CrimeLess BONUS: Shamrock Tells All

Release Date: March 20, 2026
Podcast: CrimeLess (iHeartPodcasts x Smartless Media)
Hosts: Rory Scovel, Josh Dean
Producer: Lane
Special Guests: Andrew Earnrider (Bird Handler), Shamrock the Parrot

Episode Overview

This unique bonus episode departs from CrimeLess’s usual deep dives into wild and outrageous crimes. Instead, hosts Rory and Josh, alongside producer Lane, present an extended, surprisingly hilarious and heartfelt interview with their first-ever non-human guest: Shamrock, a yellow-naped Amazon parrot, and her handler Andrew from the Greater Chicago Caged Bird Society and Rescue. Listeners are treated to stories about Shamrock's past, insights into the world of long-lived birds, and the quirks and challenges of bird rescue—all tied together by the hosts' trademark humor and genuine curiosity.

Key Discussion Points

1. How Shamrock Came to the Show

[02:30 - 05:05]

• Producer Lane explains the improbable, quasi-accidental way Shamrock was booked: a social media posting involving AEW wrestler Kris Statlander at the bird rescue (03:32).
• The introduction to Andrew, a volunteer with the rescue, who brought Shamrock on-air.

Quote:

"A little bit of luck, a little bit of algorithm. All heart." — Lane (04:24)

2. Parrot Lifespans & Bird Rescue

[05:09 - 06:33]

• Parrots, especially yellow-naped Amazons like Shamrock, can live up to 70-80 years, frequently outliving their owners.
• Bird rescues exist not just for abandoned birds but also for those whose owners pass away.

Quote:

“I totally understand why there's a rescue, because these birds must outlive their Owners all the time..." — Lane (05:09)

3. Shamrock’s Backstory & Quirks

[05:30 - 09:52]

• Shamrock was previously owned by an older woman and her adult son, Ryan—her mimicry includes “performing one side of a phone conversation.”
• Parrots like Shamrock can pick up and repeat human phrases, providing glimpses into their previous homes.

Memorable Moment:

• Shamrock shouting “Ryan!” in an old lady’s voice at night to get attention.
  [12:50 - 13:10]

4. Shamrock Goes Live—Parrot on Mic

[07:03 - 15:37]

• The hosts and Andrew encourage Shamrock to speak and interact with various sound cues and attempts at conversation.
• Shamrock offers classic parrot responses like “hello” and even reportedly mutters “asshole” at Rory (14:35).
• The hosts note Shamrock’s vibrant plumage, expressive eyes, and surprising presence—described as “wildly vibrant green and yellow... the eyes, the pupils keep expanding and dilating...” (08:57).

Quote:

“When a parrot is kind of upside down, you interpret their facial features differently and they look so alien.” — Spinquest Commentator (09:35)

5. Parrot Mimicry and Behavior

[13:21 - 14:11]

• Andrew shares that parrots' mimicking abilities often mean they recall their owners' voices and mannerisms.
• Shamrock sometimes gives the impression she’s having a conversation, repeating just what she’s absorbed.

6. Fun, Lighter Moments

[09:50 - 11:49]

• Playful suggestions of teaching Shamrock criminal skills, like counting drug money or reading credits.
• Amusing reflections on how tortoises—as compared to parrots—would fare as podcast guests.

Quote:

"We just got to teach her to count drug money." — Lane (14:11)
"Or read the credits, you know." — Podcast Host (14:17)

7. Bird Safety Tips & Fun Facts

[15:02 - 15:19]

• Andrew points out the dangers of scented candles and oils for pet birds; their respiratory systems are sensitive.

Quote:

"If you have a bird, you should not have those things [scented candles, oils].” — Andrew (15:10)

8. Inside Greater Chicago Caged Bird Society & Rescue

[15:37 - 16:32]

• The rescue has been active since the 1930s; shelter operations began in 2012.
• Entirely volunteer-run, housing over 100 birds at a time with about three adoptions a month.

9. Shamrock as a Companion

[16:40 - 17:42]

• Parrot ownership is a decades-long commitment.
• At 26, Shamrock is still considered young for her species, with decades ahead.
• The rescue often receives older birds whose lifespan exceeds their previous owner’s abilities or years.

Quote:

“Like, I'm in my 30s, and I would not buy a new baby Amazon, because it would outlive me by a lot.” — Andrew (16:49)

Advice for Potential Owners:

• “Unless you’re a child, you should get a gently used bird and not a new bird.” — Lane (17:54)

10. Bird Bonding and Personality

[18:16 - 18:38]

• Parrots often form deep bonds with one person in a household.
• Andrew describes Shamrock “preening” his hand to show affection, highlighting bird-human attachments.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Shamrock's Sass:

  “Did Shimmer just say asshole?” — Spinquest Commentator (14:35)
  “Yeah.” — Andrew (14:45)

• Parrot’s Unique Talents:

  "Sometimes if you say, she said no." — Lane (13:47)

• On responsibility:

  "Birds like these are definitely a long term commitment." — Andrew (16:49)

• Candles & Birds:

  "If you have a bird, you should not have those things.” — Andrew (15:10)

Key Timestamps for Reference

• [02:30] – How they found Shamrock, the backstory on booking a bird guest
• [05:09] – Parrots’ lifespans and why rescues are necessary
• [07:03] – Introduction to Shamrock “taking over” the show
• [08:57] – Description of Shamrock’s appearance
• [12:50] – Mimicry: Shamrock yelling “Ryan!” at night
• [14:11] – Parrot practical jokes: counting money, reading credits
• [15:10] – Pet bird care tip: no scented candles
• [16:40] – Lifespan: commitment to parrot ownership
• [17:03] – Shamrock’s age and typical rescue experience
• [18:16] – Parrot bonding and preening demonstration

Final Thoughts: The Parrot as Podcast Star

The hosts close with heartfelt thanks to Andrew and the Greater Chicago Caged Bird Society and Rescue, encouraging Chicagoans to consider bird adoption. Shamrock earns the unexpected title of CrimeLess’s “only guest ever”—providing an oddly touching, comedic break from true crime. The episode highlights the responsibilities of “decades-long” pet ownership, shares the joy (and chaos) of bird behavior, and gives listeners a rare, genuine appreciation for the world of companion parrots.

If you're near Chicago and thinking about bird adoption, check out the Greater Chicago Caged Bird Society in Villa Park, Illinois.