Story & Lesson Highlights with Steve Koyle

Steve Koyle shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Steve , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
Im chasing the dream of helping the world’s elephants. If not me then who

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Steve Koyle and I have spent more than 36 years caring for animals. I’ve spent the last 24 years specializing in elephant care. I have become a globally recognized elephant care professional and very well respected for my knowledge of target training using positive reinforcement, designing facilities that support elephant health and specializing in proper elephant footcare. In July 2016, I established a nonprofit organization Elephant Care Unchained. Since then, I have helped 1000’s of elephants in 8 countries, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Laos and Nepal. My passion and work ethic have driven me to form the 501c3 nonprofit Elephant Care Unchained.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
My first trip to India was an eye-opening experience. I was naive and assumed everyone lived with the same conveniences as we do in the West, such as consistent access to water and electricity. It was a great opportunity to grow and appreciate the small things in life.

Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I miss the normal things in life: having a home, a partner, stability, and a pet – all the things we’re told we’re supposed to have. Making a sacrifice for something greater than yourself is hard for people to understand, but I miss those things from time to time.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
This is a lifelong journey serving the world’s elephants. The more work we do for them, the more elephants we discover who need our help. There are so many elephants suffering unnecessarily, and I will not stop until that ends.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who made a real difference. They should say I was a kind and honest person who cared deeply about others and always acted with integrity. I strived to help anyone in need, and I dedicated my life to becoming a global advocate for elephants, fighting relentlessly to alleviate their suffering and secure a better future for them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.elephantcareunchained.com
• Instagram: elephant care unchained
• Linkedin: elephant care unchained
• Twitter: elephant care unchaind
• Facebook: elephant care unchained
• Youtube: Elephant Care Unchained

Image Credits
Steve Koyle