Cold Blooded Conversations is your ultimate deep dive into the fascinating world of reptiles, hosted by Nathan Ward. Join us for engaging, insightful discussions that will leave you captivated by creatures often misunderstood but always intriguing. Each episode features special guests, including hobbyists and cold-blooded lovers from all walks of life. Leading herpetologists, wildlife conservationists, reptile care experts, and hobbyists share their knowledge and passion for everything from alligators and geckos to snakes and turtles to inverts and amphibians. Cold Blooded Conversations is your backstage pass to the incredible realm of cold-blooded life, blending science, conservation, and fun facts that will change how you think about reptiles.
The Gharial Chronicles: Conservation, Discovery, and the Legacy of Romulus Whitaker (Part 2)
Host Nathan Ward continues his deep dive with legendary herpetologist Romulus Whitaker in this captivating second installment of Cold-Blooded Conversations. This episode spotlights the gharial, one of the world's most unique crocodilians, and Whitaker's decades-long mission to save the species from the brink of extinction. From the groundbreaking conservation efforts of Project Crocodile to the founding of the Madras Crocodile Bank, Whitaker shares firsthand insights into the challenges and triumphs of reptile conservation.
We also discuss new species discoveries, the surprising intelligence of Komodo dragons, and the ongoing battle against snakebite fatalities. Plus, hear about the upcoming volumes of Snakes, Drugs, and Rock & Roll and how you can contribute to reptile conservation.
🔗 Purchase Snakes, Drugs, and Rock and Roll here: https://a.co/d/4bFvnx9 (https://a.co/d/4bFvnx9)
12 Mar 2025
The King of Cobras: Romulus Whitaker (Part 1)
In this thrilling episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, we welcome a true legend in herpetology—Romulus Whitaker. Known for his groundbreaking work with king cobras, gharials, and venomous snakes, Rom takes us on a wild journey, from his early fascination with reptiles to his daring fieldwork and close encounters with some of the world’s deadliest snakes.
We dive deep into his autobiography Snakes, Drugs, and Rock & Roll, his near-fatal rattlesnake bite, and the fascinating behaviors of king cobras, including their eerie growls and exceptional intelligence. Plus, we discuss conservation efforts, India's strict snake protection laws, and the future of anti-venom research.
Don’t miss this conversation with one of the greatest herpetologists ever! Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore crocodiles, gharials, and more conservation work.
📖 Pick up Rom’s book here: https://a.co/d/ePsTYnB (https://a.co/d/ePsTYnB)
5 Mar 2025
Snakebites & Trauma: Insights from Joe Pittman of the Florida Snakebite Institute
In this episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, host Nathan Ward sits down with Joe Pittman, trauma nurse and founder of the Florida Snakebite Institute, to discuss the intersection of emergency medicine and venomous reptiles. Joe shares his journey from military corpsman to snakebite expert, recounting some of the most severe envenomations he’s treated, including cobra bites and spitting cobra venom exposures. They dive into the effectiveness of CroFab on African species, the challenges of securing exotic anti-venom, and the importance of proper snakebite treatment protocols. Whether you’re a reptile enthusiast, medical professional, or just fascinated by the world of venomous creatures, this episode is packed with invaluable insights.
Spitting cobra article: https://www.jenonline.org/article/S0099-1767(18)30496-3/abstract (https://www.jenonline.org/article/S0099-1767(18)30496-3/abstract)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoeVenom (https://www.facebook.com/JoeVenom)
Email: joevenom0220@juno.com (mailto:joevenom0220@juno.com)
26 Feb 2025
Venom, Bites, and Breakthroughs: Jim Harrison & Kristen Wiley (Part 2)
We continue our discussion with Jim Harrison and Kristen Wiley, the dedicated owners and operators of the Kentucky Reptile Zoo. They share their experiences working on groundbreaking venom research projects in St. Lucia, Sri Lanka, and India and their involvement in antivenom production and conservation efforts. Jim and Kristen also discuss the challenges of running a reptile-focused nonprofit, advancements in venom-based medical treatments, and the importance of ethical antivenom research.
From cancer research to synthetic antivenoms, we explore the cutting edge of venom science and the impact their work has on both the reptile industry and the medical field. Kristen offers insights for women in herpetology, and they share their favorite reptiles.
Tune in for an in-depth look at the fascinating world of venom research, reptile conservation, and the future of snakebite treatment. Don’t forget to check out the Kentucky Reptile Zoo in person or online, and stay tuned for next week’s episode featuring Joe Pittman, founder of the Florida Snakebite Institute!
