In this special episode, we’re thrilled to share something we’ve been working on behind the scenes—our brand-new Patreon! Whether you’ve been with us since day one or you’re just now joining the community, this episode is all about giving you a look at what’s coming next.We break down why we created the Patreon, what it means for the future of the show, and the awesome perks you can unlock by supporting us. From early access to episodes and behind-the-scenes content to exclusive Discord access, live recordings, discounts, and more, we’re building a place where hobbyists and critter lovers can connect even deeper.If you’ve been wanting more from the pod—or just want to help us keep growing—this episode is your guide to everything our Patreon offers. Thanks for being here, and thanks for helping us take this next exciting step!🟠 Hobby Hangar Patreon
In Part 1 of this two-part series, Tristan and Connor sit down with Ryan for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into some of the most fascinating — and misunderstood — animals in the hobby. From the surprisingly nuanced world of betta fish care to the raw power and intelligence of crocodiles, all the way to the unique challenges of working with snakes, this episode is packed with insight and honest discussion.Ryan shares his experiences, breaks down common myths, and shines a light on what it really takes to keep these critters healthy and thriving. Whether you’re into aquatics, reptiles, or just love learning about animals that don’t always get the spotlight, this episode has something for you.Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a deeper look at the creatures we love.🎙️The Hobby Hangar📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast🔵 The Hobby Hangar PodcastFor new guest inquiries, message Tristan on Instagram📸 @sweet_tea480Ryan's Instagram📸 @reared_fangs
In part two of Tristan and Connor’s conversation with Benny, the trio dives deeper into the reptile community — discussing its growth, challenges, and the bonds that keep it strong. They open up about the importance of having a solid support system within the hobby, especially when working with high-risk animals. Benny also shares stories and insights from his hands-on experience with venomous species, offering a candid look at the respect and responsibility that comes with it.📸 @rootedreptile📸 @camocages🔵 Ben Saldivar🕒 rootedreptile---📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast📸 @sweet_tea480
In this episode, Tristan and Conner sit down with Benny to dive into the fascinating world of reptile expos and auctions. They discuss what really goes on behind the tables, share stories from past events, and explore the importance of responsible keeping within the hobby.This is the first of a two-part series, offering a genuine look at the people, animals, and passion that make the reptile community thrive.📸 @rootedreptile📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast
In this second part of The Hobby Hangar’s Warhammer series, Tristan and guest host Matt continue their conversation with Mark—but this time the focus shifts from tabletop battles to real-life struggles. Matt opens up about his journey through mental health challenges, addiction, and recovery, and how the Magic: The Gathering community has played a role in his healing process. It’s a powerful and heartfelt discussion about resilience, connection, and finding strength in unexpected places.For Mark-🎙️ Lorehammer - A Warhammer 40k Podcast🎙️ Lorehammer Listener Lore📸 @lorehammerpodcast🔴 LorehammerTVFor Matt-🎙️ Not Another Reptile Podcast📸@not_another_reptile_podcastFor The Pod:🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast📸 @sweet_tea480
In this episode of The Hobby Hangar, Tristan is joined by guest host Matt as they sit down with Mark to dive into the expansive world of Warhammer. From its deep lore and iconic figurines to the wide variety of factions, they explore what makes this universe so captivating. This is the first part of a two-part series, with more Warhammer discussion coming next week!For Mark-🎙️ Lorehammer - A Warhammer 40k Podcast🎙️ Lorehammer Listener Lore📸 @lorehammerpodcast🔴 LorehammerTVFor Matt-🎙️ Not Another Reptile Podcast📸@not_another_reptile_podcastFor The Pod:🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast📸 @sweet_tea480
In this episode, Tristan sits down with Linnea to explore her work with savannah monitors. They dive into best practices for feeding and husbandry, share experiences with incubating reptile eggs, and talk about Linnea’s incredible journey to Ghana, where she studied savannah monitors in their natural habitat. From care tips to field research, this conversation offers a rare look at these remarkable reptiles both in captivity and in the wild.
In the final part of their conversation with Gin Black, the hosts dive deep into the misunderstood world of monitor lizards. Gin shares her insights on breaking the stigma these incredible reptiles face, the importance of reading body language, and her personal experiences cohabitating with her large monitors. The discussion wraps up with a fascinating look at Gin’s unique experiment—teaching her monitors to recognize and respond to commands in High Valyrian.📷 @xginblackx🎙️Trap Talk Reptile Network🔵 Gin Black🔵 The Legend Lizards🔵 SOAR Magazines🔵 Monitor Lizards and All Things Reptiles / SOAR📷@thehobbyhangarpodcast📷@sweet_tea480🔵 the hobby hangar podcast
This week, Tristan and Connor continue their conversation with Gin in part two of last week’s episode. Together, they explore the role of an effective emotional support animal, what it takes to build trust with your monitor, and why responsible ownership is so important. Whether you’re a seasoned reptile keeper or just curious about the bond between humans and animals, this episode dives deep into the connections that shape both our lives and theirs.📷 @xginblackx📷@thehobbyhangarpodcast
In this episode, Tristan and Connor sit down with Gin, the founder of S.O.A.R. (Support Of All Reptiles), an online magazine dedicated to amplifying voices within the reptile community. Gin shares the inspiration behind S.O.A.R. and the importance of building connections through shared passion for reptiles. The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Gin reflects on her experience as a survivor of the second World Trade Center tower on 9/11, and how navigating life after such a tragedy has shaped her outlook, resilience, and the work she does today.🔗 SOAR Magazine Third Edition📷 @xginblackx
In this continuation from last week’s conversation, Tristan and guest host Phil sit down with Rachel to dive deeper into the world of conservation, reptiles, and community. They swap stories from conventions, reflect on the destruction of rattlesnake den sites, and explore the beginnings of Phil's podcasting career. Along the way, Phil and Rachel share a wild (and slightly nerve-wracking) tale about a mishap while cleaning the enclosure of a black and white spitting cobra. Through it all, the episode highlights the power of community in protecting wildlife and supporting one another.For Rachel:⚫piksteinlab.org🔵Rachel Pikstein on Facebook🟠Pikstein Laboratory on PatreonFor Phil:🎙️Venom Exchange Radio📸@knobtails.ig 📸@venomexchangeradio📸@Herpetoculture NetworkFor Tristan📸@thehobbyhangarpodcast📸@sweet_tea480Don't forget to check out the 50th anniversary of the National Herpetological Symposium at the Chiricahua Desert Museum in Rodeo, New Mexico taking place Early August of 2026!
