[00:00 - 01:25] Introduction: Dustin Bean introduces hosts Susan Altrui and Joy Matlock. They set the stage for a discussion on "Project Zoo: Wildly Reimagined," the largest construction project in the zoo’s history.
[01:25 - 03:00] Weird Architecture News: The hosts discuss international architecture news, including China’s ban on "ugly" buildings and a U.S. executive order promoting classical Greek and Roman styles for federal buildings.
[03:00 - 06:10] The Zoo’s Unique Style: The conversation shifts to the Little Rock Zoo's use of native Arkansas stone, a style established by Silas Owens, one of the state's first Black architects.
[06:10 - 08:50] Meet Ben Beggs: Ben Beggs shares his journey into the construction industry, from working summers for his father’s company at age 14 to becoming the President of Flynnco.
[08:50 - 10:45] Project Zoo Overview: Details of the $12 million project are revealed, including new exhibits for tortoises, squirrel monkeys, capybaras, anteaters, and lemurs, as well as a complete redesign of the zoo’s amphitheater.
[10:45 - 13:30] Building for Animals vs. Humans: Ben explains the unique challenges of zoo construction, such as creating artistic concrete "rockwork," using specialized glass that allows UV light for animal health, and installing 3-foot concrete "dig barriers."
[13:30 - 16:30] Sustainability Efforts: The project emphasizes sustainability by crushing and recycling concrete from 1970s-era structures to use as fill for the new buildings.
[16:30 - 18:50] First Impressions: Ben describes what visitors will see first, including a new waterfall fountain feature and meticulously selected mature landscaping.
[18:50 - 22:45] The "Construction Crew" Game: The hosts play a fun game matching animals to construction roles, comparing elephants to bulldozers and beavers to engineers.
