The Fur Real Podcast with Mark A Kyle

Latest Episodes:

FLORIDA'S "PYTHON HUNTRESS" Amy Siewe Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

This week we head deep into the Florida Everglades with Amy Siewe—also known as The Python Huntress. Armed with a flashlight, unmatched grit, and a deep respect for native ecosystems, Amy is one of the few women licensed to hunt invasive Burmese pythons by hand—and she does it at night, often barefoot.

Mark Kyle sits down with Amy to talk about how she went from selling real estate to wrangling some of the largest snakes in the world. They discuss the ecological disaster caused by these apex predators, her record-breaking python catches, and why removing these snakes is critical for protecting Florida’s native wildlife. It’s part conservation, part adrenaline, and fully wild.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to grab a 17-foot python by the tail—or why anyone would want to—this episode is for you.

www.pythonhuntress.com www.furrealpodcast.com

ig@thepythonhuntress ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

fb@ Python Huntress fb@ Mark A Kyle

tik tok AmyS @sieweswamp tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"REHAB & EDUCATE AT WILDLIFE IMAGES" with Dave Siddon Jul 22, 2025

Show notes

This week on The Fur Real Podcast, host Mark A Kyle travels deep into the heart of animal rescue and education with Dave Siddon, Executive Director of Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center. Founded by Dave’s father, wildlife filmmaker J. David Siddon, Wildlife Images has rescued and rehabilitated thousands of animals while educating generations about the wonders of the wild.

From grizzly bears to bald eagles—and even Hollywood film sets—Dave shares fascinating stories about growing up around wild animals, his father’s work with National Geographic and Disney, and how Wildlife Images has become a West Coast treasure for animal lovers. You'll hear about the behind-the-scenes moments of animal rescues, the unexpected challenges of running a sanctuary, and how the organization is evolving to inspire a new generation of wildlife stewards.

Whether you’re an animal lover, film buff, or curious conservationist, this episode offers wild stories, real emotion, and powerful insight into what it takes to protect the animals we share this planet with.

www.wildlifeimages.org www.furrealpodcast.com

ig@wildlifeimagesrehabed ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

fb@ Wildlife Images Rehabilitaion &Education Center

fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ The Fur Real Podcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"BATS...we need them" with Merlin Tuttle Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

They’re misunderstood, mythologized, and often feared — but bats might just be the unsung heroes of our planet. This week, legendary bat expert Merlin Tuttle joins The Fur Real Podcast to set the record straight.

From pollinating your favorite foods (yes, even tequila starts with bats) to devouring crop-destroying pests by the billions, bats play a vital role in our ecosystems — and yet, they're constantly under threat.

Merlin, founder of Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation and dubbed “the real-life Batman,” shares jaw-dropping facts, wild rescue stories (including a bat in a theater!), and explains why saving bats means saving the planet.

We bust the biggest myths (no, they won’t fly into your hair or suck your blood), and uncover the true brilliance of these night-flying marvels.

If you love nature, animals, or just want to be blown away by some next-level science, this one’s for you.

www.merlintuttle.org www.furrealpodcast.com

fb@ Merlin Tuttle Bat Conservtion fb@markakyle

ig@merlintuttlebats ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

tik tok @merlintuttlebats tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast

all photos with permission @merlintuttle.0rg

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Costa Rica's "LAND OF STRAYS" with Lya Battle Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

This week we journey to the lush hills of Costa Rica, where over a million stray dogs roam the streets—but one woman dared to make a difference.

Meet Lya Battle, the remarkable founder of Territorio de Zaguates, also known as Land of the Strays—one of the largest free-range dog sanctuaries in the world. What began with the rescue of a single dog has grown into a 400-acre paradise that now shelters over 1,500 dogs, all free to run, play, and live their best lives.

In this powerful and heartwarming episode, Lya shares how a simple act of compassion turned into a movement. We discuss the challenges of caring for thousands of animals, the joy of seeing dogs regain their trust in humans, and how visitors from around the world can hike alongside hundreds of happy pups while supporting the cause.

Whether you're a dog lover, animal advocate, or simply someone who loves a story of hope and resilience, this episode will leave you inspired—and maybe even ready to plan your own trip to the Land of the Strays.

www.territoriodezaguates.com www.furrealpodcast.com

iig@territorio_de_zaguates ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

fb@ Territorio de Zaguates fb@ Mark A Kyle

tik tok The Fur Real Podcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"SHE SPEAKS TO ANIMALS" with Leslie Cirinesi Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

Renowned animal communicator Leslie Cirinesi of I Speak to Animals joins us this week. Have you ever wondered what your pet is thinking or feeling? Leslie has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between humans and animals, helping people better understand their beloved companions through intuitive communication.

In this heartfelt and fascinating episode, Leslie shares how she discovered her unique gift, the incredible stories behind her work, and the powerful connections she’s helped foster between animals and their people. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this conversation just might change the way you look at your furry, feathered, or even scaly friends.

Tune in for a deeper look at the emotional lives of animals—and the humans who love them.

www.furrealpodcast.com www.ispeaktoanimals.com

ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle ig@ispeaktoanimals

fb@mark a kyle fb@I Speak To Animals

tik tok @The FurReal Podcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND" with CEO Christine Benninger Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

Imagine navigating the world without sight.
In this inspiring episode, Christine Benninger, President and CEO of Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), joins us to share how one rescued German Shepherd named Blondie sparked a movement in 1942 to help WWII veterans—and how that mission has evolved into the largest guide dog organization in North America.

With over 16,000 guide dog teams graduated, GDB continues to transform lives through the incredible bond between dogs and their human partners. Christine walks us through the organization’s history, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the groundbreaking work they’re doing today.