Tristan sits down with Rachel, joined by guest host Phil, to explore Rachel’s work with Pikstein Lab, a nonprofit dedicated to conservation and ecological stewardship. They chat about the unique challenges of living in Florida, encounters with venomous critters, and even share a few thoughts on the legendary Sir Patrick Stewart.Rachel will have a booth at the upcoming reptile and amphibian show in Tuscon, AZ on October 4th & 5th. piksteinlab.orgtucsonreptileshow.com
In this episode, hosts Tristan and Connor sit down with falconer Jonathan McKinney to explore the fascinating world of raising and hunting with falcons. Jonathan shares the story of how he first got involved in this ancient sport, the unique bond between a falconer and their birds, and how the practice has shaped his daily routines and improved his mental well-being. From the early morning training sessions to the thrill of a successful hunt, Jonathan offers a rare glimpse into a lifestyle rooted in patience, respect, and connection to nature. Whether you’re curious about the history, eager to start your own falconry journey, or simply love learning about unique passions, this conversation is full of insight, personal stories, and tips for anyone wanting to dive deeper into the art of falconry.
Welcome back to The Hobby Hangar – the place where passion meets peace of mind.In this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Phil Wolf – a snake and cigar enthusiast with a voice made for storytelling and a podcast of his own to prove it. Phil brings along some unforgettable tales and a dose of calm, reminding us how hobbies can ground us, spark joy, and even heal.Whether you’re on the hunt for a new hobby or simply seeking a moment of mindfulness, you’ve landed in the right hangar. So, grab your headphones, take a deep breath, and remember: sometimes it’s the little things—like a story, a spark, or a shared passion—that can make all the difference.
Welcome back to The Hobby Hangar, where we explore the powerful connection between hobbies and mental health! In this episode, we’re joined by an old friend, Devon, who shares his personal journey of overcoming challenges and finding balance through the simple act of engaging in hobbies. Whether you're searching for a new interest or hoping to improve your mental well-being, Devon’s story offers practical insights and inspiration for cultivating a positive mindset. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and join us for this inspiring conversation that shows how doing what you love can make all the difference!
In this week's episode, We're excited to bring you a very special episode starring our first guest from abroad. A man who has traveled the world, lived many adventures, and is here to tell his story. We introduce to you, the wonderful Nipper Reed everybody. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Welcome back into The Hobby Hangar, where we delve into the powerful connection between hobbies and mental health! Every week, we explore your passions by sharing inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tips to cultivate a positive mindset through engaging in healthy hobbies. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new interest or seeking to boost your well-being, our discussions are designed to uplift and empower you. In this week's episode, we welcome an ordinary man named Matt onto the podcast to share his story and a worthy story it is. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Welcome back to "The Hobby Hangar," where we delve into the powerful connection between hobbies and mental health! Every week, we explore your passions by sharing inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical tips to cultivate a positive mindset through engaging in healthy hobbies. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new interest or seeking to boost your well-being, our discussions are designed to uplift and empower you. In this week's episode, we're taking a closer look at the fascinating world of reptiles with our guests Anthony and Jason from The Gecko Exchange Podcast. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
Welcome to episode three, In this weeks episode we get our first peek into the "elusive" life of our cohost and learn a little about the what goes on upstairs in Connor's mind. He continues to be a role model for his son, enjoys time outdoors with nature. While camping and gardening are the typical shared interest, His passion for mushrooming started down the path of a hobbyist and led into eventually becoming a professional among the mushrooming industry and within the cultivation space. Listen along as we get some insight into the life of our good friend and cohost of show, Carrett. As always we encourage you to get out there, find something you enjoy doing, and spend more time doing it!
Welcome to episode two, In this weeks episode we get our first dive into the everyday life of our host and learn a little about his world. Tristan is both a father and an avid reptile keeper. The passion for keeping critters really took off after returning home from the army and has been an anchor when things are tough. It is truly is amazing that a hobby can improve your life by helping you create healthy habits. Get out there and find something you enjoy doing, and spend more time doing it!