Explore every episode of the podcast Our Herd: Toledo Zoo Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Some Assembly Required (Crocodile Included) | 27 Aug 2026 | 00:51:55 | |
In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with Pat, our Associate Curator of Herpetology, and Nate, our VP of Construction & Planning, to go behind the scenes of the recently reopened WPA-era Reptile House and explore what it takes to renovate a historic Toledo Zoo icon while prioritizing its wildest residents.From temporarily relocating animals to building a new home and jaw-dropping experience for our massive saltwater crocodile, Pat and Nate share the challenges, surprises, and creative problem-solving that went into transforming the Reptile House. We also talk about how the team balanced preserving the building’s historic character while creating a modern facility designed around the needs of both animals and guests.Along the way, we explore the arrival of new species, the decision to rethink what an exhibit can be, and some of the unexpected moments that come with undertaking a renovation of this scale.Because when your renovation involves a historic building and a very large crocodile… some assembly is required.Give us a formal review!https://www.toledozoo.org/our-herd-survey/ Links:https://www.toledozoo.org/Reptile House ExhibitSenior Discovery DaysTwilight EveningsToledo Zoo Photography Club | |||
| A Matter of Scale... | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:57:38 | |
In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with Toledo Zoo Mammal Managers Koral and Tenley to explore what it takes to lead two of the Zoo’s largest animal care teams - and why the titles “Small Mammal Manager” and “Large Mammal Manager” aren’t always as straightforward as they sound.From curating a happy team and herd to orchestrating animal transfers and contributing to global conservation efforts, Koral and Tenley share the unique challenges, responsibilities, and rewarding moments that come with overseeing some of the Zoo’s most beloved species. Along the way, we discuss their journeys into leadership roles, the career paths that led them here, and how they balance managing teams while still remaining zoo keepers at heart.We also dive into the lighter side of the job with memorable animal encounters and behind-the-scenes stories, while reflecting on the difficult losses and emotional moments that are an inevitable part of working with wild animals.Whether you’re curious about zoo careers, fascinated by animal care, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the people who make the Zoo possible, this episode offers insight at life on both the small and large sides of mammal management. Links:https://www.toledozoo.org/Reptile House is now open!KidsapaloozaMusic Under the Stars | |||
| Protect the Pack! | 03 Apr 2026 | 00:54:43 | |
Safety at the Toledo Zoo goes far beyond gates and guard posts. In this episode of Our Herd, we’re pulling back the curtain on the team that helps Protect the Pack. From first impressions at security checkpoints to high-level emergency response, our security team shares how they have redefined what it means to serve both guests and staff. The Zoo's security team focuses on hospitality, awareness, and creating an environment where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and cared for. We dive into the specialized training and responsibilities that set this team apart, including bike patrol operations, our Dangerous Animal Response Team, and the unique ways they connect with guests. Along the way, we explore how this role serves as a meaningful opportunity for college students, retirees, and anyone looking to be part of something bigger. It’s a conversation full of pride, purpose, and a few unexpected stories - highlighting the people who go above and beyond every day to keep the Zoo running safely and smoothly. | |||
| Tails from the Exam Table! | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:54:36 | |
We’re kicking off 2026 with a deep dive into the heart of animal care at the Toledo Zoo - Tails from the Exam Table! 🩺🐾In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with our veterinary team to talk about the real, unfiltered world of zoo medicine. From life-and-death moments to routine exams, spinning turds, blood draws, lab work, diagnostics, procedures, and everything in between - this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to keep an entire animal collection healthy.We explore the dedication, education, and resilience required to become a zoo veterinarian, and the sheer volume of work happening behind the scenes every single day. It’s science-heavy, occasionally messy, surprisingly funny, and a powerful reminder of how much expertise and heart go into caring for wildlife.Give us a formal review! Links: | |||
| Keepers of the Night! | 01 Jan 2026 | 00:56:06 | |
We’re wrapping up the premiere year of Our Herd with night keepers Tara and Kristi! While daytime staff and guests head home for the night, our animals still need care around the clock, every single day of the year - and our incredible overnight zoo keepers are there to make sure that happens. Being at the Zoo in the middle of the night leads to some great stories, unforgettable moments, and even a few unexpected husbandry opportunities. This episode has plenty to enjoy as we close out the season. Happy holidays from the Toledo Zoo and the Our Herd podcast crew! We’re so excited to see what’s ahead for the podcast in 2026. Links: | |||
| Conservation Without Borders! Part 2 | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:43:56 | |
The adventure continues in Part 2 of our sit-down with Joe Wood! We’re picking up right where we left off, taking you from the majestic mountains of Nepal to the stomping grounds of living dragons. In this episode, we discuss what it really takes to protect species abroad and the importance of community partnerships. Discover the boundless impact the Toledo Zoo is making worldwide. Enjoy watching or listening to Our Herd now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to! Links: | |||
| Conservation Without Borders! Part 1 | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:47:55 | |
