
Advertise on podcast: The Zooquarium Podcast
Rating
4from
This podcast has
35 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Mike Bennett StudiosExplicit
No
Date created
2025/09/08
Latest episode
2026/08/04
Average duration
15 min.
Release period
15 days
Description
The Zooquarium Podcast is a deep dive into all of the questions YOU want answered about the animals and habitats of the land, sea, and air. On each episode, artist Mike Bennett and biologist Chanel Hason use their background as educators to answer YOUR questions and invite guests from the wildlife and creative worlds to explore the convergence of science and art together. The Zooquarium Podcast explores the imagucational world of animals and ecosystems in a way that’s engaging and accessible to kids of all ages.
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Check latest episodes from The Zooquarium Podcast podcast
How Do Snails Make Slime?
2026/08/04
Phoebe and Manaal ask: How Do Snails Make Slime? Not only is this an incredible question, but it's our first from the UK! It also gives Mike and Chanel an opportunity to chat with snail expert, Dr. Jann Vendetti!
Jann is the Associate Curator of Malacology (Mollusks) and The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County's Twila Bratcher Chair in Malacological Research. She is a founding member of the Urban Nature Research Center. Jann's focus is on collections-based research and the Snails and slugs Living in Metropolitan Environments (SLIME) project, championing the important role of community science to understanding urban-living biodiversity.
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Learn more about Jann VendettiFollow The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County on Instagram: @nhmlaShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Dr. Jann VendettiQuestion-Askers: Phoebe & ManaalProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Phoebe & Phoebe's family, Manaal, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and all of our slimy snail friends!
Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?
2026/07/21
Leta asks: Why Do Cats Have Whiskers? We've all seen them and they look so cool, but WHY are they there? Mike and Chanel are all set to answer Leta's question and talk all about cat whiskers with Gretchen Lohse and Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland Sings!
Gretchen Lohse and Thomas Hughes, collectively known as Carol Cleveland Sings, are a music, video, and art duo from Philadelphia, PA. Known for their clever toy instrument videos across social media, Carol Cleveland Sings combines their talents with curated backdrops and the occasional cat to capture the attention of their many online followers. Carol Cleveland Sings is also the creator of The Zooquarium Podcast's incredible theme song!
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Check out Carol Cleveland Sings on BandCampFollow Carol Cleveland Sings on TikTok: @carolclevelandsingsFollow Carol Cleveland Sings on Instagram: @carolclevelandsingsWatch Carol Cleveland Sings' cat videos HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERELearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsQuestion-Asker: LetaProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Leta & Leta's family, Gretchen Lohse, Thomas Hughes, Rags, Harpo, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and cats all around the world!
Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long?
2026/07/07
Milo asks: Why Are the Middle Fingers of Aye-Ayes So Long? What a fascinating question about a fascinating animal! Mike and Chanel are joined by ecologist Tim Eppley, the Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, to answer Milo's question and teach us more about these elusive animals!
Dr. Timothy Eppley is a conservation biologist and primatologist who has spent nearly two decades studying wildlife in Africa, with a particular focus on the lemurs and ecosystems of Madagascar. As Chief Conservation Officer for Wildlife Madagascar, he leads research and conservation programs that help protect some of the world's most endangered species while supporting local communities. Tim's passion for wildlife began at an early age and has taken him from studying bonobos and lemurs in the field to publishing more than 100 scientific papers and helping shape conservation efforts across Madagascar. He loves sharing stories about the incredible animals he works with and helping people discover why biodiversity matters.
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Learn more about Wildlife MadagascarCheck out Wildlife Madagascar's Aye-Aye pageFollow Wildlife Madagascar on Instagram: @wildlifemadagascarLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Tim EppleyQuestion-Asker: MiloProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Milo & Milo's family, Dr. Tim Eppley, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and every single aye-aye!
Why Do Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Have Multiple Eyelids?
2026/06/23
Maybellene asks: Why Do Red-Eyed Tree Frogs Have Multiple Eyelids?That's such a great question. It's a good thing that Chanel has the answer, plus a few extra red-eyed tree frog facts for Maybellene, Mike, and special guest John Sazaklis, author of My Life as a Red-Eyed Tree Frog!
John Sazaklis is the New York Times bestselling author of over 100 titles. He has illustrated Spider-Man books for Marvel, made pop-culture props for MAD magazine, written for the BEN 10 animated series, and even voiced The Grinch for a Dr. Seuss audiobook. John loves to learn. Art and Science are two of his favorite subjects. He loves animals and nature and creatively combines them in his work. John lives in New York City with his wonderful wife, dazzling daughter, and a bunch of books!
