Turtley Devoted

Anthony and Shannon have just completed their book, which comes out on Valentine's Day. The process was a lot to handle, and Anthony may have gotten a chance to see what it's like to be Shannon by overseeing everything. One thing is for sure - Shannon needs to calm down, she's being too loud. Yeah, They talk about the Kelce brothers and Taylor Swift, too. Order your copy of Turtley Devoted to You on Amazon.

Shannon and Anthony discuss their turtle hatches this season and Shannon challenges Anthony on whether what he does is actually conservation. Anthony gets a bit frustrated in this one - yes it is tough feeling like the black sheep in the family, but nothing is as frustrating as the Kelce brothers, right now. Be sure to join the Turtley Devoted: Reptile People Relationship Dynamics group on Facebook, where we can continue the conversation.

Don't worry if we write checks. We write rhymes.

Seriously though. How long has it been? Too long. Shannon and Anthony return to talk about their book, Anthony's turtle greenhouse, and Shannon's concussion. Something for everyone.

In this episode, Anthony and Shannon discuss the pressure to network and connect with like-minded people. Are Anthony's autobiographical efforts a waste of time? Will the Traditional Chinese Medicine that drove several turtle species to extinction help those pesky colon issues you've been having? Listen to the episode and find out.

Shannon and Anthony are back and just when you thought it couldn't get any more interesting, they hit you with the pinkpearlsnpreppyco. Time to put your big boy pants on and join us as we discuss Shannon's new business venture... ...Well, it's not much of a business as it were, but it IS a venture. We will also talk about walking through the Everglades, Anthony's upcoming trip to a turtle conference, and our newly shared obsession with gaining instagram followers. Lots to unpack here.

Shannon and Anthony sit down to discuss some pretty important topics of contention between them, including revisiting the pivotal, turn-of-the-century ratings duel between Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwin. They also discuss the importance, or lack thereof, of the Jurassic Park film franchise. These debates are the foundation upon which a strong relationship exists. Oh yeah, their daughter also asked if Anthony loves turtles more than his family. That's also pretty important.

Shannon and Anthony are back on the day of their tenth wedding anniversary, of all days. They talk about the white lies they've told each other, what they are most proud of, and the challenges that marriage can throw at us all. For anyone wondering, living with someone with a unique obsession and life's work gets easier - and so does marriage.

What could be more fun than listening to Shannon complain about her medical woes? Anthony complaining about having to hold the household together during that time, that's what. As if he wasn't busy enough already with work, travel, presentations, and with the warm days of spring approaching fast and animals waking up and needing attention, Anthony must figure out how to juggle it all. As Shannon would say, no one asked him to take on so much.

Shannon and Anthony talk about language. Luckily they only briefly talk about Italian and Spanish, something they are not well versed in. Instead they tackle their love languages, which are very different and play into how they navigate the hurdles in their life together. Tune in to hear how opposites attract and how turtles fit into all of this.

Oh boy. They didn't even call it a holiday episode. Not cool. Either way, you should check it out, because they talk about Shannon's best Christmas gift she's ever received, which was given to her by one of Anthony's turtle friends. Is that even possible? Man, they've come a long way. This is proof that there is a chance for everyone. That is, unless your wife puts make-up on for you every day and you don't notice.

Big surprise, Shannon has been feeling distant from Anthony lately. Perhaps even less surprising is the fact that Anthony hasn't noticed. Perhaps the fact that Anthony will travel for work soon is the reason for the disconnect. Or maybe it has to do with Anthony going rogue and recording a rambling, poor excuse for a podcast episode while driving last month that is likely to test their relationship if he isn't willing to give up the idea fast. Lot's to unpack here...

It's a tale as old as time. He makes her a custom laundry and gift wrapping room, and she says, "no, use it for your nerdy turtle ventures." Both feel a certain way as they battle it out to decide who is actually being nice and who is or isn't willing to accept what is most likely a nice gesture. It's okay if this confuses you. We're confused too.

If the editing of this episode bothers you, there was none. We just went with it. we love anchor, but the site wouldn't let us edit this episode for some reason.

Behind every great man is a great woman. That's certainly true with our guest today, Lisa Enders. Lisa is the wife of theTurtleRoom's Founder and President, Steve Enders, or as she calls him, Stephen. In the episode, Anthony is on his own as he tries to live up to the standard Shannon has set for solo missions. The good news is, Lisa and Anthony are old buddies, with lots of experiences together at the Hamburg show, random car rental places in Lebanon, PA, and meals at the diagonal dining room table. This is going to be a fun one... As long as Anthony can get Lisa to really share her feelings about her turtle-loving husband's ridiculousness. 

Imagine working for years to start making progress in an area of importance for you - or at least something you think you want - only to realize the activity really stresses you out. Anthony cares about breeding turtles as much as anything, but the fear of the unknown really takes over as soon as eggs are placed in the incubator. Is something wrong with him? Shannon certainly thinks so - and if you've ever tuned in to the show, you know she isn't scared to tell him what she feels about it.

