The Retic Lounge

The Reptile Lounge Network
  • 4.8 (23)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Retic Lounge! The Retic Lounge is a podcast that aims to bring the reticulated python community together and provide a supportive community for new keepers and aspiring breeders. Our episodes will bring our listeners in depth information on husbandry, breeding, discussions on locality retics and their sizes, as well as fun interviews with new and established keepers and breeders. We will also host live Q&A episodes brought to us by our awesome Patreon Members. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lucas-bagnara2/support

  1. 09/13/2025

    Episode 143: Perseverance Through Tragedy w/SSD Retics

    The Retic Lounge #143 – Perseverance Through Tragedy w/ Sam of SSD Retics In this heartfelt episode of The Retic Lounge, Nathan and Lucas sit down with Sam of SSD Retics to talk about his journey with Reticulated Pythons and reptiles, from the early days of keeping to where he is today. Sam shares the devastating story of a tragic fire that wiped out his collection and how he’s been able to persevere, rebuild, and continue his passion for these incredible snakes. The conversation also highlights the work Sam is putting into his YouTube channel, *SSD Retics and Reptiles*, where he offers a raw, real-life perspective on keeping and working with Reticulated Pythons. You can check out his channel here: [SSD Retics and Reptiles on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@ssdreticsandreptiles). Follow the Hosts & Guest: * Sam – [@ssd\_retics](https://www.instagram.com/ssd_retics)* Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Thanks to Our Sponsors: * [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) – Best feeders in the game! (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off)* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) Support USARK & USARK FL: * [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

    1h 37m

  2. 08/11/2025

    Episode 142: TRL Book Club: The Complete Reticulated Python Chapters 12, 13, and 14

    The Retic Lounge #142 – Book Club: The Complete Reticulated Python Chapters 12, 13 & 14 In this episode of The Retic Lounge Book Club, Lucas and Nathan dive deep into three packed chapters of The Complete Reticulated Python, covering Dwarf and Super Dwarf classifications, pure locality standards, size potential, and the realities of keeping these incredible snakes safely. They break down what truly qualifies a retic as a Dwarf or Super Dwarf, the seven Selayar Island Chain localities that define the term, and the controversies surrounding SD percentages used in the reptile trade. The discussion then moves into pure locality standards, why traceable lineage is critical, and the pitfalls of mislabeling in the hobby. From there, the hosts explore how genetics, diet, and breeding pair choices influence size potential, highlighting both the fascination and danger of keeping these snakes. They share real-world incidents—bites, feeding accidents, and fatalities—that underscore the importance of safety, even with smaller locality animals. It’s an honest, educational, and sometimes sobering look at some of the most misunderstood aspects of retic keeping. Follow the Hosts:     •    Nathan – @katz_reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)     •    Lucas – @lab_exotics (https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Sponsored by:     •    Cold Blooded Cafe (https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)     •    AEstoney (https://aestoney.com)     •    VivTech Products (https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)     •    Heartland Reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)     •    Reptile Husbandry Designs (https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10) Support USARK & USARK FL:     •    USARK Membership (https://usark.org/memberships)     •    USARK Florida (https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

    1h 28m

  3. 07/19/2025

    Episode 141: NIDO SCARE, CATCHING UP, AND LIFE UPDATES

    The Retic Lounge #141 – Catching Up, Nido Scare, and Life Updates In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan finally sit down after a brief break to catch up on everything—life, snakes, and the podcast. From personal updates to collection changes, the hosts give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what’s been going on and what’s coming next. Lucas also opens up about a recent scare with Nidovirus in his collection. He walks through the events that led up to it, the testing process, and most importantly, the biosecurity protocols and preventative measures he’s since put in place to protect his animals moving forward. It’s a raw, informative, and honest conversation that every serious reptile keeper will want to hear. Follow the Hosts: * Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Sponsored by: * [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)* [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10) Support USARK & USARK FL: * [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us) Whether you’re here for education, transparency, or just to hear what's next—this is a can't-miss episode.

    1h 5m

  4. 06/20/2025

    Episode 140: LOCALITY SPOTLIGHT: KAROMPA ISLAND

    Episode 140 – Locality Spotlight: Karompa with Jon Edwards In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan are joined by longtime locality keeper and enthusiast Jon Edwards to shine a light on one of the most obscure and intriguing island forms in the Retic world: Karompa. Tucked away in the Sulawesi region of Indonesia, the Karompa Retic has sparked curiosity and debate for years—but few have worked with them as extensively as Jon. Together, they dive into what sets this locality apart: from its uniquely cryptic patterning and reduced size to the ongoing questions surrounding its origins and classification. Jon shares his firsthand experience working with these animals, breeding them, and navigating the myths that still surround this rare island population. This is a deep cut for the locality lovers, the lineage chasers, and anyone fascinated by the unexplored corners of the Retic map. Follow the Hosts:• Nathan – @katz_reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)• Lucas – @lab_exotics (https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Sponsored by:• Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)• AEstoney• VivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)• Heartland Reptiles• Reptile Husbandry Designs (Code: TRL10) Support USARK & USARK FL:• USARK Membership (https://usark.org/memberships/)• USARK Florida (https://usarkfl.org/) If you’re into island localities, rare Retics, or deep-dive reptile conversations—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

