Rossifari Podcast - Zoos, Aquariums, and Animal Conservation

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Nature #85

The Rossifari Podcast brings my love of zoos, aquariums, rescues, and rehab facilities to you! Each episode features an interview with someone who works at one of these facilities. We talk about different species, individual animals, conservation efforts, nutrition...all kinds of stuff. This is a podcast suitable for all ages, but we will discuss topics like mating behaviors and euthanasia. If you're a fan of zoos, or have ever wondered what exactly a zookeeper does, how aquariums manage to keep all that water so clean, or just want to hear a bunch of amazing stories about incredible animals, and the people that take care of them, this is the podcast for you! Check us out online at www.rossifari.com and on all social media platforms @rossifari. Support the show at patreon.com/rossifari. Check out the merch at rossifari.redbubble.com.

Recent Episodes
  • The Team With Their Own Cool Shirts with Kirsten Ward and Matthew Kamm of Zoo New England
    May 13, 2025 – 52:28
  • Rossifari Zoo News 5.9.25 - The Playing Fortnite Saves Animals! Edition
    May 9, 2025 – 39:08
  • Keep the Five Alive! with Nina Fascione of the International Rhino Foundation
    May 5, 2025 – 55:30
  • Rossifari Zoo News 5.2.25 - The Big Babies and Tiny Birbs Edition featuring Scott Newland of Sedgwick County Zoo!
    May 2, 2025 – 50:44
  • The Seal Who Speaks English with Patty Leonard and Kristen McMahon of New England Aquarium
    Apr 29, 2025 – 50:40
  • Rossifari Zoo News - The Tanganyika Experience Edition!
    Apr 25, 2025 – 38:18
  • The Penguin Manager with Mia Luzitti and Diana Major of New England Aquarium
    Apr 22, 2025 – 59:04
  • Rossifari Zoo News 4.18.25 - The Deep Snorkels Edition!
    Apr 18, 2025 – 39:22
  • The Pigeon Who Saved Herself with Sara Van Wormer, Shara Rapoza, and Sarah Henry of Buttonwood Park Zoo!
    Apr 15, 2025 – 01:02:30
  • Rossifari Zoo News SPECIAL EDITION - A Dire Conversation
    Apr 11, 2025 – 45:30
  • From Kanye to the Rainforest with John Garnica of RAREC
    Apr 8, 2025 – 01:21:48
  • Rossifari Zoo News 4.4.25 - The Have You Saved A Beaver Today? Edition!
    Apr 4, 2025 – 50:58
  • *Title Redacted* with Diana Waterman and Emily MacDonald of Roger Williams Park Zoo
    Apr 1, 2025 – 01:10:58
  • Rossifari Zoo News 3.28.25 - The Beavers for Congress Edition!
    Mar 28, 2025 – 38:34
  • Even Looser Favorite Terminology with Danielle Hinderliter of Wildlife World Zoo
    Mar 25, 2025 – 46:12
  • Rossifari Zoo News 3.21.25 - The "Can I Have Your Bunnies" Edition featuring Katie Propp of Penguins International!
    Mar 21, 2025 – 42:18
  • Vulturologists with Dani DiMarco of Lehigh Valley Zoo
    Mar 18, 2025 – 55:44
  • Rossifari Zoo News 3.14.25 - The 36 New Bands Edition!
    Mar 14, 2025 – 37:02
  • The Minternship with Delaney Sevchik, Megan Koehn, and Emily Gallo of Wildlife World Zoo!
    Mar 11, 2025 – 01:05:52
  • Rossifari Zoo News 3.7.25 - The Grants Galore! Edition
    Mar 7, 2025 – 41:16
  • Let's Celebrate SAFE! Part 2 with Kristen Lukas of SAFE Gorilla and Jess Phillips of SAFE African Penguin
    Mar 4, 2025 – 01:02:40
  • Rossifari Zoo News 2.28.25 - The End of the Quest? Edition
    Feb 28, 2025 – 24:20
  • Let's Celebrate SAFE! with Dan Ashe and Katey Leban of The AZA
    Feb 25, 2025 – 56:42
  • Rossifari Zoo News 2.21.25 - The SNL50 Edition!
    Feb 21, 2025 – 38:26
  • Let's Add Another Acronym: EMA with Tripp Gorman of the Elephant Managers Association
    Feb 18, 2025 – 45:46
  • Rossifari Zoo News 2.14.25 - The Arrested Development Edition!
