Launching a Successful Wildlife Career After Losing Your Job: Interview with Wildlife Biologist Jamie Bowles

Sometimes, when you think the worst happens, it can actually be the best thing. For wildlife biologist Jamie Bowles of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, losing her job in the medical field launched her wildlife career…I met Jamie through LinkedIn. She has been so supportive of my posts, and I quickly recognized that, like me, she prioritized and loved mentoring. With her ample and sage advice about getting into wildlife careers, I knew she would be the perfect guest for the podcast.Throughout this interview, Jamie calls herself lucky. I don’t think she’s lucky at all. Rather, she did the RIGHT things to set herself up so that when opportunities were available, they were GIVEN to her. As the Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Jamie set herself up for success.Now having worked at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for nine years, Jamie has held a multitude of different jobs. She started out working in fish, but later moved on to work on everything from habitat, to wolves, to now porcupines, and working with the public. She also did this while being a mom of four! As you’ll find out from our interview, Jamie had children when she was 18 and went to college after she became a mom. In her wildlife career, she was always going to school and working towards getting this career while balancing it with motherhood, and she has some amazing wisdom about how she did it.However, Jamie’s story is not without its challenges–she got a later start in her career than more traditional students, having turned to wildlife biology after losing her job in the medical field amidst the COVID-19 pandemic (which she later realized was a blessing in disguise!). She returned to school as a non-traditional student, being older and also a mom.Although Jamie was aware of these challenges, she didn’t let them hold her back. She was strategic. Through networking, flexibility, and operating with knowledge of a long-term career plan, Bowles was well-prepared when opportunity presented itself. Luck alone would not have gotten her to where she is today!I have worked with hundreds of students, sharing my over 20 years of knowledge as a wildlife biologist to help them land permanent careers in this field, and I know for a FACT that you don’t need luck to land your dream job – you make it happen.Jamie’s hard work has led her all over Oregon, working with numerous species of wildlife. From backpacking up the mountains as an intern with fish in bags (yes, fish in bags!), to managing wolf-human relationships, to launching a community science project to document North American porcupine presence, Jamie Bowles has truly done it all! I can’t wait for you to listen to this episode and hear all about the exciting, fun, and crazy stories she has to tell.Jamie also recognizes that success is not a path that is walked alone. She stresses the importance of mentorship, and we talk all about how to find a mentor, what you can gain from mentorship, and the role it played in her career. Once a mentee, and now a mentor herself, check out Jamie Bowles’ LinkedIn for great advice about wildlife careers!If you’re interested in wildlife biology, especially as a non-traditional student or career switcher, you will be left inspired following along with Jamie Bowles’ journey and how she got to where she is today. Her resilience will motivate you, and her wisdom will leave you feeling like you, too, can conquer not only the challenges that this field presents but whatever personal obstacles you’re facing as well.You will learn that Jamie put herself out there, that she was actively networking, and she made opportunities happen for her.Specifically, I go over:Jamie Bowles’ experience working in wildlife biology at the state level and how she landed her first jobsWhat it’s like to work in different types of positions within a state agency, and what it takes to get jobs like thoseThe competitive nature of wildlife careersThe importance of networking and finding good mentorsHow experience and education help you land a permanent position in wildlife careersCrazy experiences she’s had while on the jobWhat it’s like working with wolvesHer experiences working in wildlife biology as a mom of four And MORE!Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/127-rosanne-parry/Jump Links:00:00 Introduction to the Episode01:34 The Fancy Scientist: Embracing the Title03:44 Jamie’s Role at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife04:58 Career Path: From Intern to District Wildlife Biologist13:44 The Importance of Networking in Wildlife Careers14:53 Volunteering and Gaining Experience18:04 LinkedIn for Wildlife Careers Masterclass21:51 Fisheries: A Gateway to Wildlife Careers23:47 Pursuing a Master's Degree in Wildlife25:13 Overcoming Educational Gaps in Wildlife Careers25:50 The Sierra Nevada Red Fox Project26:15 Pursuing Higher Education in Wildlife Management27:19 Career Opportunities Without a Master's Degree28:38 The North American Porcupine Project31:14 Working as an Assistant Wolf Biologist34:12 Balancing Motherhood and a Wildlife Career39:29 Unusual and Memorable Wildlife Experiences41:32 The Importance of Mentorship in Wildlife Careers45:56 Final Thoughts and EncouragementLet’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