    1h 26m

  5. 05/23/2025

    Episode 139: TRL BOOK CLUB: Chapter 11 Morphs PART 3

    In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan crack open pages 267 to 314 of The Complete Reticulated Python to uncover the wild roots of some of the rarest and most misunderstood morphs in the hobby. From jungles in Sumatra, Java, and Borneo to remote islands in the Philippines, this chapter explores the natural origins of morphs like Black Stripe, Harlequin, Lemon Glow, and Tribal—many of which were discovered by chance through the skin trade or field collection. This episode breaks down the genetics, import histories, and conservation context behind each of these wild-caught legends. Whether it’s the mystery of the Ivory/BEL complex, the naming confusion between Rainbow and Ocelot, or the rise of the Philippines as a morph hotspot, there’s something in here for everyone passionate about retics. Follow the Hosts: • Nathan – @katz_reptiles • Lucas – @lab_exotics Sponsored by: • Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20) • AEstoney • VivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23) • Heartland Reptiles • Reptile Husbandry Designs (Code: TRL10) Support USARK & USARK FL: • USARK Membership • USARK Florida If you’re into genetic rabbit holes, wild-caught retics, or understanding where our favorite morphs really come from—this one’s a must-listen.

    1h 11m

  6. 05/16/2025

    Episode 138: Best RETIC Clutch of 2025?!? Aztec Tiger Kayuadis w/Nathan Hess

    In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan sit down with Nathan Hess of [@nathan\_hess\_retics](https://www.instagram.com/nathan_hess_retics) to dive into one of the most exciting first-time breedings in recent memory. Nathan shares the story behind his debut clutch of Reticulated Pythons, the meticulous husbandry practices that got him there, and the custom enclosures he built to provide optimal care for his animals. What makes this clutch so special? Nathan jumped in with both feet, pairing an Aztec Tiger to a Pure Kayuadi locality Reticulated Python—a bold move that not only challenges traditional breeding approaches but could also represent a major leap forward in the morph × locality game here in the U.S. From working with mentors to trusting his process, this episode is packed with insight and excitement for new and experienced keepers alike. Follow the Hosts: * Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Sponsored by: * [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)* [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10) Support USARK & USARK FL: * [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us) Whether you're into bold pairings, first-time breeder success stories, or locality work—this one’s not to be missed.

    1h 16m

  7. 04/25/2025

    Episode 137: All About Albino Reticulated Pythons | TRL Book Club: Chapter 11 PART 2

    In this installment of The Complete Reticulated Python Book Club, we dive into one of the most iconic and complex morph categories in the hobby: Albinos. In part two of Chapter 11, Nathan and Lucas break down the origins, genetic relationships, and controversies surrounding the different Albino morphs in the Retic world. We trace the roots of the Clark Strain Albino, first imported by Bob Clark in 1994 via the infamous Anson Wong, and discuss how this single morph led to the emergence of the White, Purple, and Lavender phases. From there, we explore incompatible albino lines like Amelanistic, Sharp, Blonde, Mocha, and the elusive Waine Line Albino, and how these lines have been used to produce designer morph combos like the Mochino, Coral, Amaretto, and Rhapsody. We also take time to demystify terms like T+ and T-, and explain why the label "Citrus" isn’t actually a morph, but more of a polygenic bloodline. If you’ve ever been confused by the tangled web of Albino genetics—or just want to hear the full story behind one of the most pivotal mutations in Retic history—this episode is a must-listen. Follow the Hosts: Nathan – @katz_reptilesLucas – @lab_exoticsGrab your copy of The Complete Reticulated Python by Glen McClellan here:https://glenmacherpetofauna.myshopify.com/ Sponsored by: Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)AEstoneyVivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)Heartland ReptilesReptile Husbandry Designs (Code: TRL10)Support USARK & USARK FL: USARK MembershipUSARK FloridaTune in to unravel the colorful complexity of Albino Retics!

    1h 5m

  8. 04/18/2025

    Episode 136: Black Dragon VS Reticulated Python | w/Jong Chiu of JC Reptiles

    Retic VS Black Dragon | Jong Chiu of JC Reptiles | The Retic Lounge #136 In this episode, Nathan sits down with Jong Chiu of [@jc_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/jc_reptiles) for a deep dive into Jong's reptile journey. After moving from the Philippines to the United States, Jong found his way back into the reptile hobby, eventually specializing in two powerhouse species: Reticulated Pythons and Black Dragons (Melanistic Water Monitors). Nathan and Jong break down the care requirements, challenges, and rewarding aspects of working with both species. They also dive into what fascinates Jong about each animal and have a fun, thoughtful discussion comparing Retics and Black Dragons to figure out which might be the most ideal reptile to keep depending on the keeper’s goals. If you love big reptiles and want insight from someone experienced with two of the most iconic species in the hobby, you won’t want to miss this one. Follow the Guest:  - Jong Chiu – [@jc_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/jc_reptiles) Follow the Hosts:  - Nathan – [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  - Lucas – [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics) Thanks to Our Sponsors:  - [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20) – [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  - [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) – [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  - [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) – [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  - [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) – [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  - [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) – [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) Support USARK and USARK Florida:  - [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships) – [@usark_official](https://www.instagram.com/usark_official)  - [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us) – [@usarkfl](https://www.instagram.com/usarkfl) Catch this episode for a unique perspective on two of the most impressive species in the reptile world!

    1h 20m
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4.8
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Retic Lounge! The Retic Lounge is a podcast that aims to bring the reticulated python community together and provide a supportive community for new keepers and aspiring breeders. Our episodes will bring our listeners in depth information on husbandry, breeding, discussions on locality retics and their sizes, as well as fun interviews with new and established keepers and breeders. We will also host live Q&A episodes brought to us by our awesome Patreon Members. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lucas-bagnara2/support

Information

  • Creator
    The Reptile Lounge Network
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Reptile Lounge Network
  • Show Website
    The Retic Lounge