    Feb 14, 2025 – 50:12
  • The Foremost Footcare Dude with Mike McClure of McClure International
    Feb 11, 2025 – 57:04
  • Rossifari Zoo News 2.7.25 - The Mighty Morphin' Power Giraffes Edition featuring Dan Ashe, Linda Chavez, and Raquel Gomez
    Feb 7, 2025 – 37:10
  • Why Are They In Trees? with Jim Thomas of the Tenkile Conservation Alliance
    Feb 4, 2025 – 50:20
  • Rossifari Zoo News 1.31.25 - The 500th Episode Edition featuring Dr. Zoë Rossi
    Jan 31, 2025 – 44:08
  • No HIPAA for Hippos with Josh Courteau of Species 360
    Jan 28, 2025 – 54:52
  • Rossifari Zoo News 1.24.25 - The Do Cuttlefish Eat Marshmallows? Edition
    Jan 24, 2025 – 41:34
  • Can a Pygmy Hippo Be Big? with Jan Lopez of the Metro Richmond Zoo
    Jan 21, 2025 – 28:52
  • Rossifari Zoo News 1.17.25 - The Tubby Tabby Edition
    Jan 17, 2025 – 39:24
  • Meeting Muppets with Kristin Cruise and Jennah Moore-Matthews of The Virginia Zoo
    Jan 14, 2025 – 01:01:02
  • Rossifari Zoo News 1.10.25 - The Goodbye Deebs Edition
    Jan 10, 2025 – 43:30
  • Only Fifty Penguins? with Cristen, Alex, and Taylor of the Metro Richmond Zoo
    Jan 7, 2025 – 01:03:14
  • Rossifari Zoo News 1.03.25 - The Altered Toad Butts Edition!
    Jan 3, 2025 – 31:08
  • The Twelve Days of Birdmas with Amy Fennell of Natural Encounters, Inc.
    Dec 31, 2024 – 45:12
  • Rossifari Zoo News 12.27.24 - The Duck-Billed Box Turtle Edition!
    Dec 27, 2024 – 35:36
  • The Rossifari Old-Timey Non-Denominational Holiday Special 2024!
    Dec 24, 2024 – 01:03:08
  • Rossifari Zoo News 12.20.24 - The Bubbly Booty Issues Edition!
    Dec 20, 2024 – 38:50
  • Conservation Tails with Kelly Currier of Brevard Zoo and Kat Mantzouris of the Maryland Zoo
    Dec 17, 2024 – 52:04
  • Rossifari Zoo News 12.13.24 - The How Many Butterflies Are There? Edition
    Dec 13, 2024 – 40:30
  • Monkey Eating Eagles with Lohwana Halaq of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo
    Dec 10, 2024 – 46:32
  • Rossifari Zoo News 12.6.24 - The Crashing Yachts and Wearing Hats Edition!
    Dec 6, 2024 – 41:32
  • Let Your Freak Flags Fly with Justin Williams of the Edmonton Valley Zoo!
    Dec 3, 2024 – 50:46
  • Rossifari Zoo News 11.29.24 - The Ren Is Here Edition!
    Nov 29, 2024 – 41:58
  • The Rossifari Guide To Gifts For Animal Lovers
    Nov 26, 2024 – 01:23:38
  • Rossifari Zoo News 11.22.24 - The Houston Zoo? More Like The Houston TWO Edition!
    Nov 22, 2024 – 32:32
Recent Reviews
  • emily34548
    Zoo news 6/14/24
    I love listening to zoo news and I heard my name so special at the end and I learn so much info during the podcast.
  • morl125
    Love It!
    Entertaining, educational, and full of heart! I love hearing about zoo work from industry insiders and getting to know what happens behind the scene.
  • Karen Musc
    Increased my zoo obsession
    So I was already a huge fan of zoos and aquariums and such. I’d already been striving to visit as many as I could, especially when traveling. Then I found Rossifari and my obsession only increased. Ha! I love how Jon focuses on the keepers and people and their stories alongside the animals. It’s encouraged me to try and spend some time talking with my local zoo people and I’ve learned so much doing that. And yeah, Jon’s a “goober,” which I love. If we can’t laugh at ourselves as we geek out, what can we laugh at? Lol. I highly recommend to anyone remotely interested in zoos
  • Akeen99
    Love, love, love
    I love listening to a fellow red panda and zoo enthusiast. I love learning about different zoos and animals. I love Jon’s passion for education and conservation.