Once Anthony overcomes his snarkiness and generalized irritability, he can give Shannon the praise she deserves for her recent turtle related ventures. They then discuss their recent trip to the Catskill Mountains in New York for a little rest and relaxation. Their glamping trip included a stay in a 2020 Airstream camper too small for Anthony to shower or use the bathroom. 

Today is Anthony's birthday, and he can't think of any better way to celebrate than providing an episode of Turtley Devoted featuring one of his favorite people in the world - award winning nature artist, Matt Patterson. The conversation is truly a funny and entertaining one, where they discuss travel, relationships, artistic inspiration, and turtles... naturally. If you haven't seen Matt's incredible work, visit Stoneridge Art Studios at mpattersonart.com.

We've been doing this for a full year already! In this episode, we ask the question, "Is Anthony a horrible father and husband because he made is toddler and pregnant wife brave the elements so he could win a turtle trophy?" You don't have to listen to know that the answer is "yes." But you should listen anyway. We're going back to our roots in this one - telling stories and what not.

Listener Appreciation - Part Two. Shannon is coming in hot in this one. She's done her homework this time and has questions of her own, keeping the theme of listener appreciation going. Will this be the episode to end their podcast, before they've even reached a year of doing so? Let's hope not.

Listener Appreciation - Part One. Shannon and Anthony agree, perhaps the best outcome from starting this podcast has been the outpouring of feedback from the listeners. In this episode they answer questions from listeners and have a great time doing it... For the most part. 

This conversation stemmed from a development briefly mentioned on our last show - our six year old daughter brought Anthony a note written on the back of a receipt, which reads "I love your tertle's." While on the surface this might seem like a joyous thing, Anthony couldn't help but think that it had negative connotations, as well. How does being often times consumed by this way of life consume our children, and how do gender-specific pressures we place on young people affect their confidence and self image as they struggle to find themselves. Pretty deep. In no way do we think we have the answers, but we discuss what we think play into these issues.

Lots going on in this episode. Anthony and Shannon strongly disagree on important relationship stressors that every couple grapples with - terrestrial snails in the house and turtle mating on social media. They're up to their butts in alligators... Not really. I guess you'll have to listen to know what all of this nonsense even means, in life.

Shannon is flying solo in this episode with her new friend Dominique DiFalco of the Modern Medusa Podcast. Her show highlights females in herpetoculture and herpetology, a desperately needed viewpoint that we are thrilled to see represented more through her work. Dominique is just cool, and that shines through in this episode. As the Pierlioni girls would say "I don't need no man," and in this episode, we fittingly take Anthony out of the equation. In all seriousness, it's all love between us and we are happy to support each other in making reptile related discussions also be about the interpersonal relationships developed along the way. As Anthony likes to say, "come for the reptiles, stay for the people."

If you've listened to the show before, you've likely heard Anthony rambling on about this thing called the Enneagram. Apparently we all have personality types that determine not just how, but why we approach conflicts and decisions in our lives the way we do. They say opposites attract, and Anthony and Shannon are no different. In this episode, they discuss what it means to be a type 6 and type 7 and how that plays in to how they navigate their struggles individually and as part of a team. Will Shannon listen to a word Anthony is saying? Tune in to find out.

Lots of updates since Shannon and Anthony last recorded - Shannon was a guest on a wonderful podcast, she has been running many educational talks, and her favorite tortoise passed away. Definitely good and bad things going on in their world, and Anthony hopes that the loss of their beloved Lenny will not hinder the progress they've made in their partnership in turtle related endeavors. 

At their house, every day is National Pet Day. Join Shannon and Anthony as they bicker even more than usual, particularly about how they choose to raise their kids - Shannon likes to instill healthy fear and dislike of certain "taxa," while Anthony uses any excuse he can to share "science moments," with them and anyone who will listen. Anyway(s), you're sure to enjoy this episode that is non stop action. That is, if you consider marital conflict to be action.

Anthony and Shannon discuss a few updates in their world of turtles, and almost make it through an episode without Shannon needing a bathroom break. They also discuss a prominent news story that has been rocking the turtle world - but that's not enough to get Shannon interested in talking... great. What is it about recording in the evening that zaps their energy? They really work through it, though.

In this one, Shannon flies solo again, this time with our good friend Casey Leone. In addition to running the Terrapin Conservation Initiative, Casey is a busy mother of two young daughters and wife to America's turtle heart-throb, Chris Leone. Check her out on Instagram and Facebook under Terrapin Conservation Initiative and The Travelorian for more on her conservation and Disney travel endeavors. She really does it all.

Shannon and Anthony discuss the semantics around the word "expert," and give Shannon a chance to to answer left over questions from their friend, following Anthony's recent appearance on the TTPG's live stream. The conversation takes a turn off topic when the couple randomly discusses attractiveness and the role it plays in pop culture, the reptile industry, and their lives.

