Epidsode 26: The Interrupted Intro with Mark Klassen

A dream safari in Africa took a terrifying turn when the unthinkable happened. This week on Wild Tails, Lori Marchbanks and Heather Guerrero share the incredible true story of the safari that changed their lives forever. What began as an unforgettable wildlife adventure became a fight for survival when Heather was attacked by a leopard. In this gripping and emotional conversation, Lori and Heather recount the moments leading up to the attack, the chaos that followed, and the long road to recovery. They also reflect on their love of wildlife, the risks that come with experiencing animals in the wild, and how one extraordinary event reshaped their perspectives. This is a story of resilience, friendship, and the raw unpredictability of nature. 🎙️ Listen now to hear one of the most incredible survival stories ever told on Wild Tails. Get all the links on linktree: https://linktr.ee/Wildtailspod Follow Mike Bona on TikTok @lazooguy Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

After a long hiatus, Wild Tails is finally back! This episode didn't go quite as planned. I sat down to record a simple introduction for the show's return when my longtime friend Mark Klassen interrupted me. What started as a quick intro quickly turned into an entire episode filled with stories, laughs, random tangents, and the kind of conversation that can only happen between friends who've known each other for years. There are no guests this time—just Mark and me catching up, sharing memories, and easing Wild Tails back into action. Consider this the unofficial kickoff to a new chapter of the podcast. Thanks for sticking around during the break. It's good to be back. Get all the links on linktree: https://linktr.ee/Wildtailspod Follow Mike Bona on TikTok @lazooguy Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

🎙️ In this episode of Wild Tails, I sit down with my longtime friend Erin Brandon, who I’ve known since our high school days. Erin is a proud Army veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan, and he brings a unique perspective shaped by his years in service. We dive into his journey after the military, where he discovered a new mission: training his dogs to become service animals. From the battlefield to building bonds with his canine companions, Erin shares heartfelt stories about resilience, healing, and the incredible role dogs can play in a veteran’s life.   Wild Tails podcast on Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

This week on Wild Tails, I’m joined by my good friend and passionate conservationist, Tim Camerano. Tim is here to share details about Texas Save’em, a unique fundraiser benefiting Global Conservation Force — an organization dedicated to protecting endangered species and supporting wildlife rangers around the world. We talk about how the event came together, the mission it supports, and why Tim is so committed to making a difference for wildlife.   Texas Save'em event Global Conservation Force Wild Tails podcast on Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

What do you do when you witness wild animals living in squalid cages, sold in parking lots, or forced to perform in roadside shows? If you're Bobbi Brink, you build a world-class sanctuary and dedicate your life to giving them the dignity they were denied. In this episode, Mike sits down with Bobbi Brink, the powerhouse founder of Lions Tigers & Bears, a no-breed, no-contact, forever home for rescued exotic animals. From big cat rescues across state lines to advocating for the Big Cat Public Safety Act in Washington D.C., Bobbi shares the raw, behind-the-scenes truth of what it takes to protect the animals most people only see in cages or on screen. We talk about her early experiences that sparked her mission, the personalities of the animals she’s saved, and why her focus remains on cats and bears—even when there are so many other species in need. You’ll hear the heartbreak, the hope, and one story that just might restore your faith in what’s possible when passion meets purpose. Visit Lions, Tigers, and Bears Website Visit Lions, Tigers and Bears Instagram: @lionstigers_andbears Wild Tails podcast on Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

Today I’m joined by Christian Flores, better known online as @CrikeyItsChristian — a wildlife and paleo educator who brings species from both the past and present to life through engaging, educational content. From conservation messaging to everyday actions we can all take to help the planet, Christian uses his platform to advocate for animal welfare, especially in his current work with reptiles. We dive into the myths and misconceptions that surround wildlife — the kind of stories that fuel fear rather than curiosity. Whether it’s “boxing kangaroos” or “vicious snakes,” Christian’s mission is to transform fear into fascination through facts, empathy, and humor. Christian is also the lead writer and zoological consultant for the upcoming art book @ProjectPaleozoo, a stunning visual concept of what a modern zoo might look like if it housed dinosaurs, with the same ethical care standards we strive for with living species today. Follow the project for updates — you won’t want to miss it. Follow Christian Flores on Instagram @CrikeyitsChristian Follow Artemis Paleozoological Reserve on Instagram @Projectpaleozoo Wild Tails podcast on Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

In this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona sits down with Dr. Emily Taylor, a herpetologist and professor of Biological Sciences at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Emily shares wild and wonderful stories from her work with reptiles and amphibians—from tracking rattlesnakes in the wild to teaching students how to find elusive lizards in California’s diverse ecosystems. Emily is the author of two popular science books: California Snakes and How to Find Them and California Lizards and How to Find Them, with a third on amphibians coming soon. In this lively conversation, she opens up about her unique path from an English degree at UC Berkeley to a PhD in Biology from Arizona State University, and how storytelling plays a role in science communication. You’ll also hear about her home life in Atascadero, California, which includes a crew of rescued animals—like her charming bearded dragon Aperol Spritz—and a bearded husband named Steve. Whether you're a wildlife lover, science enthusiast, or just curious about how to find snakes and lizards in California, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and inspiration. Emily Taylor Website: http://www.emilytaylorscience.com Project Rattlecam: https://rattlecam.org/ Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

Explore the hidden world of nature after dark with author and adventurer Charles Hood, as he discusses his new book, "Nature at Night," and the incredible biodiversity that thrives under the stars. In this illuminating episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona sits down with Charles Hood, renowned naturalist, photographer, and author of the upcoming book Nature at Night: Discover the Hidden World That Comes Alive After Dark (Timber Press, April 29, 2025). From glowing bioluminescent seas to stealthy nocturnal predators, Charles takes us deep into the science and wonder of the natural world after sunset. With over 240 vivid wildlife photos and a wealth of ecological insight, his book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by nocturnal animals and biodiversity at night. Charles Hood has been a professor, factory worker, ski instructor, and African nature guide. His adventures span all 50 states, 80 countries, and 1,000+ mammal sightings. He brings humor, depth, and heart to every story. Whether you're a birder, wildlife enthusiast, or curious explorer, this episode will inspire you to look at the dark in a whole new light. 📘 Order Nature at Night from Timber Press Follow Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

In this episode of Wild Tails, host Mike Bona welcomes Dr. Grey Stafford — zoologist, animal behavior expert, and host of the Zoo Logic podcast. With decades of experience in zoos and aquariums, Dr. Stafford has been a leading voice in advancing animal welfare and training through science-based methods. He shares behind-the-scenes stories and professional insights into the world of exotic animal care, the evolution of positive reinforcement training, and the challenges of public perception around zoos and animal programs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animals, conservation, and how we responsibly care for wildlife under human care. Listen to Zoo Logic: ZOOmility Follow Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack  Email the show at [email protected]

In this special episode of Wild Tails, Mike is joined by renowned animal advocate, wildlife expert, and former SeaWorld and Busch Gardens ambassador Julie Scardina. Julie shares her lifelong passion for wildlife conservation and her efforts to protect wildlife through storytelling, education, and action. Julie also discusses the upcoming San Diego premiere screening of A Life Among Elephants, a powerful new documentary from Save the Elephants and Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton highlighting the beauty, intelligence, and threats facing elephants today. Hosted by Mission Wildlife, the event takes place on May 9th and aims to raise awareness and inspire change for one of the planet’s most iconic species. Mission Wildlife Events: Save the Elephants Follow Wild Tails podcast in Instagram @Wildtailspod Follow Wild Tails Podcast on Bluesky Follow the Wild Tails Substack    Email the show at [email protected]