Reptiles Unplugged
Reptiles Unplugged – The Unfiltered Podcast for Reptile EnthusiastsWhether you’re a ball python breeder, western hognose enthusiast, or simply passionate about reptiles, Reptiles Unplugged delivers real conversations from inside the reptile industry. Hosted by Shane Kelley of Small Town Xotics and Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins out of Knoxville, Tennessee, this long-form podcast features honest discussions, exclusive interviews, and authentic perspectives from active reptile breeders.We cover it all:Ball python morph trendsWestern hognose projectsBreeding strategies and project planningReptile husbandry and equipmentReptile expos and community eventsReal-world reptile industry insightsExpect knowledgeable guests, transparent dialogue, and practical insight from breeders working dire...
BIG NEWS For Reptiles Unplugged
This week on Reptiles Unplugged, we’re doing something a little different. We have a special guest joining us as we make a major announcement about the future. This is something we’ve been working on behind the scenes for quite a while, and we’re finally ready to start sharing details with the community. We’ll talk about where we’ve been, where we’re headed, and what this means for reptile keepers, breeders, and the amazing community that has supported us along the way. If you’ve been following Reptiles Unplugged from the beginning, this is an episode you wo...
The Hognose Episode | Kevin Baron | Reptiles Unplugged
This week on Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh and Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as they sit down with Kevin Baron of Mutant Reptiles. Kevin shares his journey through the reptile hobby, the growth of Mutant Reptiles, his passion for Western Hognose snakes, and what it takes to build a successful breeding program. We discuss project selection, market trends, collection management, rare species, and the lessons learned from years in the reptile industry. Whether you’re a new keeper, an established breeder, or simply a reptile enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insight and honest co...
Hot Takes & Reptile News | Reptiles Unplugged Rewind
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged Rewind, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we dive into current events, industry buzz, and the conversations making waves throughout the reptile community. From market trends and breeder discussions to hobby developments and community topics, we break down what people are talking about right now and share our perspectives as active reptile breeders. And of course, we bring back the fan favorite Unpopular Opinions segment, where honest takes and controversial viewpoints often lead to some of the best discussions in the hobby. If you enjoy real conversations...
Crystal of Gecko Diva Talks Crested Geckos!
This week on Reptiles Unplugged, we sit down with Gecko Diva to talk all things Crested Geckos! From their incredible colors and patterns to husbandry, breeding, feeding, and what makes them one of the most popular reptiles in the hobby today, Crystal shares her experience building Gecko Diva and working with these fascinating geckos. Whether you’re considering your first Crested Gecko or looking to take your breeding projects to the next level, this episode is packed with practical advice and real world experience. We also discuss the growth of the gecko community, common mistakes new keepers make, selecting qu...
RU Rewind | Red Onion Reptiles Recap + Unpopular Opinions
In this Reptiles Unplugged Rewind episode, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we recap our recent interview with Bear from Red Onion Reptiles and continue the conversation around breeding projects, species diversity, and the reptile hobby. We also dive into current reptile community events, industry buzz, trends we are seeing this season, and conversations shaping the future of reptile breeding. And of course, we bring back the fan favorite Unpopular Opinions segment where honest takes spark real discussion throughout the reptile community. If you enjoy authentic reptile conversations, breeding discussions, market talk, and...
Bear from Red Onion Reptiles | Breeding Multiple Species
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we sit down with Bear from Red Onion Reptiles to talk reptiles, breeding projects, and the different species he keeps and works with. We dive into the species that originally sparked his passion for reptiles, the projects he focuses on most, and how he approaches building a diverse reptile collection and breeding program. From breeding strategy and species selection to long-term goals within the reptile hobby, this episode is packed with insight and genuine conversation from someone deeply involved in the...
RU Rewind | Billy Rows Recap + Unpopular Opinions
In this Reptiles Unplugged Rewind episode, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we break down our recent interview with Billy Rows of Mutation Creation and revisit key insights on the reptile market. We talk about current reptile market trends, what breeders are experiencing right now, and how the industry continues to evolve through different cycles. As always, we bring back the fan favorite Unpopular Opinions segment, where honest takes spark real discussion across the reptile community. If you’re interested in reptile breeding, market trends, and real conversations from active breeders, this episode ke...