You’ve heard about the importance of pollinators, but what exactly is it? When you learn what pollination consists of, you’ll quickly realize it truly is a miracle of nature! This week on the Wildlife Biology for Kids Club, we’re diving into the fascinating world of pollination—how it happens, who some pollinators are, and why it's essential for our survival. You'll discover how pollen travels from the anthers to the stigma to create seeds, and why this process is vital for the food we eat, the clothes we wear, and even the medicines we take. I’ll challenge you to find pollination in action right in your own backyards! To get the downloadable activities associated with this video for children, enroll in the Wildlife Biology for Kids Club here: https://stephanieschuttler.com/wildlife-biology-kids-program/Are you a parent wanting to get your kids outside and learning about wildlife? Join the Wildlife Biology for Kids Club! Every week you'll receive exclusive access to the accompanying downloadable activities, printables, get connected with a community of like-minded individuals, and more. 🦊 Enroll in the Wildlife Biology for Kids Club here: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-biology-kids-program/Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/128-pollination/Let’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

When we think about saving the environment, kids aren’t typically the first thing that comes to mind for most people – especially when it comes to fiction books written for children. But maybe that’s an important missing link…I’ve been seeing more and more scientists coming out with children’s books, and to be completely honest, it’s something I’ve thought about myself! In fact, I remember reading the book 50 Simple Things Kids Can Do to Save the Earth, and it had a profound impact on me.You see, over my 20 years of working in science, first as a researcher and then leading a citizen science program focused on middle school kids, I realized that science alone cannot save a species.For most species, the solutions to their conservation challenges are embedded in how people view wildlife whether it’s from an educational, political, economic, or cultural lens. And it’s difficult to change adults’ minds.By working on such conservation issues over the years and understanding their root cause, the importance of keeping children interested in nature from a young age has become more and more clear to me.When kids love nature early on, it sets them up to be lifelong environmental advocates, stewards of nature, and conservationists. While adults tend to have their minds made up, kids are still curious; they’re still learning about the world and how it works.That’s where children’s author Roseanne Parry comes in. She connects children to nature through the fiction novels that she writes. Parry has authored books such as A Wolf Called Wander, a #1 Indie Best Seller, A Wolf Called Fire, a 2025 Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection, and A Horse Named Sky, which debuted on the New York Times Middle Grade Hardcover Best Sellers List at #4, continuing on the list for over 30 weeks.Parry’s books are written from the perspective of different animals, including orcas, mustangs, and more. She conducts thorough research on the species to ensure scientific accuracy, but crafts stories from fiction, allowing children to view the world and understand it from an animal’s perspective, ultimately creating empathy.If you’re interested in publishing, reaching a younger audience, or learning about how kids are key to saving and supporting our environment, you won’t want to miss this interview with Rosanne Parry. I finished this podcast feeling inspired by her story. She has great advice not just for aspiring authors, but also for how getting interested in nature.Specifically, I go over:Roseanne Parry’s journey to becoming a children’s authorHow she comes up with ideas for her best-selling booksHer research process before writing so that her material is scientifically accurate, while engagingWhat her writing process is like and how she goes about itHow she makes a living as an authorTips for writing and publishing a children’s bookThe differences between self-publishing and working with a publisherAnd MORE!Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/127-rosanne-parry/Jump Links:00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview02:15 The Journey to Becoming a Children's Author03:55 Balancing Writing and Family Life07:05 The Inspiration Behind Animal-Centric Stories09:47 Writing Process and Research16:18 Publishing Children's Books: A Guide22:29 Exploring Middle Grade Books22:47 Challenges of Writing for Young Children23:47 Inspiring Young Readers and Writers26:40 Citizen Science and Nature Exploration29:16 Female Perspectives in Science35:19 The Financial Realities of a Writing Career39:51 Upcoming Projects and Final ThoughtsLet’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

