Best Lori Semple Podcasts (2025)

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Population Management 30:58

Play Pause

3d ago30:58

30:58

Today is a deep dive into how we make decisions regarding how many animals to place in a given enclosure or space. There are many factors involved, but ultimately aquariums and zoos are trying to make the best decisions they can for optimal animal health and wellbeing! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacatio…

1
Psychological Safety 30:50

10d ago30:50

30:50

If you're not familiar with the term, you're very likely familiar with the feeling of a workplace where psychological safety has been established or where it was not. Unlocking creativity, innovation, and honesty requires some measure of freedom to express oneself authentically. A successful organization prioritizes a psychologically safe environme…

1
Lifespans of Animals 30:44

1M ago30:44

30:44

It's one of the most common questions that we hear in the aquarium and zoo field. People naturally want to know how long animals live and sometimes the lifespans of animals in human care are compared to the lifespans of their counterparts in the wild. There are many factors at play, but let's discuss the lifespans of animals! www.patreon.com/aquati…

1
Dealing with Multiple Supervisors 31:26

1M ago31:26

31:26

Often our organizations are structured in such a way that we have the potential for several supervisors, and their requests may differ. How might one prioritize or navigate a situation when there is more than one supervisor with a request? Today we discuss some options for how one might approach this complicated scenario. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo …

1
Insurance in Zoos and Aquariums 30:27

2M ago30:27

30:27

Today we're taking an exceptionally deep dive into the things behind the scenes that keep zoos and aquariums running. There are many things that could happen unexpectedly in your average zoo or aquarium, so we do what we can to prepare ahead of a problem. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/s…

1
Revisiting: The Art of Forgiveness 30:21

3M ago30:21

30:21

We're often led to believe that offering forgiveness to someone who has wronged us is only of benefit to the other person. In reality, it's quite the opposite! Today we discuss the vast difficulty and subtle-but-powerful benefits of forgiveness. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-…

1
Revisiting: Guest Experience vs. Animal Welfare 29:01

3M ago29:01

29:01

We understand what they are, but are guest experience and animal welfare naturally opposing forces? No, but it might happen behind the scenes in your favorite aquarium or zoo. We discuss the how and why this happens, and ponder ways to move forward together for the benefit of all. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.ma…

1
Neurodivergence in the Workplace 30:59

3M ago30:59

30:59

Approaching this purely as a coworker and sometimes leader of people, today we discuss the challenges (and overestimated challenges) one might run across while working with people who experience the world differently than we do. There are lots of ways we can ensure that everyone has a chance to work peacefully and productively. www.patreon.com/aqua…

1
Surplus Animals 30:18

4M ago30:18

30:18

There are times when a zoo or aquarium has more animals than they can realistically care for in the long term. There are plans in place to handle these situations and to make sure that the extra animals have a full and comfortable life even if we aren't the ones who will be caring for them that entire time. Today, we discuss surplus animals! www.pa…

1
Actions vs. Outcomes 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

There's a big difference in contemplating the "what" behind a goal versus the "why." Today we discuss the difference between actions and outcomes and how learning to recognize and focus on the right one will help to accomplish some big dreams. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-se…

1
Scientific Research in Zoos and Aquariums 30:45

5M ago30:45

30:45

Our institutions strive to provide education, conservation, and scientific discovery to the communities we serve. There are several ways in which aquariums and zoos contribute to the scientific knowledge of animals and their behavior, though they may not be the straightforward ways you might imagine. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.semple@magicalvacati…

1
Change Management 30:39

5M ago30:39

30:39

When our organizations need to make changes, we should consider the methods and approach carefully. Why is change important? Where do we start? How can we make the changes stick? Today we discuss the challenges of change management. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
Social Media in Zoos and Aquariums 30:20

5M ago30:20

30:20

Despite it being such a normalized part of modern society, aquariums and zoos have to be thoughtful in the way they use social media. It can be a double-edged sword. Today we discuss the good and the bad of maintaining social media for these types of institutions. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplan…

1
Risk Management 30:23

5M ago30:23

30:23

When change is needed, it is important to discuss the the worst possible scenario and the best possible outcome. Doing so, we can put things into perspective, use good judgment, and determine next steps all while giving ourselves the best chance at success. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com…

1
Disposal of Animal Bodies 31:02

6M ago31:02

31:02

Perhaps you've wondered what happens when a large or exotic animal passes in a zoo or aquarium. While not the most upbeat of topics, it is one that we have to deal with from time to time and it's best to be clear about how it works! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
Overloading People with Paperwork 30:19

6M ago30:19

30:19

If you're anything like me, the paperwork side of your job can be entirely overwhelming. There are ways to streamline and make necessary actions a lot easier and more palatable. Let's discuss ways we can get back to the fun parts of our work! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-sem…

1
Medications in Aquariums and Zoos 30:43

6M ago30:43

30:43

It is unlikely that visitors ever give much thought to what medications might be onsite at their favorite aquarium or zoo or how they are used. The innovation of veterinarians should be celebrated and respected, as medications and healthcare are crucial to good animal care. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalva…

