The Fur Real Podcast with Mark A Kyle

Jim and Barkley Poole of JFP Equine open the barn doors to the world of the legendary Clydesdale—where power meets grace. From training and showing these gentle giants to welcoming visitors on their immersive farm experience tours, the Pooles share what it takes to care for horses with hearts as big as their hooves. You’ll hear about the breed’s Scottish roots, their partnership with Belgians, the Budweiser connection, and what keeps the Clydesdale spirit alive today. It’s a story of tradition, teamwork, and the bond between humans and horses that’s as strong as the pull of a hitch team. www.furrealpodcast.com www.jfpequine.com ig@jfpequine ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast fb@ JFP Equine Clydesdales fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sea otters are more than just adorable faces floating on the waves — they’re vital to the health of our oceans. In this week’s episode, marine biologist Gena Bentall, founder of Sea Otter Savvy, shares her mission to protect these remarkable animals through education, research, and community action. We talk all about sea otters — from their fascinating behaviors and social lives to their critical role in coastal ecosystems. Gena also reveals how human behavior impacts their survival and what it takes to keep these coastal icons thriving. Discover why understanding and respecting sea otters’ natural behavior is key to their future — and what you can do to help them rest easy in the wild. www.seaottersavvy.org www.furrealpodcast.com ig@seaottersavvy ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Sea Otter Savvy fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the streets of Nairobi to the skies above it, Rodgers Oloo Magudha—known as The Nairobi Birdman—has turned a life of struggle into one of purpose. Homeless since the age of 13, Rodgers found family among the city’s street children and the injured birds he began to rescue and heal. Today, he’s devoted to creating a sanctuary not only for the birds of Nairobi but for his street family as well—a place of safety, hope, and second chances. His story is a soaring reminder that compassion can rise from even the hardest beginnings. www.furrealpodcast.com ig@nairobi_birdman ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Nairobi Birdman fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @nairobi.birdman tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Mark sits down with Jenna Pecenka of Airedale Terrier Rescue and Adoption (ATRA) — a lifelong Airedale owner whose love for the breed goes back generations to her grandparents. Together, they dive into the world of the King of Terriers — exploring what makes Airedales so remarkable, from their fearless spirit and sharp intelligence to their unmatched loyalty and humor. Genna shares heartwarming stories from a lifetime surrounded by these extraordinary dogs, along with her work rescuing and rehoming them through ATRA. You’ll also learn fascinating bits of Airedale history — from their service in war to their place as devoted family companions. Whether you’ve lived with one or are just discovering the breed, this episode celebrates the wit, heart, and character that make Airedales truly royal among terriers. www.furrealpodcast.com www.aire-rescue.org ig@jpasanks11 ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast fb@ Jay Pay Slay fb@ Airedale Terrier Rescue & Adoption-ATRA fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week kicks off a brand-new series I’m calling “You’s and Me’s: Animal Stories.” Every so often, I’ll drop one of these special episodes with you—the listener sharing your animal stories. In this first installment, it’s me. I’m opening up about the animals that have shaped my life—from the first pets that made me laugh to the ones that changed how I see the world. These are the stories behind why I do what I do, and they’re a chance for you to get to know the person behind the mic a little better. And soon, I want the “you’s”—my listeners—to take part. If you’ve got a story that deserves to be heard, reach out and join me on the show. Because this series isn’t just about animals—it’s about the connection between you’s and me’s that brings us all together. www.furrealpodcast.com ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I’m joined by Mike Saito, now a lead safari guide in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, and author/filmmaker Turk Pipkin to share the extraordinary story behind their new book, The Boy and the Lion. The book is based on Mike’s real childhood, when at just six years old he had a life-changing encounter with a lion — an experience that shaped the man he would become. In our conversation, Mike reflects on how that boyhood moment led him down the path to guiding others through the wonders of the Mara, while Turk discusses the collaboration that brought this true story to life. We also dive into the beauty, challenges, and enduring magic of safaris in one of the world’s most iconic wildlife regions. This episode connects past to present — the boy in the story is now the guide who helps others discover the wild for themselves. www.furrealpodcast.com ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle ig@turkpipkin fb@ Mark A Kyle fb@ Turk Pipkin tik tok@thefurrealpodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I recently traveled to Ukraine and, on September 5, recorded this episode in person with Alexandra Mezinova, founder of the country’s largest no-kill animal shelter in fact the largest in all of Europe, and her sister Larysa Khmara, who plays a key role in running it. Their shelter is home to more than 3,000 animals, with over one-third rescued directly from the front lines of the war. Together, the sisters share an unflinching look at life in Kyiv during wartime—how they care for thousands of dogs, cats, and other animals while supporting their community, and what true resilience and compassion look like when every day brings new challenges. Recorded on the ground just weeks ago, this conversation captures the sounds, spirit, and unwavering hope of modern Ukraine, proving that love and determination can save lives—even in the most difficult circumstances. www.dogcat.com.ua www.furrealpodcast.com ig@sirius.shelter ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast fb @animal shelter sirius fb@markakyle tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

All aboard for the world’s most purr-fect rescue! 🚤🐾 In the heart of Amsterdam floats De Poezenboot—the famous Cat Boat. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a floating sanctuary where rescued cats find safety, care, and maybe even their forever home. This week,Paula Combs tells the story of how a quirky idea became an international icon of compassion. You’ll hear about the cats who call the canals home, the volunteers who keep the boat afloat, and the surprising ways tourists and locals alike are touched by this floating feline family. From meows on the water to tails of second chances, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the most magical rescues happen where you least expect them—like on a houseboat full of whiskers. 🐱⚓ www.furrealpodcast.com www.depoezenboot.nl ig@De Poezenboot ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@Dr Poezenboot fb@ Mark A Kyle tiktok @depoezenboot tiktok @The Fur Real Podcast For donations click the link below With you support we are able to help a lot of cats. https://www.ing.nl/payreq/m/?trxid=w3KA8qCGpRcEQhTXwocrcf5GmvkPO85Z Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fireflies aren’t just summer nostalgia—they’re nature’s little magicians. ✨ Dr. Sara Lewis, the world’s leading “firefly person,” professor emerita at Tufts, and author of Silent Sparks.joins the show. Sara takes us behind the glow, sharing how fireflies flirt with light signals, the wild (and sometimes sneaky) ways they attract mates, and why our backyards may hold more magic than we realize. From moonlit meadows to cutting-edge conservation, it’s a sparkling journey into the lives of these magical insects—and a reminder that wonder is just a flash away. www.furrealpodcast.com ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@Mark A Kye tik tok@ The Fur Real Podcast TED Talk Silent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies Threads: @silentsparks Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lisa Spector, concert pianist and founder of My Zen Pet and her new venture, Canine Classical. Lisa has devoted her career to creating calming music designed specifically for dogs, blending her virtuoso performance with a passion for canine well-being. In this episode, Lisa shares the science and inspiration behind her work, the journey from concert halls to composing for pets, and the launch of her new company and new album focused on canine relaxation and enrichment. As a special treat, Lisa sits at the piano during the conversation and plays a piece by Chopin—just for the dogs. Discover how classical music can transform your pet’s environment, reduce stress, and strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged companion. www.canineclassical.com www.furrealpodcast.com ig@myzenpet ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Canine Classical fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ Canine Classical tik tok@the fur real podcast Listen to samples and streaming here (Chopin for Dogs & Dog Gone Calm) ➡️ https://canineclassical.com/listen New website ➡️ https://CanineClassical.com FREE Get in Tune With Your Dog Through Music Checklist ➡️ https://CanineClassical.com/InTuneSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pippa Ehrlich, acclaimed director of My Octopus Teacher, Kulu’s Journey, The Pangolin Story, and My Mercury, joins this week’s conversation to share her extraordinary path as a filmmaker and conservation storyteller. She reflects on how her work brings hidden animal lives and fragile ecosystems to the screen while inspiring global audiences to care more deeply about the natural world. Pippa also highlights the mission of the Sea Change Project, which connects people to the ocean through immersive storytelling and champions the urgent protection of South Africa’s Great African Seaforest. And her journey continues... www.furrealpodcast.com www.seachangeproject.com ig@the_rewilding ig@seachangeproject ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast