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Inside the Indianapolis Zoo with Dr. Robert Shumaker

Dr. Rob Shumaker, CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo, reveals how they balance conservation, entertainment, and innovation. From the renowned orangutan exhibit to the Indianapolis Prize, learn how the zoo is reshaping wildlife awareness nationwide.

Podcast Summary

Today’s guest is Dr. Robert W. Shumaker, the President and CEO of the Indianapolis Zoo. 

Dr. Shumaker, a renowned evolutionary biologist, discusses the zoo's incredible growth, the prestigious Indianapolis Prize, and upcoming projects at the zoo. 

You are going to learn about: 
-How the Business of Zoos Operates
-The Evolution of the Indianapolis Zoo's Reputation
-Why Conservation Efforts are Important

Check Out These Great Clips from the Episode: 
00:28 Meet Dr. Robert W. Shumaker
01:23 Comparing Cities: From Washington D.C. to Des Moines to Indianapolis
04:59 The Growth of the Indianapolis Zoo
06:46 The Impact of the Orangutan Exhibit
10:46 Balancing Attraction and Conservation
12:37 Funding and Philanthropy at the Zoo
25:59 Chimpanzee Acquisition and Care
37:32 The Evolution of CGI in Movies
38:06 Mother's Day Gift Ideas
38:51 The Role of Zoos in Wildlife Conservation
41:08 The Prestigious Indianapolis Prize
49:49 Upcoming Events at the Zoo
52:56 Chimpanzees Using Computers
56:46 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

Get IN. is brought to you by our friends at Sweetwater. Whether you are looking to start a podcast or level up your current show you need to hit them up.

Guest(s)

Dr. Robert Shumaker

Date Published

February 12, 2023

This podcast is sponsored by

Sweetwater

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

Sweetwater, located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a large music store and online retailer that specializes in musical instruments and pro audio equipment. It's known for its extensive inventory, expert staff, and dedication to customer service.

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Know someone with a great Indiana story? Nominate them as a guest for the Get IN podcast and help us share real Hoosier voices.

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Share Your Indiana Podcast Guest

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A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.
A person in casual attire poses with a person in a vibrant red mascot costume wearing a baseball jersey that reads "Indians," both against a blue backdrop with text promoting "Get Indiana" with Nate Spangle.