Mutation Creation Talks Market Trends, Cycles & Future Predictions | Billy Rows Unplugged
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins to sit down with Billy Rows of Mutation Creation for a deep discussion about the reptile market, breeding economics, and how successful breeders navigate market ebbs and flows. We discuss:
• Current reptile market trends
• How breeders survive downturns
• Lessons from past market cycles
• Pricing shifts and long-term project strategy
• The current state of the ball python market
• Billy’s future predictions for the hobby
If you have ever wondered wheth...
Rufus Darden Reptiles | Sand Boas Unplugged
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we interview Rufus Darden Reptiles to discuss everything related to sand boas and the evolution of the reptile market over the years. We dive into sand boa care, breeding considerations, and why this species continues to attract both new keepers and experienced breeders. Rufus shares insight into working with sand boas, how the reptile market has changed over time, and what trends may shape the future of the hobby. If you are interested in expanding beyond ball pythons or learning more...
RU Rewind | Heart Of The Python Recap + Unpopular Opinions
In this Reptiles Unplugged Rewind episode, Shane Kelley is joined by Josh & Alisha Harbin of Herpin Harbins as we recap our recent interview with Heart Of The Python and discuss what stood out from that conversation. We talk about how their reptile journey began, the projects they chose, and what direction they are heading with their breeding program. We also dive into current events in the reptile industry, trends we are seeing this breeding season, and topics that are shaping the future of the hobby. And of course, we close things out with the fan favorite segment… Unpopular Opinions, wh...
Why They Chose THESE Projects | Heart Of The Python Interview
#reptilesunplugged #ballpythonpodcast #reptiles
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley is joined by new cohost the Herpin Harbins as we sit down with Heart Of The Python to talk about how their journey in the reptile hobby began. We discuss how they got started with reptiles, what inspired them to begin breeding, and why they selected the projects they are currently working with. From first animals to long-term goals, this conversation highlights the decision-making process behind building a focused reptile breeding program. We also talk about the direction they see their business heading, how they evaluate...
Adam Speaks Out… We Didn’t See This Coming
Something big just happened on Reptiles Unplugged. Adam finally speaks out, and what he shares caught all of us off guard. This episode takes a real turn as we talk about what led to this moment, what it means for the show, and where things go from here. If you have been following Reptiles Unplugged, you already know something was coming… but this is not what most people expected. Make sure you watch this one all the way through.
Hosts: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics, Knoxville Tennessee) Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics, Ventura California)
Technical Pr...
Reptiles Unplugged Rewind | Graceful Pythons, Breeding Season & Unpopular Opinions
Welcome back to Reptiles Unplugged Rewind, where we revisit past episodes, talk about what has changed since the original conversation, and break down what is happening in the reptile world right now. In this episode we rewind our previous conversation with Graceful Pythons out of Knoxville, Tennessee and talk about how things have evolved since that interview. From building collections and raising families to balancing reptiles with real life responsibilities, we reflect on the bigger picture of what it takes to stay in this hobby long term. We also dive into what is happening during the current reptile breeding...
Supporting the Dream | Graceful Pythons and Prints on Reptiles Unplugged
This week on Reptiles Unplugged we sit down with Jaime at Graceful Pythons and Prints out of Knoxville, Tennessee. We talk about passion for reptiles, sharing reptiles with the local community, raising kids while building a collection, and what it really takes to have a supportive spouse in this hobby. This is an honest conversation about balancing family, business, and reptiles without losing perspective.
Hosted by: Shane Kelley of Small Town Xotics based in Knoxville, Tennessee Adam Halbleib of Beach Bum Xotics based in Ventura, California
Technical Producer: Jay Kaps of Greenline Morphs
...
RU Rewind: Unpopular Opinions, Industry Buzz & Guest Reveal
Welcome to RU Rewind where we break it all down. In this episode, we rewind last week’s conversation with Renowned Reptiles, hit Shanes Shout-Out of the Week, dive headfirst into the infamous Unpopular Opinions segment, and unpack the current reptile industry buzz everyone’s talking about. We also cap things off by announcing next week’s guest, so make sure you stick around until the end. If you like real talk, strong opinions, and no filter discussion about reptiles, breeding, and the hobby this one’s for you.
Hosted by: Shane Kelley of Small Town Xotics Adam Hal...
