Shows
Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA74: The Behaviors of Leadership at Any Level - A Live Panel Recording from the ABMA 2025 Virtual ConferenceThis episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode, is a live panel recording from the 2025 ABMA Virtual Conference with live submitted questions from conference attendees. The panelists include leaders at all levels of animal care from keepers to curators to executive directors which give a holistic view and advice on what leadership can look like at any level in the animal care field. The panelist are Chris Jenkins, Clint Lusardi, Darren Minier, Julie Grove, Missy Lamar, Sandy Jabas, Shea Eaves, Stephanie Joe, Torianna Green, and Trelle...
2025-11-261h 44Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA73: Pets For Vets - ABMA's 2025 Premier SponsorThis is a very special episode where we highlight ABMA’s 2025 Premier Sponsor: Pets for Vets with the organization’s founder and executive director Clarissa Black. Clarissa starts by discussing how the organization was formed, what the organization does, and their very important mission. She then gives information on how trainers can get involved with the organization and the process for applying for a pet while sharing some incredible and life-changing success stories. Clarissa finishes the conversation by giving advice and learning into the world of therapy pet training and examples of some of the incredible training that is accompl...
2025-11-0655 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA72: Getting "Unstuck" in Training with Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy (ATA)This episode Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy, discusses how to get “unstuck” in training. Ryan starts the episode by operationalizing what getting “stuck” in training may look like and the process of thinking “How do I get unstuck?” Ryan breaks down this process into three steps 1. Building a tool kit of knowledge 2. Having the Courage to Act and 3. Having the Systems for Learning in place. Throughout the entire episode Ryan details multiple tactics and learnings that can assist in getting unstuck such as understanding reinforcement systems, videoing your training sessions, utilizing flowcharts, and so much more! Stay tuned in for Ryan’s ver...
2025-10-231h 38Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA71: The Behaviors of a Unified and Supportive Team - Part 2 with Dave O'Connell, BearizonaThis episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode, which is a continuation of episode 29, Dave O’Connell, Bearizona, discusses “The Behaviors of a Unified and Supportive Team”. The biggest takeaway from the entire episode is that one of the most important behaviors of a supportive team is the ability to talk with another. Through talking with one another we are able to create shared team goals, disagree in a productive and positive manner, give and receive growth minded feedback, and provide effective corrective feedback. Dave discusses that the...
2025-09-181h 12
ZOOKEEPING 101ABMA Partnership Edition: Episode 2: The ABMA and The ABMA Podcast with Shane Gorbett.What A true honour to carry on this year long journey into the world of the ABMA and the world of the animal trainer. Welcome to episode 2.
ZOOKEEPING 101 shares many goals and values that the ABMA stand for so very proud to dive in head first to the world of what it takes to be an animal trainer, the resources out there and the community in the ABMA which is there to help.
Come along for the journey learning all about in this episode Shane Gorbett’s journey through the community, along...
2025-09-121h 03ZOOKEEPING 101ABMA Partnership Edition: Episode 2: The ABMA and The ABMA Podcast with Shane Gorbett.What A true honour to carry on this year long journey into the world of the ABMA and the world of the animal trainer. Welcome to episode 2.
ZOOKEEPING 101 shares many goals and values that the ABMA stand for so very proud to dive in head first to the world of what it takes to be an animal trainer, the resources out there and the community in the ABMA which is there to help.
Come along for the journey learning all about in this episode Shane Gorbett’s journey through the community, along...
2025-09-121h 03Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA70: Chaining & Behavior Chains with Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa BayThis episode Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, provides some great learning on behavior chains and the process of chaining. Justin starts by breaking down the process of chaining while giving practical application examples. The discussion then dives into how a behavior chain works and dissects what it means for each behavior in the chain to serve as both a discriminative stimulus and a conditioned reinforcer. Justin then explains the difference between backward and forward chaining and why it is recommended to utilize backward chaining. The discussion ends with advice on preventing behavior chain breakdown and an explanation on the...
2025-08-2742 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA69: Changing Conditions to Change Motivation - Part 2 with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo GroupThis episode wraps up (for now) the two episode arc discussing how changing conditions can change motivation with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and the Kuzo Group. Before listening to this episode, please take the time to listen to Part 1 of this topic which is episode 68 of the podcast. This episode is a direct continuation of Episode 68 in which Wouter discusses a multitude of ways in which we can change conditions to change motivation without utilizing diet/weight management. Wouter discusses strategies if you have come to “the last stop” and determined that the best decision is using food to change motiva...
2025-08-0759 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA68: Changing Conditions to Change Motivation - Part 1 with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo GroupThis episode begins a two episode arc discussing how changing conditions can change motivation with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and the Kuzo Group. In this episode Wouter discusses the many, and not exclusive, ways in which we can change conditions to change motivation that do not involve diet management. The episode begins by discussing motivation as a construct and a label and then breaking down motivating operations and setting events. Wouter educates on the many ways in which we can alter antecedents and the environment in order to effect motivation. Additionally, Wouter encourages listeners to evaluate ourselves and our shaping pl...
2025-07-241h 18Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA67: Get Out of the Way and Let Behavior Happen with Ari Bailey, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode Ari Bailey, Natural Encounters, Inc., discusses a topic that she will be presenting on at the IAATE Symposium titled “Get Out of the Way and Let Behavior Happen.” The episode is a great conversation that focuses on recognizing when to fade out and when to implement specific tools such as baiting, prompts, target, etc. Ari also gives advice on how to approach others with ideas on changing or trying something new in the training process. The discussion finishes with Ari discussing how getting out of the way of the animal’s behavior can create more consistent and resilient...
2025-07-021h 10Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA66: Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedure and Other Behavior Topics with Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior WorksThis episode Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works, provides some great learning and insights into a multitude of current topics surrounding the science of behavior change. Dr. Friedman starts with discussing the Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedures; what it is, how we can view it to provide optimal welfare to animals, and also the importance of antecedent arrangement and the environment to behavior change. She also breaks down what it means and looks like in practice when we strive for most positive, least intrusive, effective intervention. Dr. Friedman then gives a summary on the free operant approach to enrichment. She fini...