1
Resistance to Change 30:04

6M ago30:04

30:04

Change is hard. Resistance can appear in many different forms. Today we discuss the many ways resistance to change might appear and how to turn it into something helpful and useful. It isn't the end of the world and it could actually help bring about a better future. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationp…

1
Revisiting: Geriatric Animals 29:36

7M ago29:36

29:36

We all get a bit older. Animals are no different! How do aquariums and zoos navigate the challenges that accompany advancing age and decreased mobility? Well... with the welfare of the animal in mind of course!By Lori Semple

1
Revisiting: The Skill of Listening 30:13

7M ago30:13

30:13

We've all been frustrated by people who don't want to listen, but how practiced at it are we ourselves? Have you paid close attention to what you do when someone else speaks? Why does it matter? Today we discuss the challenges of truly listening.By Lori Semple

1
Strategic Planning 30:17

7M ago30:17

30:17

Having a goal in mind is important for the progress of any organizations. Today we discuss the benefits and challenges of discussing where we're going, why we're going there, and why we need to plan how we get there. Fun times with strategic planning! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff…

1
Vocalizing What You Want 30:07

8M ago30:07

30:07

Communication is complicated. When you're trying to get people to come along with you, there should be some clarity about the end goal. Don't just tell people what you don't want, tell them what you do want! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
Emergency Response 31:23

8M ago31:23

31:23

What do power outages, hurricanes, zombie apocalypses, floods, wars, diver injuries, guest falls, and epidemics have in common? These are things that zoos and aquariums discuss and prepare for just to be ready! (Okay, maybe zombie apocalypse isn't on the list...) www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplann…

1
Respecting Everyone's Time 30:28

8M ago30:28

30:28

A great way to show that you value the people around you is to respect their time as valuable to them and to you. Keeping meetings running as scheculed and understanding time boundaries can be something of a relief to all. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
Collaboration for Exhibit Design 30:46

9M ago30:46

30:46

It's frustrating, it's rewarding, it's stressful, it's exciting! Exhibit design may seem simple and straightforward on the surface, but when it comes to aquariums and zoos, there are a lot of opinions to be had. Today we discuss collaboration to produce new exhibits and experiences. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.…

1
Emotion Management 30:26

9M ago30:26

30:26

This is something that can take a long time to identify and work on for oneself. Emotion management is important to practice so that you avoid doing something that could damage your reputation or career. Today we discuss the ins and outs of keeping your cool! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.c…

1
Confiscations 30:23

9M ago30:23

30:23

While it isn't the most common way for aquariums and zoos to obtain animals, it is one of the most interesting and potentially complicated. Animals that are removed by law enforcement need some care and attention. Today we discuss the complicated situation that defines confiscations. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www…

1
"The Way We've Always Done It" 30:53

9M ago30:53

30:53

There's a phrase that some people use to end an argument with a coworker that can be infuriating. Today we talk about the challenges of failing to be innovative and crushing creativity. Don't be afraid to re-think! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
Competition for Jobs 30:31

9M ago30:31

30:31

There are a few things that hopeful aquarists and zookeepers might like to know about their intended field and there should be some deep thought about the road ahead. These are the things that I wish I had understood when I entered the field. I hope that this episode helps the animal care professionals of tomorrow! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.sempl…

1
Grudges 30:39

10M ago30:39

30:39

They're natural, but not particularly helpful. If you've ever held a grudge or been on the receiving end of a grudge, you might know that it's generally an unpleasant experience. Today we discuss the painful truth about grudges and how to overcome them. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/sta…

1
Parthenogenesis 30:31

10M ago30:31

30:31

While it is not a commonly discussed phenomenon for those outside the world of biology, there are some animals that can reproduce in unexpected ways. You may have seen it in the news or heard talk of it before, but today we discuss the ability that some animals have to reproduce all on their own! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.semple@magicalvacationpl…

1
Building Trust 31:05

11M ago31:05

31:05

Trust is important, but how can we develop it with the people around us? Believe it or not, there are things that we can do to purposefully and thoughtfully with our teams, friends, and family. Today we discuss the possibilities when it comes to developing healthy, trusting relationships with others. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.semple@magicalvacati…

1
Animal Encounters 30:54

11M ago30:54

30:54

Aquariums and zoos may have up close and personal interactions with certain animals to enhance the learning experience. How are these animals selected? What preparation goes into such an interaction? Today we discuss the interesting details surrounding animal encounters. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacat…

1
Resistance to Demands 30:07

11M ago30:07

30:07

When you're the leader and your team seems to be resisting what you're telling them to do, it can be frustrating. Today we look at ways to examine the problem and determine how to handle those who resist doing tasks. And no, it's not an immediate HR problem! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.co…