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Learn more about John SazaklisBuy John's booksFollow John on Instagram: @johnnysazLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: John SazaklisProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Maybellene & Maybellene's family, John Sazaklis, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, and red-eyed tree frogs all over the world!
Why Do Tigers Have Stripes?
2026/06/09
Henley asks: Why Do Tigers Have Stripes? Tigers do have such a distinct look, so let's find out why! Mike and Chanel welcome tiger expert Megan Hagedorn to the Podcast to answer Henley's question and tell us all even more about our stripey feline friends.
Megan Hagedorn is a zookeeper at the Oregon Zoo. Although she has a background in Marine Biology, Megan has gotten a chance to work with almost all areas of the zoo! She is originally from southern Illinois, and moved to Oregon in 2013 to work with the animals. Tigers became a fast favorite and I've she's gotten to know several! They all have unique personalities and it's especially rewarding for Megan to build relationships with them. Working at the Oregon Zoo gave her the opportunity to learn that tigers really ARE all that they're cracked up to be! What a fun and dynamic animal!
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Learn about the tigers Megan works with at the Oregon ZooLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Megan HagedornProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Henley & Henley's family, Megan Hagedorn, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, tigers in general
Where Are Crickets' Ears Located?
2026/05/26
Willa asks: Where Are Crickets' Ears Located? Are the on their heads? Their wings? Someplace else?? Chanel answers Willa's question and tells Mike more cricket information than he ever though he'd need to know. Then, they welcome back guest Chuck Duke to talk about his experience animating Sebastian J. Cricket for Guillermo del Toro's Pinocchio.
Chuck began his professional career in animation in his early twenties and has since contributed to a wide range of feature films and television productions in the animation and visual effects departments. Aside from James and the Giant Peach, his credits include Fantastic Mr. Fox, Isle of Dogs, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, as well as stop-motion animation and effects on Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019), and Star Wars: Mandalorian and Grogu (2026).
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify!
Learn more about Chuck DukeFollow Chuck on Instagram: @cdookLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Chuck DukeProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Willa & Willa's family, Chuck Duke, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, crickets in general
Why Are Orcas So Deadly?
2026/05/12
Eva asks: Why Are Orcas So Deadly? Great question, Eva. Are killer whales truly KILLER WHALES? Luckily, Mike and Chanel are joined by Orca conservationist, Kendra Nelson.
Kendra Nelson is a marine conservationist focued on species recovery and coastal restoration in British Columbia. She is the Board Secreary for Orca Conservancy. With a background in biology, she’s worked with sharks, coral, salmon, and killer whales. Passionate about advocacy and ecosystems, Kendra combines scientific knowledge and outreach to protect ocean life and support healthy coastal communitiues.
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Learn about the Orca ConservancyFollow Kendra on Instagram: @intertidalkendyLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Kendra NelsonProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Eva & Eva's family, Kendra Nelson, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, orcas in general
Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg?
2026/04/28
Maggie asks: Which Came First, the Chicken or the Egg? Ah yes, the age old question! Hosts Mike Bennett and Chanel Hason can certainly handle that one, along with a special guest - Adam Taylor, a stop motion animator who worked on Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget!
Adam Taylor is a stop-motion animator from the Pacific Northwest who has animated lots of animals in quite a few movies, including Wendell and Wild (Octopus), Guillermo del Torro's Pinocchio (monkey, and cricket), Chicken Run: Dawn of the Nugget(Chickens!, and rats), Wildwood (rabbits, coyotes, and an owl), and Shaun the Sheep: The Beats of Mossy Bottom (sheep, a dog, and a raven!)
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Follow Adam on Instagram: @adamtaylor_animatorView Adam's work on VimeoLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Adam TaylorProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Maggie & Maggie's family, Adam Taylor, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chickens in general
How Can Chameleons Change Color?
2026/04/14
Bianca asks: How Can Chameleons Change Color? What an amazing question! It's pretty well known that they can change color, but how they do it is definitely a mystery. Luckily hosts Mike and Chanel know a lizard expert, Lenna Lamping from the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, who can help explain this unique characteristic.
