Podcast appearances and mentions of John Bates

This week we've got a seriously fun one for you. We are joined by the wonderful Ellen Weatherford from the podcast Just the Zoo of Us.John and Shannon are guests on her show later this month, so we asked Ellen to come chat with us about the bird of her choice. She came back with flamingos—and boy, were we thrilled.It turned into such a bright, lively, surprisingly deep conversation about one of the most iconic birds out there. From their wild social lives to their unbelievable color and biology, this episode is just pure joy from start to finish.Ellen joins John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole.Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky

In this episode with Thom Shea, we cover:What makes someone truly “unbreakable”How to survive the worst day of your life, and what happens if you don't give upWhy “just doing the basics” is often the most advanced move you can makeHis life-saving experience during a firefight in Afghanistan that earned him the Silver StarThe Rule of Three; how simplifying complexity transforms business, health, and leadershipWhether you're leading a team or leading your own life, Thom shares insights that will challenge and empower you to show up—again and again—no matter what.

We get into interesting topics like:Why communicating with human beings isn't logical—it's biologicalWhat Navy SEALs, elite surgeons, and business leaders all get wrong about stress and recoveryThe surprising ways trauma shows up in leadership, relationships, and performanceAnd the decisive importance of celebration in reprogramming the nervous systemWhether you're a high-performing executive or just someone looking to be free of your invisible walls, Tara's insight is not to be missed.

This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we're exploring one of the rarest, most extraordinary birds on the planet: the spoon-billed sandpiper—a tiny shorebird with one of nature's most fascinating evolutionary surprises.If you caught our recent YouTube video where John compared a Roseate Spoonbill at the Field Museum to the delicate spoon-billed sandpiper specimen, you already know we love a good convergent evolution story. Two completely unrelated birds… both evolving their own version of a spoon-shaped bill. Nature never misses.In this episode, we go deeper: • How the spoon-billed sandpiper lives • Why this critically endangered species is so incredibly rare • The conservation challenges pushing it to the brink • And what makes this small shorebird so endlessly remarkableJoin married couple Dr. John Bates and Dr. Shannon Hackett, curators of birds at Chicago's world-renowned Field Museum, along with RJ Pole, and his wife Amanda, as we unpack the science, stories, and pure wonder behind the spoon-billed sandpiper.Whether you're a birder, nature lover, museum nerd, or curious listener, this episode is packed with insights into one of the most unique birds on Earth.Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky

The Golden Eagle — one of North America's largest, fastest, and most powerful raptors — takes center stage in this week's episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together! Married ornithologists Dr. John Bates and Dr. Shannon Hackett from Chicago's Field Museum join hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, who recently spotted Golden Eagles during their honeymoon in Arizona, to share insights about these majestic hunters of the sky.From breathtaking aerial speed to nesting habits and migration routes, we explore what makes this bird one of the most awe-inspiring birds in the world. Plus, we dive into listener feedback on John's Olive-sided Flycatcher episode — a fan favorite that continues to inspire birders everywhere!Tune in for stories of love, science, and soaring wings.

Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.

Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.

Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.

Hear from Von Miller and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, Sam Cosmi fills in for John Bates' usual visit, and Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 9 SNF loss to Seattle that saw Jayden Daniels injured.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Logan Paulsen and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 8 MNF loss to Kansas City.

John Bates joins the program to discuss the Commanders mindset after losing three in a row.

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features interviews with Neil Greenberg, John Bates, and some World Series updates.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Joe Theismann, Jay Gruden, and Steve Suter break down the Commanders' Week 7 loss to Dallas.

In our conversation, we explore:What it was like to fly the legendary F-4 Phantom into combat.The moment his jet exploded — and the life-altering seconds that followed.What helped him survive nearly six years as a POW.The power of faith, friendship, and camaraderie under unthinkable conditions.One of the lowest moments of his time in captivity, and the lesson we can all learn from it. Why honor isn't just a virtue — it's also a strategy for long-term success.And how we can all bounce back from setbacks with resilience and grace.We also discuss Lee's latest and most heart-expanding book, Captured by Love: Inspiring True Romance Stories from Vietnam POWs, a best-seller that reveals powerful stories of real love forged in the fires of war and captivity.