19 Feb 2025
Venom, Bites, and Breakthroughs: Jim Harrison & Kristen Wiley (Part 1)
In this electrifying episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, host Nathan Ward sits down with Jim Harrison and Kristen Wiley of the Kentucky Reptile Zoo, one of the largest venom extraction facilities in the country. Jim shares jaw-dropping stories of some of his most serious snake bites, his decades-long experience in venom extraction, and how snake venom is used for cutting-edge medical research. Kristen provides insight into the zoo’s mission, their massive collection of venomous reptiles, and what it’s like to support Jim’s high-risk career.
From surviving multiple near-death experiences to breeding king cobras for nearly 50 years, this episode is packed with fascinating stories, science, and a deep dive into the world of venomous reptiles.
www.kyreptilezoo.org (http://www.kyreptilezoo.org)
https://www.youtube.com/@kyreptilezoo (https://www.youtube.com/@kyreptilezoo)
https://www.facebook.com/kentuckyreptilezoo (https://www.facebook.com/kentuckyreptilezoo)
Kentucky Reptile Zoo
200 L and E Railroad Pl.
Slade, KY 403876
Lancehead bite part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rQZghybeNs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rQZghybeNs)
Lancehead bite part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E6aJ65ibs4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E6aJ65ibs4)
Lancehead bite part 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LEOCJmgEOg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LEOCJmgEOg)
Malayan pit vipers arrive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmazrHacg2w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmazrHacg2w)
12 Feb 2025
Born Into the Cold-Blooded Life: Balian Griffin
In this episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, we welcome a special guest—Balian Griffin, the family's youngest member, who shares his unique experience growing up in the world of reptiles. From wanting to work with venomous snakes to swimming with alligators, Balian reflects on the excitement and challenges of being raised in an environment unlike any other. We discuss the highlights of his journey, the animals he enjoys working with the most, and the balance between an extraordinary childhood and a desire for a "normal" life. Plus, some fun family stories, insights into his other passions, and a few laughs along the way.
5 Feb 2025
Genesis of a Reptile Keeper: Adam Ridout
From childhood adventures catching frogs on the farm to managing a thriving reptile breeding business, Adam’s journey into the world of cold-blooded creatures is as captivating as the animals he works with. In this episode, Adam reflects on early influences like Steve Irwin, the heartbreak of losing an entire collection, and the rebirth of his passion for breeding ball pythons, geckos, and eyelash vipers. With insights into genetics, responsible breeding, and industry challenges, this episode is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the beauty and complexity of reptiles.
29 Jan 2025
Inside the World of Arachnids and Large Constrictors with Missy
In this episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, hosts AJ, Chad, Sebastian, and Nathan sit down with arachnid and reptile enthusiast Missy to explore her fascinating world of tarantulas and large constrictors. From her love for old-world tarantulas and their fiery personalities to the challenges of keeping Burmese pythons, boas, and reticulated pythons, Missy shares her journey, insights, and experiences. Discover the differences between old and new-world tarantulas, the realities of handling large snakes, and the dedication required to care for these incredible creatures in a cold climate. Whether you're a seasoned keeper or new to the hobby, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge, entertaining stories, and inspiration for reptile and arachnid lovers alike!
22 Jan 2025
Bites, Challenges, and Passion: Chris Gifford Talks Venomous Snakes (Part 2)
In this riveting episode of Cold-Blooded Conversations, Nathan, Chad, Sabastian, and A.J. sit down with herpetologist Chris Gifford to dissect one of the most shocking reptile-related incidents in recent years—the escape of his infamous zebra cobra in Raleigh, North Carolina. Chris provides an in-depth analysis of the events leading up to the escape, the public's reaction, and the efforts made by authorities to safely capture the venomous snake.
Listeners will gain exclusive insights into handling exotic reptiles in urban environments, the potential risks posed by venomous species in captivity, and the legal implications surrounding exotic pet ownership. Chris also sheds light on the biology and behavior of the zebra cobra, offering expert advice on responsible reptile care and the importance of proper containment measures.
Join us for a thrilling conversation that blends expert knowledge with firsthand accounts, shedding light on what went wrong—and what we can learn from it. Whether you're a reptile enthusiast or just curious about this headline-making story, this episode is not to be missed!
15 Jan 2025
Bites, Challenges, and Passion: Chris Gifford Talks Venomous Snakes (Part 1)
Chris Gifford, a passionate venomous reptile enthusiast, shares gripping tales of his experiences working with venomous snakes, offering a rare glimpse into the world of venomous reptile care and conservation.
15 Nov 2024
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