Welcome to Our Herd, the official podcast of the Toledo Zoo! Listen or watch as our hosts, Corey Wyckoff and Katelyn Wessling, dive into fun and insightful conversations with guests from both inside and outside the Zoo. From animal care, conservation, horticulture and history to marketing, social media, events and behind-the-scenes stories, no topic is off-limits. Our Herd invites zoo enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike to learn, laugh and gain an inside look at the wild world of the Toledo Zoo.
Stay tuned for new episodes every month!
In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with Pat, our Associate Curator of Herpetology, and Nate, our VP of Construction & Planning, to go behind the scenes of the recently reopened WPA-era Reptile House and explore what it takes to renovate a historic Toledo Zoo icon while prioritizing its wildest residents.From temporarily relocating animals to building a new home and jaw-dropping experience for our massive saltwater crocodile, Pat and Nate share the challenges, surprises, and creative problem-solving that went into transforming the Reptile House. We also talk about how the team balanced preserving the building’s historic character while creating a modern facility designed around the needs of both animals and guests.Along the way, we explore the arrival of new species, the decision to rethink what an exhibit can be, and some of the unexpected moments that come with undertaking a renovation of this scale.Because when your renovation involves a historic building and a very large crocodile… some assembly is required.Give us a formal review!https://www.toledozoo.org/our-herd-survey/
Links:https://www.toledozoo.org/ (https://www.toledozoo.org/)Reptile House Exhibit (https://www.toledozoo.org/exhibits/reptile-house/)Senior Discovery Days (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/senior-discovery-days)Twilight Evenings (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/twilight-evenings)Toledo Zoo Photography Club (https://photo.toledozoo.club/)
9 Jun 2026
A Matter of Scale...
In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with Toledo Zoo Mammal Managers Koral and Tenley to explore what it takes to lead two of the Zoo’s largest animal care teams - and why the titles “Small Mammal Manager” and “Large Mammal Manager” aren’t always as straightforward as they sound.From curating a happy team and herd to orchestrating animal transfers and contributing to global conservation efforts, Koral and Tenley share the unique challenges, responsibilities, and rewarding moments that come with overseeing some of the Zoo’s most beloved species. Along the way, we discuss their journeys into leadership roles, the career paths that led them here, and how they balance managing teams while still remaining zoo keepers at heart.We also dive into the lighter side of the job with memorable animal encounters and behind-the-scenes stories, while reflecting on the difficult losses and emotional moments that are an inevitable part of working with wild animals.Whether you’re curious about zoo careers, fascinated by animal care, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind the people who make the Zoo possible, this episode offers insight at life on both the small and large sides of mammal management.
Give us a formal review! (https://www.toledozoo.org/our-herd-survey/)
Links:https://www.toledozoo.org/ (https://www.toledozoo.org/)Reptile House is now open! (https://www.toledozoo.org/exhibits/reptile-house/)Kidsapalooza (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/kidsapalooza/)Music Under the Stars (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/music-under-the-stars/)
3 Apr 2026
Protect the Pack!
Safety at the Toledo Zoo (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0) goes far beyond gates and guard posts. In this episode of Our Herd, we’re pulling back the curtain on the team that helps Protect the Pack.
From first impressions at security checkpoints to high-level emergency response, our security team shares how they have redefined what it means to serve both guests and staff. The Zoo's security team focuses on hospitality, awareness, and creating an environment where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and cared for.
We dive into the specialized training and responsibilities that set this team apart, including bike patrol operations, our Dangerous Animal Response Team, and the unique ways they connect with guests. Along the way, we explore how this role serves as a meaningful opportunity for college students, retirees, and anyone looking to be part of something bigger.
It’s a conversation full of pride, purpose, and a few unexpected stories - highlighting the people who go above and beyond every day to keep the Zoo running safely and smoothly.
3 Mar 2026
Tails from the Exam Table!
