Talking Apes
GLOBIO
A primate podcast examining the world of great apes - chimps, gorillas, orangutans, bonobos, and humans. Our remarkable guests are at the forefront of science and conservation, exploring our brains, evolution, anatomy, disease, wildlife, biodiversity, and the ecosystems we all depend on for survival. Visit our official website: talkingapes.org
Talking Apes is a program of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
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Top 10 Talking Apes Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Talking Apes episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Talking Apes for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Talking Apes episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
05/16/24 • 80 min
Join us for this episode of Talking Apes featuring Jeremy Hance, a distinguished environmental journalist renowned for his unwavering commitment to biodiversity. With a prolific career writing for outlets like Mongabay and the Guardian, Jeremy shares his insights on conservation and the emotional challenges of his work.
Jeremy shares his lifelong love for wild things and his identity as a storyteller. He talks about the joy and challenges of covering critical issues like global warming, poaching, and species loss, and the emotional toll these topics take on his mental health.
Jeremy also discusses his book, "Baggage: Confessions of a Globe-Trotting Hypochondriac," which candidly explores his battles with anxiety, depression, and OCD while still finding joy in his work.
Discover how Jeremy's storytelling connects people to the natural world and inspires action. We also delve into the urgent need for large-scale solutions to environmental problems and the potential for humanity to make rapid, necessary changes.
"You have these people who devote their lives to a single species on our planet. That to me is so inspiring - that is a really hopeful side of our species."
Tune in for a powerful conversation about the intersection of environmental advocacy and personal resilience, and gain insight into the passion and perseverance behind Jeremy's work.
Read Jeremy's Mongabay Articles
Read Jeremy's Guardian Articles
Buy Jeremy's Book
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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04/16/23 • 63 min
Gadget Recycler-Ape Lover. This is how Eric Ronay signs off on all his emails.
From his warehouse in Louisville, Kentucky, Eric works diligently to not only save gorillas and their habitats, but also to save our precious environment while enacting lasting culture change.
Eric, whose vision is clearly seen through the work that Eco-Cell does, wants to empower people, especially teenagers and young adults, to demand sustainable changes within the technology world.
'What we do is a labour of love - I want to see a different kind of consumption culture.'
In an average cell phone, there are several rare minerals. Coltan, for instance, is a mineral that makes tantalum. Tantalum is what allows cell phones and many other handheld electronics to hold a charge. 80% of the world’s coltan is in the Democratic Republic of Congo which is also home to endangered gorillas. Mining of coltan (and other minerals) disrupts and destroys their habitats.
'Everybody's got these old cell phones, nobody knows what to do with them, they don’t know what’s in them, they don’t know they affect wildlife.'
To mitigate this, Eric started Eco-Cell in 2003. Eco-Cell recycles, reuses, and resells cell phones and other electronics. Since its inception, Eco-Cell has safely recycled nearly one million cell phones and raised close to one million dollars for gorilla conservation.
Eric Ronay is a gorilla champion. He has made it his mission to save gorillas and raise awareness of their dire need for protection and increased conservation efforts. He does this by educating children and teenagers about cell phones and other electronics. He inspires them to contact technology companies and demand “gorilla-safe” technologies.
His hope is that, with his education and partnerships with zoos and aquariums, electronics will be kept longer and longer, diminishing the need for increased mining. Eric wants everyone to realize that they do not have to trade in their phone every year for the newest version. Eric is striving for sustainable technology which will positively impact not only the gorillas, but the planet as well.
Episode description by Maegan Leavendusky - Programs Co-ordinator for GLOBIO
Click HERE to visit Eco-Cell's website.
Click HERE to find your closest Eco-Cell drop off point.
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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Gorilla Ecotourism with Praveen Moman | S2E37
Talking Apes
04/11/23 • 62 min
Mountain gorilla tourism owes its legacy to one man - Praveen Moman. A visionary conservationist and entrepreneur, Praveen is also called the father of great ape ecotourism in Rwanda's Virunga Mountains and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest of Uganda.
