Talking Apes

For our Season 5 finale, Talking Apes marks World Chimpanzee Day with one of the most fitting guests imaginable. Dr. Deus Mjungu is Director of the Jane Goodall Institute's Gombe Stream Research Centre in Tanzania, home to the world's longest-running study of wild chimpanzees. Having begun his career there as a young research assistant in 2002, Deus now leads the very research programme founded by Dr. Jane Goodall more than sixty years ago. In this fascinating conversation, Gerry and Deus explore what decades of continuous research have taught us about chimpanzee behaviour, family life, personalities and conservation. From following chimpanzees from dawn until dusk to uncovering new insights through genetics and disease monitoring, this episode celebrates the remarkable science, extraordinary people and enduring hope that continue to shape Gombe today. Watch the full video first on Apes Like Us Listen on Talking Apes Learn more about the Jane Goodall Institute: https://janegoodall.org Learn more about Gombe Stream Research Centre: https://janegoodall.org/our-story/about-jgi/where-we-work/tanzania/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

This week on Talking Apes, Gerry Ellis is joined by one of the world's leading gibbon experts, Dr. Susan Cheyne . After nearly three decades working in the rainforests of Borneo , Susan has dedicated her career to studying these remarkable yet often overlooked apes. Often called the "forgotten apes," gibbons are extraordinary animals. They are masters of movement, capable of swinging effortlessly through the forest canopy, and their haunting songs echo across the rainforest each morning. In this fascinating conversation, Susan explains why gibbons deserve far more attention, what they can teach us about evolution, and why their family lives, communication, and behaviour continue to surprise scientists. From spectacular brachiation to lifelong pair bonds and the challenges posed by habitat loss and the illegal pet trade, this episode is a celebration of one of the world's most remarkable primates. Whether you're discovering gibbons for the first time or already love apes, this conversation will leave you hearing the rainforest in a completely new way. Watch the full video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/apeslikeus Listen on our website: talkingapes.org Learn more about Susan's work: www.susancheyne.com With Thanks to Susan and Borneo Nature Foundation for your collboration. www.borneonaturefoundation.org Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

This episode explores aspects of primate behavior, including non-reproductive sexual behaviors, from a scientific and evolutionary perspective. Some listeners may find parts of the discussion sensitive. This week on Talking Apes, Gerry Ellis is joined by evolutionary biologist Dr Matilda Brindle for one of our most fascinating, funny, and unexpectedly revealing conversations yet. From kissing to masturbation, Neanderthals to bonobos, Matilda takes us deep into the evolutionary roots of behaviours many of us assume are uniquely human. Her research asks bold questions: Why do we kiss? Did our ancestors kiss too? And what can chimpanzees and bonobos teach us about the origins of intimacy, attraction, and social bonding? Packed with brilliant science, sharp humour, and some wonderfully eyebrow-raising moments, this episode explores how behaviours we often treat as taboo are in fact deeply rooted in the primate family tree. It is thought-provoking, wildly entertaining, and might just change the way you think about being human. Watch first on YouTube: youtube.com/apeslikeus Listen on the website: talkingapes.org More from Dr Brindle: https://www.matildabrindle.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Welcome to our Earth Day 2026 Special. What happens when cutting-edge technology meets community-led conservation? In this episode of Talking Apes, Gerry Ellis sits down with Dr. Lilian Pintea , Vice President of Conservation Science at the Jane Goodall Institute , to explore how data, people, and innovation are reshaping the future of conservation. From satellite imagery and AI to village-led land-use planning, Lilian shares how his work in Tanzania revealed a stark reality: while protected forests were recovering, chimpanzee habitats beyond park boundaries were rapidly disappearing. That discovery helped spark a powerful shift toward conservation that works with communities, not around them. This is a fascinating, hopeful conversation about technology, trust, and the human side of conservation. If you care about wildlife, climate, and the future of our planet, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what it really takes to create lasting change. Watch on YouTube Listen on our website Learn more SEND AN EARTH DAY E-Card Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Environmental storytelling has never been more important. In this episode of Talking Apes, Gerry Ellis sits down with journalist and podcast host Mike DiGirolamo , the voice behind Mongabay’s flagship podcast, The Mongabay Newscast. Mike spends his days speaking with scientists, conservationists, and investigative reporters working on the frontlines of climate change, biodiversity loss, and global conservation. In this fascinating conversation, he shares what it is like to sit on the other side of the microphone, and how storytelling, journalism, and long-form interviews can help audiences understand some of the most urgent environmental challenges facing our planet. From uncovering hidden environmental crimes to translating complex scientific research for a global audience, Mike explains why narrative matters in environmental journalism and how podcasts are becoming powerful tools for connecting people to the natural world. If you care about conservation, science communication, or the future of environmental reporting, this episode is not to be missed. Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ApesLikeUs Or listen on our website: https://talkingapes.org Learn more about Mongabay: https://news.mongabay.com Listen to Mongabay Podcast: https://news.mongabay.com/podcasts/ Read Mike's Op-Ed: https://news.mongabay.com/2025/08/dont-quit-a-podcasters-charge-to-listeners-fellow-humans-commentary/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