Chances are, you've seen the headlines that the dire wolf is no longer extinct. The company Colossal Biosciences claims to have brought it back from extinction in the form of three living, breathing dire wolf pups.But my headlines have actually been flooded with scientists saying “not so fast…” so what is really going on here? Having studied African forest elephants using genetics during my Ph.D., a species related to the extinct woolly mammoth and a target of de-extinction efforts, this topic has long been on my mind to discuss on the podcast. Given the recent dire wolf news, I’ve been getting so many questions about this, that I thought it would be a great time to discuss this and prepared this episode as soon as I could (despite a myriad of technical difficulties). De-extinction is the concept of bringing back a fully extinct species back to life and as you’ve seen now as evidenced from the dire wolves, scientists are actively working on it. But should they be? And why? First, I break down the dire wolf headlines, offering insight into the scientific process of de-extinction as a whole, how the team at Colossal Biosciences approached de-extinction and why, and how most scientists feel about their result: Are these really dire wolves? I then open up to a larger conversation about de-extinction: why are scientists attempting to de-extinct species at all? Is there conservation merit in doing so? Which species are being considered? I address a plethora of topics as well as moral and ethical considerations. Specifically, I go over: What exactly is de-extinction and how it can be doneWhy de-extinction is so hard to actually doHow Colossal Biosciences resurrected what they are calling the dire wolfWhat scientists think of Colossal’s dire wolves; are they really dire wolves? Why or why not?Insights on how scientists think about species in generalWhat else goes into a species being a species aside from geneticsWhat is the point of de-extinction? Why should scientists attempt it? Which kinds of species are being considered?My opinions on de-extinction: which species are okay to bring back and whyDoes de-extinction help conservation? How? How de-extinction can hurt conservation effortsHow the Trump administration is attempting to use de-extinction efforts to undermine the Endangered Species ActAnd more!Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/126-de-extinction/Jump links:01:14 My Scientific Background and Expertise03:07 Understanding De-Extinction04:28 How De-Extinction Works, & Why It’s So Hard to Do09:27 Woolly Mammoth and Tasmanian Tiger De-Extinction Challenges12:01 The Dire Wolf Project by Colossal Biosciences15:27 Scientific Skepticism and Ethical Considerations22:15 Why Colossal Chose the Dire Wolf24:41 Species Concepts and Controversies27:49 More Than Genetics: What Makes a Species a Species31:39 Why Bring an Extinct Species Back32:39 Argument of Ecological Restoration of Resurrected Species39:13 Ethical and Moral Considerations40:45 Is De-extinction Good for Conservation?46:11 De-extinction and the Endangered Species ActLet’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

Are you somebody who really cares about wildlife and conservation and you're trying to get people to change their behavior? Reduce their carbon footprint? Get them to not litter? Or keep their cats indoors to save birds? Whether it’s getting people to switch to clean energy sources or eating less meat to help save the planet, all of these things all require human behavior change, and the foundation of such change is communication. A lot of people tend to think we just need to educate people more - that people have a deficiency in knowledge, and that if only we could get people to understand the data and studies like we do, then they would see the error in their ways. But as we've seen with well-researched topics with lots of supporting data and studies like climate change and vaccines, this is not true. There is more to it! We need effective communication, which requires dialogue. This week’s podcast is inspired by two events: (1) the results of the 2024 election here in the United States where we saw the public vote for an administration that is anti-environment and science and (2) the aftermath of me reading an eye-opening, enlightening, and highly entertaining book on the subject of rethinking by social scientist Adam Grant: Think Again. In this episode I talk about how to be a more effective communicator, get people to rethink their opinions and values (including yourself!), and teach you how to have productive, engaging, and useful debates with people who think, at times, very differently than you. I am living proof it is possible!The lessons shared largely come from the book Think Again, but also my own personal experience engaging with and even being friends with people from “the other side.” You’ll learn how to reframe your perspective on arguments so you don’t feel exhausted, angry, or drained, how effective listening is critical in debate, and how providing nuance, multiple perspectives, and humility can make you more effective in changing minds. Often when we talk about working with wildlife, we think about it from the animal's perspective and studying the species, but in reality, almost all of the conservation solutions with declining biodiversity have to do with interventions on the human side. Want to save wolves? We need to reduce poaching. Want to save monarchs? We need to get people to plant