Praveen grew up surrounded by Uganda's natural beauty so his passion for conservation was sparked at an early age. After graduating university, he worked for several years in conservation projects in Africa, including as a researcher in Rwanda’s Virunga National Park, which is home to endangered mountain gorillas.
"When you see a gorilla, there's a recognition of some deep connection between you."
In 1997, he founded Volcanoes Safaris with the goal of promoting sustainable tourism in Uganda and Rwanda. The company’s mission is to provide unique and authentic travel experiences while supporting local communities and protecting the environment. Volcanoes Safaris operates several luxury lodges and camps, including the award-winning Virunga Lodge, which offers stunning views of the Virunga Mountains and the nearby gorilla habitats.
"Our priority should be to look after the local people. People have got to be part of the conservation chain."
Volcanoes Safaris has become a model for sustainable tourism, and the company’s efforts have contributed to the growth of Rwanda’s tourism industry. The ethos is based around community conservation - working closely with local communities to ensure that they benefit from conservation efforts. Volcanoes Safaris works with several local community groups, including women’s cooperatives and youth groups, to provide training and employment opportunities in the tourism industry. Volcanoes also supports several conservation initiatives, such as the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, which provides medical care to gorillas in the wild.
Click here to visit Volcanoes Safaris Website
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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03/12/23 • 72 min
Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is a vet, conservationist, and founder of Conservation through Public Health. Join us this week on Talking Apes where she tells us about her new book Walking with Gorillas, which chronicles her journey towards becoming Uganda's first-ever wildlife veterinarian, and details her innovative approach to gorilla conservation.
Gladys's work has been revolutionary in the field of gorilla protection. She recognized early on that the health of the local human populations was closely intertwined with the health of the gorillas living in the nearby forests when she ascertained that zoonotic and anthroponotic infections were jumping between the animals and people surrounding Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
In 2023 she co-founded award-winning NGO, Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), with her husband. The organization deploys a novel approach known as ONE HEALTH which focuses on the interconnectivity of human, animal, and environmental health. CTPH's numerous programs work with local communities to improve access to basic healthcare services while promoting conservation awareness and sustainable livelihoods; in turn protecting the health of nearby gorillas.
"You need to address human and wildlife health together in order to have holistic outcomes."
"One Health is being recognized in the conservation community as a viable way to achieve sustainable development."
Gladys detailed some of the difficulties she initially faced as, not just the first woman, but first ever individual tackling the role of wildlife veterinarian in Uganda. Her determination to succeed broke barriers and has paved the way for future generations of female conservationists in Uganda and across the African continent.
"Conservation is about understanding that people are part of the equation."
Gladys and CTPH's approach to gorilla conservation is recognized as an effective model for other programs around the world. Her focus on the links between human and animal health and wellbeing has been instrumental in promoting sustainable conservation practices that benefit both people and wildlife.
Our episode with Gladys is the closing chapter of our special March 2023 zoonosis and disease ecology month. You can find all of the other episodes in this series exploring scary viruses, animal infections, and pandemics
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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03/10/23 • 62 min
IN THE SPOTLIGHT is a quarterly feature where we revisit past Talking Apes episodes that focus on highly critical issues. For our March 2023 instalment we're featuring our Season 1 episode with disease detective Dr Tony Goldberg, accompanied by three brand new podcasts exploring disease ecology and the links between animal health, human health, and the environment.
Zoonotic diseases occur when viruses, bacteria, or parasites jump between humans and animals. Dr Goldberg explores how these diseases take a toll on us and apes like us. In this episode he tells us about his quest to understand them, how we live with them, and his adventures in Africa trying to track down and eradicate a scary infection that almost wiped out an entire population of rescued chimpanzees.
Tony's episode was originally aired in March 2021 at the heart of the Covid-19 pandemic which threw the world into turmoil, not only within our personal lives, but economically, culturally, and politically. The pandemic brought to light zoonosis as a critical, prevalent issue and a constant existential threat to us all.
Also in this special ZOONOSIS IN THE SPOTLIGHT season throughout March, don't miss our incredible new two-part conversation with award-winning science writer David Quammen, and finally a look at life on the frontlines of zoonotic and anthroponotic disease with mountain gorilla veterinarian Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka; from heart of Uganda’s gorilla country, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Visit our website to find out more.
