iHeartPodcasts Honors Life and Legacy of Jane Goodall

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:55pm CT

Amazing Wildlife

iHeartPodcasts is paying tribute to the late Dr. Jane Goodall by revisiting a 2022 episode of "Amazing Wildlife" in which the renowned primatologist reflected on her career and lifelong passion for animals.

Goodall, recognized worldwide as the leading expert on chimpanzees, recalled that her love of animals began in early childhood. "I think it must have begun in my mother's womb, because I popped out loving animals right from the very beginning," she said, noting her mother's story of her taking earthworms to bed at just one year old.

She also shared memories of her first trip from England to Africa at age 23, when her mother's presence was required for her to join expeditions. Against advice from professors not to get close to the animals, Goodall said her dog, Rusty, had taught her otherwise. "You cannot share your life in a meaningful way with any animal and not know that we're not the only beings of personalities, mind and emotion," she said.

The episode highlighted her enduring optimism, as Goodall encouraged listeners to take inspiration from people and projects making a difference. "The media is filled with gloom and doom... but we also need to know the amazing and wonderful and extraordinary projects that are going on around the world," she said.

The episode revisits Goodall's pioneering research, her bond with chimpanzees, and her call to protect the planet and its inhabitants. Listen to the full episode here.