The Retic Lounge #143 – Perseverance Through Tragedy w/ Sam of SSD Retics

In this heartfelt episode of The Retic Lounge, Nathan and Lucas sit down with Sam of SSD Retics to talk about his journey with Reticulated Pythons and reptiles, from the early days of keeping to where he is today. Sam shares the devastating story of a tragic fire that wiped out his collection and how he’s been able to persevere, rebuild, and continue his passion for these incredible snakes.

The conversation also highlights the work Sam is putting into his YouTube channel, *SSD Retics and Reptiles*, where he offers a raw, real-life perspective on keeping and working with Reticulated Pythons. You can check out his channel here: [SSD Retics and Reptiles on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@ssdreticsandreptiles).

Follow the Hosts & Guest:

* Sam – [@ssd\_retics](https://www.instagram.com/ssd_retics)
* Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)
* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Thanks to Our Sponsors:

* [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) – Best feeders in the game! (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off)
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* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)

Support USARK & USARK FL:

* [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)
* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

The Retic Lounge #142 – Book Club: The Complete Reticulated Python Chapters 12, 13 & 14

In this episode of The Retic Lounge Book Club, Lucas and Nathan dive deep into three packed chapters of The Complete Reticulated Python, covering Dwarf and Super Dwarf classifications, pure locality standards, size potential, and the realities of keeping these incredible snakes safely.

They break down what truly qualifies a retic as a Dwarf or Super Dwarf, the seven Selayar Island Chain localities that define the term, and the controversies surrounding SD percentages used in the reptile trade. The discussion then moves into pure locality standards, why traceable lineage is critical, and the pitfalls of mislabeling in the hobby.

From there, the hosts explore how genetics, diet, and breeding pair choices influence size potential, highlighting both the fascination and danger of keeping these snakes. They share real-world incidents—bites, feeding accidents, and fatalities—that underscore the importance of safety, even with smaller locality animals.

It’s an honest, educational, and sometimes sobering look at some of the most misunderstood aspects of retic keeping.

Follow the Hosts:

    •    Nathan – @katz_reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)

    •    Lucas – @lab_exotics (https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

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    •    Heartland Reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)

    •    Reptile Husbandry Designs (https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10)

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The Retic Lounge #141 – Catching Up, Nido Scare, and Life Updates

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan finally sit down after a brief break to catch up on everything—life, snakes, and the podcast. From personal updates to collection changes, the hosts give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what’s been going on and what’s coming next.

Lucas also opens up about a recent scare with Nidovirus in his collection. He walks through the events that led up to it, the testing process, and most importantly, the biosecurity protocols and preventative measures he’s since put in place to protect his animals moving forward.

It’s a raw, informative, and honest conversation that every serious reptile keeper will want to hear.

Follow the Hosts:

* Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)
* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Sponsored by:

* [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)
* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)
* [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10)

Support USARK & USARK FL:

* [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)
* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Whether you’re here for education, transparency, or just to hear what's next—this is a can't-miss episode.

Episode 140 – Locality Spotlight: Karompa with Jon Edwards

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan are joined by longtime locality keeper and enthusiast Jon Edwards to shine a light on one of the most obscure and intriguing island forms in the Retic world: Karompa. Tucked away in the Sulawesi region of Indonesia, the Karompa Retic has sparked curiosity and debate for years—but few have worked with them as extensively as Jon.

Together, they dive into what sets this locality apart: from its uniquely cryptic patterning and reduced size to the ongoing questions surrounding its origins and classification. Jon shares his firsthand experience working with these animals, breeding them, and navigating the myths that still surround this rare island population.

This is a deep cut for the locality lovers, the lineage chasers, and anyone fascinated by the unexplored corners of the Retic map.

Follow the Hosts:
• Nathan – @katz_reptiles (https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)
• Lucas – @lab_exotics (https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Sponsored by:
• Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
• AEstoney
• VivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
• Heartland Reptiles
• Reptile Husbandry Designs (Code: TRL10)

Support USARK & USARK FL:
• USARK Membership (https://usark.org/memberships/)
• USARK Florida (https://usarkfl.org/)

If you’re into island localities, rare Retics, or deep-dive reptile conversations—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan crack open pages 267 to 314 of The Complete Reticulated Python to uncover the wild roots of some of the rarest and most misunderstood morphs in the hobby. From jungles in Sumatra, Java, and Borneo to remote islands in the Philippines, this chapter explores the natural origins of morphs like Black Stripe, Harlequin, Lemon Glow, and Tribal—many of which were discovered by chance through the skin trade or field collection.