How did human language evolve and what can our closest relatives teach us about its origins? In this episode of Talking Apes , Gerry Ellis sits down with primatologist Katie Slocombe to explore the fascinating world of chimpanzee communication and what it reveals about the evolution of language itself. Katie has spent decades studying how chimpanzees communicate in both wild and captive settings. From food calls and alarm signals to complex vocal combinations and gestures, chimpanzee communication is far richer and more nuanced than many people realize. In this conversation, Katie explains how scientists investigate the building blocks of language by comparing humans with other primates and what surprising discoveries researchers are making about chimp cognition and social communication. The discussion ranges from snake alarm calls in the forests of Africa to whether chimpanzees might have dialects, and why young human children are so uniquely motivated to share information. It is a thought-provoking and engaging conversation about one of the biggest questions in science: how language evolved and what it means for understanding ourselves. Watch the full episode on YouTube Katie's research profile Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

This week on Talking Apes , we record on site in the rainforests of Cameroon at Ape Action Africa’s Mefou Sanctuary , where art and primate conservation intersect. Our guest is primate portrait artist Robin Huffman , who left a career in New York City interior design to become a full-time sanctuary volunteer and internationally recognized wildlife artist. Robin first arrived at Ape Action Africa in 2007 after raising funds, taking French lessons, and stepping far outside her comfort zone to care for orphaned primates. What began as volunteer work repairing sanctuary signs unexpectedly evolved into a calling. Today, she is known for her enormous, lifelike primate portraits that capture not only the detail of fur and eyes, but the personality and story of each individual she paints. In this conversation, Robin shares how she left behind what she calls the golden handcuffs of corporate life to dedicate herself fully to primate welfare. We talk about painting gorilla Jenga on site during our visit, the emotional story behind her monumental Lesula portrait, and why she believes art can turn viewers into messengers for primates. It is a heartfelt, inspiring look at creativity, courage, and conservation in action. Watch the full on site filmed episode here Listen on our website Explore Robin’s artwork: https://www.robinhuffmanart.com Ape Action Africa: https://www.apeactionafrica.org Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Bonobos may be our closest living relatives, but we still have so much to learn about and from them. In this episode of Talking Apes, we sit down with Ariel Rogers , Executive Director of Friends of Bonobos , and evolutionary anthropologist Dr. Brian Hare to explore the remarkable social world of bonobos and why their survival matters now more than ever. From decades of research at Lola ya Bonobo Sanctuary in the Democratic Republic of Congo to the day-to-day realities of running a frontline conservation organization, this conversation weaves together science, storytelling, and on-the-ground action. Ariel and Brian share insights into bonobo anatomy, behavior, cooperation, and what these peaceful primates can teach us about humanity’s own evolutionary story. We also dive into the challenges facing bonobos today, and the hope found in community-led conservation, ethical research, and long-term commitment. Thoughtful, curious, and full of perspective, this episode is a celebration of connection, compassion, and the power of understanding our closest relatives. Watch on YouTube: [youtube link] Listen on our website: https://globio.org/Ariel-Brian Learn more about Friends of Bonobos: https://www.bonobos.org Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Have you ever wondered how we became the upright, big-brained, tool-wielding species we are today? In this fascinating episode of Talking Apes , Gerry Ellis sits down with Dr. Carol Ward - Curators’ Distinguished Professor of Pathology and Anatomical Sciences at the University of Missouri - to explore the origins of humanity and our ape relatives. From fossil digs in Kenya to 3D-scanning ancient bones, Carol reveals how every discovery adds another piece to the incredible puzzle of our evolution. Why did we stand up? What did climate change have to do with it? And how do new technologies, like CT imaging and protein analysis, help us read messages hidden in fossils millions of years old? Join us for a joyful, insightful conversation about curiosity, science, and what fossils can still teach us about who we are, and where we’re headed. Listen and learn more: https://globio.org/carol/ Send us a text Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show Buy us a coffee to say thanks! BUY OUR MERCH Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Join us for a lively, curiosity-filled deep dive with author and researcher Cat Bohannon, whose award-winning book Eve reframes 200 million years of evolution through the female body. Cat brings her signature blend of science, storytelling, and humor to Talking Apes, guiding us through the missing pieces in our evolutionary story and the surprising role that female biology plays in shaping everything from mammal reproduction to primate societies. In this episode, we explore how scientific blind spots took hold, why female behavior and anatomy were overlooked for so long, and what happens when you return the female body to the center of the evolutionary narrative. From gynecology as the original technology to rethinking ape sociality and the hidden histories behind everyday traits, Cat illuminates a world that’s been hiding in plain sight. Expect laughter, big ideas, and a refreshingly human conversation about what our bodies can teach us, and what we’ve missed by ignoring half the story. Watch the full episode on our Apes Like Us YouTube Channel , or listen on our website at talkingapes.org . More about Cat’s work: https://www.catbohannon.com Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Paleoanthropologist Dr. Matt Tocheri joins host Gerry Ellis to explore the remarkable discovery of Homo floresiensis — the so-called Flores “Hobbit” of Indonesia. What does this small-bodied, small-brained human tell us about our own evolutionary story? In this episode of Talking Apes , host Gerry Ellis is joined by paleoanthropologist Dr. Matt Tocheri , one of the world’s leading experts on Homo floresiensis —the small-bodied, small-brained human species nicknamed “the Hobbit.” Discovered on the Indonesian island of Flores, in 2003, this astonishing find continues to reshape what we know about human evolution. Dr. Tocheri shares the story behind the discovery, how the Hobbit lived, and what this mysterious species reveals about what it means to be human. Join us as we explore the science, the controversies, and the wonder of a world once shared by another kind of human. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

