How a donkey changed my life with Ron King • Animals & Us E20
Ron King used to be a highly successful media executive. Then, after COVID he began a search for joy which led him to rescuing donkeys and creating Oscar’s Place Adoption Center & Sanctuary This Vimeo link sums up his journey: https://vimeo.com/monument/dk Through his love of donkeys, he found his path to joy and the difference […]
Creating harmonies between humans and animals with Plume • Animals & Us E04
Plume started his extraordinary musical journey as a young drummer and songwriter, developing his passion for creating melodies and performing. Over two years ago, he moved into singing to cows, discovering their surprising appreciation for music, which encouraged him to continue this unique path. As Plume’s animal-focused performances gained exposure, his gigs shifted from human […]
The Healing Power of Bees: 50 Years of Beekeeping with Russell Zabel | Animals & Us | Episode 25
Episode Summary What can a tiny insect teach us about resilience, community, and the art of slowing down? When Russell Zabel first caught a swarm of bees in a chaff bag in the late 1960s, he didn’t realise it would spark a 50-year journey of discovery. In this episode of Animals & Us, Natalie Stockdale […]
How pets can become a reminder that life is worth living with Rachael McDermott • Animals & Us E09
Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of abuse, sexual assult, suicide, death, grief, and loss. Please consider whether listening may impact your wellbeing. If you need support, reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. Rachel’s story is one of resilience shaped by both visible and hidden traumas. Outwardly, Rachel grew up in a loving […]
Why every dog deserves to be loved with Lya Battle • Animals & Us E19
Lya Battle Bonilla is the Founder of Territorio de Zaguates, a sanctuary in Costa Rica with over 15 years of experience. More than 1,800 rescued dogs now live in freedom, safety, and love. What started as a small rescue effort from her own home slowly grew into a lifelong mission, to give every dog, no […]
Resilience, courage, and caring for others with Andrew Mac Donald • Animals & Us E03
Andrew grew up in Sydney with a rare bone disorder (XLH), underwent painful surgeries, and experienced contrasting childhoods with his healthy twin brother. Despite physical challenges, Andrew pursued music and sound engineering, then became a Bunnings manager, utilising his organisational and managerial skills. At 24, Andrew confronted robbers at Bunnings, displaying bravery but subsequently faced […]
A voice for the whales with Nan Hauser • Animals and Us E24
Nan Hauser grew up in Pennsylvania and Bermuda, surrounded by animals and inspired by her nature-loving grandmother. With a background in nursing and midwifery, Nan applies science and compassion from human healthcare to whale research, combining accurate methodology, emergency care, and a passion for helping both people and animals. A whale researcher in the Cook […]
Working with horses to turn adversity into purpose with Sue Spence • Animals and Us E08
Sue grew up in New Zealand loving horses, always asking for a white pony and feeling happiest when spending time riding and caring for her first ponies and her horse, Lady. As a child with autism and ADHD, Sue felt awkward around humans but found peace and confidence with horses, using time in nature to […]
Vets Beyond Borders: global care for animals with Dr Ian Douglas • Animals & Us E18
In this episode of Animals and Us, we meet Dr Ian Douglas, a pioneering veterinarian whose career spans five decades, continents, and countless animal lives improved through his dedication to welfare and education. From his beginnings in Scotland to his long-standing leadership with Vets Beyond Borders, Ian’s work has shaped international animal health programs across […]
Dealing with loss and finding purpose with Kobe Steele • Animals & Us E02
Kobe Steele has always been an animal person in Australia, having lived with dogs and cats her whole life, treating them as beloved family members. After a successful career in media as a TV and radio host and before finding her calling in conservation, Kobe brought her communication skills to important environmental causes. After the […]