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Do you believe in Bigfoot? Tales of the Bigfoot go back centuries, and for probably just as long, scientists have been trying to prove Bigfoot exists. The new Travel Channel series “Expedition Bigfoot” takes a scientific approach to this tall tale, with the guidance of world-renowned primatologist Dr. Mireya Mayor.

“With a unique blend of expertise, the ‘Expedition Bigfoot’ team – including Bryce Johnson, Dr. Mireya Mayor, Russell Acord, Ronny LeBlanc, and Ryan “RPG” Golembeske – may finally take one of the world’s greatest mysteries out of the pages of legend and lore and into reality. Get to know them all before this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime expedition.”

Mireya has been traveling the globe and pursuing her passion for primates for nearly two decades. She tells me her love of primates started as a young girl watching nature documentaries and films. She’s also a mom of 6 who is passing on her love of science to her children. Along the way she’s often been called a “female Indiana Jones,” and is an inspiration to young women interested in science and exploration.

But less you think that’s not enough to do, there’s even more. She’s a two-time Emmy Award-nominated field correspondent for the National Geographic Channel and speaks to audience around the world about wildlife and habitat issues. She’s also passionate about the environment and the effects of climate change. Her explorations have led to several scientific discoveries, including her co-discovery of the world’s smallest primates, a brand-new species to science. So cool!

The Expedition Bigfoot Team (left to right): Russell Acord, Dr. Mireya Mayor, Bryce Johnson, Ronny LeBlanc.

She’s a Florida girl at heart, growing up in Miami. And she recently joined Florida International University as Director of the Exploration and Science Communication Initiative. She tells me she was an NFL cheerleader and is a girly girl who loves getting down in the mud to investigate and explore. In fact that’s what inspired her book, Pink Boots and a Machete: My Journey from NFL Cheerleader to National Geographic Explorer.

You’ll love my conversation with Mireya where we talk about the challenges of parenting as a scientist and television host. “Expedition Bigfoot” weekly on the Travel Channel.  Check here for listing and showtimes.  Mireya can be found on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, as well as on the Web.