Our Herd: Toledo Zoo Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Some Assembly Required (Crocodile Included) Aug 27, 2026

Show notes

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 Exhibit Senior Discovery Days Twilight Evenings Toledo Zoo Photography Club

A Matter of Scale... Jun 09, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Links:https://www.toledozoo.org/Reptile House is now open!Kidsapalooza Music Under the Stars

Protect the Pack! Apr 03, 2026

Show notes

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! Mar 03, 2026

Show notes

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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.toledozoo.org

Wild Wellness Walkers

Keepers of the Night! Jan 01, 2026

Show notes

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.

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Links:

⁠⁠⁠https://www.toledozoo.org

Conservation Without Borders! Part 2 Dec 03, 2025

Show notes

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!

⁠⁠Give us a formal review!⁠⁠

Links:

⁠⁠https://www.toledozoo.org

Lights Before Christmas

Zoo PALs

Behind the Scenes Tours

Animal Art Sale

Toledo Zoo Online Store

Conservation Without Borders! Part 1 Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

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!

⁠Give us a formal review!⁠

⁠https://www.toledozoo.org

Shell-ebrating Conservation! Oct 06, 2025

Show notes

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!

Give us a formal review!

https://www.toledozoo.org

Pumpkin Stomp & Chomp

Roar & Pour

https://www.toledozoo.org/gardens

Pretty in Pink! Aug 30, 2025

Show notes

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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠toledozoo.org⁠⁠⁠⁠

Behind the Scenes Tours

Zoom Glow Roll

Senior Discovery Days

Enrichment Day

Sip Sip Wine Fest

Breaking the Ice! Jul 31, 2025

Show notes

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!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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