Animal Behavior Conversations: The Podcast of The ABMA
The Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA) podcast focuses on animal care and training through operant conditioning. Host Shane Gorbett interviews animal care professionals and experts from around the world about training, behavior, enrichment, and welfare. Each episode breaks down the science of behavior change and aims to be a useful resource for animal trainers.
Episodes
83: Schedules of Reinforcement - Part 1 with Sue Pasquine, ZooTampa at Lowry Park
This episode Sue Pasquine, ZooTampa at Lowry Park and an ABMA Board Member, helps to define and break down “Schedules of Reinforcement”. This episode is Part 1 of a two part series breaking down the most commonly heard and used schedules of reinforcement. The episode starts with definitions of schedules of reinforcement and the two categories nonintermittent and intermittent. Next, continuous rei
82: Building Resiliency in Animals with Heidi Hellmuth, ABMA Founder
This episode Heidi Hellmuth, an ABMA founder, provides some great learning and advice for building resiliency, or coping skills, with animals. This podcast is a companion to Heidi’s presentation at the 2026 ABMA-IAATE annual conference titled “Building Resiliency in Animals from Anemones to Zebras”. The episodes starts with defining resiliency and practical applications to building resiliency in
81: The Behaviors of Training the Trainers with Megan Sanders, BehaviorWorks
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode Megan Sanders, BehaviorWorks, discusses the behaviors of training the trainers and advice on coaching people through the science and practical application of training. This podcast is a companion to Megan’s presentation at the 2026 ABMA-IAATE annual conference t
80: Creating Reinforcing and Challenging Environments with Gerry Creighton, Global Elephant Care
This episode Gerry Creighton, Global Elephant Care, discusses the importance of and advice for creating reinforcing and challenging environments for animals. Gerry starts the podcast by detailing his journey and the evolution of the Dublin Zoo and then discussing what it means to “borrow animals” for training. He gives advice on creatinine environments where animals aren’t looking to us for rein
79: Creating Dialogue when Training with Multiple Trainers with Amy Schilz, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffes
This episode Amy Schilz, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffes, provides some great learning and advice for creating a three way dialogue when training with multiple trainers. This podcast is a companion to Amy’s presentation at the 2026 ABMA-IAATE annual conference titled “Three Way Communication: Creating Clear Contingencies for Learners Work
78: Training Social Animals in a Group with One Trainer with SK Ivkovich, Dolphin Research Center
This episode SK Ivkovich, Dolphin Research Center, provides some great learning and advice for training social animals in a group with one trainer. This podcast is a companion to SK’s presentation at the 2026 ABMA-IAATE annual conference titled “Three’s a Crowd? Benefits of Training Social Animals in a Multi-Animal Group with One Trainer”. SK starts the discussion by advocating for the many benef
77: Recap of the 2026 ABMA-IAATE Joint Annual Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States with Tzu Ying Lee, Tom Morath, & Brett Williams
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2026 ABMA-IAATE Annual Joint Conference (March 30-April 2, 2026) hosted by Cincinnati Zoo in Ohio, United States. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them. Day 1: Brett Williams, North Carolina Zoo, United StatesDay 2: Tzu Ying Lee, Mandai Wil
76: The Behaviors of Partnering for Success - A Live Panel Recording from the ABMA-IAATE 2026 Annual Conference
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode, is a live panel recording from the 2026 ABMA-IAATE Joint Annual Conference in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States with live submitted questions from conference attendees. The panelists discuss “The Behaviors of Partnering for Success” and give advice for both formal
75: Enrichment - Where We're At and Where We're Going with a special guest panel of Nicki Boyd, Rick Hester, and Elly Neumann
To commemorate the 75th episode of the podcast, a special guest panel discuss current progressive practices in enrichment and the future of innovative enrichment strategies. The panel consists of Nicki Boyd (San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance), Rick Hester (Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & BehaviorWorks), and Elly Neumann (Jerusalem Zoo). The discussion starts with looking to nature to inform enrichment
74: The Behaviors of Leadership at Any Level - A Live Panel Recording from the ABMA 2025 Virtual Conference
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode, is a live panel recording from the 2025 ABMA Virtual Conference with live submitted questions from conference attendees. The panelists include leaders at all levels of animal care from keepers to curators to executive directors which give a holistic view and adv
73: Pets For Vets - ABMA's 2025 Premier Sponsor
