Wild Tails

Episode 25: Veterans Best Friend with Erin Brandon

🎙️ In this episode of Wild Tails, I sit down with my longtime friend Erin Brandon, who I’ve known since our high school days. Erin is a proud Army veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, and he brings a unique perspective shaped by his years in service. We dive into his journey after the military, where he discovered a new mission: training his dogs to become service animals.
From the battlefield to building bonds with his canine companions, Erin shares heartfelt stories about resilience, healing, and the incredible role dogs can play in a veteran’s life.
 
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Episode 24: Going all in with Tim Camerano

This week on Wild Tails, I’m joined by my good friend and passionate conservationist, Tim Camerano. Tim is here to share details about Texas Save’em, a unique fundraiser benefiting Global Conservation Force — an organization dedicated to protecting endangered species and supporting wildlife rangers around the world. We talk about how the event came together, the mission it supports, and why Tim is so committed to making a difference for wildlife.
 
Texas Save'em event
Global Conservation Force
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Episode 23: Lions, Tigers, and Bears with Bobbi Brink

What do you do when you witness wild animals living in squalid cages, sold in parking lots, or forced to perform in roadside shows? If you're Bobbi Brink, you build a world-class sanctuary and dedicate your life to giving them the dignity they were denied.
In this episode, Mike sits down with Bobbi Brink, the powerhouse founder of Lions Tigers & Bears, a no-breed, no-contact, forever home for rescued exotic animals. From big cat rescues across state lines to advocating for the Big Cat Public Safety Act in Washington D.C., Bobbi shares the raw, behind-the-scenes truth of what it takes to protect the animals most people only see in cages or on screen.
We talk about her early experiences that sparked her mission, the personalities of the animals she’s saved, and why her focus remains on cats and bears—even when there are so many other species in need. You’ll hear the heartbreak, the hope, and one story that just might restore your faith in what’s possible when passion meets purpose.
Visit Lions, Tigers, and Bears Website
Visit Lions, Tigers and Bears Instagram: @lionstigers_andbears
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Episode 22: Let's bring back the T-Rex, what could go wrong with Christian Flores

Today I’m joined by Christian Flores, better known online as @CrikeyItsChristian — a wildlife and paleo educator who brings species from both the past and present to life through engaging, educational content. From conservation messaging to everyday actions we can all take to help the planet, Christian uses his platform to advocate for animal welfare, especially in his current work with reptiles.
We dive into the myths and misconceptions that surround wildlife — the kind of stories that fuel fear rather than curiosity. Whether it’s “boxing kangaroos” or “vicious snakes,” Christian’s mission is to transform fear into fascination through facts, empathy, and humor.
Christian is also the lead writer and zoological consultant for the upcoming art book @ProjectPaleozoo, a stunning visual concept of what a modern zoo might look like if it housed dinosaurs, with the same ethical care standards we strive for with living species today. Follow the project for updates — you won’t want to miss it.
Follow Christian Flores on Instagram @CrikeyitsChristian
Follow Artemis Paleozoological Reserve on Instagram @Projectpaleozoo
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Episode 21: Secret lives of rattlesnakes with Emily Taylor

In this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona sits down with Dr. Emily Taylor, a herpetologist and professor of Biological Sciences at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Emily shares wild and wonderful stories from her work with reptiles and amphibians—from tracking rattlesnakes in the wild to teaching students how to find elusive lizards in California’s diverse ecosystems.
Emily is the author of two popular science books: California Snakes and How to Find Them and California Lizards and How to Find Them, with a third on amphibians coming soon. In this lively conversation, she opens up about her unique path from an English degree at UC Berkeley to a PhD in Biology from Arizona State University, and how storytelling plays a role in science communication.
You’ll also hear about her home life in Atascadero, California, which includes a crew of rescued animals—like her charming bearded dragon Aperol Spritz—and a bearded husband named Steve.
Whether you're a wildlife lover, science enthusiast, or just curious about how to find snakes and lizards in California, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and inspiration.
Emily Taylor Website: http://www.emilytaylorscience.com
Project Rattlecam: https://rattlecam.org/
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Episode 20: Nature by Night with Charles Hood

Explore the hidden world of nature after dark with author and adventurer Charles Hood, as he discusses his new book, "Nature at Night," and the incredible biodiversity that thrives under the stars.
In this illuminating episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona sits down with Charles Hood, renowned naturalist, photographer, and author of the upcoming book Nature at Night: Discover the Hidden World That Comes Alive After Dark (Timber Press, April 29, 2025).
From glowing bioluminescent seas to stealthy nocturnal predators, Charles takes us deep into the science and wonder of the natural world after sunset. With over 240 vivid wildlife photos and a wealth of ecological insight, his book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by nocturnal animals and biodiversity at night.
Charles Hood has been a professor, factory worker, ski instructor, and African nature guide. His adventures span all 50 states, 80 countries, and 1,000+ mammal sightings. He brings humor, depth, and heart to every story.
Whether you're a birder, wildlife enthusiast, or curious explorer, this episode will inspire you to look at the dark in a whole new light.
📘 Order Nature at Night from Timber Press
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Episode 19: From SeaWorld to Zoo Logic with Dr Grey Stafford

In this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona welcomes Dr. Grey Stafford — zoologist, animal behavior expert, and host of the Zoo Logic podcast. With decades of experience in zoos and aquariums, Dr. Stafford has been a leading voice in advancing animal welfare and training through science-based methods.
He shares behind-the-scenes stories and professional insights into the world of exotic animal care, the evolution of positive reinforcement training, and the challenges of public perception around zoos and animal programs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animals, conservation, and how we responsibly care for wildlife under human care.
Listen to Zoo Logic: ZOOmility
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Episode 18: Wild Icons and Elephant Tales with Julie Scardina

In this special episode of Wild Tails, Mike is joined by renowned animal advocate, wildlife expert, and former SeaWorld and Busch Gardens ambassador Julie Scardina. Julie shares her lifelong passion for wildlife conservation and her efforts to protect wildlife through storytelling, education, and action.
Julie also discusses the upcoming San Diego premiere screening of A Life Among Elephants, a powerful new documentary from Save the Elephants and Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton highlighting the beauty, intelligence, and threats facing elephants today. Hosted by Mission Wildlife, the event takes place on May 9th and aims to raise awareness and inspire change for one of the planet’s most iconic species.
Mission Wildlife Events: Save the Elephants
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Episode 17: It's a Family Affair

This episode of Wild Tails is a special one—because family is in the house! Mike is joined by his brother Bob (aka Bobcat) and Bob’s girlfriend Christine for a fun and wild conversation packed with animal stories across a variety of species.
From hilarious encounters to heartwarming moments, this episode covers everything from exotic animals to unexpected wildlife surprises. Whether you’re here for the laughs or the fascinating animal facts, you won’t want to miss this family-style storytelling session!
 
Listen to music from If Mars had Waves
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Episode 16: The Unbreakable Pack with Greg Rasmussen

On this episode of Wild Tails, I’m joined by Greg Rasmussen, renowned conservationist and founder of the Painted Dog Research. Greg has dedicated his life to protecting one of Africa’s most endangered predators—the African painted dog.
He shares a thrilling and eye-opening story from the field, giving us a firsthand look at the challenges of studying and conserving these remarkable animals. From close calls in the wild to the critical role painted dogs play in their ecosystem, Greg’s passion for their survival is contagious.
 
Learn More at Painted Dog Research website
Follow Painted Dog Research on Instagram: @Painteddogresearch
Purchase "A Dog Named Circus" Here
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