This episode kicks off a brand new, reoccurring series on the podcast called "The Behaviors of..." which will dive into the human side of the animal care field. Starting this series off is Dave O'Connell and Kyle Alexander, Bearizona, discussing the behaviors of a unified, supportive team. Dave and Kyle talk about what team behaviors have helped to create a healthy, positive work culture at Bearizona and the importance of focusing not just on the animals, but also the people. Dave and Kyle also discuss the benefits of celebrating everyone's uniqueness, changing a culture from competitive to collaborative, creating a "circle of reinforcement" in a team, and building up trust accounts amongst coworkers and leadership. Stay tuned in for Kyle's "Training Tale" about a jaguar and, in the spirit of the episode, he also talks about some the awesome training of others at Bearizona. For questions or suggestions about the podcast email [email protected] and to reach Dave contact [email protected] and to reach Kyle contact [email protected]  Let's talk some training!

4:50 Intro to Dave O’Connell and Kyle Alexander 

7:20 Behaviors of a Unified, Supportive Team 

10:30 Celebrating everyone’s uniqueness 

14:30 How to ask if you can try something new

16:50 Creating a culture of healthy accountability 

22:25 Cultivating a “circle of reinforcement” where everyone gives credit and celebrates their coworkers successes 

 25:55 Changing the culture from competitive to collaborative 

32:35 We are here for the animals and for the people 

36:05 Information about Behavior Month 2023

39:40 Building up trust accounts with coworkers and leadership

48:35 Everyone on a team can be a leader  

1:02:50 “Training Tale”