Click here to visit Tony's website.
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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09/24/24 • 82 min
Season 4 Premiere: World Gorilla Day Special Episode! 🦍
We’re thrilled to launch Season 4 of Talking Apes with a special release in celebration of World Gorilla Day! This episode features an in-depth conversation with Kirsten Gilardi, Executive Director of Gorilla Doctors, the ground-breaking organization that’s saving gorillas through cutting-edge veterinary care.
In this episode, Kirsten shares her passion for gorilla conservation and the awe-inspiring experiences of working up close with these incredible animals. From the emotional moment of meeting a gorilla for the first time, to the complex challenges of protecting gorillas across the borders of Rwanda, Uganda, and Congo, this episode offers rare insights into what it takes to keep these endangered species alive.
'It was like meeting a cousin or brother for the first time, realizing they were part of my family and recognizing that kinship.'
You’ll hear about:
- Gorilla Doctors' "One Health" approach – safeguarding gorillas, people, and the environment
- The crucial role of local vets and communities in conservation efforts
- How tourism has helped and hindered gorilla protection
- Incredible stories about vets in the field
‘We’re not running a veterinary clinic outside the forest. Our vets go right into the park and do the work.’
This episode is packed with heart, inspiration, and the reality of what it takes to save one of our closest relatives from the brink of extinction. It’s a must-listen for anyone who cares about wildlife conservation, gorillas, or the future of our planet.
🎧 Tune in now and celebrate World Gorilla Day with us by diving into this amazing episode!
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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11/09/23 • 108 min
Beyond Biology: Primate Pelage, Racism, and Academic Triumphs
Colour and pattern of hair and skin play a powerful role in how primates interpret and interact with others and the world. Primates are the most colourful and pelage-diverse of all mammals.
In this episode, we dive into the vibrant world of non-human primate hair and skin colour with passionate Ph.D. student at the University of of Massachusetts Amherst, Thomas Wilson. Thomas explores the still-emerging and complex field of understanding the role, evolution, and functionality of fur colour and patterns among our primate cousins.
Why do primates have coloured hair?
What's the reason for the vast array of hues seen in primate species?
How does hair colouration occur?
Why does hair turn grey?
The second part of the episode takes a poignant turn as we explore an open letter penned by Thomas, titled 'Sincerely, a Black Primatologist: An open letter to biological anthropologists' highlighting the experiences of a black primatologist.' Thomas bravely shares the challenges he has faced while navigating the historically problematic and racist landscape of biological anthropology and primatology.
In the letter, Thomas reflects on the lingering consequences of a field entrenched in a troubling past. As a black, cis-queer student, he grapples with the haunting irony of studying bones that may have originated from slaves or were wrongfully acquired. The conversation takes a raw and honest look at the struggles Thomas faced, including the hurtful label 'a monkey studying monkeys' that a fellow student cast upon him, and the disheartening lack of support from his professors.
Thomas sheds light on the stark reality that not many people of colour enter the field of anthropology due to a historical lack of trust and financial barriers. However, he is determined to be part of a transformative generation, actively engaging in online communities and projects that provide support for minority groups in the field.
As we listen to Thomas's story, we are challenged to confront the uncomfortable truths within the field of primatology. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the need for inclusivity, diversity, and change in a discipline that should embrace all voices and experiences.
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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Saving Half the Planet with Carl Safina | S2E32
Talking Apes
02/09/23 • 51 min
Carl Safina is an American ecologist and author. He writes about our relationship with the natural world and the other beings that share it.
‘In my writing I explore our relationship with the living world—and how it could be better. My more recent work also probes how free-living animals experience life. What drives my work is a devotion to free-living things and wild places. And what drives that devotion is my deep love and wonder for the living world. ’ (from Carlsafina.org).