This episode breaks down the genetics, import histories, and conservation context behind each of these wild-caught legends. Whether it’s the mystery of the Ivory/BEL complex, the naming confusion between Rainbow and Ocelot, or the rise of the Philippines as a morph hotspot, there’s something in here for everyone passionate about retics.

Follow the Hosts:
 • Nathan – @katz_reptiles
 • Lucas – @lab_exotics

Sponsored by:
 • Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
 • AEstoney
 • VivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
 • Heartland Reptiles
 • Reptile Husbandry Designs (Code: TRL10)

Support USARK & USARK FL:
 • USARK Membership
 • USARK Florida

If you’re into genetic rabbit holes, wild-caught retics, or understanding where our favorite morphs really come from—this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode of The Retic Lounge, Lucas and Nathan sit down with Nathan Hess of [@nathan\_hess\_retics](https://www.instagram.com/nathan_hess_retics) to dive into one of the most exciting first-time breedings in recent memory. Nathan shares the story behind his debut clutch of Reticulated Pythons, the meticulous husbandry practices that got him there, and the custom enclosures he built to provide optimal care for his animals.

What makes this clutch so special? Nathan jumped in with both feet, pairing an Aztec Tiger to a Pure Kayuadi locality Reticulated Python—a bold move that not only challenges traditional breeding approaches but could also represent a major leap forward in the morph × locality game here in the U.S. From working with mentors to trusting his process, this episode is packed with insight and excitement for new and experienced keepers alike.

Follow the Hosts:

* Nathan – [@katz\_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)
* Lucas – [@lab\_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Sponsored by:

* [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
* [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com)
* [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
* [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)
* [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Code: TRL10)

Support USARK & USARK FL:

* [USARK Membership](https://usark.org/memberships)
* [USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us)

Whether you're into bold pairings, first-time breeder success stories, or locality work—this one’s not to be missed.

In this installment of The Complete Reticulated Python Book Club, we dive into one of the most iconic and complex morph categories in the hobby: Albinos. In part two of Chapter 11, Nathan and Lucas break down the origins, genetic relationships, and controversies surrounding the different Albino morphs in the Retic world.

We trace the roots of the Clark Strain Albino, first imported by Bob Clark in 1994 via the infamous Anson Wong, and discuss how this single morph led to the emergence of the White, Purple, and Lavender phases. From there, we explore incompatible albino lines like Amelanistic, Sharp, Blonde, Mocha, and the elusive Waine Line Albino, and how these lines have been used to produce designer morph combos like the Mochino, Coral, Amaretto, and Rhapsody.

We also take time to demystify terms like T+ and T-, and explain why the label "Citrus" isn’t actually a morph, but more of a polygenic bloodline.

If you’ve ever been confused by the tangled web of Albino genetics—or just want to hear the full story behind one of the most pivotal mutations in Retic history—this episode is a must-listen.

Follow the Hosts:

• Nathan – @katz_reptiles
• Lucas – @lab_exotics

Grab your copy of The Complete Reticulated Python by Glen McClellan here:
https://glenmacherpetofauna.myshopify.com/

Sponsored by:

• Cold Blooded Cafe (Code: REPTILELOUNGE20)
• AEstoney
• VivTech Products (Code: RETICLOUNGE23)
• Heartland Reptiles
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Support USARK & USARK FL:

• USARK Membership
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Tune in to unravel the colorful complexity of Albino Retics!

Retic VS Black Dragon | Jong Chiu of JC Reptiles | The Retic Lounge #136

In this episode, Nathan sits down with Jong Chiu of [@jc_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/jc_reptiles) for a deep dive into Jong's reptile journey. After moving from the Philippines to the United States, Jong found his way back into the reptile hobby, eventually specializing in two powerhouse species: Reticulated Pythons and Black Dragons (Melanistic Water Monitors).

