For the Love of Nature

We’ve all heard of climate change, but what does that really mean? Katy and Laura explain what climate change is and human-induced climate change is the largest threat our world faces right now. Don’t worry though, it isn’t all bad news! Learn about how we can all take actions toward making a better future.Support the show

For over 100,000 years, humans have developed a wide variety of rituals and practices after the death of their loved ones. But are humans the only animals that have these practices or exhibit grief? Katy and Laura dig into how elephants and lemurs are just two species that show that non-human animals mourn their dead in ways very similar to us.Warning: this episode contains examples and anecdotes of death and loss regarding both humans and animals.Support the show

Not all top predators have to be as large as tigers and bears. As "fun size" humans, Katy and Laura have an appreciation for animals that are small but fierce. In this episode, they discuss some of nature's most incredible and deadly tiny  predators.Support the show

How much do you really know about sharks? Can you tell fact from fiction? In this week's episode, Laura and Katy go snout to snout to see who can spot the lies when it comes to these amazing aquatic predators!Support the show

 In this episode of For the Love of Nature, hosts Laura and Katy dive into the world of renewable energy, spotlighting geothermal and solar power. Discover the process of harnessing Earth's heat for clean energy and explore how much Laura and Katy really don't know about electricity. Join us in understanding these eco-friendly energy sources and their role in nurturing nature.Support the show

Discover the truth behind common animal myths in this engaging episode of 'For the Love of Nature.' Hosted by Laura and Katy, this nature comedy podcast takes a dive into the world of animal misconceptions. From bear hibernation to chameleon color-changing abilities, lone wolf behaviors, and even Ted Lasso's slip-up about goldfish memory, Laura and Katy separate fact from fiction with a humorous twist. Tune in to unravel the mysteries of nature and have a laugh along the way. Get ready to challenge what you know about animals in this enlightening and entertaining podcast episode.visit our website and merch!Support the show

Step into the world of Disney as we explore the accuracy of nature in films like The Emperor's New Groove, Robin Hood, A Bug's Life, and The Jungle Book. From waterfalls to prehistoric animals being brought back to life, join Laure & Katy  as they separate fact from fiction and discover the true wonders of the natural world behind these beloved classics. Support the show

While many of us have seen a chiropractor for our aches and pains, did you know that animals can see a chiropractor too? In this episode, Laura interviews Dr Lauren Alexander, co-founder of Champion Chiropractic Clinic. Lauren explains how similar chiropractic care is for both humans and animals, how it can improve overall quality of life and how to tell if your animal companion could use a visit. From snakes to horses, and all animals in between, animal chiropractic care might be just what your pet needs.For more information check out:www.championchiropracticclinic.comwww.facebook.com/championchiropracticofarkansaswww.animalchiropractic.orgivca.deSupport the show

Fireworks have entranced humans for over 2000 years and continue to be a part of many celebrations. Join Katy and Laura as they go over the origin of fireworks and the science behind what creates those beautiful, loud explosions. Happy Independence Day to all our American listeners! Because nothing says "America" like blowing stuff up...Support the show

Today we're talking about Katy's brain child and company, The Curiosity Network!🧠  Discover a world of curiosity and creativity with The Curiosity Network, a platform empowering individuals to unleash their creative potential. Join us in this insightful podcast episode as we sit down with The Curiosity Network's founder (our very own Katy!), to explore their comprehensive podcast solutions, online learning & workshops, merchandise & product support, and tailored strategies & consultations...and how YOU can be a part of it all. Tune in for inspiring conversations, fuel your creative journey and unlock new realms of possibility. Don't miss out on this captivating episode with The Curiosity Network, your gateway to unlimited inspiration, learning, and connection.The Curiosity Network websiteThe Orca Alliance Hat (part of the proceeds going to orca conservation)The Curiosity Network's TwitterSupport the show

Minerals have always been essential to life on Earth, but they have taken on greater meaning and value to humans throughout the ages. From creating the first sparks of a manmade fire and cave painting, to making a call on a cell phone or telling the time on your watch, minerals have shaped our culture. In this episode, Laura and Katy discuss what minerals are and what makes gems so special. Support the show

As incredible, complicated and sometimes even brutal as nature is, we don't have to always take it seriously. Join Katy and Laura for a "try not to laugh" challenge and hear some of the corniest nature jokes out there. Suns out puns out!Support the show

We humans have social ties to family, friends, communities, and other human beings. These bonds can be complicated and convoluted, but we are by no means the only animal to have complex social lives. Katy and Laura explore the social intelligence of of several different species who have more in common with us than many would think.Support the show

We are jumping in the deep end to start of Season 8 with another Living Things taxonomy episode! Jellyfish, coral, and anemones all have one thing in common....they're all cnidarians. Katy and Laura explain that although cnidarians may seem alien and unknown, they are some of the most fascinating creatures in our oceans. From nematocysts to immortality, you won't want to miss our 100th episode!Support the show

In this mini episode of For the Love of Nature, Allison Black and her guest, Amanda Jacobson, talk about what it's like to work as a biological science technician and plankton lab technician on one of NOAA's ship. Amanda explains how she collects plankton samples and shares some of the surprising creatures they've found. She also talks about the challenges of working on a ship, such as adjusting to the nocturnal schedule. Tune in to learn about the fascinating world of plankton and what it's really like to work on a ship.Support the show

In part 3 of this mini episode series of "For the Love of Nature",  Alison Black joins us from aboard a NOAA ship at sea once again. Allison and her guest, Mary Applegate, a marine mammal observer, discuss the two teams of observers on the survey, their typical day on the ship, and how they record sightings in the ocean. Mary also talks about the acoustics part of their work, where they deploy a recorder to listen to ocean noise and marine mammals. Support the show

In this episode, we continue our mini-series aboard NOAA's ship and join Allison Black and her guest Heidi Malicia, a marine mammal scientific observer, as they discuss their work in counting protected species like whales, and dolphins. Heidi talks about how they use the "big eyes" to contribute to an ongoing research project. This project, the Atlantic Marine Assessment Program, is focused on identifying and counting protected species. Heidi shares her favorite aspect of her job, and what people would think might be surprised to know about life at sea. Follow us as we continue on our journey with NOAA!Support the show

It's a season break here on For the Love of Nature, so that means it's minisode time! In this episode of the mini series, guest Allison Black, a seabird Observer and contractor for NOAA, discusses what it's like to work offshore on NOAA's research vessels, recording seabirds and other birds. Allison shares her experiences of identifying and observing a variety of seabirds for extended periods of time, gaining valuable skills and experience, and seeing rare birds that most people never get the chance to see. She also reveals what life on a ship is really like, including the duration of research cruises, the differences between research vessels and cruise ships, and the challenges of being at sea for an extended period of time. Support the show

In the Season 7 finale episode of "For the Love of Nature," host Katy speaks with Jeff Seevers about the harmful impact of zebra mussels on Texas waters. Zebra mussels are an invasive species that have spread rapidly across North America and can cause significant damage to aquatic ecosystems. Jeff shares his expertise on the topic, explaining why zebra mussels are a threat and what can be done to prevent their spread. Tune in to learn more about the importance of protecting our natural resources from harmful invasive species.Support the show

Humans have always been nervous about nocturnal creatures, and bats are no exception. Fear not dear listeners! Laura and Katy will help you to appreciate, and potentially even love, bats as much as they do. Find out all about flying foxes and flittermice in today’s episode!Support the show