Episode 134: Manny Puig - Savage Wild

Manny Puig is a renowned wildlife expert, animal handler, and
television personality, best known for his appearances on the hit
TV shows Jackass and Wildboyz. With a deep passion for wildlife and
a fearless approach to working with dangerous animals, Manny became
a fan favorite on these unconventional, often outrageous, programs.
His expertise in handling animals such as alligators, snakes, and
crocodiles earned him recognition in the world of animal handling
and made him a standout character in the Jackass universe. In
addition to his work on these shows, Manny also starred in his own
TV series. He had a show on the Outdoor Channel called Savage Wild,
where he showcased his skills and knowledge in dealing with the
world's most dangerous animals. Later, he became a central figure
in Gator Boys, a popular series on Animal Planet that focused on
capturing and rescuing alligators, especially in the Florida
Everglades. In both shows, Manny's calm demeanor and expertise with
reptiles and other wild creatures shone through, making him a
trusted figure in the world of wildlife conservation and animal
rescue. Manny’s career as a wildlife expert extends beyond
television. He has spent years studying and working with exotic
animals, including sharks, venomous reptiles, and large carnivores.
His commitment to conservation and animal welfare is evident in his
efforts to educate the public about these often misunderstood
creatures, despite the more chaotic nature of his on-screen
appearances. Puig's fearlessness and devotion to wildlife have
solidified him as a memorable figure in both the reality TV and
wildlife communities. We hope you enjoy Manny's story as much as we
did. He is truly one of the most remarkable humans we’ve had the
privilege of interviewing on our podcast. Manny's upbringing is
nothing short of extraordinary, and his journey could easily fill
an entire podcast on its own. Raised in Cuba, his childhood was
marked by hardship, including the trauma of his mother being
imprisoned and his father’s tragic murder. Despite these
unimaginable challenges, Manny’s resilience and passion for
wildlife propelled him to become the incredible person he is today.
We hope his story inspires you to feel a deep sense of gratitude
for your own journey. Thank you again for joining us, Manny. Your
story is one that will stay with us for a long time.