Turtley Devoted

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.