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The Kindred Podcast explores the intricate and interdependent relationship that humans have with animals and nature. Every episode presents compelling interviews and thought-provoking discussions with leading experts from diverse fields of study including scientists, conservationists, authors, and educators. From the world of science to cultural traditions and beyond, Kindred examines how humans can inspire a new awareness in order to reconnect us to the natural world. Hosted by Kate Coffin and Jenn Asplundh.
Recent
Nov. 10, 2026
The Truth About Snakes | With Dr. Emily Taylor, Herpetologist
In this episode, we are speaking with herpetologist Dr. Emily Taylor. Dr. Taylor is a Professor of Biological Sciences at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She is also an author, consultant and business owner, all in connection with snakes. Her enthusiasm and admiration for snakes are infectious, and the way she frames snake behavior is refreshing. So let’s drop all of our biases about what we think we know about snakes right here at the door, and enter this conversati
Oct. 27, 2026
Reimagining Animal Shelters | With Dr. Kim Boudwin, Providence Animal Center
In this episode, we are speaking with veterinarian Dr. Kim Boudwin, Chief Medical Officer and Executive Director of Providence Animal Center in Media, Pennsylvania. We were lucky enough to speak with Dr. Boudwin all about their veterinary services, foster programs, training programs, “sleep-overs,” adoption events, and social media outreach, which I would argue has revolutionized the way PAC finds their dogs and cats homes. At the same time, they welcome the community in to find their next fami
Oct. 13, 2026
Saving America’s Iconic Wildlife | With Tracy Wilson & Chris Servheen
As many of you have heard, the current administration is dismantling and redefining the language originally created in the Endangered Species Act, or ESA. These changes have rendered wildlife and wild spaces extremely vulnerable. To speak with us about the impacts of this, we have invited back previous guests Tracy Wilson (Conservation Director of American Wild Horse Conservation) and Chris Servheen (Bear Biologist), a former national grizzly bear recovery coordinator for the US Fish and Wildl
Sept. 29, 2026
Encore: Kindred Souls: Octopuses, Turtles, and Authors | A Conversation with author Sy Montgomery
Originally released October 24, 2023. New Kindred episodes will drop starting in October 2026. In this week’s episode, we speak with (multiple-time!) bestselling author, Sy Montgomery about her deep connection, understanding, and passion for animals. We were lucky enough to have this conversion on the day her most recent book launched, titled, Of Time and Turtles: Mending the World, Shell by Shattered Shell. In this book, Sy gives us an intimate gaze into the world of the turtle and inspires u
Sept. 15, 2026
Encore: The Wolf Interpreter | A Conversation with Wolf Researcher and Author Rick McIntyre
Originally released June 6, 2023. New Kindred episodes will drop starting in October 2026. In this week’s episode, we speak with wolf researcher, interpreter, and award-winning author, Rick McIntyre. Wolves are one of our favorite beings to talk about and to be able to speak with Rick about them is an honor and an absolute joy. In 1996, wolves were relocated from Canada to Yellowstone National Park and thus began the Wolf Reintroduction Project. What would follow would not only greatly impact
Sept. 1, 2026
Encore: The Song Birds of the Ocean | A Conversation with Dr. Kate Stafford, Associate Professor and Bioacoustician of the Marine Mammal Institute at the University of Oregon
Originally released March 29, 2022. New Kindred episodes will drop starting in October 2026. In this week's episode, we speak with Dr. Kate Stafford about her work and research focusing on the song of the superlative Bowhead Whale. Kate dives into the challenges of declining sea ice and sound pollution that these mysterious and massive whales face in the Arctic waters. And she shares her deep love and fascination with the intricate and unique song of the Bowhead Whale. Show Notes: Four Paws
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