1
The Side Hustle 31:02

11M ago31:02

31:02

Whether it's for fun or necessity, many of us take on what are known as side hustles. A little extra income for talents you already have or for learning something new can't hurt, right? Today we discuss the idea of side work especially as an aquarium or zoo professional. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacat…

1
Discussing Politics at Work 30:41

12M ago30:41

30:41

We all have thoughts and opinions, obviously. Politics can be a rather polarizing topic of conversation, however, and it's always a good idea to consider many factors before delving into political discussions in the workplace. Today we explore the good, the bad, and the ugly of discussing politics in the workplace. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.sempl…

1
Security 30:36

12M ago30:36

30:36

You may have noticed them, but have you paid much attention to the group charged with maintaining peace and order in an aquarium or zoo? Today we discuss the scope and types of issues that they deal with on a daily basis to keep things calm and fun. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/l…

1
Developing Self-Awareness 30:15

1y ago30:15

30:15

Sometimes, we understand our impact and how we are perceived, but not always. Self-awareness doesn't come naturally to everyone, but there are ways to develop it over time. You are capable of taking some time to reflect, ponder, and make choices to improve your impact. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacatio…

1
Revisiting: Animal Enrichment 29:16

1y ago29:16

29:16

An animal in human care should have the same opportunities to thrive as their wild counterparts (minus, perhaps, the constant threat of predators...). With that in mind, keepers have to get creative in how to make life fun, interesting, and intriguing for our animal friends. How do we know what to do? What kind of thought and preparation goes into …

1
Revisiting: Applying and Interviewing 28:51

1y ago28:51

28:51

You've found a job that you want, but now what? Here are a few helpful hints to increase your chances of getting your foot in the door and landing that position. It takes a lot of preparation, but if you're really ready to move on, it's got to be worth it, right? Good luck, and happy job hunting, friends!…

1
Revisiting: Conservation 26:32

1y ago26:32

26:32

One of the central principles, goals, and missions of aquariums and zoos is to conserve the natural world. This might mean individual species or entire ecosystems. How do we approach this vast challenge? What are our methods? How might guests get involved? Take some time to ponder, research, and join in! Helpful links: https://projectpiaba.org/ www…

1
Revisiting: The Skill of Apologizing 29:43

1y ago29:43

29:43

Revisiting some advice for those who might need it. Vulnerability and discomfort are a part of admitting you've made a mistake. Take it a step further and apologize. It doesn't feel so great initially, but it will eventually pay off in the end. Free your guilty mind and let's all be better humans! www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.semple@magicalvacationp…

1
Revisiting: Crisis Management 31:06

1y ago31:06

31:06

Please excuse the lack of new episodes for the moment. School work is occupying much of my time these days! Please enjoy a popular older episode and I will be back with something new as soon as I can! Aquariums and Zoos have to be ready for all sorts of scenarios in order to keep the guests, animals, and staff safe. We might be surprised by things …

1
Doing a Little Extra 30:36

1y ago30:36

30:36

Did you know that aquarium and zoo professionals often volunteer to take on more work than what falls within their job description or organization? Today we discuss the pros and cons of taking on more and being generous with your time and efforts in your field. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner…

1
Choosing the Right Role Models 30:08

1y ago30:08

30:08

When we're feeling unsure, it's tempting to draw upon past experiences for guidance, even when they weren't so effective or pleasant. Today we discuss emulating behaviors and habits of other people, and why it may or may not work for you. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semple…

1
The D-E-R Portion of the SPIDER Model of Enrichment 31:14

1y ago31:14

31:14

It's relatively easy to envision how the first portion of the SPIDER model of enrichment works, but the second portion is just as important. Today we discuss how we know our enrichment and training ideas are working and how we carry those ideas into the future. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner…

1
Workplace Politics 30:23

1+ y ago30:23

30:23

Even when we've had our fill of politics, it's important to remember that politics in the workplace can be very important to consider when it comes to one's words and actions. There can be impact even when the choice is made to avoid workplace politics. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/sta…

1
The S-P-I Portion of the SPIDER Model of Enrichment 30:16

1+ y ago30:16

30:16

It's fun to be able to think creatively on behalf of the animals every now and again. If you've ever wondered how animal care professionals come up with the enrichment ideas that we do, this is a quick rundown of the first half of the process. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-se…

1
Nice vs. Kind Confrontation 30:32

1+ y ago30:32

30:32

It's not uncommon for people to think they're doing something good by withholding their corrections in hope that the other person will figure it out on their own. Confrontation can be intimidating, after all. Today we discuss how and why difficult discussions should be done with kindness in mind. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo l.semple@magicalvacationpl…

1
Holistic Enrichment Programs 30:56

1+ y ago30:56

30:56

Keepers are only available for a small portion of the day. We have to consider the experience of the animals all through the day, though, so let's take a closer look as to how and why we care what the animals are up to when we aren't around. www.patreon.com/aquatizoo [email protected] www.magicalvacationplanner.com/staff/lori-semp…