We’re kicking off 2026 with a deep dive into the heart of animal care at the Toledo Zoo - Tails from the Exam Table! 🩺🐾In this episode of Our Herd, we sit down with our veterinary team to talk about the real, unfiltered world of zoo medicine. From life-and-death moments to routine exams, spinning turds, blood draws, lab work, diagnostics, procedures, and everything in between - this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to keep an entire animal collection healthy.We explore the dedication, education, and resilience required to become a zoo veterinarian, and the sheer volume of work happening behind the scenes every single day. It’s science-heavy, occasionally messy, surprisingly funny, and a powerful reminder of how much expertise and heart go into caring for wildlife.Give us a formal review! (https://www.toledozoo.org/our-herd-survey/)
Links:
https://www.toledozoo.org (https://www.toledozoo.org/)
Orchid Show (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/orchid-show)
Slow Brew (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/slow-brew)
Teddy Bear Care Fair (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/teddy-bear)
Wild About Art (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/wild-about-art)
Wild Wellness Walkers (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/wild-wellness-walkers)
1 Jan 2026
Keepers of the Night!
Night Keepers Tara and Kristi discuss the unique responsibilities and unforgettable moments of caring for zoo animals around the clock, offering insights into overnight animal husbandry in this interview.
3 Dec 2025
Conservation Without Borders! Part 2
Joe Wood discusses international species protection and the crucial role of community partnerships in conservation efforts, highlighting the Toledo Zoo's global impact in this interview.
17 Nov 2025
Conservation Without Borders!
Joe Wood, Toledo Zoo’s Manager of International Conservation Programs, discusses global conservation efforts, including challenges like wildlife trade and innovative solutions, in an interview about worldwide conservation.
6 Oct 2025
Shell-ebrating Conservation!
Dr. Matt Cross, Director of Vertebrate Conservation, discusses unique conservation initiatives at the Toledo Zoo, revealing the dedicated individuals driving impactful change for animals and their habitats in this interview.
30 Aug 2025
Pretty in Pink!
Bird keepers Cynthia and Nate discuss flamingo chick care and their daily work with host [Host Name] on the Toledo Zoo podcast.
31 Jul 2025
Breaking the Ice!
Toledo Zoo Arctic Keepers Raven and Ashley discuss the challenges and joys of caring for polar bears, from cubs to adults, and share humorous anecdotes about sea lions and feeder fish in this interview.
30 Jun 2025
Prairie Confessions!
Toledo Zoo's Jake and Elizabeth from Wild Toledo discuss their mission to restore native plants in northwest Ohio by creating pollinator habitats and replacing turf grass in this interview episode.
30 May 2025
Tower Talk!
Hoofstock zookeepers Joan and Blake share humorous anecdotes and surprising facts about giraffes and zebras, revealing the unique personalities of these animals in this episode.
10 Apr 2025
I Wet My Plants!
Plants, crafts and existential vegetable crises? Sign us up! This week on Our Herd, Horticulturist Mandy Hansen joins us for a down-to-earth chat about gardening, native plant life and the seriously creative programs she’s cultivating at Toledo Zoo — like botanical book clubs and hands-on DIY workshops. From mischievous squirrel schemes to veggie truths that shook us to our roots, this episode is a must-listen for plant enthusiasts, garden dabblers and budding botanists alike.
Enjoy watching or listening to I Wet My Plants! now on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEaWhnH1vP-hNWbUzV2T9tFAPnIFMswxw), Spotify or Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-herd-toledo-zoo-podcast/id1793379248).
New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to.
Music provided by Music Vine
Give us your feedback! (https://us13.list-manage.com/survey?u=29b360dadbbcde140b9826b6c&id=df77379747&attribution=false&e=3392876c3d)
Links:
toledozoo.org (https://www.toledozoo.org)
Spring Animal Demos (https://www.toledozoo.org/animal-demonstrations)
Photography Tours (https://www.toledozoo.org/photography-workshops)
(https://www.toledozoo.org/events/elephant-birthday-bash)
Socials: (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thetoledozoo/) (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ToledoZooAndAquarium)
28 Mar 2025
Tales from the Tank!