Here the episode where we finally have our friend and partner, Chris Leone of Garden State Tortoise on the show to talk about life. Most of the conversation focuses on passion and influence in a social media age. Anthony sits this one out to give the audience a break from the dynamic they often see on the Pondcast.

Your hosts are back with the first guestless show in a while. Shannon has plans for a "light-hearted" episode filled with fun questions, but will they be able to keep it all positive the entire time? This is a fun one. After more than ten years together, Anthony and Shannon actually share stories with each other that they've never heard before. 

Shannon and Anthony are excited to bring you this episode of Turtley Devoted, where they speak with one of the most important people in Anthony's life. Charlie Moorcroft is very well-known in the equestrian community and is becoming more of a household name in the turtle keeping community, following recent videos produced by Greg's Turtle Haven on YouTube. Anthony and Shannon both love Charlie for his charm, sense of humor, unmatched thoughtfulness and care in keeping animals, dedication to educating the next generation, and his unwavering friendship. Be sure to tune in and decide for yourself whether you think it was only about the jeans, or who was wearing them.

In the hit movie "Ghostbusters," when Bill Murray's character learns that Rick Moranis believes he is the "Key Master," and his 'would be' girlfriend is the "Gate Keeper," he jokes that they "have to get these two together." Harold Ramis replies "I think that would be extraordinarily dangerous. Anthony and Kevin Minto have had the same conversation about having their wives meet.

This episode brings our first guest to show, Amanda Minto. Amanda is hilarious, and when you get her and Shannon together, hilarity always ensues. There's nothing quite as stressful or funny (depending from which perspective you sit) than a couple of 'significant others' that share the common bond of ridiculous partner obsessions. Shannon is flying solo on this one. Let us know how you like it.

Well, Anthony went and did it. He's tested negative for 'the virus,' but traveled for work and got himself stuck in quarantine. Listen as Shannon fights the urge to say "I told you so," and as the couple talks through some holiday related choices to be made. Anthony and Shannon also discuss the changes associated with cold weather animal keeping at this time of year.

Shannon isn't holding back in this one, as your hosts question each other on why they decide to do particular things in ways that they find peculiar. Does Anthony even care about animal welfare, and why is Shannon all of a sudden trying to get all tough about things? Perhaps it took her nine episodes to come out of her shell... Pun intended.

In this episode, Anthony and Shannon return after an almost month long break from recording. They catch you up on what they have been up to, including turtle home improvements and a hectic work schedule. They also discuss plans for future "expansion" of their turtle space at their new house and the animals that are most likely to kill you in the United States. Something for everyone.

Anthony and Shannon discuss some recent news in the animal world, including pandemic inspired research around the role pets play in our happiness and prominent animal figures in the news for wildlife crimes. Grab your healing crystals and join us for a fun conversation about "fan girling," Anthony's inability to trust Shannon with the reigns during an upcoming Pondcast episode, and the importance of supporting your loved one in their endeavors despite a lack of peer reviewed research to back up their claims.

Remember that show, the Newlywed Game? Judging by the demographics of our viewers, you probably do! Anyway, here is our take on the game if some of the questions pertained to turtles. That would make for a pretty strange episode of the Newlywed Game, but not Turtley Devoted. The conversation is so lively, Anthony almost gets away with helping a hatchling turtle out of the egg while recording, but Shannon wasn't having it.

Have you ever invited a new love interest to a reptile show to test their suitability as a serious candidate for relationship commitment? If you answered "no," here is your chance to see what it might be like to stoop to that level of nonsense. We talk about our favorite shows of those we have been to, ones we haven't and the experiences shared and people met along the way.

It was Anthony's turn to plan to content for this episode. Shannon would say that this would cause the show to lack direction and focus. Anthony would then argue that this organic approach would add something new to the dialog. Is it possible that both can be right? Listen to episode 4 and find out! 

Fun fact: Did you know that a group of African Spur-Thighed Tortoises, Centrochelys sulcata, is called a "sulculti?" Neither did we. Because they're not. Not even close.

Shannon and Anthony take time to reflect on the complicated real estate moves they have made together, and the stress that turtles have put on these adventures. HGTV exists because of the common friction around his and hers wish lists during home shopping, but this turtle stuff brings it to another level. Is it possible for both of us to get what we want when a bunch of animals are part of the equation?

Shannon leads a discussion where we remember our honeymoon and the ridiculous, animal-related experiences shared on the trip. Whether you love swimming with huge sharks or being waited on hand and foot, you are sure to find something you can relate to, if you have ever had a significant other!

Anthony and Shannon are together for their first episode of "Turtley Devoted." They have spent the last two days looking for their missing Leopard Tortoise, Lenny, and their discussion on some conservation topics and items of contention make for some delightfully uncomfortable banter.