fb@ Pippa Ehrilich fb@Sea Change Project fb@Markakyle tik tok The Fur Real Podcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the jungle becomes a parliament? In this episode, world-renowned primatologist Dr. Shirley Strum takes us deep into the lives of baboons—animals whose complex societies mirror the political games, alliances, and betrayals we see in our own world. From power struggles and unexpected leadership shifts to the surprising role of cooperation, Dr. Strum reveals the hidden “politics” that shape baboon troops in the wild. With over 50 years of groundbreaking field research in Kenya, she brings eye-opening stories and insights that challenge everything you thought you knew about these intelligent and often misunderstood animals. Whether you’re fascinated by animal behavior, human parallels, or simply curious about how nature negotiates power, this episode will keep you hooked from start to finish. www.thefurrealpodcast www.baboonsrus.com fb@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle tik tok@thefurrealpodcast UASI NGIRO BABOON PROJECT Echos of our origins: baboons, human and nature https://www.amazon.com/s?k=echoes+of+our+origins+baboons%2C+humans%2C+and+nature&crid=27PX3CVY2TMHM&sprefix=Echoes+of+Our+Origins%2Caps%2C324&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_21_p13n-pd-dpltr-ranker Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

They may be tiny, fuzzy, and undeniably adorable — but sugar gliders are far more than just cute faces. In this episode, Alea Holladay, founder of Sugar Glider Guardians, shares the real story behind these fascinating marsupials. From their incredible ability to glide through the air to the challenges of keeping them as pets, Alea reveals what most people don’t know about sugar glider care, behavior, and rescue. She also takes us behind the scenes of “Operation Face Hug,” one of the largest sugar glider rescues ever undertaken, and explains how education and community support are saving gliders from a cycle of neglect. Whether you’re a sugar glider fan or just love animal rescue stories, this conversation will open your eyes to the big world of these little creatures. www.furrealpodcast.com www.sugargliderguardians.com fb@Sugar Glider Guardians fb group@Super Glider Guardians fb@markakyle ig@SugarGlidersGuardians ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle tik tok@thefurrealpodcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Majestic, powerful, and cloaked in mystery — the Bengal tiger has long captured the imagination of the world. This week, world-renowned wildlife biologist Ullas Karanth takes us deep into the heart of tiger country, sharing his decades of experience studying and protecting these incredible big cats. From the dense jungles of India to the cutting-edge science used to track and conserve tiger populations, Ullas reveals what makes Bengal tigers both fearsome predators and vital symbols of a thriving ecosystem. Along the way, you’ll hear surprising insights about their behavior, the challenges of living alongside them, and what it really takes to ensure their survival for generations to come. www.thefurrealpodcast ig@thefurrealpodcass ig@markakyle fb@Mark A Kyle tik tok@ thefurrealpodcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we head deep into the Florida Everglades with Amy Siewe—also known as The Python Huntress. Armed with a flashlight, unmatched grit, and a deep respect for native ecosystems, Amy is one of the few women licensed to hunt invasive Burmese pythons by hand—and she does it at night, often barefoot. Mark Kyle sits down with Amy to talk about how she went from selling real estate to wrangling some of the largest snakes in the world. They discuss the ecological disaster caused by these apex predators, her record-breaking python catches, and why removing these snakes is critical for protecting Florida’s native wildlife. It’s part conservation, part adrenaline, and fully wild. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to grab a 17-foot python by the tail—or why anyone would want to—this episode is for you. www.pythonhuntress.com www.furrealpodcast.com ig@thepythonhuntress ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Python Huntress fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok AmyS @sieweswamp tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on The Fur Real Podcast, host Mark A Kyle travels deep into the heart of animal rescue and education with Dave Siddon, Executive Director of Wildlife Images Rehabilitation & Education Center. Founded by Dave’s father, wildlife filmmaker J. David Siddon, Wildlife Images has rescued and rehabilitated thousands of animals while educating generations about the wonders of the wild. From grizzly bears to bald eagles—and even Hollywood film sets—Dave shares fascinating stories about growing up around wild animals, his father’s work with National Geographic and Disney, and how Wildlife Images has become a West Coast treasure for animal lovers. You'll hear about the behind-the-scenes moments of animal rescues, the unexpected challenges of running a sanctuary, and how the organization is evolving to inspire a new generation of wildlife stewards. Whether you’re an animal lover, film buff, or curious conservationist, this episode offers wild stories, real emotion, and powerful insight into what it takes to protect the animals we share this planet with. www.wildlifeimages.org www.furrealpodcast.com ig@wildlifeimagesrehabed ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Wildlife Images Rehabilitaion &Education Center fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ The Fur Real Podcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