2025-06-041h 36Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA65: Recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas, United States with Marie Filipe, Heidi Moomaw, Benjamin Fainted, Matthew Nguyen, & Li Shan TanThis episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference (April 27 - May 2 2025) hosted by Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, United States. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them. Day 1: Marie Filipek, Zoo Tampa at Lowry ParkDay 2: Heidi Moomaw, Charles River LabsDay 3: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem ZooDay 4: Matthew Nguyen & Li Shan Tan, Resorts World SentosaIf you are an ABMA member be sure to log in to Animalprofessional.com t...
2025-05-211h 10Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA64: The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care - A Live Panel Recording at the 2025 Annual Conference with panelist Tim Sullivan, Elly Neumann, Nicki Boyd, Anaka Nazareth, and Chris JenkinsThis episode was a live panel recording at the 2025 ABMA annual conference in Galveston Texas hosted by Moody Gardens. The expert panel consisted of Tim Sullivan - Brookfield Zoo, Elly Neumann - Jerusalem Zoo, Nicki Boyd- San Diego Zoo, Anaka Nazareth - National Aquarium, and Chris Jenkins - Natural Encounters Inc. The panel’s theme was “The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care” with questions submitted in real time from the conference attendees. The panel discussed a wide range of topics ranging from the growth of the role behavior plays in welfare to the evolution and next steps in enric...
2025-05-0758 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA63: Training on the Continuum: Moving Away from Coercion and Towards Genuine Choice with Steve Martin, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc., discusses training on a continuum by moving away from coercion and towards genuine choice. Steve starts the episode by giving a review of the concepts of choice and… control with some practical examples. The discussion then turns to breaking down behavioral degrees of freedom, genuine choice, and coercion with many more great practical examples. The episode ends with Steve outlining that real-world animal training requires us to train on the continuum but always striving towards providing genuine choice in order to enhance an animal’s welfare. Stay tuned in for...
2025-04-161h 11Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA62: Motivation and its Affect on Behavior with Mel Paynter & Alyse Stitt, Georgia AquariumThis episode Mel Paynter and Alyse Stitt, Georgia Aquarium, discuss motivation in the context of animal behavior and training. In part 1 of this two episode discussion Mel and Alyse discuss what motivation is, what it looks like in practice, and give some o-fish-ally great examples from the many aquatic species that they work with in the Ocean Voyager habitat at the Georgia Aquarium. They both dive deeper into breaking down and discussing some of the numerous stimuli and events that can affect motivation. The discussion finishes with their advice on how to productively and effectively use motivation as a too...
2025-04-021h 09Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA61: Fading with Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia ZooThis episode Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia Zoo and host of the podcast, discusses and breaks down fading. Shane first discusses examples of what fading looks like in practice and how we can apply the artful application of the science of behavior change in order to know when and how to fade. Shane also discusses the challenges of fading too quickly, too slowly, or not at all. Stay tuned in for Shane’s "Training Tale" about Nile crocodile crate training and the importance of paying attention to the communication that we provide to animals. Visit www.theabma.org for more information and f...
2025-03-1951 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA60: Primary/Unconditioned & Secondary/Conditioned Reinforcers with Tricia Dees, Second Vice President of The ABMAThis episode Tricia Dees, the second vice president of the ABMA, continues on with the discussion from Episode 59 and goes deeper into primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers. Tricia gives some common examples of primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers but also talks about how individual preference plays a role in determining what is actually a reinforcer for each individual. The discussion then turns to why and how we can condition a reinforcer and the importance of watching the animal’s behavior to ensure that a conditioned reinforcer maintains its effectiveness. Stay tuned in for Tricia’s “Training Tale” about how...
2025-02-2642 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA59: Reinforcers and Punishers with Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean ParkWelcome back for the first episode of 2025! This episode Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean Park, dives deeper into breaking down reinforcers and punishers. This episode is full of examples and practical applications. Shawna starts with a brief introduction to primary and secondary reinforcers before listing examples of common reinforcers and punishers. The episode finishes with a discussion about how reinforcers can change over time and how to tell if something is no longer a reinforcer for an animal. Stay tuned in for Shawna’s two doggone great “Training Tales”, one featuring dog training in German. You can also learn more informa...
2025-02-121h 10Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA58: Superstitious Behavior with Jose Bello, Disney's Animals, Science and EnvironmentThis episode Jose Bello, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, discusses superstitious behavior. Jose starts with breaking down what it means for a behavior to be superstitious and examples of what that looks like in a practical application. Next, Jose educates about the “potential danger” in labeling behaviors as superstitious and how taking the blame away from the animal and placing it on us as the trainers, can give us a better understanding of what is accidentally reinforcing or punishing a superstitious behavior. The episode ends with a discussion and a reminder that all behavior has function and how that mi...
2024-11-0638 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA57: Training and Behavior in a Research Setting with Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC DavisIn a special ABMA Behavior Month 2024 episode, Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC Davis, discusses training and behavior in a research setting. Jonelle educates about the similarities and differences between training, cooperative care, and enrichment programs in a zoo compared to a research setting. Additionally, Jonelle talks about some of the unique challenges that arise and the future of behavior management within a research setting. Stay tuned in for Jonelle's "Training Tale" about training her pet corn snake to help with a regurgitation issue. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and...
2024-10-2343 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA56: The Modern Zookeeper and the Importance of Redefining What We Do with Sam Meinke, Palm Beach ZooThis episode Sam Meinke, Palm Beach Zoo, and podcast host, Shane Gorbett, discusses what it means to be a modern zookeeper. The definition of what a zookeeper is and does has drastically changed and is constantly evolving as we continue to progress animal care forward. Some other modern zookeepers were kind enough to share what being a modern zookeeper means to them so Sam and Shane dissect those answers as we redefine what it means to be a zookeeper. The discussion wraps up with the importance of redefining what a modern zookeeper is and does both for the knowledge...