This is a very special episode where we highlight ABMA’s 2025 Premier Sponsor: Pets for Vets with the organization’s founder and executive director Clarissa Black. Clarissa starts by discussing how the organization was formed, what the organization does, and their very important mission. She then gives information on how trainers can get involved with the organization and the process for applyin
72: Getting "Unstuck" in Training with Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy (ATA)
This episode Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy, discusses how to get “unstuck” in training. Ryan starts the episode by operationalizing what getting “stuck” in training may look like and the process of thinking “How do I get unstuck?” Ryan breaks down this process into three steps 1. Building a tool kit of knowledge 2. Having the Courage to Act and 3. Having the Systems for Learning in plac
71: The Behaviors of a Unified and Supportive Team - Part 2 with Dave O'Connell, Bearizona
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the people side of the animal care field. This episode, which is a continuation of episode 29, Dave O’Connell, Bearizona, discusses “The Behaviors of a Unified and Supportive Team”. The biggest takeaway from the entire episode is that one of the most important behaviors of a supportive team is the ability to talk wi
70: Chaining & Behavior Chains with Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
This episode Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, provides some great learning on behavior chains and the process of chaining. Justin starts by breaking down the process of chaining while giving practical application examples. The discussion then dives into how a behavior chain works and dissects what it means for each behavior in the chain to serve as both a discriminative stimulus and a con
69: Changing Conditions to Change Motivation - Part 2 with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo Group
This episode wraps up (for now) the two episode arc discussing how changing conditions can change motivation with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and the Kuzo Group. Before listening to this episode, please take the time to listen to Part 1 of this topic which is episode 68 of the podcast. This episode is a direct continuation of Episode 68 in which Wouter discusses a multitude of ways in which we
68: Changing Conditions to Change Motivation - Part 1 with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo Group
This episode begins a two episode arc discussing how changing conditions can change motivation with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and the Kuzo Group. In this episode Wouter discusses the many, and not exclusive, ways in which we can change conditions to change motivation that do not involve diet management. The episode begins by discussing motivation as a construct and a label and then breaking
67: Get Out of the Way and Let Behavior Happen with Ari Bailey, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode Ari Bailey, Natural Encounters, Inc., discusses a topic that she will be presenting on at the IAATE Symposium titled “Get Out of the Way and Let Behavior Happen.” The episode is a great conversation that focuses on recognizing when to fade out and when to implement specific tools such as baiting, prompts, target, etc. Ari also gives advice on how to approach others with ideas on cha
66: Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedure and Other Behavior Topics with Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works
This episode Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works, provides some great learning and insights into a multitude of current topics surrounding the science of behavior change. Dr. Friedman starts with discussing the Hierarchy of Behavior Change Procedures; what it is, how we can view it to provide optimal welfare to animals, and also the importance of antecedent arrangement and the environment to behav
65: Recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas, United States with Marie Filipe, Heidi Moomaw, Benjamin Fainted, Matthew Nguyen, & Li Shan Tan
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference (April 27 - May 2 2025) hosted by Moody Gardens in Galveston, Texas, United States. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them. Day 1: Marie Filipek, Zoo Tampa at Lowry ParkDay 2: Heidi Moomaw, Charles River LabsDay 3
64: The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care - A Live Panel Recording at the 2025 Annual Conference with panelist Tim Sullivan, Elly Neumann, Nicki Boyd, Anaka Nazareth, and Chris Jenkins
This episode was a live panel recording at the 2025 ABMA annual conference in Galveston Texas hosted by Moody Gardens. The expert panel consisted of Tim Sullivan - Brookfield Zoo, Elly Neumann - Jerusalem Zoo, Nicki Boyd- San Diego Zoo, Anaka Nazareth - National Aquarium, and Chris Jenkins - Natural Encounters Inc. The panel’s theme was “The Importance of Behavior in Modern Animal Care” with que