During our conversation, Carl expressed his deep concerns with overpopulation, pollution, climate change, habitat destruction, and the cruelty we inflict on other species. He attributes these issues to a fundamental failure of the education system:
“What do we learn by the time we’re out of high school? We learn to buy things. We’re equipped to just be consumers, not human beings. We don’t really learn ethics, we don’t learn how to take care of each other, how to take care of the world. We don’t learn any kind of perspective that would give us wisdom, let alone some of the humility that you would see in indigenous cultures who revere the world.
And what do we all do in the way that we live? We use stuff up. We use things that we don’t understand the consequences of. We don’t understand their origins. We don’t really know anything.”
Carl's books include Becoming Wild: How Animal Cultures Raise Families, Create Beauty, and Achieve Peace; Beyond Words: What Animals Think and Feel; The View From Lazy Point, and others.
He is the founding president of the Safina Center which explores how humans are changing the living world and its ecosystems. Click here to visit Carl's Website Click here to visit The Safina Center WebsiteClick here to read Carl's article on protecting half of Earth
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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10/06/22 • 57 min
When an entire family of chimpanzees is slaughtered for bushmeat, the baby chimps are captured live and sold into the multi-billion dollar global wildlife trade. Often sold on as pets, they suffer in confinement and misery, deprived of companionship and a natural life in their wild rainforest homes.
Iris Ho is Head of Campaigns and Policy at PASA (Pan African Sanctuary Alliance) - Africa’s largest coalition of wildlife sanctuaries and one of the world’s leading organizations fighting to protect primates. Her role is to represent PASA at multilateral conferences where wildlife protection policies are made, and to be a voice for PASA’s 23 member wildlife sanctuaries - all fighting on the frontlines to tackle this intensifying crisis.
Animal rescues by sanctuaries make up one pillar in the struggle against poaching and the illegal wildlife trade, but the issues need to be tackled holistically to get to the roots. Iris tells us how we might begin to strengthen law enforcement, and change global policies and mindsets to drive lasting transformative changes that could save our wild cousins from extinction.
Learn more about PASA’s work here: pasa.org
Please consider signing PASA’s petition advocating a ban on pet primates: pasa.org/fight-the-trade-of-primates/
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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10/22/24 • 73 min
Generations at Gombe: Elizabeth Lonsdorf on Chimpanzee Mothers, Babies, and the Power of Long-Term Study
In this episode of Talking Apes we’re joined by Elizabeth Lonsdorf whose decades spanning career has been rooted at Gombe, the iconic chimpanzee research site founded by Dr. Jane Goodall. What started as a project to study tool-use in wild chimps has evolved into a lifetime of discovery. Elizabeth, now co-director of the Gombe Mother-Infant Project, explores the most intimate relationships in chimpanzee society: mothers and their babies.
How does a chimpanzee’s early life adversity—such as losing its mother—affect its behavior as an adult? How do maternal behaviors pass through generations, and what can this teach us about the evolution of childhood in both chimpanzees and humans? Elizabeth shares how her team tracks these remarkable apes from nest to nest, gathering fecal samples (yes, chimp poop is gold!) and data on everything from social bonds to stress hormones.
Elizabeth discusses how chimps are not just “chimps.” Every community has its own culture, behaviors, and unique challenges. Tune in to find out how the Gombe research team is now following the fifth generation of chimps and why there are still so many mysteries left to uncover in the lives of our closest animal relatives.
You won’t want to miss this deep dive into the generational stories of Gombe chimps.
Click here to visit Elizabeth's website
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
Official website: talkingapes.org
Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast
Twitter: @talking_apes
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FAQ
How many episodes does Talking Apes have?
Talking Apes currently has 62 episodes available.
What topics does Talking Apes cover?
The podcast is about Animals, Conservation, Natural Sciences, Nature, Wildlife, Podcasts, Science and Anthropology.
What is the most popular episode on Talking Apes?
The episode title 'Empathy and Sympathy in Conservation with Dr Kathayoon Khalil | S3E51' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Talking Apes?
The average episode length on Talking Apes is 63 minutes.
How often are episodes of Talking Apes released?
Episodes of Talking Apes are typically released every 14 days.
When was the first episode of Talking Apes?
The first episode of Talking Apes was released on Mar 4, 2021.
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