2024-09-2554 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA55: A Free Operant Approach to Behavior Management with Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & BehaviorWorksThis episode Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and BehaviorWorks, discusses a free operant approach to behavior management. Rick starts with explaining the practical application of free operant behavior and, in order to get the full scope, also discusses discrete trial training and the relationship between the two. Breaking down some of the science, Rick educates about Lindsley's (1996) Four Free Operant Freedoms and the considerations for providing and maintaining a free operant environment (depletion, satiation, and dosage of resources). Rick finishes the episode with giving advice on how to start curating free operant environments by celebrating each approximation. Stay tuned...
2024-09-0451 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA54: The Behaviors of Effectively Giving and Receiving Feedback with Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc., dives deeper into a discussion centered around his presentation at the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference titled "Expanding Our Feedback Loop: Evolving the Way that We Give Feedback to Our Peers". Scott discusses the different types of feedback and considerations to think about in order to effectively give specific and honest, but also kind, feedback. Scott also discusses the thought of also giving choice and... control to people while providing feedback. Stay tuned in...
2024-08-1448 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA53: Practical Applications of Choice and... Control" with Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceThis episode we are joined by Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, to discuss some practical applications and examples of providing choice and... control. This episode is a continuation of Episode 50 where Ken Ramirez broke down the science of choice and... control. The episode starts with Tegan commenting how the focus of those two topics have changed and shaped behavior in recent years. Additionally, she educates about what it means to remove "forced" choice and providing control through the use of encouraging animals to say now. Tegan gives thoughtful examples of providing choice and... control and why it...
2024-07-311h 00
The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.Episode 222: What's the Definition of a "Modern Zookeeper"? (with Shane Gorbett, Busch Gardens Tampa)With Ari away at the IAATE Midyear Meeting, Chris is joined by fellow ABMA Board Member and animal behavior podcaster, Shane Gorbett, to attempt to answer this question: how do we define a "modern zookeeper"? If you have a shout-out you’d like us to share, a question or a topic you’d like us to discuss, or a suggestion for a guest we should have on the show, let us know at podcast@naturalencounters.com!
2024-07-181h 01Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA52: Distant Antecedents: Navigating the Role They Play in Behavior with Chris Jenkins, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode we are joined once again by Chris Jenkins of Natural Encounters, Inc. in order to dive deeper into Antecedents, specially looking at Distant Antecedents and navigating the role they play in behavior. This episode is a continuation of Episode 6 where Chris broke down the fundamentals of Antecedents. The episode starts with defining the difference between immediate and distant antecedents and then shifts to the slippery slope that is labeling behavior using distant antecedents as the reason. Chris educates about how behavior is influenced by a myriad of environmental conditions and gives advice on how to take away t...
2024-07-1759 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA51: The Behaviors of Successfully Implementing Change with Justin Garner, The Animal Behavior Management AllianceThis episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Justin Garner, Committee Chair for The ABMA, helps to give advice on how to successfully implement change. The discussion begins with ideas and advice on communicating ideas to others and how to then put those ideas into action. Justin and Shane also talk through ideas to overcome some of the common "roadblocks" to successfully implementing change including not enough time, we've always done it this way, and a lack of resources. Stay tuned in for a "Training...
2024-07-041h 15Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA50: Choice and ... Control with Ken Ramirez, Karen Pryor Clicker TrainingFor the 50th episode of the podcast, special guest Ken Ramirez, Karen Pryor Clicker Training breaks down what it means to provide animals with choice and... control. Ken discuss why these terms have often been connected and how to ensure that we are providing both for animals. Ken also speaks to the importance of training in a modern animal setting and how it can be used to help animals get to the "yes" behavior in order to provide control. This episode is filled with practical examples that can provide clarity and help to focus these topics into welfare discussions. Stay...
2024-06-121h 18Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA49: Stimulus Control with Sandy Jabas, First VP of The ABMAThis episode Sandy Jabas, The First VP of The ABMA, discusses what it means for a behavior to be under stimulus control. Sandy educates about how to tell if a behavior is under stimulus control and also the importance of stimulus control in our training. Sandy also teases the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas hosted by Moody Gardens! Stay tuned in for three "Training Tales" about a funny mishap when shifting dolphins, a dolphin tail fluke splash gone wrong, and interesting research about dolphin dive reflex. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and...
2024-05-2938 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA48: Recap of the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee with Benjamin Fainsod, Dr. Cathy Mingee, Cam Luna, and Chandelle CotterThis episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2024 ABMA annual conference (April 15-19 2024) hosted by the Nashville Zoo. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo & The Animal Behavior Community (carnivores@jerusalemzoo.org)
Day 2: Dr. Cathy Mingee, North Carolina Zoo (cathy.mingee@nczoo.org)
Day 3: Cam Luna, Nashville Zoo (cluna@nashvillezoo.org)
Day 4: Chandelle Cotter, Bird Treatment and Learning Center (chandelle_cotter@birdtlc.org)
If you are an A...
2024-05-011h 07Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA47: Providing Purposeful Lives to Animals with Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo ChicagoThis episode Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo Chicago and one of the founders of The ABMA, discusses how to use behavioral goals to provide purposeful lives to animals. Tim starts by giving a little history to the founding of The ABMA and then jumps into discussing why behavior is an all encompassing word. If you were at the 2024 ABMA annual conference in Nashville or if you are an ABMA member and watch Tim's environmental enrichment workshop on animalprofessional.com, this podcast episode is a great companion to his presentation. Tim educates about shifting our mindset in order to provide purposeful...