63: Training on the Continuum: Moving Away from Coercion and Towards Genuine Choice with Steve Martin, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc., discusses training on a continuum by moving away from coercion and towards genuine choice. Steve starts the episode by giving a review of the concepts of choice and… control with some practical examples. The discussion then turns to breaking down behavioral degrees of freedom, genuine choice, and coercion with many more gre
62: Motivation and its Affect on Behavior with Mel Paynter & Alyse Stitt, Georgia Aquarium
This episode Mel Paynter and Alyse Stitt, Georgia Aquarium, discuss motivation in the context of animal behavior and training. In part 1 of this two episode discussion Mel and Alyse discuss what motivation is, what it looks like in practice, and give some o-fish-ally great examples from the many aquatic species that they work with in the Ocean Voyager habitat at the Georgia Aquarium. They both d
61: Fading with Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia Zoo
This episode Shane Gorbett, Philadelphia Zoo and host of the podcast, discusses and breaks down fading. Shane first discusses examples of what fading looks like in practice and how we can apply the artful application of the science of behavior change in order to know when and how to fade. Shane also discusses the challenges of fading too quickly, too slowly, or not at all. Stay tuned in for Shan
60: Primary/Unconditioned & Secondary/Conditioned Reinforcers with Tricia Dees, Second Vice President of The ABMA
This episode Tricia Dees, the second vice president of the ABMA, continues on with the discussion from Episode 59 and goes deeper into primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers. Tricia gives some common examples of primary/unconditioned and secondary/conditioned reinforcers but also talks about how individual preference plays a role in determining what is actually a reinforcer f
59: Reinforcers and Punishers with Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean Park
Welcome back for the first episode of 2025! This episode Shawna Spencer, Coral World Ocean Park, dives deeper into breaking down reinforcers and punishers. This episode is full of examples and practical applications. Shawna starts with a brief introduction to primary and secondary reinforcers before listing examples of common reinforcers and punishers. The episode finishes with a discussion ab
58: Superstitious Behavior with Jose Bello, Disney's Animals, Science and Environment
This episode Jose Bello, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, discusses superstitious behavior. Jose starts with breaking down what it means for a behavior to be superstitious and examples of what that looks like in a practical application. Next, Jose educates about the “potential danger” in labeling behaviors as superstitious and how taking the blame away from the animal and placing it on
57: Training and Behavior in a Research Setting with Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC Davis
In a special ABMA Behavior Month 2024 episode, Jonelle Mason, California National Primate Research Center - UC Davis, discusses training and behavior in a research setting. Jonelle educates about the similarities and differences between training, cooperative care, and enrichment programs in a zoo compared to a research setting. Additionally, Jonelle talks about some of the unique challenges that a
56: The Modern Zookeeper and the Importance of Redefining What We Do with Sam Meinke, Palm Beach Zoo
This episode Sam Meinke, Palm Beach Zoo, and podcast host, Shane Gorbett, discusses what it means to be a modern zookeeper. The definition of what a zookeeper is and does has drastically changed and is constantly evolving as we continue to progress animal care forward. Some other modern zookeepers were kind enough to share what being a modern zookeeper means to them so Sam and Shane dissect those
55: A Free Operant Approach to Behavior Management with Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & BehaviorWorks
This episode Rick Hester, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and BehaviorWorks, discusses a free operant approach to behavior management. Rick starts with explaining the practical application of free operant behavior and, in order to get the full scope, also discusses discrete trial training and the relationship between the two. Breaking down some of the science, Rick educates about Lindsley's (1996) Four
54: The Behaviors of Effectively Giving and Receiving Feedback with Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Scott Trauger, Natural Encounters, Inc., dives deeper into a discussion centered around his presentation at the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference titled "Expanding Our Feedback Loop: Evolving the Way that We Give Feedback to Our Peers". Scott discusses the
53: Practical Applications of Choice and... Control" with Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
This episode we are joined by Tegan Noel, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, to discuss some practical applications and examples of providing choice and... control. This episode is a continuation of Episode 50 where Ken Ramirez broke down the science of choice and... control. The episode starts with Tegan commenting how the focus of those two topics have changed and shaped behavior in recent years.
