x
Breaking News
More () »

WONDER WOMEN Podcast: The Zoo Manager's Zest for Animals, Education, and Equality

She is the Assistant Director of the Niabi Zoo, literally living the anthem - "I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar!"
Credit: WQAD

Powerful Women. Powerful Positions.                                                

WONDER WOMEN is a podcast that showcases the female movers and shakers running and leading businesses, non-profits, governments, and schools across the Quad City Area, Iowa, and Illinois.

EPISODE 16: You only need to spend a few minutes with Tammy Schmidt to know two things: she's passionate and proud. 

The Assistant Director of the Niabi Zoo in Coal Valley, Illinois loves what she does -- and loves the animals she takes care of every day. 

How did she get into this career? How did she break the mold of the "Zoo Man"? What has she learned from the animals that we all need to hear?

We answer those questions and more in this month's podcast episode, where this "Wonder Women" shares her powerful story of persistence, inspiration, and purpose - plus the challenges of keeping a business open, members happy, and staff/animals safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

We are digging deeper in this podcast, though. 

We find out where Tammy got her "bullheadedness" - okay, we promise that's the last pun! - chat about the journey from "Zoo School" to studying zebras in Africa, and ask her a question that really made her pause... and think. 

Finally, Tammy describes her "Wonder Women" and the wonder she discovers in her animals. It's a conversation that will give you -- and the next generation of the "Girl Power" Movement - the confidence and courage you need to be anything you want to be.

Do you know some “Wonder Women” who are inspiring leaders of their organization, business, school, etc.? Let News 8’s Angie Sharp know about them! Click here to find her on Facebook and send her an email.   

Before You Leave, Check This Out