  • elizabeth.000
    Just listen!
    Not a zoo or animal person before but love listening and learning! Jon is great and speaks to everyone so not above my head. Zoo news is serious, hilarious, sad, goofy….basically Jon!
  • PinkSharkk
    Zoo Outsider on the Inside
    What can I say about the Rossifari Podcast? It literally saved my life. No, I can’t say that because it would be a lie. But what I can say is that it was a lucky find and is a regular brightener of my days. I’m a lifelong animal lover. I don’t work with them or even in a related field, but I’ve never stopped having a deep affection for and a desire to know everything I can about them. In his podcast, Jon takes on the role of the listener as a lay person in a zoo world – fawning over adorable animals (he has around 1,463 favorites; you’ll quickly learn what’s at the top of the list), giddiness about the unique interactions he’s experienced (walrus vibrissae!), and geeking out over zoo things in a way that can best be described as ‘most entertaining’. While it’s a lot of fun, I also learn a ton from this podcast. It spotlights a number of facilities I never knew existed. It’s fascinating to hear from keepers about individual animals’ quirks and personalities. Or why an exhibit was designed the way it was. You never know where these interviews will go and what info will be unearthed that the listener would likely never hear otherwise. Jon’s voice is soothing and friendly and his jokes are awesome. You can tell that he makes guests feel comfortable and they’re eager to chat. Their depth of knowledge and love for what they do are abundantly clear. At the heart of the podcast is a message of animal conservation. It’s exciting to think about the next generations of keepers, trainers, vets, educators, field conservationists, etc who are being positively influenced as it continues to grow.
  • Lolo13419
    LOVE Zoo Miami Ron Magill!! Great podcast!!
    I’ve been listening to Ron on Lebatard with Stugotz for about 5 years. I have such immense respect for him. He’s the main reason I kept listening to Lebatard because so much of their show is goofy as heck but listening to Ron each Tuesday is amazing! I emailed Ron a while back and he even responded to me! As busy as he is, he took the time to do it. I know that Dan and his wife Valerie are great friends w Ron and so I know that Dan has to be an exceptional person to call Ron his friend. This is a great podcast! John really does a terrific job w his guests and you can just feel him geeking out over the animals like a child. Great listen!!
  • erickancar
    Incredibly interesting behind the scenes zoo podcast!
    When I first learned of this podcast I was skeptical that the topic of zoos would keep my interest in podcast form...even as a lifelong animal lover, veteran licensed veterinary technician, and zoo lover...however it is incredibly informative but more importantly fun, and full of personality and THAT is what keeps me listening. If someone else were talking about the same topics and of the keepers didn't have so much life in their anecdotes, it might not be as good as it is. He does a great job hosting and his love of zoos is obvious in how he talks about them and the questions he asks. He is both interested and interesting himself. For someone that doesn't actually work at a zoo it is mind boggling how much he knows about so many zoos and so many of their specific animals. Well done!
  • Mallard the Duck 23
    Amazing wildlife podcast
    Jon is passionate about wildlife (especially Red Pandas) and he shares that passion with his audience as he visits zoos and conservation locations. His genuine personality makes this podcast like listening to a friend. This podcast is informative, fun, and wildly entertaining. Thank you Jon!
  • Mikethegameman
    One of the Best
    The Rossifari Podcast has quickly become one of my all time favorite podcasts. It is very informative, entertaining and the host, Jon Rossi, has clear knowledge and a genuine passion for all the topics he discusses on the show. I highly recommend the Rossifari Podcast!!
  • Da broski loves Przewalski's
    What an amazing podcast!
    Jon is an amazing person by himself. He plays in a band and tours across the country and yet, his love for animals (and especially red pandas 😅) exudes through him every episode. He is professional but still personable and I have gained so much knowledge from his chats with keepers, vets, and those working for organizations that promote wildlife conservation. His devotion to keeping his audience engaged and excited while maintaining scientific accuracy is what will keep me a lifetime listener.
  • Danipoirier
    For all the animal lovers out there!