2024-04-1754 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA46: From Trauma to Trust: Building Relationships using Operant Conditioning with Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - VietnamThis episode Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - Vietnam, discusses relationship and trust building with animals who previously lived in adverse and traumatic environments. Animals Asia rescues bears from the bear bile industry so Sarah is able to give practical examples of how they help the rescued bears move from trauma to trust. Sarah educates about desensitization and different techniques used to build trust such as temporarily using negative reinforcement with animals where the best reinforcer is distance and space. Sarah also talks about how to build trust back quickly after a situation that may require some of that...
2024-04-0343 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA45: Behavior Management in an Aquatic Setting - A Collaboration with AAZK for Spotlight on Aquariums Week with Sarah Snider Keys, AAZK, and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich, Dolphin Research CenterThis episode is a collaboration with AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) for their "Spotlight on Aquariums Week". The guests for this episode are Sarah Snider-Keys from the Board of Directors of AAZK and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich from The Dolphin Research Center (DRC) as they discuss behavior management in an aquatic setting. Sarah and SK discuss some of the differences and challenges of working with purely aquatic species and some of the creative solutions and successes that come from an aquatic setting. This episode also touches on when and how to start training baby animals and training animals in...
2024-03-201h 01Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA44: How to Start a Behavior Program with Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal SolutionsThis episode Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal Solutions, discusses a topic that has been requested by multiple listeners: How to start a behavior program! Cassie starts by detailing what a behavior program could entail, where to start, and how to approach leadership and your team about the process. Cassie also discusses all of the benefits of starting a behavior program to both animal and human wellness. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" from Cassie! The first involves a crowned crane learning the importance of an elevator and the second is a unique way in which a hyacinth macaw learned...
2024-03-1358 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA43: The Importance of Body Language While Training with Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and The ABMAThis episode Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and “All Things ABMA”, discusses the importance of body language while training. The first part of the episode focuses on learning to read an animal learner’s body language, how to implement that into your sessions, and the benefits of being a keen listener of body language. The second portion of the episode focuses on why it is so vital for us as trainers to be cognizant of our own body language. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" from Heather! The first is a hilarious story involving a coati and Russian secret service...
2024-02-281h 22Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA42: The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping with Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry ParkThis episode Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, discusses The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping as created by Karen Pryor and how they have evolved from "The 10 Laws of Shaping". Kelli breaks down each principle and gives advice on how to best implement and think about each of the principles. The 10 principles can be found below in the timestamps for this episode. Stay tuned in for Kelli's "Training Tale" about how she had to get really creative with her body positioning (hint: it included floating in the middle of the habitat) to help teach a sea lion a "clapping" behavior...
2024-02-1439 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA41: Human Perception on Animal Intelligence and Its Effect on Behavior, Esther VerhoevenThis episode Esther Verhoeven discusses the human perception of animal intelligence (both from the point of view of an animal care professional and a guest) and how that effects behavior. The conversation starts with Esther discussing how behaviorists should view animal intelligence so that it doesn't create excuses or affect the way we manage the animals in our care. Esther finishes the discussion by commenting on educating guests about animal intelligence and the importance of the language that we use when talking to and about animals. Stay tuned in for Esther's "Training Tale" as she dives into discussing how...
2024-01-3136 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA40: The Role of Self-Regulation in Animal WellbeingThis episode Gabby Harris, uShake Sea World, discusses an article that she wrote for "Engage", the quarterly behavior publication of The ABMA. The article is titled "Welfare Considerations for Behavior Management of Animals in Human-Care: The Role of Self Regulation”. Gabby educates about why self-regulation can affect an animal's wellbeing and how we can provide opportunities for self-regulation to animals. Stay tuned in for two "Training Tales" each focusing on learning moments with dolphins! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to contact Gabby email gabby@seaworld.org.za or visit her website: www.to...
2024-01-1748 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA39: Focusing on the Individual vs the Group or Species with Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild EnrichmentThis episode Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild Enrichment, discusses the importance of focusing on the individual vs the group or species in regards to behavioral husbandry. This episode was recorded in collaboration with Kyle's podcast and is a compliment to episode 53 of the Wild Enrichment Podcast, so be sure to check out here: https://wildenrichment.podbean.com In continuation from that episode, Kyle talks about the evolution of enrichment and advancing behavioral husbandry of under-represented species. Additionally, Kyle discusses an article that he wrote, "Behavioral Husbandry for the Individual", and gives considerations for focusing on both the species/group while also...
2023-12-1346 min
The Wild Enrichment PodcastEp. 53- Relationship Building and Changing the Lives of Animals with +R, with Shane GorbettIn this episode, I am joined by Shane Gorbett, who sits on the board of directors of The ABMA and runs their podcast, Animal Behaviour Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk about the importance of building relationships with the animals you work with and the power of positive reinforcement to change an animals life.
Check out Animal Behaviour Conversations: https://open.spotify.com/show/2cARqU5pklJUooKVlOHyNq?si=fd2e71ffc7704ef0
Resources:
https://www.theabma.org/images/userfiles/files/ABMA%20Glossary.pdf
https://www.theabma.org/
https...
2023-12-1256 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA38: Prompts - Providing Additional Information with Dani Larson, Southwick's ZooThis episode Dani Larson, Southwick's Zoo, discusses prompts and how they provide additional information to animal learners. Dani gives great examples of prompts and discusses the difference between a prompt and a discriminative stimulus. Additionally, Dani educates about the importance of fading prompts, but also how to utilize prompts when a behavior breakdown. Stay tuned in for a wild "Training Tale" about how Dani used a soup spoon to teach her dog "Paw". For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Dani contact her on Instagram, @danipoirier, or email dani@southwickszoo.com Let's t...
2023-12-0651 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA37: The Behaviors of Allyship with Meghan Holst, co-founder of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science)This episode Meghan Holst, one of the co-founders of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science), adds another addition to "The Behaviors of..." series by discussing the behaviors of allyship and giving insight in to MIAZS as an organization. Meghan educates about what allyship is and ways in which everyone can be involved in being an ally. Meghan also talks about how to professionally and effectively bring up social justice issues in a workplace and why human behavior is just as important as animal behavior. "The healthier and supported humans are, the healthier and supported the animals are." Stay...