52: Distant Antecedents: Navigating the Role They Play in Behavior with Chris Jenkins, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode we are joined once again by Chris Jenkins of Natural Encounters, Inc. in order to dive deeper into Antecedents, specially looking at Distant Antecedents and navigating the role they play in behavior. This episode is a continuation of Episode 6 where Chris broke down the fundamentals of Antecedents. The episode starts with defining the difference between immediate and distant antecede
51: The Behaviors of Successfully Implementing Change with Justin Garner, The Animal Behavior Management Alliance
This episode continues on "The Behaviors of..." series which dives into the human side of the animal care field. In this episode Justin Garner, Committee Chair for The ABMA, helps to give advice on how to successfully implement change. The discussion begins with ideas and advice on communicating ideas to others and how to then put those ideas into action. Justin and Shane also talk throu
50: Choice and ... Control with Ken Ramirez, Karen Pryor Clicker Training
For the 50th episode of the podcast, special guest Ken Ramirez, Karen Pryor Clicker Training breaks down what it means to provide animals with choice and... control. Ken discuss why these terms have often been connected and how to ensure that we are providing both for animals. Ken also speaks to the importance of training in a modern animal setting and how it can be used to help animals get to the
49: Stimulus Control with Sandy Jabas, First VP of The ABMA
This episode Sandy Jabas, The First VP of The ABMA, discusses what it means for a behavior to be under stimulus control. Sandy educates about how to tell if a behavior is under stimulus control and also the importance of stimulus control in our training. Sandy also teases the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas hosted by Moody Gardens! Stay tuned in for three "Training Tales"
48: Recap of the 2024 ABMA Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee with Benjamin Fainsod, Dr. Cathy Mingee, Cam Luna, and Chandelle Cotter
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2024 ABMA annual conference (April 15-19 2024) hosted by the Nashville Zoo. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo & The Animal Behavior Community (carnivores@jerusalemzoo.org)
Day 2: Dr. Cathy Mi
47: Providing Purposeful Lives to Animals with Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo Chicago
This episode Tim Sullivan, Brookfield Zoo Chicago and one of the founders of The ABMA, discusses how to use behavioral goals to provide purposeful lives to animals. Tim starts by giving a little history to the founding of The ABMA and then jumps into discussing why behavior is an all encompassing word. If you were at the 2024 ABMA annual conference in Nashville or if you are an ABMA member and wat
46: From Trauma to Trust: Building Relationships using Operant Conditioning with Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - Vietnam
This episode Sarah van Herpt, Animals Asia - Vietnam, discusses relationship and trust building with animals who previously lived in adverse and traumatic environments. Animals Asia rescues bears from the bear bile industry so Sarah is able to give practical examples of how they help the rescued bears move from trauma to trust. Sarah educates about desensitization and different techniques used to
45: Behavior Management in an Aquatic Setting - A Collaboration with AAZK for Spotlight on Aquariums Week with Sarah Snider Keys, AAZK, and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich, Dolphin Research Center
This episode is a collaboration with AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) for their "Spotlight on Aquariums Week". The guests for this episode are Sarah Snider-Keys from the Board of Directors of AAZK and Sarah (SK) Ivkovich from The Dolphin Research Center (DRC) as they discuss behavior management in an aquatic setting. Sarah and SK discuss some of the differences and challenges o
44: How to Start a Behavior Program with Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal Solutions
This episode Cassie Malina, Awesome Animal Solutions, discusses a topic that has been requested by multiple listeners: How to start a behavior program! Cassie starts by detailing what a behavior program could entail, where to start, and how to approach leadership and your team about the process. Cassie also discusses all of the benefits of starting a behavior program to both animal and human welln
43: The Importance of Body Language While Training with Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and The ABMA
This episode Heather Samper, Moody Gardens and “All Things ABMA”, discusses the importance of body language while training. The first part of the episode focuses on learning to read an animal learner’s body language, how to implement that into your sessions, and the benefits of being a keen listener of body language. The second portion of the episode focuses on why it is so vital for us as traine