    If you’re interested in learning more about animals, conservation, training, and all the incredible things animal care facilities do to protect and preserve our natural world, please give this podcast a listen. Jon has an incredible passion for zoos and conservation and brings a refreshing outsider energy to conversations with zookeepers, curators, vets, and other professionals in the animal world. You’ll fall in love with the animals and garner a deeper appreciation for the people who have dedicated their lives to caring for them and so much more. Do yourself a favor. Listen, subscribe, and download. You won’t be disappointed!
  • Nattiet11
    Listen!!
    This is a fun and quirky podcast that is perfect for anyone who loves to listen about conservation and the people who help animals! I recommend it for everyone!
  • surprised by variety
    For anyone with a passion!!
    I am a massive Rossifari fan as someone who is in the Zoo world, but the unique thing about Jon is that I’m an even BIGGER fan of his as someone who ISN’T in the Zoo world. His passion and unique connection shine through no matter what the subject is. He goes to cool places and meets cool people and animals but it’s all because of his desire to learn and connect! Whether or not you love animals or zoos, you WILL love this podcast. Jon Rossi does something even those who spend every waking moment with animals can’t do. And it’s incredible to witness! Listen, subscribe, and share!!
  • Littleleen
    Entertaining and educational!
    This podcast rocks! It is unique in that it doesn’t just highlight zoos/sanctuaries/aquariums/conservation organizations and their animals, BUT ALSO the animal caretakers and front line workers for all of those groups. It’s super cool and super interesting since those jobs aren’t often talked about. Jon does an amazing job structuring the podcast in a way that is fun and entertaining to listen to, but also really educational. So, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be an aquarist, zookeeper, etc or if you like fun animal stories, this podcast is for you! Subscribe! You won’t regret it.
  • alstorjo
    ...
    Hello and I am Alyson and today I will discuss this podcast so here we go I don’t really like it so it’s no I’m sorry so and here’s this game called spot the difference here we go have fun with it 1.👿👿👿👿👿👿👿👿👿😈👿👿👿👿👿2.😺😺😺😺😺😺😺😺😺😺😺😸😺😺😺😺3.🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨🌦🌨🌨🌨🌨🌨4.🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆕🆓🆓🆓🆓5.🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️🤼‍♂️ done hoped you had fun bye! 😇😇
  • em_air
    Love love love
    Feel like I’ve found a kindred spirit in my love and obsession of zoos and sanctuaries. I love hearing from all the caregivers and their hilarious poo stories. Rock on red pandas.
  • fredfennec
    Best Zoo Podcast!
    This is an awesome podcast! Jon is such a passionate and fun host. You can tell he truly loves all things animals. He gets some really great guests from some of the top zoos in North America. I always learn so much from each episode. Not only is the podcast interesting, but the editing, audio quality, and music are all great! A very well done podcast.
  • Lllndjshahvababa
    Really great way to learn about zoos
    I love this podcast! I feel virtually going to the zoo, which is so important during quarantine times. Not only that, you are getting a behind the scenes perspective on zoos. Thank you for sharing your enthusiasm with your fellow zoo-fanatics. I have been recommending this to all my friends. Definitely a Rossifarian :)!
  • k9geek
    Zoo-positive podcast for zoo enthusiasts and casual visitors alike!!
    Over the last several decades, zoos and other wildlife institutions have undergone a massive transformation from being primarily entertainment venues to organizations working for the conservation of endangered species through public education, research, and the maintenance of captive populations. The Rossifari Podcast brings you behind the scenes at these amazing places to learn about all of the hard work, creativity, and passion that goes into achieving those goals from the professionals that love and care about these animals themselves. Jon will bring you with him as he learns about everything that goes into caring for and managing captive wildlife, with a ton of funny stories along the way featuring the individual animals that make it all worthwhile. I highly recommend taking a listen to anyone with even a passing interest in animals, conservation, or people following their dreams to build meaningful careers!!!
  • Hikerchic23
    A fresh look at zoos and animal handlers!
    Most zoo podcasts are aimed at very young children. I loved this fresh take on zoos, animals and their handlers! The topics are interesting, timely, and offer a behind the scenes view of zoos and rescue organizations moderated by someone who is not a zoo professional , but is a traveling musician who loves zoos and animals and spends his free time on the road visiting zoos and animals all over the country. This love and enthusiasm translates into a wonderful, entertaining podcast that can be enjoyed by all!
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