Jenna has been a Reptile Keeper at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden since 2018. Jenna's passion/goal in life is to encourage people to understand and appreciate all wildlife, especially those that are greatly misunderstood - just like her favorite, the American Alligator. Reptiles have such a special and important part to play in our ecosystem. Jenna loves getting outside, observing these animals in their natural environments, and teaching others why they are to be revered instead of feared.
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden's website!Listen to the Cincinnati Zoo Tales podcastLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Jenna LampingProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Bianca & Bianca's family, Jenna Lamping, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, chameleons in general
Why Are Moray Eels' Faces So Long?
2026/03/31
Agatha asks: Why Are Moray Eels' Faces So Long? Seriously - they're SO LONG! But why? Mike and Chanel answer Agatha's question with the help of actor Derrick Baskin, who played Jetsam in Disney's The Little Mermaid on Broadway. Together, they discuss scientific facts about eels in addition to learning how Derrick embodied one of fiction's most famous eels for a live audience.
Derrick Baskin is a Grammy and Tony Award-nominated actor best known for his performance as Otis Williams in the Broadway hit Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations. His Broadway credits include Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Memphis the Musical , and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. His television and film appearances include Law & Order: SVU, The Good Lord Bird, The Offer, and Marshall. As a former cast member of The Little Mermaid, he feels uniquely qualified to talk about life under the sea…including eels.
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Visit Derrick's websiteFollow Derrick on Instagram: @derrick.baskinLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Derrick BaskinProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Agatha & Agatha's family, Derrick Baskin, Tyler Maynard (Flotsam), Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, eels in general
Footage of the Rose City Raindrops courtesy of the Rose City Raindrops. Video filmed by Dane Sawyer.
Do Sharks Sleep With Their Eyes Open or Closed?
2026/03/17
Griffin asks: Do Sharks Sleep With Their Eyes Open or Closed? What a great question! Mike and Chanel get down to the bottom of Griffin's question with the help of shark expert, Alex McInturf from Oregon State University's Big Fish Lab. Not only do they answer Griffin's question, but they also talk about other shark facts that will blow your minds!
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Alexandra McInturf received her PhD in Animal Behavior from the University of California, Davis in 2021 and is currently a Research Associate at Oregon State University’s Big Fish Lab and Graduate Faculty in OSU’s Departments of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences and Environmental Sciences.
Her research generally focuses on how marine organisms respond to biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) environmental variables and uses this information to contextualize and predict behavior, movement patterns, and survival. Alex explores this topic in threatened marine fishes. She is currently examining the foraging ecology of salmon sharks in Oregon and Alaska (including microplastic ingestion), the distributions of Chinook salmon and their overlap with salmon sharks, the movements of Pacific spiny dogfish, the social lives of sharks generally, and many more species and topics! SO COOL!
Be sure to visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Visit Alex's websiteLearn more about Big Fish LabLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow Big Fish Lab on Instagram: @big_fish_labFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Alex McInturfProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Griffin & Griffin's family, Alex McInturf, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Sharks in general
Why Do Centipedes Have So Many Legs?
2026/03/03
Sloane asks: Why Do Centipedes Have So Many Legs? Seriously, there's SO MANY! Mike and Chanel get down to the bottom of Sloane's question, explain the difference between centipedes and millipedes, and invite special guest Chuck Duke to talk about his experience animating Mr. Centipede for the 1996 movie, James and the Giant Peach.
Chuck began his professional career in animation in his early twenties and has since contributed to a wide range of feature films and television productions in the animation and visual effects departments. Aside from James and the Giant Peach, his credits include Fantastic Mr Fox, Isle of Dogs, Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, as well as stop-motion animation and effects on Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015), Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker (2019), and Star Wars: Mandalorian and Grogu.
Visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Learn more about Chuck DukeLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow Chuck on Instagram: @cdookFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium releases episodes about different animals every other Tuesday with bonus content for each episode the following week. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube, Spotify, and thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Chuck DukeProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Sloane & Sloane's family, Chuck Duke, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Centipedes in general
What Are Those Giant Beaks on Toucans About?
2026/02/17
Izzy asks: What Are Those Giant Beaks on Toucans About? Yeah, what ARE they about?! Luckily, Mike and Chanel are friends with Aimee Owen, the Cincinnati Zoo's Aviculture Senior Keeper (bird keeper), to tell us ALL ABOUT toucans and their giant beaks. And since The Zooquarium Podcast smushes science and art, Mike makes sure to ask about some fictional toucans in movies, tv shows, and breakfast cereal commercials.
Visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download quizzes, activity sheets, and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Learn more about the Cincinnati ZooLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium Podcast releases every other Tuesday. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube and Spotify. Bonus videos for episodes are released one week after the relevant episode drops exclusively on YouTube or by visiting the show page at thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Aimee OwenProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Izzy & Izzy's family, Our friends at the Cincinnati Zoo, Michele Kraus Bennett, Cayley Pater, The Elakha Alliance, Teddy Albertson, Toucans in general
How Long Can Sea Otters Hold Their Breath?
2026/02/03
Calvin asks: How long can sea otters hold their breath? Great question, Calvin! Hosts Mike Bennett and Chanel Hason answer Calvin’s question, share some other cool sea otter facts, and invite guest Moddy Himmel to share their experience educating through puppetry!
Visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download Moddy’s Sea Otter Puppets (using Mike’s artwork), quizzes, activity sheets and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Visit Moddy’s WebsiteLearn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium Podcast releases every other Tuesday. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube and Spotify. Bonus videos for episodes are released one week after the relevant episode drops exclusively on YouTube or by visiting the show page at thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonGuest: Moddy HimmelProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by: Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Calvin & Calvin’s familyMichele Kraus BennettCayley PaterThe Elakha AllianceTeddy AlbertsonOtters in general
Why Do Sloths Poop on the Ground?
2026/01/20
Fitz asks: WHY DO SLOTHS POOP ON THE GROUND? Hosts Mike Bennett and Chanel Hason answer Fitz’s question, share some other cool sloth facts, and discuss Mike’s iconic sloth Slow Down signs.
Visit thezooquarium.com/podcast to download activity sheets and bonus materials, upload YOUR art, and submit YOUR animal questions!
RECOMMENDED: WATCH this episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify!
Learn about the Portland AquariumShop the Mike Bennett Studios storeFollow us on Instagram: @thezooquariumpodcastFollow Mike on Instagram: @mikebennettartFollow Mike on TikTok: @mikebennettartSubscribe to the Mike Bennett Studios YouTube ChannelFollow Chanel on Instagram: @pschanelLearn about The Elakha Alliance: elakhaalliance.org
The Zooquarium Podcast releases every other Tuesday. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you’re informed when new episodes come out! Video versions are available on YouTube and Spotify. Bonus videos for episodes are released one week after the relevant episode drops exclusively on YouTube or by visiting the show page at thezooquarium.com/podcast
Credits
Hosted by: Mike Bennett & Chanel HasonProduced & Edited by: Jon RichardsonMusic by: Gretchen Lohse & Thomas Hughes of Carol Cleveland SingsIntro Animation by: Silas Bell & Kyle Bell of Castle AnimationArtwork by Fuzzzbrain
Special thanks to
Teddy AlbertsonFitz & Fitz’s familyMichele Kraus BennettCayley PaterThe Elakha AllianceDr. Rebecca CliffeSloths in general
Podcast reviews
Read The Zooquarium Podcast podcast reviews
Yes sir. 👍🏻👏 2026/10/23
Whoooooooooo
When I first listened to this pod I was shocked how good it is I need more 💯
APhoenixLife 2026/10/05
Memorable & Educational
Love that the kiddo not only loves the content but gets excited to share it with other adults in her life…. AND the content is done in a way that adul...
Mclark9982 2026/09/26
Learn a Ton and Have Fun!
We love when a new episode comes out. My son and I look forward to learning about the newest animal. The bonus episodes help hold us over until the ne...
I<3Christmas! 2026/09/05
Confusing
We listened hoping to learn interesting things about centipedes. Instead the podcast was mostly about creating a centipede character animation. Felt m...
I say it’s cool 2026/09/03
Good
Good
Stargazing-magic man 2026/08/23
Good
Just good 👍
♤˚✧₊⁎Toast⁎⁺˳✧༚♤ 2026/08/06
Love it a few problems tho
I really like it. It’s a good podcast. It just has a problem tho no.1 dial tone. I was listening to it and then there’s this random dial tone that’s n...
Chelkie Brown 2026/07/03
Why the dial zone?
I listen to this podcast in the car. I do not watch it. I have no idea why there is a dial tone at the beginning of every episode and randomly through...
Mateo Xavier Hernandez 2026/07/02
Good
What was wrong with the rainforest frog video
🎲dndnerd🐉 2026/06/04
👎
I don’t like it
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