The Fur Real Podcast with Mark A Kyle

What began as playful Super Bowl counter-programming has grown into one of the most successful adoption platforms in television history. Now in its 22nd year, the Puppy Bowl has helped prove that joy, storytelling, and animal rescue can coexist — and work.In this episode, we go inside the Puppy Bowl with Dan Schachner, the longtime “Rufferee” who has been part of the event’s evolution into a cultural phenomenon. Dan shares how the Puppy Bowl actually comes together behind the scenes, how puppies are selected from shelters and rescues, and why adoption has always been the true goal.A remarkable 100% of the dogs featured on the Puppy Bowl have been adopted, and Dan opens up about what that impact really looks like — from unforgettable on-set moments to the quieter success stories viewers never see. We also talk about what’s new this year, the growing focus on senior and special-needs dogs, and how fostering and adoption have shaped Dan’s own life.It’s funny, heartfelt, and a reminder that sometimes the most joyful things on TV can also change lives.www.furrealpodcast.com www.danschachner.com www.discovery.comig@ danschachner ig@ animalplanet ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb @ Puppy Bowl fb@ Animal Planet fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Snow leopards are among the most elusive animals on Earth—so rarely seen they’re known as the ghosts of the mountains.In this episode, Mark is joined by Dr. Koustubh Sharma, a leading snow leopard researcher, to explore the hidden world of these remarkable big cats and the fragile high-altitude ecosystems they call home.Dr. Sharma takes listeners deep into the remote mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, explaining how snow leopards survive in extreme environments, why studying them is so difficult, and how cutting-edge science is helping researchers track and protect a species that spends most of its life unseen. The conversation also examines the delicate balance between snow leopards and the human communities who share their habitat—and why conservation success depends on protecting both.Equal parts science, storytelling, and awe, this episode reveals why snow leopards matter far beyond the mountains—and what their survival tells us about the health of some of the world’s most important ecosystems.www.snowleopard.org www.furrealpodcast.comig@ snowlleopardtrust ig@ thefurrealpodcast ig@ markakylefb@ Snow Leopard Trust fb@markakyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dogs experience the world through scent in ways humans can barely imagine.In this episode, I sit down with Maria Ikenberry, founder of Eyes Ears Nose and Paws, to explore how specially trained dogs use their extraordinary noses—and their training—to support people with medical needs. We talk about how dogs can alert to seizures and other medical events through scent, as well as how they’re trained to provide practical assistance, such as retrieving phones or keys when someone is unable to do so.We also dive into a lesser-known but deeply meaningful part of this work: the role of incarcerated trainers who help prepare these dogs for service. It’s a powerful story of second chances at both ends of the leash (ABEL) —where dogs find purpose through meaningful work, and people find responsibility, dignity, and hope through training them.From the science of scent to the life-changing impact of medical assistance dogs, this conversation reveals why a dog’s nose remains one of the most remarkable tools we have—and how its influence reaches far beyond the dogs themselves.www.eenp.org www.furrealpodcast.comig@eyesearsnoseandpaws ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Eyes Ears Nose and Paws fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Often called The Panda Bears of the Sea, the Vaquita is the most endangered marine mammal on Earth—and is on the brink of extinction.In this episode, marine biologist Dr. Lorenzo Rojas-Bracho, one of the world’s leading experts on vaquitas, takes us inside the urgent fight to save this elusive porpoise found only in the northern Gulf of California. We explore why the vaquita population collapsed so rapidly, the role of illegal gillnet fishing, and the high-stakes conservation efforts happening right now to prevent the species from disappearing forever.Dr. Rojas-Bracho also clears up common myths, explains why saving the vaquita is far more complex than it seems, and shares what gives him hope—even when the odds feel overwhelming.This is a powerful, emotional look at conservation under pressure, the unintended consequences of human activity, and why the fate of one small marine mammal matters far beyond the sea it inhabits.www.furrealpodcast.comIg@ thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we explore the missing links in modern pet health—the gaps many pet owners don’t realize exist until their dog or cat isn’t getting better.Joining the conversation is Dr. Katie Woodley, founder of The Natural Pet Doctor, a holistic veterinarian who blends conventional medical training with evidence-based natural therapies. Dr. Woodley shares why so many pets struggle with chronic issues, how symptom-focused care can fall short, and what a more complete, whole-body approach to healing really looks like.We dive into nutrition, inflammation, gut health, supplements, diagnostics, and the role pet parents play in advocating for smarter care. This episode