They’re misunderstood, mythologized, and often feared — but bats might just be the unsung heroes of our planet. This week, legendary bat expert Merlin Tuttle joins The Fur Real Podcast to set the record straight. From pollinating your favorite foods (yes, even tequila starts with bats) to devouring crop-destroying pests by the billions, bats play a vital role in our ecosystems — and yet, they're constantly under threat. Merlin, founder of Merlin Tuttle’s Bat Conservation and dubbed “the real-life Batman,” shares jaw-dropping facts, wild rescue stories (including a bat in a theater!), and explains why saving bats means saving the planet. We bust the biggest myths (no, they won’t fly into your hair or suck your blood), and uncover the true brilliance of these night-flying marvels. If you love nature, animals, or just want to be blown away by some next-level science, this one’s for you. www.merlintuttle.org www.furrealpodcast.com fb@ Merlin Tuttle Bat Conservtion fb@markakyle ig@merlintuttlebats ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle tik tok @merlintuttlebats tik tok @ The Fur Real Podcast all photos with permission @merlintuttle.0rg Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we journey to the lush hills of Costa Rica, where over a million stray dogs roam the streets—but one woman dared to make a difference. Meet Lya Battle, the remarkable founder of Territorio de Zaguates, also known as Land of the Strays—one of the largest free-range dog sanctuaries in the world. What began with the rescue of a single dog has grown into a 400-acre paradise that now shelters over 1,500 dogs, all free to run, play, and live their best lives. In this powerful and heartwarming episode, Lya shares how a simple act of compassion turned into a movement. We discuss the challenges of caring for thousands of animals, the joy of seeing dogs regain their trust in humans, and how visitors from around the world can hike alongside hundreds of happy pups while supporting the cause. Whether you're a dog lover, animal advocate, or simply someone who loves a story of hope and resilience, this episode will leave you inspired—and maybe even ready to plan your own trip to the Land of the Strays. www.territoriodezaguates.com www.furrealpodcast.com iig@territorio_de_zaguates ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@ Territorio de Zaguates fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok The Fur Real Podcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Renowned animal communicator Leslie Cirinesi of I Speak to Animals joins us this week. Have you ever wondered what your pet is thinking or feeling? Leslie has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between humans and animals, helping people better understand their beloved companions through intuitive communication. In this heartfelt and fascinating episode, Leslie shares how she discovered her unique gift, the incredible stories behind her work, and the powerful connections she’s helped foster between animals and their people. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this conversation just might change the way you look at your furry, feathered, or even scaly friends. Tune in for a deeper look at the emotional lives of animals—and the humans who love them. www.furrealpodcast.com www.ispeaktoanimals.com ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle ig@ispeaktoanimals fb@mark a kyle fb@I Speak To Animals tik tok @The FurReal Podcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine navigating the world without sight. In this inspiring episode, Christine Benninger, President and CEO of Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), joins us to share how one rescued German Shepherd named Blondie sparked a movement in 1942 to help WWII veterans—and how that mission has evolved into the largest guide dog organization in North America. With over 16,000 guide dog teams graduated, GDB continues to transform lives through the incredible bond between dogs and their human partners. Christine walks us through the organization’s history, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the groundbreaking work they’re doing today. As GDB says, “Everyone deserves to move through the world safely.” This episode will open your eyes to the life-changing role of these extraordinary dogs. www.guidedogs.com www.furrealpodcast.com ig @gdb_official ig @thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb @ Guide Dogs for the Blind fb @ Mark A Kyle tik tok @gdb_official tik tok @thefurrealpodcast Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!! Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters: www.prepvet.com Stem cells for pets See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.