more milk weed and reduce habitat loss. These things require interventions on the human side. So if you are someone who works in science or conservation, or are simply someone who wants to create more positive change in the world, then this episode is for you!Specifically I talk about: Why it’s important to engage in debate and that it doesn’t have to be hostile, exhausting, or heatedHow debate makes us stronger leaders and better scientistsHow spirited discussions helped Disney create Pixar’s The Incredibles that went on to win two OscarsHow to reframe arguments into debates and learn how to dance rather than fightCommon “don’ts” and mistakes that many people make that close people off and cause them to dig more into their original beliefsHow to motivate someone to share information with youWhy facts alone don’t work in changing mindsThat asking questions activates a rethinking cycle in your debate partner (and yourself!)Why listening is critical to getting people to open up and be receptiveHow the “vaccine whisperer” got people to vaccinate their children through non-judgemental empowerment and listeningThat binary or black and white thinking can actually cause people to move away from your causeHow uncertainty and humility can make you more effective in changing mindsAnd more!Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉https://stephanieschuttler.com/125-facts-dont-change-minds/Jump links:00:22 Challenges in Science Communication01:19 The Role of Personal Experience and Think Again book01:53 Human Interaction in Wildlife Conservation03:40 Why Engage in Debate09:00 Changing Perspectives on Arguing: The Dance of Debate10:08 Don'ts in Science Communication12:40 Building Relationships Outside the Screen14:24 Engaging with the Opposition16:39 Finding Common Ground with Wildlife Enthusiasts16:55 Managing Emotions in Heated Discussions17:50 The Power of Genuine Compliments18:31 Engaging with Curiosity and Questions21:43 The Art of Motivational Listening22:35 Building Trust and Empowering Others29:23 Introducing Nuance and Gray Areas32:55 Avoiding Jargon and Being Approachable34:50 Next Steps and Call to ActionLet’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

I’m not going to lie…things seem pretty dire here right now in the United States for the environment, conservation, and wildlife. Because of what the current administration is doing, people are worried and understandably so. Things are quite honestly in chaos right now and there have already been severe consequences for those who work in wildlife.Over the past couple of weeks, my social media feeds have been flooded with images of the thousands of federal workers who have unfairly lost their jobs in the name of government budget cuts. Funding for conservation, research, and protections is and will continue to be slashed, and even whole organizations within our federal government are under threat of being taken away.Although it’s not quite clear yet what things are going to hold up legally in court, the results have already impacted people who work in wildlife. Entire livelihoods have been shattered from people losing their critical paychecks doing what they loved while serving and protecting our wildlife, land, and environment.In the previous episode of the Fancy Scientist podcast, I talked about what we can do as individuals to continue to stand up for what we believe in while bridging the gap to others who voted differently than us so that we can reclaim the necessary political power to enact pro-wildlife legislation. But when scrolling through my social media feeds and seeing the faces of those who lost their jobs, I realized people really needed help.One post on Instagram left a particularly strong impact on me. It was a post that offered some hope by someone who secured a wildlife job under the first Trump administration. And what I could see from this post was that it was really needed by people out there. Some said they read the post and left crying because they desperately needed some help and encouragement during these unprecedented times.This post really inspired me. If you are not new to this podcast, you’ll know that a huge focus of mine is those in wildlife careers, so if this is you, then you’ll definitely want to listen to the whole episode. Here I take the time to address the concerns of those who may have lost their job, are worried about losing their job, or are feeling anxiety about the increasing competition from fewer now being offered in our field.Honestly, no matter where you are in your career, the advice today is going to apply to you.So for those of you who are in wildlife, environmental, or conservation careers and are feeling panicked, maybe wondering, “How do I handle this new administration? How do I handle this new landscape?” This episode is for you!I know you don’t want to give up your lifelong dream of having a wildlife career, but the reality is, I know some of you are thinking about it. As I read that Instagram post, I read numerous comments from people saying they felt like they had to give it all up considering what is going on. But you DON’T.In this episode, I give you hope, concrete tips on what you can do if you are in a wildlife profession, how you can navigate this new administration and landscape, and