How does one prepare for AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) inspection? If you've ever wondered what goes into the last few weeks before an aquarium or zoo is going to be inspected, then behold all of the sweaty, tiring, but oddly fulfilling details!
It's inevitable that we're going to struggle with interactions and relationships with other people from time to time, but it's important to grasp how those interactions might be processed, handled, and internalized. Can we all learn a lesson? Certainly!
Why do aquarium and zoo professionals do what they do? While it may not be the most lucrative industry, there's more to success than a large paycheck. Fun, passion, and personal accomplishment all play a part.
It's easy to forget that the things we do and say have impact on those around us, whether we like it or not. Why might someone be interested in paying attention to anything beyond their daily tasks? Why should one care about what's happening around them? Let's discuss!
If you happen to be looking for an animal care job or are just curious about how to prepare for a new field of work, there are steps you can take long before you step foot in an aquarium or zoo. Some things are helpful, others are a necessity, and it's all just good stuff to know.
We all make mistakes. Sometimes our missteps are fueled by arrogance or ignorance, but how we handle the aftermath can show our true colors. Consider infusing more humility in your life and build your relationship with others!
Passionate people have a lot to say! How do zoos and aquariums navigate among other people who also love animals, but have a different way of showing their stance? It can be tricky, but it's necessary to acknowledge and understand animal activism.
The next time someone finds themselves in an argument over race, politics, sexual orientation, religion, or any number of other issues, would it be possible for them to simply stop and listen? To try and understand the viewpoint of the other person? We'd all be better for it.
Have you ever wondered how a large or challenging animal might find its way between one location and another? When zoos and aquariums move animals, it can be quite a production. Today, we take a look at the planning and execution of animal transports.
Times are rough. All of us, including our workplaces have had to make some adjustments in order to bounce back. What kinds of adjustments might an organization have to make? How do we figure out where to start? Today we discuss the challenges and opportunities of making needed changes and pressing forward.
Ever wondered how keepers and aquarists deal with venomous animals? We do a lot of training, preparation, and drills to make sure that if we ever have an envenomation, everyone knows what to do. It's dangerous, but interesting!
Isn't it nice to know that you have the authority to make a decision to better the experience of those around you? Well, not all of us know that luxury. Let's discuss the importance of employee empowerment and its affect on culture.
We all get a bit older. Animals are no different! How do aquariums and zoos navigate the challenges that accompany advancing age and decreased mobility? Well... with the welfare of the animal in mind of course!
Would you feel ready to take on your supervisor's job if the need arose? Moving up the ranks of an institution requires certain knowledge, skills, and awareness that we're not always prepared to tackle. Let's talk about why succession is important and how it can benefit everyone!
Who knew that a negative review might lead us down a road to contemplating why and how zoos and aquariums select materials and objects to place in exhibits with animals? It takes a lot more preparation and thought than one might expect!
We all deal with a time crunch differently. Some of us thrive under pressure while others stress out. Does the same happen when you're loaded with work and away from home? How might one decide whether to take on another project or spend more time with family? Time keeps on tickin' and we have to deal with it.
What a year it's been! I figured I'd celebrate a full year of episodes by giving a little insight into my history, the debate that went into making a podcast, and how I was aiming for others to benefit. Aquarium and zoo stuff is my jam and I hope you enjoy!
It's safe and healthy to set boundaries for yourself in order to maintain your mental, physical, and emotional health. Communicate clearly with those around you about all this and life becomes a lot more comfortable and manageable. Who knew?
Animals need the occasional check-up just like you and me. How do we go about it? What are the challenges? How do we make it easier on the animals and ourselves all at the same time? Why do we bother? Today we discuss the challenges and opportunities in healthcare... for animals.
Deadlines? Meetings? Additional responsibilities? There's no time for that... right? Wrong! It's time to settle down and think logistically about what little time we have available to us in a given work day. You can absolutely do it!
Sometimes a zoo or aquarium may introduce, for a very limited time, an exhibit you'd have to see to believe! Why might it be temporary? What goes into the decision making for how, where, and why to unveil a short-term addition? Behold, the enigma of changing exhibits!
We've all been frustrated by people who don't want to listen, but how practiced at it are we ourselves? Have you paid close attention to what you do when someone else speaks? Why does it matter? Today we discuss the challenges of truly listening.
We now understand what they are, but are guest experience and animal welfare naturally opposing forces? No, but it might happen behind the scenes in your favorite aquarium or zoo. We discuss the how and why this happens, and ponder ways to move forward together for the benefit of all.
Vulnerability and discomfort are a part of admitting you've made a mistake. Take it a step further and apologize. It doesn't feel so great initially, but it will eventually pay off in the end. Free your guilty mind and let's all be better humans!
Does a zoo or aquarium need to pay attention to their social media? Parking lot? Cleanliness? Educational programming? Exhibit condition? Retail selection? We strive to make it fun, educational, and exciting, and it's all part of the guest experience!
While it may be very tempting to place blame when things go wrong, it may serve us all better to look past that and probe for the root of the problem. It's easy to point fingers. It's challenging to search for solutions. The next time things are breaking down, consider restructuring your thought process.
Have you ever been curious about how aquariums and zoos decide to design their facility or their exhibits? There are some goals and techniques involved that you may never have noticed or thought about.
Just a quick happy holiday wish, an animal care related reality check, and a plan for the future! Be safe, stay healthy, have fun, and see you in 2021!
It takes skill and practice, but dealing with behaviors instead of making up negative stories about other people and the the things they do can save your precious sanity. If you feel the need to assume intent behind an action, try to make it positive!
It might sound like a strange question, but it's fairly common. Today we discuss the assumptions people have a tendency to make when at an aquarium or zoo and why. Education is key! That's why we're here!