2023-11-1542 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA36: Introduction to Welfare Assessments with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConceptsThis episode special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, continues the welfare discussion from episode 35 with a focus on introducing the topic of Welfare Assessments. Sabrina discusses a holistic approach to welfare and the necessity of observational, research-focused data as opposed to emotional thinking in welfare assessments. Sabrina also explains the difference between output-based and input-based welfare assessments. The episode ends with a conversation about constant welfare analysis and effective assessments models. Stay tuned for Sabrina's "Training Tale" about reinforcing a dolphin for saying "no" and not coming to her when asked. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc...
2023-11-0844 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA35: Introduction to Welfare Science with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConceptsThis episode concludes Behavior Month 2023 with special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Welfare Around the World. This episode serves as the podcast's introduction to welfare with plans for future episodes to dive deeper into the science of welfare. Sabrina explains what welfare science is and the different lenses in which we can view animal welfare. Sabrina also discusses the Five Domains Model and the importance of affective states to animal welfare. Stay tuned for Sabrina's powerful "Training Tale" about a monkey taking his choices into his own hands. For questions or suggestions...
2023-10-2554 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA34: The Human-Animal Connection - Evaluating Our Relationships with Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner, The ABMA Board of DirectorsThis episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests from The ABMA Board of Directors; Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner. The panel of guests discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Human-Animal Connection. The panel talks about the importance of having strong, trusting relationships with animals and tackles the questions: how do we evaluate our relationships with animals and what makes for a "good" or a "bad" relationship? The panel also offers advice on how to grow a relationship through changing our own actions. Stayed tuned for a "Training Tale" from podcast host, Shane...
2023-10-1858 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA33: The Evolution of Enrichment with Clarie Santiago & Hunter Peck, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests Clarie Santiago and Hunter Peck from Natural Encounters, Inc. who discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Evolution of Enrichment. This is also an exciting episode for the fact that this was a live, in-person recording at the NEI Ranch because NEI graciously hosted The ABMA's 2023 midyear meeting! In this episode our guests discuss the evolution of enrichment, both on a holistic level and within a specific team or facility. Clarie and Hunter also contemplate the shift of enrichment towards behavior-based and how training, enrichment, and behavior...
2023-10-1154 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA32: Cooperative Care - Asking Animals to Participate with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo GroupThis episode kicks off Behavior Month 2023 and we are joined once again by special guest, Wouter Stellaard from Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Cooperative Care. Wouter discusses what it means for animals to participate in cooperative care and the element of empowering animals to participate and giving them the voice to say yes or no. Wouter also offers advice on times where behavior is needed in a timely manner. To wrap up the conversation, Wouter talks about the importance of cooperative care in a modern zoo and showing that in action...
2023-10-0455 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA31: The Podcast in Review - Part Two - Discussions on Human Care, Molding, Criteria, and Labels with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin GarnerThe panel of guests from the previous episode returns to finish to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: the difference between capturing and molding, what it means for the criteria of a behavior to have a "range", how to professionally discuss animals living in human care, and how to educate about labels and constructs. Stayed tuned in for Justin's "Training Tale" about how a cheetah discovered a unique way...
2023-09-281h 25Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA30: Classical and Operant and Schedules... Oh My! The Podcast in Review - Part One with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, & Justin GarnerAs this is the 30th episode of the podcast we have assembled a panel of guests to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: differences between classical and operant conditioning, variable schedules, reinforcement placement, negative reinforcement, and the start of building relationships with an animal. This podcast recording was 3 hours long, so this panel will be back again next episode to finish answering questions. In addition, we ran out of...
2023-09-201h 04Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA29: The Behaviors of a Unified, Supportive Team - Part One with Dave O'Connell & Kyle Alexander, BearizonaThis episode kicks off a brand new, reoccurring series on the podcast called "The Behaviors of..." which will dive into the human side of the animal care field. Starting this series off is Dave O'Connell and Kyle Alexander, Bearizona, discussing the behaviors of a unified, supportive team. Dave and Kyle talk about what team behaviors have helped to create a healthy, positive work culture at Bearizona and the importance of focusing not just on the animals, but also the people. Dave and Kyle also discuss the benefits of celebrating everyone's uniqueness, changing a culture from competitive to collaborative, creating...
2023-09-131h 07Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA28: Criteria: Defining the Behavior with Becky Wolf, San Diego ZooThis episode Becky Wolf, San Diego Zoo, discusses criteria as it pertains to defining behaviors while training. Becky gives examples and a breakdown of the four aspects of a behavior that can be reinforced: topography, duration, frequency, and intensity. The episode ends with a discussion on why it is so important to both the animals, the individual trainer, and a team that a behavior has clear, defined criteria. Stay tuned in for a special treat as Becky shares three "Training Tales" including a unique ostrich recall, a jumping lion, and a cheetah that made special connections with guests. For...
2023-08-3042 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA27: The Many Applications of Target Training with Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain ZooThis episode Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , discusses another one of the most fundamental yet powerful training tools: Targets. There are so many applications for target training and Grace breaks down some of the practical applications of targets and how this "simple" behavior can enhance dialogue and give animals' control in their management. This episode is full of tons of practical examples to help get started with target training and then transition that behavior to more complex ones. Stay tuned in for Grace's "Training Tale" about a collaborative win that lead to a really unique target behavior for some...
2023-08-2359 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA26: Creating and Implementing a Training Plan with Christina Lavallee, Zoo AtlantaThis episode Christina Lavallee, Zoo Atlanta and ABMA Board of Directors, discusses thoughts and ideas for creating, writing, and implementing a Training Plan. There is no one way to write a Training Plan and what works for everyone may be different, however, Christina gives ideas on what can be included in a Training Plan, how to get started, and how to give and receive feedback on Training Plans. Additionally, she talks in depth about the need to be flexible while implementing a Training Plan. Stay tuned for Christina’s "Training Tale" with a famous screaming-hairy armadillo! For questions or sugge...
