Episode 6 of the podcast covers the park’s history from 1978 through 1979. It focuses on the park’s grand reopening as Hanna-Barbera’s Marineland and takes an in-depth look at its star attractions, killer whales Orky and Corky.

The show begins with the story of mammal trainer Jill Stratton who, in an attempt to teach Orky new behaviors while the park was closed for upgrades, was pulled to the bottom of the tank, and nearly drowned. She was saved by two members of Marineland’s marine mammal care staff and Corky, who helped bring her to safety.

The incident would change how trainers interacted with Orky going forward.

On May 27, 1978, the park reopened as Hanna-Barbera’s Marineland with a new entrance gate, upgraded flora and fauna, a Passages Beneath the Sea exhibit, and a new stadium for the sea lion show. Hanna-Barbera also brought in a new business philosophy that placed greater importance on group sales to boost attendance.

The episode concludes with a look into the lives of Orky and Corky, examining their unique personalities and relationship. Orky had a rather gruff demeanor but was extremely intelligent and an adept gameplayer. Corky loves interacting with people but demands that trainers treat her with kindness.

Marine mammal trainer Gail Laule likens their relationship to that of a married couple and even though Orky was dominant, Corky held a lot of power in their dynamic. Live Events Director Jim Roope likens their relationship to an old saying: “You want to talk to the man in charge, he’s right in here. If you want to talk to the person who knows what’s going on, see the woman in the outer office.”