Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler France
Hi Tyler, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Reptiles have been my passion since I was eight years old, and I was lucky enough to have a mom and dad who really nurtured that curiosity. Every summer, they would take me outside to search for snakes, salamanders, and all kinds of insects. But we always got especially excited when we found spiders—tracking them down, studying their webs, and watching their behavior was something we loved. Even on family vacations, we’d hunt for the best reptile pet stores. That tradition hasn’t changed a bit. I’m 35 now (yeah, I know, getting old!), and just this past winter, I was back at it with my mom, visiting NERD (New England Reptile Distributors) in Plaistow, NH.
Over the years, my love for reptiles has only deepened. From training alligators to working with massive reticulated pythons, to breeding chameleons—each experience has driven me to dedicate my life to learning everything I can about their care. With a background in biology and microscopy, I’ve spent years refining the best practices for reptile husbandry, always aiming to give them the highest quality of life. My wife, Zoë Steinberg-Di Stefano, and I launched The Chameleon Collective because we saw a real need for better care and health management practices in the reptile world.
One of the things I’m most proud of is introducing fecal smears and floats for parasite detection in reptiles. It’s a subject that often gets overlooked or stigmatized, but I’ve worked hard to shift the conversation. I want reptile keepers to see parasite screening as a vital part of responsible care, not something to avoid. It’s been incredibly rewarding to bring something fresh and science-driven into the community, blending my passion for reptiles with my love for biology.
For me, ethical breeding and responsible reptile care are more than just professional goals—they’re what drive me every day
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I wouldn’t say smooth but definitely a road worth traveling. Owning a small business means juggling a few key things: responsibility, time, and emotional energy. When you’re both the boss and the employee, staying accountable is a must—even when it’s tough. The outcome of your business is directly tied to your decisions, so there’s a lot of weight on your shoulders.
With all of that comes a need to protect your time and energy. The pressure to stay on track can lead to stress and anxiety, which is why I try to give myself a bit of space. My timeline is mine, and I measure success not just by external markers but by staying true to myself and keeping the passion alive. My approach: Accountability keeps me grounded, patience keeps me moving, and grace helps me stay steady.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At the heart of everything I do are authenticity, love, and connection. When you choose to buy from me, you’re not just getting a reptile—you’re gaining a partner in your reptile journey. Whether you’re purchasing a reptile, taking a parasite education course, or even asking about the right pet for your child, you can always count on me to guide you every step of the way. Unlike major chain retailers, who may leave you on your own after the sale, I prioritize customer care and ensure you feel seen, heard, and supported.
I understand that there’s a lot of negative stigma surrounding reptile breeders, and in some cases, it’s warranted. Unfortunately, some prioritize profit over ethics. I strive to stay grounded in my values, growing my collection slowly to ensure I have the right infrastructure and resources for both my animals and their offspring. The reptiles raised in my facility are some of the healthiest and best cared-for animals you can find, ready to thrive in your home.
At the end of the day, I’m not just a business owner—I’m also a role model for others in the reptile community. You can trust that my commitment to ethical practices and genuine care extends beyond my business and into the broader community I’m proud to be a part of.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
During the day, I am proud to be a teacher, dedicated to fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning in my classroom. As a biology teacher at the Park School of Baltimore, I set high standards for both myself and my students, believing that academic growth flourishes through hands-on exploration, inquiry, and mutual respect. As an educator who holds immense privilege in American society, I recognize the responsibility to examine my own biases and ensure that my classroom is an inclusive and safe space for all students. My work in racial literacy is grounded in the belief that education should not only celebrate diverse perspectives and lived experiences but also create opportunities to confront the hard history of racial inequality and social injustice. These conversations can be uncomfortable, but discomfort is often the catalyst for growth. As a human, it is my duty to engage in these discussions—not just for my own learning, but to help students, colleagues, and families reflect, progress on their own identity continuums, and build a more inclusive community.
Pricing:
- Panther Chameleon “dad” Hat – $32
- Parasite Detection for Reptiles – $30
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thechamcollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechamcollective?igsh=MTczN3FhaWprcjVnMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571981205466
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheChameleon_Collective