reassure you that there’s going to be jobs for you, that you are needed, that your work is important and valuable.Specifically I go over:The illusion of a permanent jobHow the landscape of jobs has and is still changing, and how to handle itThe misconception that you have to work continuously in this field – gaps to take other jobs are okay!How to make things work for you in the long run if it feels like you need to take a pause from wildlife work (either wanted or unwanted)Past experiences and results of wildlife work during administrations unfavorable to wildlife and conservationThinking outside of the box and implementing creative solutions in wildlife workHow to start making yourself competitive as possible so that when the right job is available, you get itAnd more!Dream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://fancyscientist.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Full show notes:👉https://fancyscientist.com/124-wildlife-careers-in-crisis/Jump links:00:00 Introduction: Current Environmental Concerns00:45 Finding Hope in Uncertain Times01:19 Career Advice for Wildlife Professionals03:05 The Illusion of Permanent Jobs06:58 Navigating the New Administration10:14 Mindset and Career Development19:44 Concrete Steps for Job Seekers27:34 Creative Solutions and Side Hustles32:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLet’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

We recently had an election here in the United States, and now have just started this new administration. For so many of us out there, especially in the conservation and environmental space, this one was and is going to be TOUGH. I normally don't talk about politics on the Fancy Scientist podcast because I want to be as inclusive as possible and that STILL stands for today's episode - you are welcome no matter how you voted. In fact, a big part of this week’s episode is about how to keep connections and conversations going with others in spite of huge political differences. The reality is that wildlife research, science, and conservation are HEAVILY dependent on politics; they are innately intertwined.There are several goals I want to accomplish with this week’s podcast. First, I want to help others, like myself, who were deeply affected by the results of this election. I discuss why this election is so different from others, even from the 2016 election, and why it has affected people in such a heavy way. Sharing my personal experience, I offer tips on how I'm dealing that you can apply to your own life. My next goal is to encourage, inspire, and hopefully motivate you to keep connections and the importance of doing so, as well as potentially having uncomfortable conversations. The core premise of this podcast and the mission of my brand is conservation and we can't do that with just the people who think like us. If we stay isolated and in our own bubble, we will keep repeating the results we got with this election.It is possible to maintain positive connections with people who vote differently than you and this is incredibly important for our conservation efforts to persist. I’ve created and maintained friendships with people who have very different opinions on topics that I care deeply about a lot. In fact, some of my biggest social media fans are Trump voters! In this episode, I share with you strategies and ways of thinking that you can use for talking to people that are not draining, antagonistic, or make you feel like you have to convince the other person.Finally, I've gotten the sense and actual feedback from people that they are afraid to speak out for the things that they believe in and before felt comfortable talking about. I was amazed to hear that some of my friends in science communication who are normally vocal about the issues that they care about, like climate change, were starting to feel uncomfortable discussing the same issues they regularly talked about before the election. Using the results of the election and a new perspective in looking at them, I hope to give you some inspiration that we can't give up, won't give up, and that there’s more people than you may think right now supporting our goals for the environment. Before you listen to this episode, I want to acknowledge that not everyone may feel safe, be in the right mental space, or be in a safe environment to speak up or associate with certain people. If that is you, please take all precautions to put barriers in place, keep yourself safe, and healthy. I am in NO way saying that everyone needs to do the things I go over in this podcast. I also want to acknowledge that this election has huge consequences for many people and issues across the board, many of which are deeply important to me. This podcast episode will only focus on those related to conservation and the environment though, as this is the theme of the Fancy Scientist podcast, and I am in no way saying that other issues are not as important. So, if you feel like you are in a safe environment, like I do, want to connect, and are willing to have some potentially uncomfortable conversations to make a difference, then you're going to benefit from this episodeSpecifically I go over: Why this election feels different than any otherHow the results of this election will impact the environment in a way the country has never faced beforeHow I felt post election and using emotions to help propel me into actionPutting the results of this election into perspective; why people voted the way they did and what this means for conservationWhy I’m not giving up and you shouldn’t eitherWhy keeping channels of communication open are so important for conservationWhy I don’t de-friend people who vote differentlyWhy I am staying on Twitter despite tens of thousands of scientists leaving the platformConcrete things I am doing that you can do too and resources to help you move forward in this administrationAnd MORE!Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/123-conversations-and-connectionsJump links:00:00 Introduction and Election Aftermath03:13 Disclaimer04:36 Reflecting on the 2024 Election06:18 Climate Change Urgency13:06 Personal Resolve and Moving Forward14:13 Standing in Your Power15:11 Nuances of the Trump Voter and Pendulum Swings19:26 Choosing Your Hard21:13 Tuning into Political Discussions22:17 Voter Perspectives and Motivations24:47 The Importance of Communication25:39 Building Connections Across Differences28:09 The Role of Personal Relationships in Social Change30:02 Engaging in Difficult Conversations37:46 Creating Joy and Local Impact40:41 Conclusion and ResourcesDream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Let’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

I’ve been seeing a ton of great PAID wildlife internships being posted so I thought it would be a great time to go over how to get an internship for wildlife biology, ecology, zoology, and conservation careers. So for this episode of the Fancy Scientist podcast, I am talking about everything to do with internships in wildlife careers. This includes ecology, conservation biology, zoology, and environmental sciences.In the first part of this podcast, I talk about what is an internship in wildlife biology and how it differs from other experiences such as temporary field assistant positions and volunteering because internships are supposed to be a more unique experience. Also, I get the impression from talking to literally hundreds, probably even thousands of struggling and aspiring wildlife biologists that internships are really coveted or desired. A lot of people actually think that you need internships to succeed. Why is this? Although they are unique and different from other experiences, is this true for wildlife careers?Next I talk about how to find internships. I go over the important wildlife job boards, but also discuss having to look elsewhere and why, including individual organization websites and maximizing your search by following organizations on LinkedIn and connecting with wildlife professionals there. In this ultra competitive field to make sure you’re not missing opportunities, I go over the importance of cold networking and using social media to cast your net even wider.Lastly, I cover all the different types of wildlife internships: paid, unpaid, and those that you pay for (yes! This is a real thing in our field). Besides payment, what are the differences in those experiences in terms of the outcomes you get? Do they prepare you and give you the experience you need to get you on track for your wildlife dream job? Of course you want to get paid, and although those are becoming more common, they are more competitive, so this may not be possible for you at the moment. Is it worth it to take an unpaid internship? What about those that you pay for?Once you find internships to apply to, it’s essential that your application stands out. As I mentioned above, this field is super competitive and wildlife internships, like almost all wildlife jobs, are not easy to get! You are going to be amongst dozens, and it’s not uncommon to be amongst even hundreds of other applications. I talk about the key principles needed to ensure that your application gets put into the “yes” pile. For instance, you want to make sure that you qualify for the internship, have a wildlife resume – not a regular resume, and write a compelling cover letter. To increase your chances, you want to be networking – and you don’t have to do this in person. Online is an extremely effective way to network!You might be surprised by what you learn. In fact, you might not even need an internship at all!Even if you are not looking for internships, but are interested in working in the wildlife field, what you’re going to learn in this episode is definitely going to apply. Make sure you stay tuned and listen to this whole episode. And the most important part is I want to help you get those internships or whatever experiences you are applying for. So the tips you are going to learn today are going to raise your game.My goal is to equip you with the knowledge and tools to successfully navigate the internship landscape and ultimately secure your dream wildlife job wildlife.Specifically I go over:What is an internship and what makes it uniqueDo you really need an internship?How to find wildlife internshipsHow to make your job application stand out so that you get wildlife internshipsHow to get internships when your job applications aren’t getting you interviews and resources to helpThe importance of networking to enhance your internship searchThe difference between paid, unpaid, and internships that you pay forIf unpaid and internships that you pay for are worth it to build experience in your wildlife careerAnd MORE!Full show notes:👉 https://stephanieschuttler.com/122-wildlife-internshipsJump links:01:39 Introduction to Wildlife Internships03:00 Understanding Internships vs. Other Opportunities04:28 The Importance of Experience Over Titles12:29 Finding and Securing Internships15:27 Networking and Leveraging LinkedIn18:42 Steps to Secure Internships19:56 Crafting a Wildlife Resume24:21 Paid vs. Unpaid Internships27:38 Evaluating Internship Value36:33 Next Steps and Final AdviceDream of being a wildlife biologist, zoologist, conservation biologist, or ecologist? Ready to turn your love of animals into a thriving career?