Cody Sowers reveals how a job application mistake led him to become the Cincinnati Zoo's head bird keeper.
This episode features an interview with Cody Sowers, the head keeper of the aviculture department at the Cincinnati Zoo. Hosts Jenna and Mark welcome Sowers back as the podcast's first repeat guest. Sowers shares his professional journey into bird keeping, which spans roughly 18 years.
He began his career as a tour guide and environmental educator before working at SeaWorld. Sowers explains he initially applied for the wrong job at SeaWorld, a mistake that led him to penguin care. That accidental application became what he calls the best thing ever for his career. His work with penguins eventually brought him to the Cincinnati Zoo, where he recently celebrated his 15-year anniversary. Sowers clarifies that becoming a zookeeper was never his original career goal. He states his early interest was actually in birds of prey, not penguins.
The conversation reveals how an unplanned job application can redirect an entire professional life. Sowers' story underscores that a person's true passion can emerge from unexpected opportunities. His longevity at the Cincinnati Zoo highlights a deep, developed expertise. The hosts express their own enthusiasm for discussing birds, setting a engaged tone.
The episode maintains a casual, conversational style between colleagues. It focuses on personal career narrative and behind-the-scenes insights. Listeners interested in zookeeping careers or animal husbandry stories would enjoy this episode. Those seeking highly technical animal science or dramatic wildlife tales might find it too personal.