Renowned Reptiles: What Nick Sjol Got Right (and Wrong)
Nick Sjol of Renowned Reptiles is back on Reptiles Unplugged. Years ago, Nick joined us to talk about the reptile hobby, market trends, and where he thought things were headed. In this episode, we go back, revisit those predictions, and see what actually played out. We talk about long term thinking, market cycles, breeding decisions, and how experience shapes perspective over time. This is a rare chance to hear someone reflect honestly on past predictions and explain what they learned along the way. If you care about the future of the reptile hobby, this one hits.
Hosted...
RU Rewind: Deeds, Expos & Hot Takes
In this RU Rewind episode, we’re recapping our powerful conversation about Operation Deeds Not Words and the mission behind it. Tune in to hear who earns Shane’s coveted Shoutout of the Week, get into our always unfiltered Unpopular Opinions segment, and catch a glimpse of what happened at the Southeast Reptile Expo. Community, controversy, and comedy all wrapped into one solid session. Let’s go!!!
Hosted by: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
Reptiles Unplugged, RU Rewind, Operation Deeds Not Words, Chris Eaton, Fatman...
Operation Deeds Not Words: Giving Back Through Reptiles
In this heartfelt episode of Reptiles Unplugged, Shane Kelley and Adam Halbleib sit down with Chris Eaton of Fatman Nation and our very own Jay Kaps of Greenline Morphs to talk about their incredible charity initiative, Operation: Deeds Not Words. This project is all about giving back to veterans, first responders, and others in need within the reptile community. Hear how it started, the impact it’s made, and how YOU can get involved.
Hosted by: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
Operation: Deeds Not Wo...
RU Rewind: Reptiles, Recaps, and Rants
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In this RU Rewind episode, Shane Kelley and Adam Halbleib revisit our conversation with Kevin Baron of Mutant Reptiles. We dive into the key takeaways from that episode, look back on wild trends and events from 2025, and share what we’re excited for in 2026. Plus, we’ve got your favorite segments—Unpopular Opinions, Shane’s Shoutout of the Week, and all...
Inside the Mind of Kevin Baron | Mutant Reptiles
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, we’re sitting down with Kevin Baron from Mutant Reptiles. Kevin shares his years of experience working with a variety of species and what it’s like to be a dedicated breeder and keeper in Florida. We talk about challenges, successes, legislation, and where he believes the reptile hobby is headed. If you love diversity in your collection or just want to hear from one of the real ones in the industry, this episode is for you.
Hosted by: Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) and Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) Technical Prod...
2025 in Review + 2026 Predictions | RU Rewind
In this Reptiles Unplugged Rewind, Shane and Adam sit down to reflect on the recent episode with Jim from Ectothermic Dungeon. We break down some of the key takeaways, favorite moments, and insights from that conversation, while also zooming out to look at where the reptile hobby is headed in 2026. It’s been a wild ride through 2025, full of market shifts, morph spotlights, and community evolution. Now it’s time to close one chapter and get fired up for the next. Whether you’re a breeder, keeper, or just part of the tribe, don’t miss this laid-back recap of where...
Ectothermic Dungeon | Morph Madness | Adder Gene
On this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, we’re joined by Jim of Ectothermic Dungeon. We get into what it takes to survive the ups and downs of the reptile market, how he’s staying relevant, and what projects still get him excited. If you’re in this hobby for the long haul, this one’s packed with wisdom and real talk.
Hosted by: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
reptiles unplugged, Ectothermic Dungeon, Jim Ectothermic Dungeon, reptile breeder interview, reptile market strategies, exotic snake breeding, staying...
Next Gen Reptile Tool | Genetic Calculator Reveal
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, we sit down with Robert, the mastermind behind Husbandry.Pro, to unveil his latest project: Genetic Calculator! We talk about what it is, what inspired it, and how it’s going to help breeders around the world make better pairing decisions and visualize outcomes like never before.
Hosts: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics)
Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
Reptiles Unplugged, Husbandry Pro, Genetic Calculator, Robert Husbandry Pro, ball python genetics, reptile breeding tools, reptile husbandry app, morph calculator, genetic pairing, snake ge...
Behind 15 Minutes of Lame with Fatman Nation’s Chris Eaton
Reptiles Unplugged sits down with the one and only Chris Eaton of Fatman Nation to dive into the viral and controversial 15 Minutes Lame competition. We talk about what inspired the series, how it’s evolved, and why it struck such a nerve in the reptile community. Plus, Chris gives us unfiltered takes on social clout, accountability, and what it really takes to be respected in the hobby. You don’t want to miss this one.
Hosted by: Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) & Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics)
Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
Chri...