42: The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping with Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park
This episode Kelli Meyers, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, discusses The 10 Modern Principles of Shaping as created by Karen Pryor and how they have evolved from "The 10 Laws of Shaping". Kelli breaks down each principle and gives advice on how to best implement and think about each of the principles. The 10 principles can be found below in the timestamps for this episode. Stay tuned in for Kell
41: Human Perception on Animal Intelligence and Its Effect on Behavior, Esther Verhoeven
This episode Esther Verhoeven discusses the human perception of animal intelligence (both from the point of view of an animal care professional and a guest) and how that effects behavior. The conversation starts with Esther discussing how behaviorists should view animal intelligence so that it doesn't create excuses or affect the way we manage the animals in our care. Esther finishes the discu
40: The Role of Self-Regulation in Animal Wellbeing
This episode Gabby Harris, uShake Sea World, discusses an article that she wrote for "Engage", the quarterly behavior publication of The ABMA. The article is titled "Welfare Considerations for Behavior Management of Animals in Human-Care: The Role of Self Regulation”. Gabby educates about why self-regulation can affect an animal's wellbeing and how we can provide opportunities f
39: Focusing on the Individual vs the Group or Species with Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild Enrichment
This episode Kyle Banton-Jones, Wild Enrichment, discusses the importance of focusing on the individual vs the group or species in regards to behavioral husbandry. This episode was recorded in collaboration with Kyle's podcast and is a compliment to episode 53 of the Wild Enrichment Podcast, so be sure to check out here: https://wildenrichment.podbean.com In continuation from that episode, Kyl
38: Prompts - Providing Additional Information with Dani Larson, Southwick's Zoo
This episode Dani Larson, Southwick's Zoo, discusses prompts and how they provide additional information to animal learners. Dani gives great examples of prompts and discusses the difference between a prompt and a discriminative stimulus. Additionally, Dani educates about the importance of fading prompts, but also how to utilize prompts when a behavior breakdown. Stay tuned in for a wild "
37: The Behaviors of Allyship with Meghan Holst, co-founder of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science)
This episode Meghan Holst, one of the co-founders of MIAZS (Minorities in Aquarium and Zoo Science), adds another addition to "The Behaviors of..." series by discussing the behaviors of allyship and giving insight in to MIAZS as an organization. Meghan educates about what allyship is and ways in which everyone can be involved in being an ally. Meghan also talks about how to professionall
36: Introduction to Welfare Assessments with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts
This episode special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, continues the welfare discussion from episode 35 with a focus on introducing the topic of Welfare Assessments. Sabrina discusses a holistic approach to welfare and the necessity of observational, research-focused data as opposed to emotional thinking in welfare assessments. Sabrina also explains the difference between output-based and in
35: Introduction to Welfare Science with Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts
This episode concludes Behavior Month 2023 with special guest, Sabrina Brando, AnimalConcepts, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Welfare Around the World. This episode serves as the podcast's introduction to welfare with plans for future episodes to dive deeper into the science of welfare. Sabrina explains what welfare science is and the different lenses in which we can
34: The Human-Animal Connection - Evaluating Our Relationships with Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner, The ABMA Board of Directors
This episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests from The ABMA Board of Directors; Chris Jenkins, Marni Wood, and Justin Garner. The panel of guests discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Human-Animal Connection. The panel talks about the importance of having strong, trusting relationships with animals and tackles the questions: how do we evaluat
33: The Evolution of Enrichment with Clarie Santiago & Hunter Peck, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode continues the learning of Behavior Month 2023 with special guests Clarie Santiago and Hunter Peck from Natural Encounters, Inc. who discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: The Evolution of Enrichment. This is also an exciting episode for the fact that this was a live, in-person recording at the NEI Ranch because NEI graciously hosted The ABMA's 2023 midyear meeting!
