The Fur Real Podcast with Mark A Kyle

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.

All aboard for the world’s most purr-fect rescue! 🚤🐾 In the heart of Amsterdam floats De Poezenboot—the famous Cat Boat. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a floating sanctuary where rescued cats find safety, care, and maybe even their forever home.This week,Paula Combs tells the story of how a quirky idea became an international icon of compassion. You’ll hear about the cats who call the canals home, the volunteers who keep the boat afloat, and the surprising ways tourists and locals alike are touched by this floating feline family.From meows on the water to tails of second chances, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the most magical rescues happen where you least expect them—like on a houseboat full of whiskers. 🐱⚓www.furrealpodcast.comwww.depoezenboot.nlig@De Poezenboot ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@Dr Poezenboot fb@ Mark A Kyletiktok @depoezenboot tiktok @The Fur Real PodcastFor donations click the link belowWith you support we are able to help a lot of cats. https://www.ing.nl/payreq/m/?trxid=w3KA8qCGpRcEQhTXwocrcf5GmvkPO85ZSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fireflies aren’t just summer nostalgia—they’re nature’s little magicians. ✨Dr. Sara Lewis, the world’s leading “firefly person,” professor emerita at Tufts, and author of Silent Sparks.joins the show.Sara takes us behind the glow, sharing how fireflies flirt with light signals, the wild (and sometimes sneaky) ways they attract mates, and why our backyards may hold more magic than we realize. From moonlit meadows to cutting-edge conservation, it’s a sparkling journey into the lives of these magical insects—and a reminder that wonder is just a flash away.www.furrealpodcast.comig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@Mark A Kye tik tok@ The Fur Real PodcastTED TalkSilent Sparks: The Wondrous World of Fireflies Threads: @silentsparksSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Lisa Spector, concert pianist and founder of My Zen Pet and her new venture, Canine Classical. Lisa has devoted her career to creating calming music designed specifically for dogs, blending her virtuoso performance with a passion for canine well-being.In this episode, Lisa shares the science and inspiration behind her work, the journey from concert halls to composing for pets, and the launch of her new company and new album focused on canine relaxation and enrichment. As a special treat, Lisa sits at the piano during the conversation and plays a piece by Chopin—just for the dogs.Discover how classical music can transform your pet’s environment, reduce stress, and strengthen the bond between you and your four-legged companion.www.canineclassical.com www.furrealpodcast.comig@myzenpet ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakylefb@ Canine Classical fb@ Mark A Kyletik tok@ Canine Classical tik tok@the fur real podcastListen to samples and streaming here (Chopin for Dogs & Dog Gone Calm) ➡️ https://canineclassical.com/listenNew website ➡️ https://CanineClassical.comFREE Get in Tune With Your Dog Through Music Checklist ➡️ https://CanineClassical.com/InTuneSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pippa Ehrlich, acclaimed director of My Octopus Teacher, Kulu’s Journey, The Pangolin Story, and My Mercury, joins this week’s conversation to share her extraordinary path as a filmmaker and conservation storyteller. She reflects on how her work brings hidden animal lives and fragile ecosystems to the screen while inspiring global audiences to care more deeply about the natural world. Pippa also highlights the mission of the Sea Change Project, which connects people to the ocean through immersive storytelling and champions the urgent protection of South Africa’s Great African Seaforest. And her journey continues...www.furrealpodcast.com www.seachangeproject.comig@the_rewilding ig@seachangeproject ig@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcastfb@ Pippa Ehrilich fb@Sea Change Project fb@Markakyletik tok The Fur Real PodcastSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What happens when the jungle becomes a parliament? In this episode, world-renowned primatologist Dr. Shirley Strum takes us deep into the lives of baboons—animals whose complex societies mirror the political games, alliances, and betrayals we see in our own world.From power struggles and unexpected leadership shifts to the surprising role of cooperation, Dr. Strum reveals the hidden “politics” that shape baboon troops in the wild. With over 50 years of groundbreaking field research in Kenya, she brings eye-opening stories and insights that challenge everything you thought you knew about these intelligent and often misunderstood animals.Whether you’re fascinated by animal behavior, human parallels, or simply curious about how nature negotiates power, this episode will keep you hooked from start to finish.www.thefurrealpodcast www.baboonsrus.comfb@markakyle ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyle tik tok@thefurrealpodcastUASI NGIRO BABOON PROJECTEchos of our origins: baboons, human and naturehttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=echoes+of+our+origins+baboons%2C+humans%2C+and+nature&crid=27PX3CVY2TMHM&sprefix=Echoes+of+Our+Origins%2Caps%2C324&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_21_p13n-pd-dpltr-rankerSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

They may be tiny, fuzzy, and undeniably adorable — but sugar gliders are far more than just cute faces. In this episode, Alea Holladay, founder of Sugar Glider Guardians, shares the real story behind these fascinating marsupials. From their incredible ability to glide through the air to the challenges of keeping them as pets, Alea reveals what most people don’t know about sugar glider care, behavior, and rescue. She also takes us behind the scenes of “Operation Face Hug,” one of the largest sugar glider rescues ever undertaken, and explains how education and community support are saving gliders from a cycle of neglect. Whether you’re a sugar glider fan or just love animal rescue stories, this conversation will open your eyes to the big world of these little creatures.www.furrealpodcast.com www.sugargliderguardians.comfb@Sugar Glider Guardians fb group@Super Glider Guardians fb@markakyleig@SugarGlidersGuardians ig@thefurrealpodcast ig@markakyletik tok@thefurrealpodcastSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Majestic, powerful, and cloaked in mystery — the Bengal tiger has long captured the imagination of the world. This week, world-renowned wildlife biologist Ullas Karanth takes us deep into the heart of tiger country, sharing his decades of experience studying and protecting these incredible big cats. From the dense jungles of India to the cutting-edge science used to track and conserve tiger populations, Ullas reveals what makes Bengal tigers both fearsome predators and vital symbols of a thriving ecosystem. Along the way, you’ll hear surprising insights about their behavior, the challenges of living alongside them, and what it really takes to ensure their survival for generations to come.www.thefurrealpodcastig@thefurrealpodcass ig@markakylefb@Mark A Kyletik tok@ thefurrealpodcastSpeical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!Special thanks to Jake Olson jfolson.music@gmail.com for awesome sound editing and to our supporters:www.prepvet.com Stem cells for petsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.