Staying Relevant: Steve Casino of Steve’s Morphs on Longevity & Vending Success
What does it take to stay in the reptile hobby for decades? This week on Reptiles Unplugged, we sit down with Steve Casino of Steve’s Morphs to talk about building a legacy, the evolution of vending reptile shows, and how to stay relevant through market shifts, trends, and life’s curveballs. Whether you’re just starting out or already a lifer in the game, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and lessons from one of the real ones.
Hosts: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics), Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics)
Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenl...
RU Rewind: Recap Bauds Exotic Reptiles, Unpopular Opinions & Current Events!
We’re back with another wild RU Rewind! Tonight, we’re recapping our recent chat with Jeremy & Genie Baud of Bauds Exotic Reptiles and diving into the latest current events shaking up the reptile scene. We’ll also hit the fan-favorite segment: Unpopular Opinions, where the live chat brings the heat and we give our raw takes. No filter, just fun. Tune in and get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe argue a little.
Hosted by: Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics)
Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
ball python...
Inside the Mind of Jeremy & Genie Baud | Bauds Exotic Reptiles on Growth, Projects & Passion
In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, we sit down with Jeremy Baud of Baud’s Exotic Reptiles to explore his breeding philosophy, the future of his projects, and the mindset it takes to build a brand in today’s reptile industry. From clutches to community, Jeremy shares what drives him and what he sees coming next in the reptile world.
🎙️ Hosted by Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics)
🎛️ Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
Jeremy Baud, Bauds Exotic Reptiles, Reptiles Unplugged, reptile podcast, ball python breeder, exotic reptiles, reptile industry inter...
BREAKING: Reptile Ads (RADS) Revealed | Reptiles Unplugged Exclusive
Breaking News in the Reptile Industry! Reptiles Unplugged sits down with Zac Parpart, founder of Reptile Ads (RADS) — the brand new reptile classifieds platform that could shake up the industry. This isn’t just a new listing site… it’s a movement. We dig deep into the why, how, and what now: • What is Reptile Ads and why was it created? • How is it different from MorphMarket and other platforms? • What benefits will breeders AND buyers see? • What did it take to build RADS from the ground up? Whether you’re a hobbyist, breeder, or just watching the market — you need to hear wha...
Reptiles Unplugged Gets Real with Ashley Fry of Catalina Morph Mixer
Ashley Fry of Catalina Morph Mixer joins Reptiles Unplugged to share her deep dive into managing multiple species, vending reptile shows, and building community in the hobby. Whether you’re new to breeding or a show veteran, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it takes to juggle passion, logistics, and business in today’s evolving reptile scene.
💬 Topics include:
• Raising & breeding multiple species
• Vending shows like a pro
• Building a brand through real connections
• Navigating growth while staying grounded
• How Ashley keeps it all running with style
Reptiles Unplugged Gets Real with Ashley Fry of Catalina Morph Mixer
Ashley Fry of Catalina Morph Mixer joins Reptiles Unplugged to share her deep dive into managing multiple species, vending reptile shows, and building community in the hobby. Whether you’re new to breeding or a show veteran, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it takes to juggle passion, logistics, and business in today’s evolving reptile scene.
💬 Topics include:
• Raising & breeding multiple species
• Vending shows like a pro
• Building a brand through real connections
• Navigating growth while staying grounded
• How Ashley keeps it all running with style
RU Rewind: Jessica Hare Recap, Unpopular Opinions & Next Guest Reveal!
This RU Rewind dives deep into the brainy brilliance of Jessica Hare (Hare Hollow Farms & Holdback Rack Podcast) as we recap our recent episode with her. We break down key moments, geek out on current events in the reptile world, and unleash another round of Unpopular Opinions—where Shane and Adam give it to you straight, no fluff. PLUS: We reveal our next special guest on Reptiles Unplugged and talk about what’s coming down the pipe for upcoming episodes, events, and community shout-outs. Whether you’re a breeder, keeper, or herp hobbyist just lurking in the shadows, this episod...
Inside the Analytical Mind of Jessica Hare | Reptiles Unplugged
Get ready to dive deep into the mind of Jessica Hare of Hare Hollow Farms and The Holdback Rack Podcast! In this episode of Reptiles Unplugged, we explore what drives her ultra-analytical approach to reptile breeding, podcasting, data, and the reptile community at large. Jessica breaks down how she dissects morph trends, evaluates clutch outcomes, and leverages logic and strategy to scale her projects with precision. This isn’t just another reptile chat—it’s a thought-provoking look inside the head of one of the most methodical minds in the reptile space.