32: Cooperative Care - Asking Animals to Participate with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 & The Kuzo Group
This episode kicks off Behavior Month 2023 and we are joined once again by special guest, Wouter Stellaard from Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group, to discuss this week's theme for Behavior Month 2023: Cooperative Care. Wouter discusses what it means for animals to participate in cooperative care and the element of empowering animals to participate and giving them the voice to say yes or no. Wout
31: The Podcast in Review - Part Two - Discussions on Human Care, Molding, Criteria, and Labels with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner
The panel of guests from the previous episode returns to finish to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: the difference between capturing and molding, what it means for the criteria of a behavior to have a &
30: Classical and Operant and Schedules... Oh My! The Podcast in Review - Part One with Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, & Justin Garner
As this is the 30th episode of the podcast we have assembled a panel of guests to answer some of the questions that our listeners have submitted concerning the previous 29 episodes. Tricia Dees, Sarah Dugger, and Justin Garner all join the podcast again to answer and discuss a wide range of questions including: differences between classical and operant conditioning, variable schedules, reinforceme
29: The Behaviors of a Unified, Supportive Team - Part One with Dave O'Connell & Kyle Alexander, Bearizona
This episode kicks off a brand new, reoccurring series on the podcast called "The Behaviors of..." which will dive into the human side of the animal care field. Starting this series off is Dave O'Connell and Kyle Alexander, Bearizona, discussing the behaviors of a unified, supportive team. Dave and Kyle talk about what team behaviors have helped to create a healthy, positive work cul
28: Criteria: Defining the Behavior with Becky Wolf, San Diego Zoo
This episode Becky Wolf, San Diego Zoo, discusses criteria as it pertains to defining behaviors while training. Becky gives examples and a breakdown of the four aspects of a behavior that can be reinforced: topography, duration, frequency, and intensity. The episode ends with a discussion on why it is so important to both the animals, the individual trainer, and a team that a behavior has clear, d
27: The Many Applications of Target Training with Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This episode Grace Sullivan, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo , discusses another one of the most fundamental yet powerful training tools: Targets. There are so many applications for target training and Grace breaks down some of the practical applications of targets and how this "simple" behavior can enhance dialogue and give animals' control in their management. This episode is full of tons of
26: Creating and Implementing a Training Plan with Christina Lavallee, Zoo Atlanta
This episode Christina Lavallee, Zoo Atlanta and ABMA Board of Directors, discusses thoughts and ideas for creating, writing, and implementing a Training Plan. There is no one way to write a Training Plan and what works for everyone may be different, however, Christina gives ideas on what can be included in a Training Plan, how to get started, and how to give and receive feedback on Training Plan
25: Discriminative Stimulus/Cues with Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium
This episode Daisy Barrett, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium in Australia, discusses the science and application behind the Discriminative Stimulus (Sd)/Cues. Daisy walks through the many different types of Sds, when and how to introduce a cue, and how to adapt Sds as an animal ages. Stay tuned to hear about Daisy and Shane's favorite cues and for Daisy's "Training Tale" with lit
24: The Intersection of Behavior, Enrichment, and Training with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo
This episode is the second of our two part dive into enrichment. Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA, joins the podcast again to talk about the connection between behavior, enrichment, and training. Elly discusses training as enrichment, how training can help an enrichment program, and creating enriched environments and lives for animals. Stay tuned for Elly's "Tra
23: Goal-Based Enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo
This episode is the first of a two part discussion about enrichment with Elly Neumann, Jerusalem Zoo and President Elect of The ABMA. The focus of this episode is Goal-Based Enrichment and the evolution of how we view and implement enrichment opportunities. Elly discusses what goal-based enrichment looks like, how to plan it, how to record it, and how to get a team to buy into it. And make sure yo