isn’t about choosing natural vs. traditional—it’s about understanding how the two can work together to help pets truly thrive.Whether your pet is dealing with ongoing health challenges or you simply want to be more proactive about their long-term wellness, this conversation offers practical insight, clarity, and a fresh way of thinking about modern veterinary care.www.thenaturalpetdoctor.com www.furrealpodcast.comig@thenaturalpetdoctor ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ The Natural Pet Doctor fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @ thefurrealpodcastLinks from the episodeEnviromental Working Group https://www.ewg.org/Skin Deep Database https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/Peptide Blog/Video https://thenaturalpetdoctor.mykajabi.com/blog/peptide-therapy-in-petsHTMA in Pets https://thenaturalpetdoctor.mykajabi.com/blog/htma-testing-for-pets-the-root-cause-test-that-reveals-hidden-mineral-imbalancesProspect Pet https://prospectpet.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When dogs are abandoned, abused, or caught in crisis, someone has to step in—and for thousands of dogs, that someone is K9 Global Rescue.In this episode, Jon Barocas shares what it really takes to rescue dogs from the most desperate situations imaginable. From large-scale emergency rescues to long, complicated rehabilitation journeys, this conversation goes beyond the highlight reels and into the emotional, logistical, and moral realities of saving lives that many have already given up on.We talk about the hard decisions, the unforgettable victories, and why the belief that “no dogs left behind” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a responsibility. This is a raw, honest look at modern dog rescue, the toll it takes, and why the work matters now more than ever.www.k9globalrescue.org www.furrealpodcast.comfb @K9 Global Rescue fb @ Mark A Kyleig@ k9globalrescue ig@thefurrealpoadcast ig@markakyletik tok@ k9.global.rescue 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.

What if the key to understanding intelligence, emotion, and even human evolution starts with puppies?In this episode, we explore the surprising science behind how dogs think, learn, and connect with us—beginning at the earliest stages of life. Our guest, Vanessa Woods, takes us inside the world of canine cognition, revealing what puppy development can teach us about communication, cooperation, empathy, and the deep bond between humans and dogs.From the concept of “puppy kindergarten” to groundbreaking research on how dogs read our emotions and intentions, this conversation uncovers why dogs may be one of the most powerful windows into understanding intelligence—both theirs and ours.Equal parts science, storytelling, and wonder, this episode will change how you see puppies, dogs, and the minds that connect us.www.thefurrealpodcast.comig@ dukecaninecognition ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastPuppy Kindergarten Bookhttps://a.co/d/1ULahRADontaion Linkhttps://www.gifts.duke.edu/?designation=3990908See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cadaver dogs are often thought of as simply having an exceptional nose—but the truth is far more complex.In this episode, Dr. Lisa Briggs breaks down what truly goes into cadaver detection, from the science behind human scent to the intensive training required for both dogs and their handlers. She explains how scent changes depending on environment, time, and conditions, and why locating human remains in water, fire scenes, or open terrain requires specialized knowledge, experience, and precision.The conversation also addresses a critical issue in the field: why properly trained and certified teams matter. Well-intentioned but untrained efforts can lead to false alerts, wasted resources, and compromised searches—making professional standards essential in work where accuracy is everything.This is an inside look at the discipline, science, and responsibility behind cadaver dogs—and why they are much more than a good nose.www.furrealpodcast.comig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle fb@Mark A Kyle tik tok@ThefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when a nuclear disaster site becomes home to one of the world’s most unique dog populations? This week, Mark speaks with Dr. Jennifer Betz of the Clean Futures Fund, who has spent years studying, caring for, and advocating for the free-roaming dogs of Chernobyl.Dr. Betz offers rare insight into the science behind the dogs’ survival, including genetic research, behavioral studies, and the challenges of providing veterinary care within the Exclusion Zone. She also dismantles the many myths — from supposed mutations to ghost-dog stories — revealing the real, grounded truth behind these animals’ lives.This episode blends history, biology, and human compassion to tell the extraordinary story of the Chernobyl dogs and the people dedicated to protecting them.www.cleanfutures.org www.furrealpodcast.comig@cleanfuturesfund ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle'fb@ Clean Futures Fund fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ dogsofchernobyl tik tok@ thefurrealpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we sit down with Beke Lubeach, the CEO of DOGTV, the world’s first television network created specifically for dogs and the people who love them. Under Beke’s leadership, DOGTV has evolved from a cable-only idea into a global