Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus Listen Again: Julia Gets Wise with Jane Goodall
Oct 1, 2025
In a heartfelt conversation, the late Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist, reflects on her groundbreaking work in chimpanzee research. She shares enchanting stories about her early days at Gombe, the power of patience, and the profound lessons chimps teach us about human behavior. Jane also discusses the emotional bonds within animal families and her perspective on motherhood. Filled with wisdom, she inspires listeners to embrace each day as an adventure and emphasizes the importance of storytelling in conservation efforts.
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Young Researcher In Gombe
- Jane Goodall sailed to Gombe with only a notebook, binoculars, and curiosity at age 26.
- She lived among chimpanzees and built the foundational observations that redefined human uniqueness.
Malaria In A Single Tent
- Jane and her mother shared a single tent and both contracted malaria; her mother was extremely ill with a 105°F fever.
- They survived by supporting each other and sharing basic care like passing a thermometer back and forth.
The Toolmaking Breakthrough
- Jane observed David Greybeard using tools and eating meat, shattering the belief that only humans made tools.
- Her telegram to Louis Leakey forced scientists to redefine 'man' and accept chimpanzee tool use.
