The Hobby Hangar

In part two of Phil and Smitty’s invertebrate interview, the conversation gets deeper—and a little more dangerous. The crew dives into the realities of handling venomous species, how education and understanding can help overcome fear, and why respect for these animals is essential. Beyond the critters, Phil and Smitty share why having a hobby that excites you matters, how passion fuels personal growth, and the role hobbies can play in mental health. Whether you’re an experienced keeper or just curious, this episode is all about learning, facing fears, and finding what keeps you inspired.

For Smitty

📸 @palmettocoastexotics

For Phil

📸 @wellingtonexotics1

📸 @tarantulaaddicts

For Tristan

📸 @sweet_tea480

For the Pod

🟢 Linktree

In this episode, Connor and Tristan kick back for a relaxed holiday smoke session and take a trip down memory lane. From childhood moments that shaped them to hilarious and heartfelt stories about old friends, the conversation flows easy and unfiltered. It’s a nostalgic, reflective episode full of laughs, honesty, and the kind of stories you only tell when you’re comfortable and reminiscing with someone who’s been there. Light one up, settle in, and enjoy the memories with the guys.

Connor and Tristan sit down with Smitty and Phil for a deep dive into the fascinating world of invertebrates. From keeping tarantulas and centipedes to breaking down the key differences between species, this episode blends practical husbandry talk with plenty of passion for the hobby. Along the way, the group tackles the joys and challenges of care, swaps stories from their own collections, and stumbles (more than once) over some impressively hard-to-pronounce scientific names. Whether you’re already into inverts or just invert-curious, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and appreciation for some of the most misunderstood critters in the hobby.

For Smitty:

📸 @palmettocoastexotics

For Phil

📸 @wellingtonexotics1

📸 @tarantulaaddicts

For Tristan

📸 @sweet_tea480

For the Pod

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

🎙️ The Hobby Hangar

In the second half of Tristan and Connor’s deep-dive with Ryan, the trio explores the unseen social network that connects keepers, breeders, and educators across the reptile community. They dig into how collaboration, shared knowledge, and mutual support shape the hobby—and why building those connections matters more than ever.

The conversation then shifts to environmental stewardship, examining the responsibility keepers have to protect habitats, promote ethical practices, and advocate for the species they love. And of course, they wrap things up with a fun look at their dream enclosures—from naturalistic designs to out-there features they wish they could build tomorrow.

It’s a thoughtful, inspiring, and occasionally hilarious continuation you won’t want to miss. Tune in for Part 2!

🎙️The Hobby Hangar

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

For new guest inquiries, message Tristan on Instagram

📸 @sweet_tea480

Ryan's Instagram

📸 @reared_fangs

In this special episode, we’re thrilled to share something we’ve been working on behind the scenes—our brand-new Patreon! Whether you’ve been with us since day one or you’re just now joining the community, this episode is all about giving you a look at what’s coming next.

We break down why we created the Patreon, what it means for the future of the show, and the awesome perks you can unlock by supporting us. From early access to episodes and behind-the-scenes content to exclusive Discord access, live recordings, discounts, and more, we’re building a place where hobbyists and critter lovers can connect even deeper.

If you’ve been wanting more from the pod—or just want to help us keep growing—this episode is your guide to everything our Patreon offers. Thanks for being here, and thanks for helping us take this next exciting step!

In Part 1 of this two-part series, Tristan and Connor sit down with Ryan for a wide-ranging conversation that dives into some of the most fascinating — and misunderstood — animals in the hobby. From the surprisingly nuanced world of betta fish care to the raw power and intelligence of crocodiles, all the way to the unique challenges of working with snakes, this episode is packed with insight and honest discussion.

Ryan shares his experiences, breaks down common myths, and shines a light on what it really takes to keep these critters healthy and thriving. Whether you’re into aquatics, reptiles, or just love learning about animals that don’t always get the spotlight, this episode has something for you.

Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a deeper look at the creatures we love.

🎙️The Hobby Hangar

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

For new guest inquiries, message Tristan on Instagram

📸 @sweet_tea480

Ryan's Instagram

📸 @reared_fangs

In part two of Tristan and Connor’s conversation with Benny, the trio dives deeper into the reptile community — discussing its growth, challenges, and the bonds that keep it strong. They open up about the importance of having a solid support system within the hobby, especially when working with high-risk animals. Benny also shares stories and insights from his hands-on experience with venomous species, offering a candid look at the respect and responsibility that comes with it.

📸 @rootedreptile

📸 @camocages

🔵 Ben Saldivar

🕒 rootedreptile

---

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

📸 @sweet_tea480

In this episode, Tristan and Conner sit down with Benny to dive into the fascinating world of reptile expos and auctions. They discuss what really goes on behind the tables, share stories from past events, and explore the importance of responsible keeping within the hobby.

This is the first of a two-part series, offering a genuine look at the people, animals, and passion that make the reptile community thrive.

📸 @rootedreptile

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

In this second part of The Hobby Hangar’s Warhammer series, Tristan and guest host Matt continue their conversation with Mark—but this time the focus shifts from tabletop battles to real-life struggles. Matt opens up about his journey through mental health challenges, addiction, and recovery, and how the Magic: The Gathering community has played a role in his healing process. It’s a powerful and heartfelt discussion about resilience, connection, and finding strength in unexpected places.

For Mark-

🎙️ Lorehammer - A Warhammer 40k Podcast

🎙️ Lorehammer Listener Lore

📸 @lorehammerpodcast

🔴 LorehammerTV

For Matt-

🎙️ Not Another Reptile Podcast

📸@not_another_reptile_podcast

For The Pod:

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

📸 @sweet_tea480

In this episode of The Hobby Hangar, Tristan is joined by guest host Matt as they sit down with Mark to dive into the expansive world of Warhammer. From its deep lore and iconic figurines to the wide variety of factions, they explore what makes this universe so captivating.

This is the first part of a two-part series, with more Warhammer discussion coming next week!

For Mark-

🎙️ Lorehammer - A Warhammer 40k Podcast

🎙️ Lorehammer Listener Lore

📸 @lorehammerpodcast

🔴 LorehammerTV

For Matt-

🎙️ Not Another Reptile Podcast

📸@not_another_reptile_podcast

For The Pod:

🔵 The Hobby Hangar Podcast

📸 @thehobbyhangarpodcast

📸 @sweet_tea480