Data-driven breeding
Podcasting with p...
RU Rewind: Inky Clouds Recap + Morph Talk w/ Joel from State48 Exotics!
This episode of RU Rewind brings the heat! With Shane from Small Town Xotics out, we’re joined by special guest host Joel from State48 Exotics sitting in alongside Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics) and technical producer Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs).
We recap the latest episode featuring Inky Clouds, dive into some morph talk madness from the YouTube chat, and reveal our next RU guest you won’t want to miss!
Whether you're new to Ball Pythons or deep into the morph game, RU Rewind breaks down each episode and delivers unfiltered insights from breeders who...
RU: Inky Clouds Unleashed — Thomi Gill Shares Her Ball Python Wisdom
Join us on Reptiles Unplugged (RU) as we sit down with Thomi Gill of Inky Clouds Ball Pythons—a true vet in the game with years of experience across everything from varanids to venomous species to pythons. We dig into her journey, her breeding philosophy, and the passion behind her morph magic.
Hosted by Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics). Technical Producer: Jay Kaps (Greenline Morphs)
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RU Rewind: What We Learned from ShedTesting.com + Who’s Coming On Next?
In this RU Rewind, we take a fresh look at our chat with Charlie Williams from ShedTesting.com—covering what’s changed, what’s coming, and how genetic shed testing is shaping the reptile industry Plus… we reveal our next guest, and you’re not gonna want to miss who’s joining us next!
🎙 Hosted by Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics)
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ShedTesting.com: New Species?, New Morphs? & Game-Changing Discoveries!
In this Reptiles Unplugged episode, we sit down with Charlie Williams from ShedTesting.com to discuss the latest breakthroughs in genetic shed testing for reptiles. We dig into reliability, what species are currently supported, which ones are coming soon, and even get an inside look at new morph projects Charlie’s working on! If you’re into ball python, western hognose, or boa genetics, you don’t want to miss this episode!
🎙 Hosted by Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics).
RU Rewind, Reptiles Unplugged, Charlie Williams, ShedTesting.com, reptile genetics, genetic testing r...
RU Rewind: The Morph Marketer Recap + New Guest Reveal
In this RU Rewind episode, we revisit our popular conversation with Megan the Morph Marketer! From marketing tips to marketing insights, we break it all down and catch up on current events in the reptile world. Plus—we reveal who’s coming on next. You won’t want to miss this one!
🎙 Hosted by Shane Kelley (Small Town Xotics) & Adam Halbleib (Beach Bum Xotics).
RU Rewind, Reptiles Unplugged, Megan the Morph Marketer, Morph Market, reptile podcast, ball python breeding, reptile marketing, morph combos, reptile expos, Small Town Xotics, Beach Bum Xotics, snake genetics, reptile business
Branding, Boosting, & Breeding with Megan the Morph Marketer
This week on Reptiles Unplugged, we’re joined by Megan the Morph Marketer — a new face in the reptile world known for helping breeders with marketing their brand. From branding tips to social strategy, we’re diving deep into what makes reptile marketing work in 2025. Whether you’re a new breeder or scaling your business, this is one episode you won’t want to miss!
Reptiles Unplugged, Megan the Morph Marketer, reptile marketing, ball python business, reptile branding, morph market tips, breeder marketing, reptile social media, reptile sales strategy, snake marketing
Holdback Unplugged: Reptile Showcase Sneak Peek + Surprise Guest
This week's RU Rewind brings the heat! We’re giving you a sneak peek into the Reptile Showcase happening at the Southeast Reptile Expo in August, plus talking all things current in the reptile world. AND—we’re joined by a special guest host to keep things wild and unpredictable! You don’t want to miss this one.
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Great Balls of Fryer Talks Redhead, Hypo & Shows!
Join us on Reptiles Unplugged as we sit down with Jason "Moose" Fryer of Great Balls of Fryer to discuss the cutting-edge genetics shaping the ball python world. We dive into the Redhead gene, the ever-popular Hypo projects, and the role of Spector in creating next-level combos. Jason also shares his insights on the show circuit and what it takes to stand out in today’s market. If you love ball python genetics and real talk from seasoned breeders, this is a must-watch episode!
Great Balls of Fryer, Redhead gene ball python, Hypo ball python, Spector ball py...