As GDB says, “Everyone deserves to move through the world safely.”
This episode will open your eyes to the life-changing role of these extraordinary dogs.

www.guidedogs.com www.furrealpodcast.com

ig @gdb_official ig @thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle

fb @ Guide Dogs for the Blind fb @ Mark A Kyle

tik tok @gdb_official tik tok @thefurrealpodcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"SILVER LININGS for SENIOR DOGS" with Erica Psaltis Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

Silver Linings for Senior Dogs – The Rescue Ranch Giving Aging Pups a Second Chance

Every cloud has a silver lining—and for senior dogs in Bend, Oregon, that silver lining is Silver Linings Rescue Ranch. Founded by Erica Psaltis, this heartwarming sanctuary is dedicated to giving older dogs the love, dignity, and second chance they so deeply deserve.

After adopting a senior dog herself, Erica discovered just how much joy, wisdom, and companionship these “seasoned souls” bring. That experience led her to create a safe haven for older dogs—especially those left behind when their owners pass away or can no longer care for them.

Located in the heart of Dog Town USA (yes, that’s a real nickname for pet-loving Bend!), Silver Linings Rescue Ranch is more than just a place—it’s a movement. In a city known for its iconic dog parade and dog-friendly culture, Erica is filling a gap in rescue work, focusing on dogs who are too often overlooked because of their age.

This episode is a touching tribute to the power of second chances, the magic of senior dogs, and one woman’s mission to make sure every dog’s golden years truly shine. Grab a tissue—and maybe your own senior pup—and listen in. This one will warm your heart.

www.furrealpodcast.com www.silverliningsrescueranch.org

ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle ig@silver.linngs.rescue.ranch

fb@mark a kyle fb@Silver Linings Rescue Ranch

tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"ALL SEATED IN A BARN" with Tahlia Fischer Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

A Donkey to Thousands: of Equines... The Wild Ride of All Seated in a Barn

What began as a mission to save a single donkey quickly turned into something much bigger—a full-blown equine sanctuary rescuing thousands. In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, we sit down with Tahlia Fischer, the unstoppable founder of All Seated in a Barn. With grit, passion, and a whole lot of heart, Tahlia turned a simple act of kindness into a movement.

This is more than a rescue story—it's proof that when you follow your heart and refuse to quit, anything is possible. Saddle up for an emotional and uplifting trail ride through Tahlia’s journey... one that proves you never quite know where its going to take you..

www.furrealpodcast.com www.allseatedinabarn.com

fb@Markakyle fb@AllSeatedinaBarn

ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle ig@allseatedinabarn

tik tok @thefurrealpodcast tik tok@allseatedinabarn

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"VENOM AND KOMODO DRAGONS" with Prof. Bryan Frye Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

Meet Professor Bryan Fry – Venom Scientist, Komodo Dragon Expert, and All-Around Adventure Seeker

When your guest has an adrenaline molecule tattooed on his neck, you know you're in for a wild ride — and this episode absolutely delivers.

Professor Bryan Fry is one of the world’s leading experts on venom and Komodo dragons, and in this episode of The Fur Real Podcast, he breaks down the fascinating science behind what venom actually is (spoiler: it’s not just poison!), how it evolves depending on a species’ environment, and why the Komodo dragon’s bite is way more complex — and deadly — than you might think.

We explore how animals use venom not just for defense, but also for hunting, survival, and even communication. From snakes to sea creatures to the legendary Komodo dragon, Professor Fry shares jaw-dropping stories from his fieldwork that will make you see these creatures in a whole new light.

🧬 If you're a science lover, an animal enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a great story told by a guy who’s been bitten, stung, and still keeps chasing the next discovery — this is the episode for you.

www.furrealppdcast.com

ig@thefurrealpodcast.com ig@markakyle

fb@The Fur Real Pocast

fb@Mark A Kyle

Article links

Fry BG, Wroe S, Teeuwisse W, van Osch MJP, Moreno K, Ingle J, McHenry C, Ferrara T, Clausen P, Scheib H, Winter KL, Greisman L, Roelants K, van der Weerd L, Clemente CJ, Giannakis E, Hodgson WC, Luz S, Martelli P, Krishnasamy K, Kochva E, Kwok HF, Scanlon D, Karas J, Citron DM, Goldstein EJC, Mcnaughtan JE, Norman JA (2009) A central role for venom in predation by Varanus komodoensis (Komodo Dragon) and the extinct giant Varanus (Megalania) prisca. Proceedings of the National Academy of Science 106(22):8969-8974.

Goldstein EJC, Tyrrell KL, Citron DM, Cox CR, Recchio IM, Okimoto B, Bryja J, Fry BG (2013) The anaerobic and aerobic bacteriology of the saliva and gingiva from 16 captive komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis): new implications for the “bacteria as venom” model. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 44(2):262-72.

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

" SKUNKHAVEN " with Deborah Cipriani May 27, 2025

Show notes

The wonderfully wacky — and surprisingly cuddly — world of skunks with Deborah Cipriani, founder of Skunkhaven! A licensed skunk rescue in the United States, Skunkhaven is more than just a safe haven — it’s a full-on mission to change the way people see these misunderstood animals.

Deborah shares how she went from curious pet owner to full-time skunk advocate, building a sanctuary that educates, rescues, and supports skunks and their humans nationwide. You’ll hear the truth about de-scenting, what skunks are really like as pets, and yes — some hilariously adorable skunk stories, too. If you’ve ever thought skunks were just backyard troublemakers, this episode might just change your mind.

www.skunkhaven.net www.furrealpodcast.com

fb Deborah Cipriani fb The Fur Real Podcast fb Mark A Kyle

ig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakyle

Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing

and to our supporters:

www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.