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August 2, 2023 59 mins

In this extraordinary episode, we embark on a captivating journey through the heart of ZooMontana, a zoological/botanical garden, accredited arboretum, and educational facility nestled in the scenic landscapes of Billings, Montana. At the helm of this remarkable oasis is the visionary Director, Jeff Ewelt.

Discover the magic of ZooMontana as Jeff shares his inspiring career story, from humble beginnings in Ohio to overseeing this incredible community gathering place. Beyond its role as a haven for over 80 animals representing 56 diverse species, including majestic Amur Tigers, powerful Grizzly Bears, playful River Otters, and elusive Canada Lynx, ZooMontana has evolved into a cherished hub for education, conservation, and recreation.

Join us as Jeff unveils the touching stories behind the zoo's rescued inhabitants and their heartwarming tales of rehabilitation. These stories epitomize the dedicated efforts of the ZooMontana team, driven by their passion for wildlife preservation and their commitment to caring for the animals' physical and emotional well-being.

In this enthralling conversation, Jeff sheds light on the significance of animal training within zoos, sharing anecdotes of the animals' cooperation and trust. This training plays a pivotal role in ensuring their medical care and fostering meaningful connections with the community. As a beloved community gathering place, ZooMontana is a center of learning, discovery, and appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Through Jeff's leadership, ZooMontana has undergone a triumphant resurgence, transforming from a struggling organization to a thriving sanctuary and a source of inspiration for wildlife conservation efforts. By emphasizing quality over quantity, the zoo has become a symbol of hope and compassion, demonstrating the profound impact that a dedicated team can make on both animals and the local community.

Prepare to be captivated by the untamed spirit of ZooMontana and its dedicated Director, Jeff Ewelt. Experience the wilderness resurgence and the profound connections it fosters between people, animals, and nature. Whether you're an animal lover, conservation enthusiast, or simply curious about the wonders of the wild, this episode will leave you in awe of the transformative power of a united community and its dedication to preserving our precious wildlife heritage. 

We want to thank our sponsor of this episode, Visit Billings. To learn more about Visit Billings, check out their website: https://www.visitbillings.com/  

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This episode is brought to you by Big Sky Economic Development, and the MT Small Business Development Center.

"The SBDC is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA."

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