Episode
Fear of Snakes to 75+ Reptiles: Crystal's Exotics Rescue Stories & Reptile Myths | Along the Rock
- Podcast
- Along The Rock
- Published
- Jun 24, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2050
- Processing state
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Summary
🐍 Are snakes really slimy? Do they actually try to "size up" their owners? And can reptiles become therapy animals? On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kierstyn Long sits down with Christal and Dustin Rascoe of Christal’s Exotics during the Dixon Petunia Festival at Sweetland Studios. The couple shares how a fear of snakes turned into a family passion for reptiles, rescue work, and education. Meet Peanut, the ball python that started it all, along with several other exotic friends, including Wilbur the crested gecko, Phoenix the rescue ball python, and some incredible future breeding projects. The Rascoes discuss common misconceptions about snakes, responsible reptile ownership, rescue efforts, and the importance of education when it comes to exotic animals. They also share how reptiles can provide comfort, reduce stress, and even help children overcome fears. Whether you're a lifelong reptile enthusiast or someone who has always been nervous around snakes, this conversation offers a fascinating look into the world of exotic pets. 🐍 Topics in this episode: • Reptile rescue and rehabilitation • Ball python breeding projects • Common snake myths and misconceptions • Therapy benefits of reptiles • Responsible exotic pet ownership • Crested geckos, leopard geckos, and more • The local reptile community and reptile show 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 00:23 Meet Crystal and Dustin from Crystal's Exotics 00:48 How a fear of snakes turned into a reptile obsession 01:52 Growing from one snake to nearly 75 reptiles 02:30 Reptile housing, breeding, and care practices 02:59 Rescue rept…