this episode, Rick Schwartz and Maynard Okereker discuss the how science, education, and entertainment thrive where there is curiosity. Maynard shares his journey from being a nature-loving child to a passionate science communicator, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and diversity in STEM fields. He discusses his new book, 'Zombie Spiders and Asteroid Blasters,' which highlights unique scientific research in an entertaining way. The conversation also touches on the challenges of science skepticism and the role of empathy in science communication, as well as the value of staying curious about the world, even as and adult. BUY THE BOOK: Zombie Spiders & Astroid Blasters Connect With Maynard: Website: HipHopScinceShow.com YouTube: @HipHopScienceShow Instagram: @HipHopScienceShow Threads: @HipHopScienceShow Facebook: @HipHopScienceShow Linkedin: Maynard Okereke 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.

    35 min

  7. MAR 3

    An Artichokes with Legs? An Anteater with Scales?Nope - It's a Pangolin!

    In this week's 10 Minute Tuesday, host Rick Schwartz explores the fascinating world of pangolins, the most trafficked mammals on the planet. Rick shares his personal journey of learning about these unique creatures, their conservation status, and the challenges they face. The episode highlights the importance of pangolins in the ecosystem, their biological characteristics, and the ongoing efforts to protect them from extinction. The plight of pangolin seems dire, but Rick also shares that there is hope, and how you can help. Noted links: SavePangolins.org WWF website: Pangolins USFWS Website: Pangolins 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.

    12 min

  8. FEB 27

    Can a Pangolin Change the Course of Your Life? An Inspirational Chat with Jack Baker Pt.2

    In Part 2 of my interview with Jack Baker, we hear more about how the pangolin help shape Jack's podcast. Jack shares more his journey into conservation, the importance of joy in the field, and the challenges of measuring impact in environmental education. He discusses the evolution of his podcast, "Pangolin: The Conservation Podcast," and the significance of representation throughout conservation spaces. Jack and Rick also discuss the need for self-care and the importance of taking breaks to protect one's joy while working in conservation and environmental education. Oh, and yes... There's a polar bear, a stingray, tapirs, puffins and of course, pangolins. Connect With Jack: LinkedIn: Jack Baker Instagram: @TheOnlyJackBaker Pangolin: The Conservation Podcast: Listen to Panglin Podcast Here Instagram @PangolinPodcast Facebook @PangolinPodcast 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.

    37 min
See All (19)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 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
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Animals, Nature, and You
  • Show Website
    Animals, Nature, and You