We’re zooming out to the big picture on this episode of Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast. We sit down with Joe Wood, Toledo Zoo’s Manager of International Conservation Programs, and challenge him to summarize what it’s really like doing conservation on a global scale. From volcanic eruptions and illegal wildlife trade markets to lifesaving AI innovations, this conversation takes you on a whirlwind tour of conservation around the world. We had a lot to cover with our international programs, and there’s even more on the way. Be sure to catch Part 2 next week - and follow or subscribe so you don’t miss it! Enjoy watching or listening to Our Herd now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to! | |||
| Shell-ebrating Conservation! | 06 Oct 2025 | 01:04:45 | |
Dr. Matt Cross, Director of Vertebrate Conservation, joins us for this installment of Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast! We're always mentioning the incredible work being done for animals and their local habitats, but who is making it all happen?!? Listen or watch as we answer that question and discover some unique conservation initiatives you may have not known about! Enjoy watching or listening to Our Herd now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to! https://www.toledozoo.org/gardens | |||
| Pretty in Pink! | 30 Aug 2025 | 01:02:28 | |
Bird keepers Cynthia and Nate join Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast, to share what it’s really like working with birds and to talk all about the adorable flamingo chicks. They answer listener questions, explain why caring for chicks is much more than just “playtime,” and also get a crash course in pop culture references for a few extra laughs. Whether you are here for fluffy flamingos, fascinating animal care or just some fun conversation, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Enjoy watching or listening to Prairie Confessions! now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Give us your feedback! Links: | |||
| Breaking the Ice! | 31 Jul 2025 | 01:17:00 | |
It’s the middle of summer, but we’re "breaking the ice" with Arctic keepers Raven and Ashley on this episode of Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast. Join us as we talk about what it was like to care for Kallik and Kallu, our beloved Polar bear cubs, and what day-to-day life is like now with Crystal and Kali. Along the way, we share some laughs about unsettling Sea lion smiles and the emotional danger of naming feeder fish. Let’s just say… we weren’t prepared. Enjoy watching or listening to Prairie Confessions! now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Give us your feedback! Links: | |||
| Prairie Confessions! | 30 Jun 2025 | 01:09:14 | |
In this episode of Our Herd, the Toledo Zoo's official podcast, we're getting our hands dirty with Jake and Elizabeth from the Zoo's Wild Toledo crew. From creating pollinator habitats to insulting boring turf grass, these two are on a mission to bring native plants back to northwest Ohio - one seed at a time. Enjoy watching or listening to Prairie Confessions! now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Give us your feedback! Links: PNC ZOOtoDO presented by Lexus of Toledo Socials: | |||
| Tower Talk! | 30 May 2025 | 00:43:04 | |
To kick off the summer season, we’re going on a wild safari for this month’s episode of Our Herd, the Toledo Zoo’s official podcast. Join us as hoofstock zoo keepers Joan and Blake dish out “Tall Tales”, dry crackers, and even drier dad jokes. From slobbery giraffe kisses to zebra quirks this episode is packed with laughs, unexpected animal facts, and a whole lot of personality. Enjoy watching or listening to Tower Talk! now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Links: https://www.toledozoo.org/events/twil... https://www.toledozoo.org/kidsapalooza https://www.toledozoo.org/events/wine https://www.toledozoo.org/events/zootodo Socials: | |||
| I Wet My Plants! | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:58:49 | |
Plants, crafts and existential vegetable crises? Sign us up! This week on Our Herd, Horticulturist Mandy Hansen joins us for a down-to-earth chat about gardening, native plant life and the seriously creative programs she’s cultivating at Toledo Zoo — like botanical book clubs and hands-on DIY workshops. From mischievous squirrel schemes to veggie truths that shook us to our roots, this episode is a must-listen for plant enthusiasts, garden dabblers and budding botanists alike. Enjoy watching or listening to I Wet My Plants! now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Links: Socials: | |||
| Tales from the Tank! | 28 Mar 2025 | 01:04:29 | |
Get hooked on a fin-tastic episode! Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast, is diving into the underwater world of our iconic Aquarium. Aquarium Zookeepers Jeff Cypher and Drake Dversdall join us to reflect on the building’s history, their favorite fish-y moments and preparations for the Aquarium 10 Year Anniversary Celebration happening on March 29. Enjoy watching or listening to Elephants in the Room now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Links: Socials: | |||
| Elephants in the Room! | 21 Feb 2025 | 01:04:49 | |
Hold onto your trunks—Our Herd is back with another episode! The official Toledo Zoo podcast is addressing the elephants in the room... literally. Join Elephant Manager Sarah and retired team member Dave, who spent 42 years at the Zoo, as they explain what goes on behind the scenes to care for our largest residents. From heart-warming stories of the past to unexpected bodily fluids flying, this episode is packed with larger-than-life moments! Enjoy watching or listening to Elephants in the Room now on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to. Music provided by Music Vine Links: Socials: | |||
| It's Herpin' Time! | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:52:11 | |
To kick off Our Herd Podcast, we welcome two of our Herpetology members, Nick and Sam! Whether they're starring in posts on social media or working with dangerous species, our Herpetology team has made themselves a prominent contributor to Toledo Zoo's identity. Today, we discuss the basics of zoo keeping - how to become one, what zoo's are looking for in personnel and advice from our experts. Nope ropes and creepy crawlies may be the bane of existence for many, but deep down, these animal friends are just here to chill and fascinate us. Turtle c-holes and Tinder profiles come into question, so have fun unpacking that in this week's episode! Music provided by Music Vine Links: toledozoo.org | |||
| Trailer: Our Herd Podcast | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:03:36 | |
Welcome to Our Herd! The official podcast of Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Stay tuned for new episodes every month. | |||