Get ready for a deep dive into the wild! In this episode, we’re joined by Liz Gilles, who leads the Minnesota Zoo’s innovative education programs, and Tyler Ahnemann, the mastermind behind its most exciting behind-the-scenes experiences. Together, they share how the Zoo sparks discovery for guests of all ages—from hands-on animal learning to jaw-dropping EdVenture trips across the globe.
Liz explains how education and conservation go hand in hand, offering families, schools, and community groups new ways to understand wildlife. Tyler reveals what really happens when guests step into restricted areas, meet animals up close, or take part in once-in-a-lifetime encounters. You’ll also hear how the Zoo and Mall of America collaborate in creative ways to bring joy, learning, and conservation awareness to millions of visitors each year.
Friendly Note: Our end-of-episode trivia game may or may not contain… let’s call them “imaginative interpretations” of sloth behavior. For the real scoop, check out the “Sloth Myths” link included at the end of this description.
1:15 Origins and mission of ‘The New Zoo’ – a new, modern take on zoos
4:45 Traveling the world and connecting that to the mission of the Minnesota Zoo
6:45 Traveling locally and the world with the Minnesota Zoo
8:00 Understanding the conservation programs and their importance
9:00 Backstage Pass experiences for MN Zoon guests
10:15 Exploring the collaborations between Mall of America and Minnesota Zoo
12:00 Winter animal finds and Winter Fest at the Zoo
14:00 Some of ‘our favorite’ animals and why they are so cute
18:15 Fun trivia games on animals, wildlife and the world
Minnesota Zoo info: www.mnzoo.org
Travel EdVentures info: https://mnzoo.org/travel-edventures-2/
Backstage Pass info: https://mnzoo.org/backstage-pass-2/
Sloth Myths: Sloth Myths: 14 Things You Think You Know About Sloths — The Sloth Conservation Foundation
Guests: Liz Gilles, Curator of Education and Tyler Ahnemann, Unique Experiences Specialist of the Minnesota Zoo
Your hosts: Jill Renslow, Sara Johnson
Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.
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