2023-08-0942 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA25: Discriminative Stimulus/Cues with Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast AquariumThis episode Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Australia, discusses the science and application behind the Discriminative Stimulus (Sd)/Cues. Daisy walks through the many different types of Sds, when and how to introduce a cue, and how to adapt Sds as an animal ages. Stay tuned to hear about Daisy and Shane's favorite cues and for Daisy's "Training Tale" with little blue penguins! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org. To reach Daisy, you can message her on her social media channels and check out her new podcast, "Trainer Talks and Tails"...
2023-08-0243 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA24: The Intersection of Behavior, Enrichment, and Training with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem ZooThis episode is the second of our two part dive into enrichment. Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA, joins the podcast again to talk about the connection between behavior, enrichment, and training. Elly discusses training as enrichment, how training can help an enrichment program, and creating enriched environments and lives for animals. Stay tuned for Elly's "Training Tale" with tapirs. The only hint is: "From six months to six seconds." For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@gmail.com and to reach Elly with questions contact presidentelect@theabma.org. Let's talk some training!
2023-07-2633 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA23: Goal-Based Enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem ZooThis episode is the first of a two part discussion about enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA. The focus of this episode is Goal-Based Enrichment and the evolution of how we view and implement enrichment opportunities. Elly discusses what goal-based enrichment looks like, how to plan it, how to record it, and how to get a team to buy into it. And make sure you tune in for Elly's "Training (or Enrichment) Tale" about an "enrichment miracle" with a squirrel monkey. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and...
2023-07-1952 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA22: Baiting with Jake Belair, Nashville ZooThis episode Jake Belair, Nashville Zoo and the First VP of The ABMA, discusses another strategy for training behaviors: Baiting. Jake breaks down the challenges of baiting and why it shouldn't be the first option when training a behavior, however, it is still a tool in the training toolkit that has some practical applications. This episode is full of many real life behavior examples with a multitude of species including hornbills, caracals, sea lions, skunks, and clouded leopards. But make sure you tune in for Jake's "Training Tale" about how the trainers at the Nashville Zoo use their heads...
2023-07-1257 min
Animal Training AcademyHowls and Headphones: The Making of Top Animal Training Podcasts [Episode 205]About the episode; Welcome, animal training enthusiasts! You're tuning in to a unique and exciting episode of our podcast. This time, we're giving you a glimpse behind the mic, revealing the ins and outs of being a podcast host in the fascinating field of animal training. Today's episode features an intriguing discussion from my guest appearance on the TEC Talk podcast from Natural Encounters. This delightful experience was hosted by the passionate and knowledgeable Chris Jenkins and Ari Bailey. But that's not all. I had the honour of being on the panel with...
2023-07-031h 27Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA21: Capturing/Scanning with Rodrico Michel (CPAT), Mandai Wildlife Group, SingaporeThis episode features the first (of many) interviews with a guest currently not living in the United States. Zooming in from Singapore, Rodrico Michel (CPAT) with the Mandai Wildlife Group, joins the podcast to discuss capturing/scanning. Rodrico breaks down what this technique looks like in practice and the advantages, but also challenges of capturing/scanning. Tune in for some really interesting and fun training stories involving innovation behaviors, double back flips, ring-tailed lemur stink fights, and Rodrico's "Training Tale" about how changing an animal's routine from predictable to dynamic can completely change an animal's life and relationships! The...
2023-06-2851 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA20: Zoological Podcasters Assemble! Dr. Grey Stafford, Zoo Logic. Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy. Ari Bailey and Chris Jenkins, The TEC Talk PodcastThis episode Shane Gorbett, the host of "Animal Behavior Conversations", is joined by four other incredible hosts of three other like-minded, zoological and behavior-based podcasts. Joining Shane in this episode is Chris Jenkins and Ari Bailey, the hosts of The TEC Talk Podcast, Dr. Grey Stafford, the host of Zoo Logic, and Ryan Cartlidge, the host of Animal Training Academy Podcast Show. These five podcast hosts nerd out about all things podcasting and behavior while also pulling back the curtain to give insight in to the podcasting process. The hosts also comment on the future of the zoological field...
2023-06-231h 40
The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.Episode 166: Animal Podcasters of the World Unite (with Podcast Hosts Dr Grey Stafford, Ryan Cartlidge, and Shane Gorbett)What's better than an animal training and behavior podcast? FOUR OF THEM ALL AT THE SAME TIME! Chris and Ari fulfill a longtime dream and bring together the hosts of the TEC Talk Podcast, the Zoo Logic Podcast, the Animal Training Academy Podcast Show, and Animal Behavior Conversations (The Podcast of the ABMA) into one giant supercast! We sit down with Dr Grey Stafford, Ryan Cartlidge, and Shane Gorbett to talk about why we started our shows, the challenges with organizing, booking, and recording regularly, how to deal with sensative subjects, how we balance the shows with...
2023-06-221h 42Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA19: Podcast Throwback - Keynote Presentation From the 2022 ABMA Virtual Conference by Dr. Joe Layng Titled "Consequences, Superimposition, Coercion and Their Non-Linear Alternatives"Welcome to the first ever "Animal Behavior Conversations - Podcast Throwback!" This episode is not in the traditional, interview style but rather is a recording of the keynote presentation for the 2022 ABMA Virtual Annual Conference. The keynote speaker was Dr. Joe Layng and his presentation was titled, "Consequences, Superimposition, Coercion and Their Non-Linear Alternatives." Dr. Layng’s history is in the laboratory of the science of behavior change, however, his discussion applies to the application of the science of behavior change. Also, get an update from your host, Shane, about his move across the country and new adventure working with so...