🌿🐘 Then…✍️ SIGN UP for my next FREE training: https://fancyscientist.com/3-pillars-to-success/🗺️ Get my FREE wildlife career guide: https://fancyscientist.com/wildlife-career-success-guide/📚 Read Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/🚀 Work with me! Programs: https://stephanieschuttler.com/work-with-me/I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of 20 yrs who is on a mission to empower wildlife professionals and break stereotypes of scientists so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.🎥 How I became a wildlife biologist: https://youtu.be/zBvHRDO7gIg Let’s connect! 🤝✨Website: https://fancyscientist.com/Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgschuttler/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistThreads: https://www.threads.net/@fancy_scientistBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/fancyscientist.bsky.socialPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/

As someone who has spent two decades in the wildlife field, published nearly 30 peer-reviewed papers, and worked across multiple continents in various wildlife roles, I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities in this field. And I'm here to help you navigate them!What started as a single webinar has evolved into something much more powerful - a robust 3-part training series packed with real-world insights and actionable strategies. Why? Because I realized there was so much valuable information that couldn't be condensed into just one session!Whether you're a:Career transitioner looking to break into wildlife biologyCollege student trying to navigate your career pathRecent graduate seeking your first positionMaster's or Ph.D. student/graduateHigh school student dreaming of working with wildlifeParent guiding a future wildlife biologistThis training is designed for YOU!I'm pulling back the curtain on the essential processes that nobody else is talking about. Drawing from my experience working in government, academia, museums, zoos, and alongside nonprofits worldwide, I'll share:The three critical pillars for securing a permanent wildlife position (When you nail these, you can't NOT get jobs!)What wildlife employers actually value most in candidates (and how to develop these qualities)How to craft a focused career path that leads to a permanent, well-paying positionCommon resume and networking mistakes to avoidReal success stories from people who've landed their dream jobs (even without Master's degrees!)A game-changing insight that's rarely discussed but essential for career successIn my 20 years in wildlife biology, I've seen countless passionate individuals struggle to break into the field - not because they weren't capable, but because they didn't have access to the right guidance. I've watched my own students transform their careers once they understood these key principles. Now, I'm sharing these insights with you, completely FREE.This isn't just another wildlife career webinar. It's a comprehensive training built on real experience, real results, and real strategies that work. This training will give you the clarity, direction, and practical steps you need to make your wildlife dreams a reality.Get your sneak peek now!I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of nearly 20 yrs with 20+ peer-reviewed scientific publications, author of the book Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know (https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/) and founder of Fancy Scientist. My channel and the Fancy Scientist LLC is dedicated to connecting people to science and nature, breaking stereotypes of, and empowering scientists. I help aspiring and struggling wildlife biologists get the right training so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.Sign up for my next free job training: https://stephanieschuttler.com/3-pillars-to-success/Want to learn about cool animals, conservation, and get tips about careers in wildlife biology, science, and more? Subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/StephanieSchuttler and join my email list: https://stephanieschuttler.com/ Join the “Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology” Facebook group to connect with other aspiring wildlife biologists, post your questions and get free advice: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyListen to the Fancy Scientist Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fancy-scientist-material-girl-living-in-sustainable/id1509587394 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29swiuHG4TWKbS9gRZrORWI’d love to meet you. Connect with me on social media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/pins/#wildlifebiology #wildlifebiologist #wildlife #conservation #wildlifemanagement #wildlifeconservation #zoology #zoologist #ecology #ecologist #scientist #animals #science #graduatestudent #graduateschool #wildliferesearch #animalcareers #animaljobs

