Spoodcast - Jumping Spiders, Tarantulas and Other Cool Bugs

17 - So you wanna breed jumping spiders?

Join Amy (@amykeepsarachnids) and Laena (@mfspood) as we dive into a hot topic: breeding jumping spiders. We've had a lot of questions about it, and while we won't give a step-by-step guide, we're here to share what you need to think about before diving in. Breeding isn't just fun and games; it takes a lot of time, money, and space. Plus, it can be mentally taxing if you're not prepared for the losses that come with it. So, are you ready for the commitment?

We also chat about the joys and pains of raising spider babies, from the challenges of feeding hundreds of slings to the pride of watching them grow. If you're still keen on breeding, make sure to reach out to experienced breeders for advice and support. 

Thanks for tuning in, and we hope you enjoy this episode. See you next week!

16 - Surprise jumping spider slings, tarantula updates and Zo's pairing woes

Welcome to Spoodcast, the jumping spider podcast with Amy (@amykeepsarachnids) and Laena (@mfspood)!

The episode kicks off with Laena's unexpected discovery of baby spiders hatched on her desk, then transitions into the exciting report on the largest funnel web spider found in Australia. Amy offers a unique perspective on the behavior of young tarantulas and the unpredictable and challenging aspects of spider keeping, offering inspiration and practical advice to listeners.

Special guest Zo of Zovariums drops by to tell us about a mating session gone very wrong. On a lighter note, we discuss what makes a male spider attractive and introduce you to the ADORABLE flathead jumper. 

15 - The world's oldest spider, Amy's first Old World tarantula, rehoming chaos, & caring for elderly jumping spiders

On this episode, Amy from Amy Keeps Arachnids keeps us company! Laena and Amy discuss the world's oldest spider, and Amy's first Old World tarantula. From rehousing anxiety, the bittersweet experience of caring for elderly jumping spiders, and dealing with unwanted grain mites in fruit fly cultures, this episode of Spoodcast is a silly ride for spider lovers and the spi-curious alike!

14 - Jumping spiders and kittens(!!!) with Kenia @terra_n_fern

This week we talk arthropods and felines with our guest, Kenia - a passionate advocate for spiders and a loving foster parent for kittens. Kenia tells us about how she helps individuals overcome their arachnophobia, places sibling spiders into homes, and stories of nurturing kittens from the local Humane Society.

We discuss Kenia’s childhood filled with diverse wildlife and explore how this has shaped their eclectic zoo-like household. We also touch on the unique challenges and rewards of handcrafting enclosures for spiders and fostering kittens.

Kenia also details her hobby of breeding spiders! Find out the difficulties of pairing high-white spiders, and the importance of collaboration and learning within the community.

Join us as we break stereotypes, heal hearts, and redefine the perceptions about the smallest critters.

13 - Roaches, spiders and bad jokes with Juice’s Arthropods

In the latest episode of Spoodcast, Lauren and Laena welcome Juice from Juices Arthropods to delve into the fascinating world of arthropods, particularly roaches. From post-apocalyptic survival to peculiar incidents at the Jersey shore, the episode offers a unique blend of humor, enlightenment, and offbeat imagination. Juice shares his journey as a 'bug nerd,' from reading field guides to breeding Dubia roaches, offering insights into bug behaviors, arthropod breeding, and entrepreneurship. Delve into discussions on mantis species, jumping spiders, tarantulas, and even favorite Taco Bell orders, ensuring an entertaining and educational experience.

The episode continues with in-depth discussions on bug behaviors, experiences with tarantulas, and upcoming conservation projects. Unraveling intriguing facts about arachnophobia and challenging fears about spiders, the hosts explore the profound relationships formed with these creatures, from centipedes to bearded dragons. Concluding with a dive into the world of roaches, including tips on terrariums and feeding strategies, this episode promises to redefine understanding and appreciation for these often-underestimated creatures. Whether a seasoned spider lover or a first-time bug enthusiast, tune in for a riveting, entertaining, and enlightening journey into the intriguing world of arthropods.

12 - Raising baby regal jumping spiders with Zo @Zovariums

In this episode of Spoodcast, your hosts Lauren (@spiderstuff.co) and Laena (@mfspood) have a chat with a very special guest, Zo (@zoevariums). A nature lover and wildlife education and conservation specialist, Zo recounts how she transformed her son's fear of spiders into a love for these fascinating creatures through hands-on learning! 

Zo's firsthand experience in raising jumping spiders offers practical advice to fellow keepers. The episode sheds light on the complex individuality of spiders, emphasizing their unique quirks, personalities, and even off-days. Tips for understanding a spider's body language, observing their behaviors for insight, and analyzing potential personality changes after molts are provided.

Whether you’re a spider fanatic, a budding arachnid breeder, or someone who wants to overcome their fear of spiders, you'll uncover valuable insights into handling and nurturing these unique creatures.

11 - Jumping into (jumping) spiders and tarantulas with Emily @nevermore_gbb

Join Laena (@mfspood) and Lauren (@spiderstuff.co), hosts of the Spoodcast, in this episode with guest Emily, @nevermore_gbb! Emily shares their journey from severe arachnophobia to being a spider enthusiast - both tarantulas and jumping spiders!

Follow Emily's awesome journey across the country from Denver to Alaska, and learn how a chance encounter with a green bottle-blue tarantula opened a new chapter in their life. Listen to the amusing anecdotes, from giving their first tarantula a name to the heart-pounding experience of pissing off a tarantula in pre-molt. Emily's personal journey extends beyond pet care, touching on their experiences within a spider-loving community on Instagram and educating the world about these unique creatures.

9 - Tarantulas, scorpions and other exotic pets with Victor of Vexotic Me

In this captivating episode of Spoodcast, join your hosts Lauren and Laena with special guest Victor, an exotic pet proprietor and respected expositor. Victor shares his intriguing journey from a dinosaur admirer to becoming a specialist in tarantula breeding and management, while also revealing his broad experiences from attending various expos worldwide.

Engaging and knowledgeable, Victor dispels common misconceptions about Old World tarantulas and provides insightful comparisons between New World and Old World tarantula species. He also shares insightful, often humorous anecdotes from his experiences handling peculiar creatures, offering a in-depth look into the exotic pet trade.

Born and raised in Brazil, Victor discusses his life's journey – from interacting with local fauna, moving to the United States, and establishing a successful business in the exotic pet industry. He also discusses the contrasts between American and Brazilian fauna and shines a light on their respective pet industry regulations.

This immersive discussion digs into unexpected venomous potential of certain animals, debunks popular myths about spiders, and is filled to the brim with intriguing animal facts and captivating anecdotes. From scorpion threats to a painful encounter with an octopus, Victor offers listeners a candid, riveting peek into his life and career.

Exemplifying both passion and dedication, Victor provides honest insights into the challenging, yet rewarding world of tarantula breeding while shedding light on the overlooked aspects of the pet trade industry. With invaluable tips and tricks on handling tarantula emergencies, managing egg sacs, and feeding slings, the episode is a treasure trove of arachnid knowledge.