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features the guys debating what is wrong with Washington, John Bates joining the show, and the guys debating which person is the craziest on the show.

John Bates joins the program to discuss the losing streak and his Halloween plans.

In this episode, you'll hear:Why TEDx is hyper-local—and why that matters more than you think.The one mistake I made in my first TED experience (and what it taught me).Why feedback must start with self-awareness.What makes group presentations succeed—or fail—and how to avoid pitch disasters.Why listening to yourself on video is brutal but necessary (and how to make it less painful).Ruth is smart, generous, and a total TEDx pro, and this episode is packed with real talk, real tools, and real inspiration for anyone who wants to communicate at a higher level.

Welcome back to Birds of a Feather Talk Together, the podcast where bird lovers flock to learn more about the amazing world of birds!In this episode, we're diving into two of North America's most look-alike woodpeckers — the Downy Woodpecker and the Hairy Woodpecker. Whether you're a new bird watcher trying to tell these two apart, or an experienced birder curious about their unique behaviors and adaptations, this episode has something for you.Join your favorite birding hosts — John Bates and Shannon Hackett, married ornithologists from the Field Museum, along with RJ Pole and his wife Amanda — as they share field stories, ID tips, and fascinating facts about these incredible birds.Plus, we answer a mailbag question from one of our longtime listeners that led to a surprisingly “spark”-filled discussion — you won't want to miss it!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Santana Moss and Jay Gruden break down the Commanders' Weel 5 win in Los Angeles. Plus, Ed McCaffrey discusses how he divides his time with two sons playing and one coaching in the NFL!

Commanders tight end John Bates joins the show.

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates and a debate on who was the biggest offseason addition for the Washington offense.

Welcome back to Birds of a Feather Talk Together! We're taking a short break this week, but we've got something special lined up for you. While we gear up for upcoming episodes on Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers—and even a deep dive into the mysterious world of loons—we're revisiting one of our most popular interviews from last year.In this replay, your hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole sit down with Kirk Wallace Johnson, acclaimed author of The Feather Thief. His bestselling book tells the gripping true story of obsession, theft, and the black market trade for rare bird feathers—a tale that bird lovers, naturalists, and true-crime fans alike will find fascinating.This story hits close to home for John and Shannon, curators of birds at the Field Museum. John even served as an advisor to Johnson while he was researching the book. Whether you're a birder, a natural history fan, or simply love a great story, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most talked-about bird-related books in recent memory.Grab your binoculars (and maybe a copy of The Feather Thief)—and enjoy our conversation with Kirk Wallace Johnson!Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!

Hear from Von Miller, John Bates, and Jacory Croskey-Merritt in their weekly segments, plus Fred Smoot and Joe Theismann break down the Commanders' loss in Atlanta and how the 2-2 squad can improve going forward!

Kijuan doesn't just talk about resilience—he embodies it. Whether you're going through a tough season or just need a reminder of how strong you really are, this episode will leave you inspired and empowered. 

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates, a look where the Commanders stand in the NFC, and a playoff baseball update.

Commanders tight end John Bates joins the show to update JP and BMitch on his injury rehab, discuss the Washington run game so far, and preview the rest of the season.

Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!

Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!

Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!

Hear from Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Von Miller, and John Bates in their weekly segments, and Santana Moss as he reminisces on the Monday Night Miracle! Also, new Maryland AD James E. Smith discusses how he's approaching the gig, and the legendary Cal Ripken talks all things MLB!

John Bates joins the program to provide his thoughts from the Commanders win and his confidence level in Marcus Mariota.

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features a look at the current NFL standings and an interview with Commanders tight end John Bates.

Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!

Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!

Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!

Jay Gruden recaps the Commanders' TNF loss to Green Bay and the injuries they suffered; John Bates and Von Miller also weigh in on all things Commanders and their own seasons; DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and Joe Maloney discuss the Commanders' return to RFK; on the MLB tip, MacKenzie Gore looks at how the next Nationals front office has to help get the most out of the players on the field; and, Alex Ovechkin sits down with the Junkies at Caps Media Day!

Hour 2 of BMitch & Finlay features an interview with John Bates, listeners thoughts on the Jayden Daniels injury, and a debate on whether Tom Brady is feeding insider information to the Raiders.

Commanders tight end John Bates joins JP and BMitch to discuss his season so far.