2023-06-141h 27Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA18: Shaping With Successive Approximations with Tricia DeesThis episode Tricia Dees, ABMA Sponsorship Chair, breaks down shaping and you can't talk about shaping without also talking about successive approximations. Tricia discusses how successive approximations can be utilized when training novel behaviors and their role when behaviors break down or regress. Tricia also offers ideas on what to do and think about if an animal is not reaching the criteria for the next successive approximation in the shaping plan. Tune in for one of the most unique "Training Tales" we've heard on the podcast involving sea lions and a waterpark! For questions or suggestions about the podcast...
2023-06-0946 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA17: Click, Whistle, Good: All About Bridges with Marni Wood, Zoo MiamiThis episode Marni Wood, Zoo Miami and ABMA Board of Directors, talks all things bridging stimulus. Marni breaks down the many types of things used as bridges and how a bridge is trained using respondent conditioning. She also talks through something we will have all done in our career and that is what to do when you bridge at the wrong moment. Tune in for Marni's "Training Tale" about the first behavior she trained with a sea lion! The conversation talks a turn when Marni discusses how the sea lion's rear end was stimulated. For questions or suggestions about...
2023-05-3143 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA16: What Does That Look Like? Discussing Training in Terms of Behavior and Not Labels with Katie Stevens, Columbus Zoo and AquariumThis episode Katie Stevens, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, breaks down what it means to "label" an animal and the risks associated with using labels while training. She discusses how labels can lead to poor communication and potentially set up an animal or a training session to fail before it even begins. Katie provides strategies and alternatives to labels that allow us to discuss training through behavior and observation. Tune in for Katie's double dose of "Training Tales" about a miniature donkey who overcame his labels and an alligator who learned to crate with his own personal "gator elevator". For...
2023-05-2446 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA15: Finding the Time to Train with Stephanie Tien, North Carolina ZooThis episode we take a break from discussing a specific training topic and instead talk about a challenge that most of us in the animal care field have faced: finding the time to train. The core of this episode stems from a quote by Ken Rameriz which is "Don't look at training as a luxury or fringe benefit: it is an essential part of an animal's life." This episode's guest, Stephanie Tien from the North Carolina Zoo, offers some tips in order to ensure that we all are finding the time to train and advice on ways to communicate w...
2023-05-1731 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA14: The Science is the Same: From Zoo Training to Pet Training with Sarah Dugger, Good Dog and CompanyMay is National Pet Month so this episode Sarah Dugger from Good Dog and Company discusses that, while the environments may be different, the principles and applications of the science of behavior change is the same between training in a zoo and training pets. Since Sarah started her career in a zoological setting, she is able to provide a unique perspective on the future of animal training in the home. Sarah also does some functional assessments of some common behaviors in the pet training world and how her experiences in a zoological setting helped to inform the best, most et...
2023-05-101h 13Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA13: Punishment and Why We Don't Use It with Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa BayThis episode Justin Garner of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, returns to break down both Positive and Negative Punishment. We discuss practical applications of using Punishment and the "side effects" of its usage. Punishment focuses on what the animal shouldn't do, as opposed to providing the information of what they should do. Tune in for Justin's fun "Training Tale" about a dog that helped to teach a cheetahs ]how to shift. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Justin email The ABMA or contact directorjustin@theabma.org. Let's talk some training!
2023-05-0348 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA12: Negative Reinforcement and Why We Focus on Positive Reinforcement with Anaka Nazareth, National Aquarium and current President of The ABMAThis episode current President of The ABMA, Anaka Nazareth of the National Aquarium, continues our discussion about reinforcement from Episode 9 by breaking down Negative Reinforcement. We discuss practical applications of using Negative Reinforcement including using this method as a way to give animals control and a voice in their training. However, the episode ends with an explanation of why we want to focus on positive, not negative reinforcement during behavioral interventions and training. Tune in for Anaka's fun "Training Tale" about an African pied crow who recycles vegetables (talk about a spirit animal!) and to learn more about The ABM...
2023-04-2638 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA11: The Trainer's Mindset: The Importance of How We Talk and Think About Training with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and The Kuzo GroupThis episode Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group, continues the discussion about Tokitae, the killer whale, and touches on the importance of using data to make informed welfare decisions. Additionally, Wouter discusses the importance of putting the animals' successes first and how we talk and think about training. Tune in for some amazing training stories from Wouter including providing more control opportunities for bears. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Wouter contact email wstellaard@behavior360.com. Let's talk some training!
2023-04-1951 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA10: Past is Prologue - Using Our Knowledge to Do What is Best for Tokitae (Lolita) with Mark Simmons, author of “Killing Keiko: The True Story of Free Willy’s Return to the Wild”This episode Mark Simmons, author of “Killing Keiko: The True Story of Free Willy’s Return to the Wild”, dissects the recent news about the plans to release Tokitae, the killer whale, and two Pacific white-sided dolphins, Li-i and Loke, into the waters of the Pacific Northwest. Mark also discusses his talk at the 2023 conference, "Past is Prologue", which focused on the role of trainers in the preservation of species. Tune in for an amazing "Training Tale" from Mark where he recounts a time that Keiko seemly did the impossible only for trainers to learn that Keiko was just working...
2023-04-121h 01Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA9: Positive Reinforcement - Empowering Animals with Andie Haugen, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical GardenThis episode Andie Haugen, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, discusses the the big one: Positive Reinforcement! Positive Reinforcement is an amazing tool to empower animals and allows for each animal to learn in their own way. Tune in for a two for one "Training Tales" from Andie where she recounts how she captured an animal to mimic the legendary Indiana Jones theme song and describes the fun challenges of switching the cheetah's blood draws from Free Contact to Protected Contact. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Andie contact andie.haugen@cincinnatizoo.o...