Nathan and Jong break down the care requirements, challenges, and rewarding aspects of working with both species. They also dive into what fascinates Jong about each animal and have a fun, thoughtful discussion comparing Retics and Black Dragons to figure out which might be the most ideal reptile to keep depending on the keeper’s goals.

If you love big reptiles and want insight from someone experienced with two of the most iconic species in the hobby, you won’t want to miss this one.

Follow the Guest:  
- Jong Chiu – [@jc_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/jc_reptiles)

Follow the Hosts:  
- Nathan – [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
- Lucas – [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Thanks to Our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20) – [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) – [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) – [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) – [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) – [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:  
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- [Join USARK Florida](https://usarkfl.wildapricot.org/join-us) – [@usarkfl](https://www.instagram.com/usarkfl)

Catch this episode for a unique perspective on two of the most impressive species in the reptile world!

UK vs. US Retic Keeping | Lounge Logic | The Retic Lounge #135

In this episode, Nathan brings on a panel of returning guests and new voices to talk all things retics and reptiles. Joining the Lounge are Luke of [@dagobah_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/dagobah_exotics), Jacob St. John of [@st.serpents](https://www.instagram.com/st.serpents), and Jacob Smith of [@wapiti.exotics](https://www.instagram.com/wapiti.exotics).

Luke and Jacob St. John give us updates since their last appearances on the show, sharing how their collections and goals have evolved. The group dives into some great discussion on the differences between the UK and US reptile markets, the state of the retic hobby, and their outlooks on the future. It’s a relaxed, fun, and insightful roundtable that any reptile enthusiast will enjoy.

Follow the Guests:  
- Luke – [@dagobah_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/dagobah_exotics)  
- Jacob St. John – [@st.serpents](https://www.instagram.com/st.serpents)  
- Jacob Smith – [@wapiti.exotics](https://www.instagram.com/wapiti.exotics)

Follow the Hosts: 
- Nathan – [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
- Lucas – [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)

Thanks to Our Sponsors: 
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off) – [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) – [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) – [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) – [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) – [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns)

Support USARK and USARK Florida:  
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships) – [@usark_official](https://www.instagram.com/usark_official)  
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Whether you're new to the hobby or a seasoned retic keeper, this laid-back episode has something for everyone. Tap in!

Jampea Specialist with Chris Schar | The Retic Lounge #134

In this episode, Nathan sits down with longtime reptile keeper and first-time breeder Chris Schar to talk about his journey in the reptile hobby, his impressive collection, and his first successful clutch of Dwarf Reticulated Pythons. Chris paired his 68.75% Jampea Het Anery female with his Pure Anery Jampea male, producing an exciting clutch of 84.375% Jampea Reticulated Pythons.  

Topics Covered:  
- Chris’s background in reptile keeping  
- What led him to focus on Jampea locality Retics  
- The process of pairing and successfully breeding his first clutch  
- Challenges and lessons learned along the way  
- His future plans in the hobby  

Follow Chris:  
- [@schar_92](https://www.instagram.com/schar_92)  

Follow the Hosts:  
- Nathan - [@katz_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/katz_reptiles)  
- Lucas - [@lab_exotics](https://www.instagram.com/lab_exotics)  

Thanks to Our Sponsors:  
- [Cold Blooded Cafe](https://coldbloodedcafe.com) (Use code REPTILELOUNGE20 for 20% off) - [@cold_blooded_cafe](https://www.instagram.com/cold_blooded_cafe)  
- [AEstoney](https://aestoney.com) for husbandry tools - [@aestoney](https://www.instagram.com/aestoney)  
- [VivTech Products](https://vivtechproducts.com) (Use code RETICLOUNGE23) - [@vivtechproducts](https://www.instagram.com/vivtechproducts)  
- [Heartland Reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles) - [@heartland_reptiles](https://www.instagram.com/heartland_reptiles)  
- [Reptile Husbandry Designs](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns) (Use code TRL10) - [@reptilehusbandrydesigns](https://www.instagram.com/reptilehusbandrydesigns)  

Support USARK and USARK Florida:  
- [Join USARK](https://usark.org/memberships) - [@usark_official](https://www.instagram.com/usark_official)  
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If you're passionate about Dwarf Retics, locality preservation, and hearing from new breeders making waves in the community, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!