I’m asking that you support “Talking Animals,” and me–and, really, WMNF!–in our Fund Drive show Wednesday, June 7, 11am-Noon ET–but, ideally, BEFORE then!
June Marks The 20th Anniversary Of “Talking Animals”!!! I Launched The Show In June Of 2003, at KUCI in Irvine, CA–Help Us Celebrate By Supporting The Show With A Happy Anniversary Pledge!
As always, we have Exclusive Thank You Gifts for those who donate on behalf of “Talking Animals”…

Duran Duran, Los Angeles, 17 March 2022. Photo by: Carsten Windhorst
For example, one pair of awesome tickets to see Duran Duran, June 17, at Amalie Arena, part of the band’s “Future Past” tour–on a bill that also includes Nile Rodgers & Chic! Duran Duran arrives at Amalie riding high, after multiple 2022 triumphs, including being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, headlining London’s Hyde Park in front of 60,000 people, sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden and three nights at The Hollywood Bowl. They also released an acclaimed new album, “Future Past,” drawing raves from fans and critics alike–pretty impressive all these years later. Based on set lists and reviews, this Tampa concert promises to be a thrilling trek through Duran Duran’s catalog–all the songs you’d hope to hear, and at least one terrific surprise. Plus, Nile Rodgers & Chic! You can pledge for two terrific seats–see a fantastic show by a fantastic band–all while supporting “Talking Animals” and WMNF.
Also, a weeklong stay at a HAWAIIAN CONDO–an ocean-view, one bedroom, one bathroom unit on the island of KAUAI in Poipu Beach, on the island’s sunny south shore. Not long ago, the condo was remodeled, with a new kitchen, new bathroom, and more. Still, those who’ve stayed there–including WMNF listeners and programmers–might argue that the condo’s best feature is the balcony, on which you can sit and (depending on the time of the year) see whales, dolphin, or turtles–or a stunning sunset. Pledge now, and you’ll have an idyllic week in paradise to look forward to. All while supporting WMNF! ALREADY PLEDGED FOR!!!
Other nifty Exclusive Thank You Gifts include:
* One of “Talking Animals” listeners’ favorite interviews in recent months was the May 3 conversation with Dr. Eleanor Spicer Rice about her new book, Unseen Jungle: The Microbes That Secretly Control Our World. I received a slew of calls, emails, social media messages, and in-person comments, raving about Dr. Spicer Rice and how fascinating the new book sounded. Now you can get a special edition of the book! We have three copies Spicer Rice was nice enough to donate and sign, with a customized “Talking Animals” inscription in each copy. You can see the cover of Unseen Jungle below.
* Wham-O, the company responsible for such favorite children’s (and adults’!) toys as the Frisbee, Slip N Slide, Hula Hoop, Superball, and Boogie Board, this year celebrates its 75th Anniversary. And to mark the occasion, the company has released the Wham-O Houndsbee 75th Commemorative Frisbee Dog Toy. In addition to representing an important historical artifact, this special Frisbee is super fun to play with–for dogs and humans! That’s why we’re offering it as a Thank You gift. You can see a photo of the Frisbee below.
* If you’re a fervent cat lover–and/or have a cat lover at home or at work–you can’t go wrong with this purr-fect apron! It’s covered with whimsical illustrations of all types, and colors, of cats: Siamese, calicos, Persians, tabbies, and more, on durable poly/cotton twill. One size fits most–apron has a big front pocket, neck loop, and back ties You can see a photo below.
* Not be outdone, the canine contingent has demanded that we also offer a dog apron in this fund drive. It’s a beauty! As a further alternative to the cat apron–with its beautiful, white background–the dog apron has a navy-blue background, adorned with images of cute puppies. This, too, is a one size fits all, or most. Some of its amenities include a tool loop next to the pockets, fabric waist ties, and a tab on the reverse side for hanging up the apron. Made of nice mid-weight canvas. You can see a picture of the apron below, and pledge for it.
* It’s summer time–warm in some places, blazing hot in others. So here’s a great way to keep your dog(s) cool, happy and hydrated: This Collapsible Pet Water Bottle & Bowl Combination is compact, yet holds 18 ounces of water, is safe and lightweight, made of HDPE stock, the water bowl is produced with food standard silicone; it is BPA free and has no smell. It is ecologically friendly and recyclable. This bottle/bowl is not only ideal to take on walks, but great for the beach, hikes, and other activities where your canine companion might work up a thirst. You can see a photo below.
* A special 12-ounce Stainless Steel Double Wall Insulated Tumbler/Coffee Mug, emblazoned with CANINES AND CAFFEINE MAKE ME HAPPY, surrounding an illustration of a dog wearing sunglasses–on both sides of the mug. Perfect for a Dog Lover, & perfect gift for one. You can see a photo below.
* The LILLY BRUSH, what many feel is the best, most effective device for removing pet hair from clothing, carpet, cars, couches and other furniture. It’s labeled a “Pet Hair Detailer,” but whatever you call it, the Lilly Brush works great!
* The current TALKING ANIMALS T-SHIRT, royal blue, with a fantastic front design by artist extraordinaire Ramin Nazer. You can see the shirt, front and back, below. Many have been pledged for, but we still have some shirts in most sizes.
That hour of our fund drive show on June 7—from 11-Noon ET that day–is the only time our show will be “credited” with your donation.
If a pledge comes in afterward, it could be credited to another show, but you can give beforehand… how ’bout now? Read more…