streaming service offering 24/7 programming scientifically designed to enrich a dog’s life, reduce stress and separation anxiety, and provide comfort and engagement when dogs are home alone.We explore the science behind DOGTV’s content — from calming nature scenes and relaxation frequencies to stimulating visuals and real-life exposures tailored to a dog’s sensory world. Beke also shares the journey of expanding DOGTV internationally, building breed-, age-, and behavior-specific content, and developing media that truly supports pet parents in their daily lives.Whether you’re a dog lover, a pet parent, or simply curious about how television can be adapted for animals, this episode offers a fascinating look at the future of pet enrichment and the mission behind creating TV for dogs.www.dogtv.com www.furrealpodcast.comig@dogtv ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@DOGTV fb@Mark A Kyletik tok @dogtvofficial tk tok @The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s the time of year when wild turkeys are on everyone’s mind—but few people truly understand these remarkable birds. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Mike Chamberlain, widely known as “The Wild Turkey Doc” and the force behind the Wild Turkey Lab, to explore the science and stories that make this species so endlessly fascinating.Dr. Chamberlain breaks down the surprising intelligence, social structure, and communication patterns of wild turkeys, revealing behaviors that most people never get to witness. From complex vocalizations and seasonal movement strategies to predator evasion, family dynamics, and the myths that still follow them today, he explains why wild turkeys deserve far more respect than the folklore suggests.Packed with captivating field stories, cutting-edge research, and eye-opening facts, this conversation offers a deeper appreciation of a species that’s become iconic during the holiday season—and extraordinary every other day of the year.www.wildturkeylab.com www.furrealpodcast.comig@wildturkeydoc ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Michael Chamberlain fb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Can animals really be hypnotized? Or is it their humans who need to relax first?In this fascinating conversation Victoria Sambleson, founder of Animal HypnoShift, to explore the world of pet hypnotherapy — where energy, emotion, and the deep human–animal bond collide. Victoria explains how pets often mirror their owners’ stress, how calm energy can transform behavior, and why the heart’s electromagnetic field may hold the key to true connection.From anxious dogs to rescue animals learning to trust again, this episode dives into the science, the mystery, and the emotional truth behind the energy we share with our pets.Paws, breathe, and tune in — this one will change how you see the animals who share your life.www.animalhypnoshift.com www.furrealpodcast.comig @animalhypnoshift ig @thefurrealpodcast ig @markakylefb @Animalhypnoshift fb @The Fur Real Podcast fb @ Mark A Kyletik tok @ animalhypnoshift tik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

High in the remote mountains of northern Mongolia, one of the world’s last human–reindeer partnerships endures. Archaeologist and researcher Dr. William Taylor explores the lives of Mongolia’s reindeer herders — a nomadic people who still ride, depend on, and revere these extraordinary animals.For generations, reindeer have provided milk, meat, and cheese, sustaining families in one of the harshest environments on Earth. But today, melting ice and shifting climates are threatening the delicate balance that has kept this ancient bond alive. This episode uncovers how tradition, survival, and spirit intertwine in a story that’s as fragile as the frozen lands these herders call home.Dr. Taylors Book and Ted Talk links:https://www.amazon.com/dp/0520380673https://www.ted.com/talks/william_t_taylor_how_the_mongols_used_horses_to_create_an_empirewww.furrealpodcast.comig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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.comig@jfpequine ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcastfb@ JFP Equine Clydesdales fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee 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.comig@seaottersavvy ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Sea Otter Savvy fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee 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.comig@nairobi_birdman ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Nairobi Birdman fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok @nairobi.birdman tik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee 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.orgig@jpasanks11 ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcastfb@ Jay Pay Slay fb@ Airedale Terrier Rescue & Adoption-ATRAfb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee 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.comig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Mark A Kyle tik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee 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 Pipkintik 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.comig@sirius.shelter ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcastfb @animal shelter sirius fb@markakyletik tok @ The Fur Real PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.