Ron takes us back to the early days of Zoo Miami, shares the story behind his iconic Hurricane Andrew flamingo photo, explains how zoos have evolved from attractions into conservation institutions, and opens up about how his upbringing and his father shaped his lifelong passion for animals.

We also dive into Ron’s push to make the American flamingo Florida’s official state bird, why he believes the flamingo represents the entire state, the conservation success story behind its return to Florida, and the ongoing work to restore the Everglades.

Plus, Ron shares:
🦁 How Zoo Miami has changed over his 46-year career
🐘 Why elephants are the most incredible animals he’s experienced in the wild
🌎 His perspective on climate change and the next generation of conservationists
💰 Why chasing money alone won’t make you happy
❤️ The wild story of how a crocodile bite eventually led him to meeting his wife
🦩 Why Florida needs the flamingo as its state bird
🌴 His favorite Cuban food
😎 And what it means to truly Stay Tranquilo

A conversation about following your purpose, protecting the natural world, appreciating what really matters, and doing what you love.

Subscribe to the Stay Tranquilo Podcast for more conversations with the people shaping Miami, South Florida, and beyond.

0:00 The State Bird Debate
0:45 A Legend in Conservation
2:21 The Evolution of Zoo Miami
4:00 A Crocodile and a Love Story
6:24 The Greatest Scam in the World
10:58 The Squirrel That Changed Everything
24:33 The Campaign for the Flamingo

#RonMagill #ZooMiami #StayTranquilo #Miami #Florida #Flamingo #Wildlife #Conservation #Everglades #Podcast

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