22: Baiting with Jake Belair, Nashville Zoo
This episode Jake Belair, Nashville Zoo and the First VP of The ABMA, discusses another strategy for training behaviors: Baiting. Jake breaks down the challenges of baiting and why it shouldn't be the first option when training a behavior, however, it is still a tool in the training toolkit that has some practical applications. This episode is full of many real life behavior examples with a mu
21: Capturing/Scanning with Rodrico Michel (CPAT), Mandai Wildlife Group, Singapore
This episode features the first (of many) interviews with a guest currently not living in the United States. Zooming in from Singapore, Rodrico Michel (CPAT) with the Mandai Wildlife Group, joins the podcast to discuss capturing/scanning. Rodrico breaks down what this technique looks like in practice and the advantages, but also challenges of capturing/scanning. Tune in for some really interesting
20: Zoological Podcasters Assemble! Dr. Grey Stafford, Zoo Logic. Ryan Cartlidge, Animal Training Academy. Ari Bailey and Chris Jenkins, The TEC Talk Podcast
This episode Shane Gorbett, the host of "Animal Behavior Conversations", is joined by four other incredible hosts of three other like-minded, zoological and behavior-based podcasts. Joining Shane in this episode is Chris Jenkins and Ari Bailey, the hosts of The TEC Talk Podcast, Dr. Grey Stafford, the host of Zoo Logic, and Ryan Cartlidge, the host of Animal Training Academy Podcast Show
19: Podcast Throwback - Keynote Presentation From the 2022 ABMA Virtual Conference by Dr. Joe Layng Titled "Consequences, Superimposition, Coercion and Their Non-Linear Alternatives"
Welcome to the first ever "Animal Behavior Conversations - Podcast Throwback!" This episode is not in the traditional, interview style but rather is a recording of the keynote presentation for the 2022 ABMA Virtual Annual Conference. The keynote speaker was Dr. Joe Layng and his presentation was titled, "Consequences, Superimposition, Coercion and Their Non-Linear Alternatives." Dr. Layng’s histor
18: Shaping With Successive Approximations with Tricia Dees
This episode Tricia Dees, ABMA Sponsorship Chair, breaks down shaping and you can't talk about shaping without also talking about successive approximations. Tricia discusses how successive approximations can be utilized when training novel behaviors and their role when behaviors break down or regress. Tricia also offers ideas on what to do and think about if an animal is not reaching the crite
17: Click, Whistle, Good: All About Bridges with Marni Wood, Zoo Miami
This episode Marni Wood, Zoo Miami and ABMA Board of Directors, talks all things bridging stimulus. Marni breaks down the many types of things used as bridges and how a bridge is trained using respondent conditioning. She also talks through something we will have all done in our career and that is what to do when you bridge at the wrong moment. Tune in for Marni's "Training Tale" abo
16: What Does That Look Like? Discussing Training in Terms of Behavior and Not Labels with Katie Stevens, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
This episode Katie Stevens, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, breaks down what it means to "label" an animal and the risks associated with using labels while training. She discusses how labels can lead to poor communication and potentially set up an animal or a training session to fail before it even begins. Katie provides strategies and alternatives to labels that allow us to discuss training
15: Finding the Time to Train with Stephanie Tien, North Carolina Zoo
This episode we take a break from discussing a specific training topic and instead talk about a challenge that most of us in the animal care field have faced: finding the time to train. The core of this episode stems from a quote by Ken Rameriz which is "Don't look at training as a luxury or fringe benefit: it is an essential part of an animal's life." This episode's guest, S
14: The Science is the Same: From Zoo Training to Pet Training with Sarah Dugger, Good Dog and Company
May is National Pet Month so this episode Sarah Dugger from Good Dog and Company discusses that, while the environments may be different, the principles and applications of the science of behavior change is the same between training in a zoo and training pets. Since Sarah started her career in a zoological setting, she is able to provide a unique perspective on the future of animal training in th
13: Punishment and Why We Don't Use It with Justin Garner, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
This episode Justin Garner of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, returns to break down both Positive and Negative Punishment. We discuss practical applications of using Punishment and the "side effects" of its usage. Punishment focuses on what the animal shouldn't do, as opposed to providing the information of what they should do. Tune in for Justin's fun "Training Tale" about a