In the fiercely competitive world of wildlife biology and conservation, insider knowledge isn't just an advantage—it's a game-changer. That's why this episode of the Fancy Scientist podcast, featuring Matt Howard, is an absolute must-listen for anyone dreaming of a career in this field.Interestingly, my connection with Matt began in an unexpected place: the comments section of one of my career posts. Matt was leaving insightful comments filled with great advice for aspiring wildlife professionals. His willingness to share knowledge immediately caught my attention, and I knew I had to invite him onto the podcast to share his wisdom with a wider audience.Matt Howard isn't just any wildlife professional. As a natural resource manager for Utah's Department of Transportation, he's at the forefront of road ecology—a fascinating niche where wildlife conservation meets infrastructure development. His work involves analyzing the impacts of roads on threatened and endangered species, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, and finding innovative solutions to minimize human-wildlife conflicts.But Matt's experience extends far beyond his current role. Having navigated through various facets of the wildlife field, including state agency jobs and environmental consulting, he brings a panoramic view of the industry. This diverse background allows him to offer nuanced advice on aligning personal values with professional goals—a crucial aspect often overlooked in career discussions.But that's just the tip of the iceberg! What makes Matt's advice so compelling is that it comes from years of hands-on experience. He's not just theorizing – he's sharing what has actually worked for him and others in the field. From his experience hiring countless professionals to build an impressive social media following of over 100,000 on Instagram, Matt shares golden nuggets of wisdom you won't find in any textbook or career guide.In this episode, we dive deep into:The ins and outs of working for state wildlife agencies, including the hidden challenges and unexpected rewardsA candid look at the world of environmental consulting—is it the right path for you?Practical, actionable advice to skyrocket your chances of landing that dream wildlife jobInnovative strategies for leveraging social media to build your professional network and showcase your expertiseThe art of successfully transitioning into a conservation or ecology career, even if you're starting from a different fieldAnd more!!!So, whether you're a student plotting your entry into the wildlife field, a professional looking to pivot into conservation, or simply someone fascinated by the inner workings of wildlife careers, this episode is your backstage pass to the industry. Tune in, take notes, and prepare to transform your approach to wildlife career planning. Your future self will thank you for it!I’m Dr. Stephanie Manka (formerly Schuttler), a wildlife biologist of nearly 20 yrs with 20+ peer-reviewed scientific publications, author of the book Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology: What It’s Like and What You Need to Know (https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Job-Wildlife-Biology-What/dp/B08JDYXS4G/) and founder of Fancy Scientist. My channel and the Fancy Scientist LLC is dedicated to connecting people to science and nature, breaking stereotypes of, and empowering scientists. I help aspiring and struggling wildlife biologists get the right training so they can get jobs, live out their life’s purpose and make a difference in this world.Sign up for my next free job training: https://stephanieschuttler.com/3-pillars-to-success/Want to learn about cool animals, conservation, and get tips about careers in wildlife biology, science, and more? Subscribe to my channel: https://www.youtube.com/StephanieSchuttler and join my email list: https://stephanieschuttler.com/ Join the “Getting a Job in Wildlife Biology” Facebook group to connect with other aspiring wildlife biologists, post your questions and get free advice: https://www.facebook.com/groups/gettingajobinwildlifebiologyListen to the Fancy Scientist Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fancy-scientist-material-girl-living-in-sustainable/id1509587394 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/29swiuHG4TWKbS9gRZrORWI’d love to meet you. Connect with me on social media:Twitter: https://twitter.com/FancyScientistInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fancy_scientist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fancyscientist/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fancyscientist/pins/#wildlifebiology #wildlifebiologist #wildlife #conservation #wildlifemanagement #wildlifeconservation #zoology #zoologist #ecology #ecologist #scientist #animals #science #graduatestudent #graduateschool #wildliferesearch #animalcareers #animaljobs