Get hooked on a fin-tastic episode! Our Herd, the official Toledo Zoo podcast, is diving into the underwater world of our iconic Aquarium. Aquarium Zookeepers Jeff Cypher and Drake Dversdall join us to reflect on the building’s history, their favorite fish-y moments and preparations for the Aquarium 10 Year Anniversary Celebration happening on March 29. Enjoy watching or listening to Elephants in the Room now on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEaWhnH1vP-hNWbUzV2T9tFAPnIFMswxw), Spotify or Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-herd-toledo-zoo-podcast/id1793379248).
New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to.
Music provided by Music Vine
Give us your feedback! (https://us13.list-manage.com/survey?u=29b360dadbbcde140b9826b6c&id=df77379747&attribution=false&e=3392876c3d)
Links:
toledozoo.org (https://www.toledozoo.org)
Aquarium 10-year Anniversary (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/aquarium)
Zen at the Zoo (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/zen-at-the-zoo)
Spring Animal Demos (https://www.toledozoo.org/animal-demonstrations)
Photography Tours (https://www.toledozoo.org/photography-workshops)
(https://www.toledozoo.org/events/elephant-birthday-bash)
Socials: (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thetoledozoo/) (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ToledoZooAndAquarium)
21 Feb 2025
Elephants in the Room!
Hold onto your trunks—Our Herd is back with another episode!
The official Toledo Zoo podcast is addressing the elephants in the room... literally.
Join Elephant Manager Sarah and retired team member Dave, who spent 42 years at the Zoo, as they explain what goes on behind the scenes to care for our largest residents. From heart-warming stories of the past to unexpected bodily fluids flying, this episode is packed with larger-than-life moments!
Enjoy watching or listening to Elephants in the Room now on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEaWhnH1vP-hNWbUzV2T9tFAPnIFMswxw), Spotify or Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/our-herd-toledo-zoo-podcast/id1793379248).
New episodes drop every month, so there’s always something wild to look forward to.
Music provided by Music Vine
Give us your feedback! (https://us13.list-manage.com/survey?u=29b360dadbbcde140b9826b6c&id=df77379747&attribution=false&e=3392876c3d)
Links: (https://www.toledozoo.org)
toledozoo.org (https://www.toledozoo.org)
Orchid Show (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/orchid-show)
Elephant Birthday Bash (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/elephant-birthday-bash)
Socials: (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)
Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thetoledozoo/) (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ToledoZooAndAquarium)
30 Jan 2025
It's Herpin' Time!
To kick off Our Herd Podcast, we welcome two of our Herpetology members, Nick and Sam! Whether they're starring in posts on social media or working with dangerous species, our Herpetology team has made themselves a prominent contributor to Toledo Zoo's identity. Today, we discuss the basics of zoo keeping - how to become one, what zoo's are looking for in personnel and advice from our experts. Nope ropes and creepy crawlies may be the bane of existence for many, but deep down, these animal friends are just here to chill and fascinate us. Turtle c-holes and Tinder profiles come into question, so have fun unpacking that in this week's episode!
Music provided by Music Vine
Links:
toledozoo.org (https://www.toledozoo.org)
Orchid Show (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/orchid-show)
Happy Hearts Day (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/happy-hearts-day)
Elephant Birthday Bash (https://www.toledozoo.org/events/elephant-birthday-bash)
Socials:
Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheToledoZoo)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thetoledozoo/)
TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoledozoo)
YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@ToledoZooAndAquarium)
29 Jan 2025
Trailer: Our Herd Podcast
Welcome to Our Herd! The official podcast of Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Stay tuned for new episodes every month.
Who has been a guest on Our Herd: Toledo Zoo Podcast
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Tara
Kristi
Joe Wood
Dr Matt Cross
Cynthia
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
6,207,911
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
16 ratings
Spotify
4.9 / 5
15 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 38 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
19
Social presence
0
YouTube
93
Engagement
51
Contact Our Herd: Toledo Zoo Podcast
Guest appearances
Books guests
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