2023-04-0522 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA8: Recap of the 2023 ABMA/IMATA Conference in Atlanta, Georgia with Benjamin Fainsod, Justin Garner, Jen Dew, Sherona Dhunraj, & Maggie SantangeloThis episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2023 ABMA/IMATA joint conference (March 5-10 2023) hosted by Zoo Atlanta and the Georgia Aquarium. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo (carnivores@jerusalemzoo.org)
Day 2: Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay (justingarner80@gmail.com)
Day 3: Jen Dew, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (jennifer.dew@columbuszoo.org)
Day 4: Sherona Dhunraj, Ski Dubai (aries048@gmail.com)
Day 5: Maggie Santangelo, Point Defiance Zoo...
2023-03-2956 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA7: Consequences with Pablo Joury, Columbus Zoo and AquariumThis episode Pablo Joury, Curator of Pinnipeds at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, discusses Consequences and finishes our breakdown of the ABCs of Behavior! We start with a quick run down of reinforcement and punishment and then continue on exploring the many different ways consequences can be applied while training. Tune in for our first in-person podcast and for Pablo's "Training Tale" of training the first ever eye ultrasound on a sea lion! Additionally, stick around until the end of the episode for a one-time new segment; "Fun with French" as Pablo sort-of teaches us how to say "seal"...
2023-03-2247 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA6: Antecedents with Chris Jenkins, Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode Chris Jenkins of Natural Encounters, Inc. continues our discussion about the ABCs of Behavior with the start of it all: Antecedents! We discuss how antecedents set the stage for successful behaviors and how our business cards should read "Professional Antecedent Rearrangers" since that is such a powerful tool while shaping behavior. Tune in for Chris's fun "Training Tale" about training a Harris hawk with a very unusual reinforcer. Also, learn more about "The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.", a like-minded podcast hosted by Chris! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org a...
2023-03-1525 min
The TEC Talk Podcast: Presented by Natural Encounters, Inc.Episode 151: So Many Good Steves! (Live from the 2023 ABMA-IMATA Conference)Greetings from the 2023 ABMA-IMATA Joint Conference in Atlanta! Chris sits down with fellow ABMA Board Members and all-around awesome people Christina Lavallee from Zoo Atlanta, Justin Garner from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Shane Gorbett from Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Scott Trauger from Natural Encounters, Inc., to chat about how the conference has gone so far, and about what we're excited about for the rest of the week. We discuss the opportunity for the newest people in the field to be teachers, the opportunity to pick the brains of some of the founding members of our industry (so many...
2023-03-0934 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA5: The ABCs of Behavior with Nicki Boyd, San Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceThis episode Nicki Boyd, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, discusses the namesake of the podcast: The ABCs of Behavior! Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence and how we can utilize the ABCs of Behavior to help us maintain and train new behaviors. Tune in for some amazing training stories from Nicki about emergency recall training with bears, tigers, polar bears, and gorillas. You can also read more and see videos of the emergency recall training in the Winter 2023 publication of "Engage" on the ABMA's website! For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Nicki contact nboyd@sdz...
2023-03-0834 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA4: Operant Conditioning - Reinforcing for Tomorrow with Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc.This episode Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc. and a leader in the field of behavior management, starts our deep dive into the science of behavior change with the crux of it all: Operant Conditioning! We discuss the importance of having the mindset of reinforcing for tomorrow and how the artful application of training includes a dialogue, with two-way communication, between the teacher and the learner. Tune in for some incredible animal training stories from Steve, ranging from "free-flight" orangutans all the way to some quick thinking with a volunteer and a Marabou stork . For questions or...
2023-03-0135 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA3: Describe Training in One Word: Relationships with Justin Garner of Busch Gardens Tampa BayThis episode Justin Garner, The ABMA Board Member and trainer at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, was asked to describe training in one word and his response was: Relationships! We dig deep into the many levels of that answer including the importance of animal-trainer relationships fostered by positive reinforcement training techniques using the most positive, least intrusive effective intervention. Stay tuned for Justin's "Training Tale" where he talks about forming a relationship with a stellar Steller's sea lion. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and to reach Justin contact directorjustin@theabma.org or justingarner80@gmail.com...
2023-02-2232 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA2: What is The ABMA and Behavior Management with Kelly Elkins of San Diego Zoo Wildlife AllianceThis episode we dive into the history, goals, resources, and community of The Animal Behavior Management Alliance (The ABMA) with the current president of The ABMA, Kelly Elkins! Also, learn more about what behavior management is in practice and why that phrase was chosen for the organization's name. Stay tuned for Kelly's "Training Tale" about her close encounter with manta rays and the importance of connecting with animals and wildlife. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email abc@theabma.org and Kelly can be reached at kelkins@sdzwa.org. Let's talk some training!
2023-02-2222 minAnimal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA1: Introduction to the Podcast with Host, Shane Gorbett of the Columbus Zoo and AquariumWelcome to the brand new podcast from The Animal Behavior Management Alliance (The ABMA): "Animal Behavior Conversations"! Our first episode introduces you to your host, Shane Gorbett, who is currently on the Board of Directors for The ABMA, pinniped trainer at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and self-proclaimed behavior nerd. This episode we will also give an introduction to the podcast. Each week Shane will be joined by another professional in the field of animal training and care as they break down a topic concerning animal training and the science of behavior change. Stay tuned for the end of th...
2023-02-2230 min
Rossifari Podcast - Zoos, Aquariums, and Animal ConservationWhat The Seal Is Going On Here? with Shane Gorbett of the Columbus Zoo and The ABMA!Today, the Safari heads back to Columbus, Ohio, to sit down with Shane Gorbett! We talk about his life before Columbus, taking care of the pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) at the zoo, and The Animal Behavior Management Association (ABMA). This is a really fun and goofy episode that I'm really excited to share with y'all! EPISODE LINKS: @columbuszoo columbuszoo.org @theabma on Instagram and Facebooktheabma.org ROSSIFARI LINKS: patreon.com/rossifari to support the pod and hear bonus content from this week's episode (and others) rossifari.com @ros...
2022-10-111h 14