12: Negative Reinforcement and Why We Focus on Positive Reinforcement with Anaka Nazareth, National Aquarium and current President of The ABMA
This episode current President of The ABMA, Anaka Nazareth of the National Aquarium, continues our discussion about reinforcement from Episode 9 by breaking down Negative Reinforcement. We discuss practical applications of using Negative Reinforcement including using this method as a way to give animals control and a voice in their training. However, the episode ends with an explanation of why we
11: The Trainer's Mindset: The Importance of How We Talk and Think About Training with Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group
This episode Wouter Stellaard, Behavior 360 and The Kuzo Group, continues the discussion about Tokitae, the killer whale, and touches on the importance of using data to make informed welfare decisions. Additionally, Wouter discusses the importance of putting the animals' successes first and how we talk and think about training. Tune in for some amazing training stories from Wouter including p
10: Past is Prologue - Using Our Knowledge to Do What is Best for Tokitae (Lolita) with Mark Simmons, author of “Killing Keiko: The True Story of Free Willy’s Return to the Wild”
This episode Mark Simmons, author of “Killing Keiko: The True Story of Free Willy’s Return to the Wild”, dissects the recent news about the plans to release Tokitae, the killer whale, and two Pacific white-sided dolphins, Li-i and Loke, into the waters of the Pacific Northwest. Mark also discusses his talk at the 2023 conference, "Past is Prologue", which focused on the role of trainers
9: Positive Reinforcement - Empowering Animals with Andie Haugen, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
This episode Andie Haugen, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, discusses the the big one: Positive Reinforcement! Positive Reinforcement is an amazing tool to empower animals and allows for each animal to learn in their own way. Tune in for a two for one "Training Tales" from Andie where she recounts how she captured an animal to mimic the legendary Indiana Jones theme song and describe
8: Recap of the 2023 ABMA/IMATA Conference in Atlanta, Georgia with Benjamin Fainsod, Justin Garner, Jen Dew, Sherona Dhunraj, & Maggie Santangelo
This episode, through daily live recordings, features a recap of the 2023 ABMA/IMATA joint conference (March 5-10 2023) hosted by Zoo Atlanta and the Georgia Aquarium. Each day of the conference, one of the presenters for the day discusses their presentation and other learning that impacted them.
Day 1: Benjamin Fainsod, Jerusalem Zoo (carnivores@jerusalemzoo.org)
Day 2: Justin Garner, Busch Gard
7: Consequences with Pablo Joury, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
This episode Pablo Joury, Curator of Pinnipeds at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, discusses Consequences and finishes our breakdown of the ABCs of Behavior! We start with a quick run down of reinforcement and punishment and then continue on exploring the many different ways consequences can be applied while training. Tune in for our first in-person podcast and for Pablo's "Training Tale&qu
6: Antecedents with Chris Jenkins, Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode Chris Jenkins of Natural Encounters, Inc. continues our discussion about the ABCs of Behavior with the start of it all: Antecedents! We discuss how antecedents set the stage for successful behaviors and how our business cards should read "Professional Antecedent Rearrangers" since that is such a powerful tool while shaping behavior. Tune in for Chris's fun "Tra
5: The ABCs of Behavior with Nicki Boyd, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance
This episode Nicki Boyd, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, discusses the namesake of the podcast: The ABCs of Behavior! Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence and how we can utilize the ABCs of Behavior to help us maintain and train new behaviors. Tune in for some amazing training stories from Nicki about emergency recall training with bears, tigers, polar bears, and gorillas. You can also r
4: Operant Conditioning - Reinforcing for Tomorrow with Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc.
This episode Steve Martin, President and CEO of Natural Encounters, Inc. and a leader in the field of behavior management, starts our deep dive into the science of behavior change with the crux of it all: Operant Conditioning! We discuss the importance of having the mindset of reinforcing for tomorrow and how the artful application of training includes a dialogue, with two-way communication,
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