This World Gorilla Day, Talking Apes kicks off Season 5 with a fascinating guest: behavioral ecologist and evolutionary biologist Robin Morrison . Robin has worked with both mountain and western lowland gorillas, giving her a rare perspective on how these species live, love, and organize their social worlds. From group size to subtle bonds between males and females, she reveals the quiet but powerful ways gorillas build their societies and why those connections matter for conservation. In our conversation, we dive into the evolution of social systems, what gorilla families can teach us about our own, and how understanding their relationships can help protect them. We also explore the challenges of conservation today, from population density in mountain gorillas to the fragile future of lesser-known groups. Learn more: https://robinmorrison.weebly.com/ Listen here: https://globio.org/robin Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7PrtmObK0TU Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

In this episode of Talking Apes , we follow Dr. Rachna Reddy into the the African rainforest, where the laughter of chimps and the quiet rhythms of bonobo life echo deeper truths about who we are. As a biological anthropologist and co-director of the Ngogo Chimpanzee Project, Rachna’s research focuses on the social bonds that shape us across the lifespan - from infant cuddles to adolescent rebellion and elder respect. We explore the fascinating mentor bonds between young and older chimps, the powerful role of adolescence as a second window of resilience, and what bonobo group dynamics can teach us about navigating life’s transitions. It’s a journey that spans species and the stages of life. Rachna doesn’t just study apes, she listens to them, and in doing so helps us hear ourselves a little more clearly. Tune in for a conversation that’s as thoughtful as it is delightful. More about Rachna Ngogo Chimpanzee Project Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

What does a Congolese rainforest childhood reveal about the roots of human cooperation? In this captivating episode of Talking Apes , we sit down with Dr. Gul Deniz Salali , evolutionary anthropologist at University College London , to explore her groundbreaking research with the BaYaka people of the Congo Basin. Dr. Salali shares intimate insights into how BaYaka children learn through play, observation, and social bonds—offering profound lessons on community, learning, and what it means to grow up human. Drawing on years of fieldwork, Dr. Salali unpacks how small-scale societies help illuminate our evolutionary past and challenge assumptions about childhood, intelligence, and survival. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersections of culture, evolution, and cognition . Watch the Video: Rising in the Forest More about Dr. Deniz Salali https://www.guldenizsalali.com/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Are we really the only "talking apes"? Get ready for a mind-blowing episode with Dr. Adriano Reis E Lameira, one of the world’s leading experts on the evolution of speech and language! Dr. Lameira has spent years deep in the rainforests of Borneo, decoding the vocal mysteries of orangutans. His groundbreaking research challenges long-held beliefs about what separates us from our primate cousins. Can great apes control their voices more than we thought? Do they have the ability to “talk” in ways we've never realized? And what if the roots of language go back further than we ever imagined? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of ape communication, from Rocky the “talking” orangutan to jaw-dropping discoveries about how these incredible primates may even refer to the past! We also explore how scientific bias has shaped our understanding of what makes humans unique, and why it might be time to rethink everything. Dr. Lameira's Profile at the University of Warwick Dr. Lameira's Publications on Google Scholar Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Hanging with Our Ancestors: Luke Fannin on Climbing, Evolution & Ape Locomotion Ever wondered why kids instinctively love monkey bars? Or why apes move so deliberately in the trees? In this episode of Talking Apes , biological anthropologist Luke Fannin takes us on a journey through the evolution of climbing, exploring how primates, from ancient hominins to modern chimps, have adapted to life in the canopy. Luke breaks down the surprising biomechanics of climbing up vs. climbing down, revealing why descending may have played a bigger role in human evolution than we ever imagined. We’ll also uncover how playgrounds, rock climbers, and even early tool-making tie into our primate past. It’s a fascinating deep dive into movement, survival, and the hidden connections between our everyday actions and our evolutionary history. Explore Luke's publications on his Google Scholar profile . Read Luke's article: The Surprisingly Scientific Roots of Monkey Bars Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

The Amazing People Behind Jane Goodall What does it take to lead one of the most iconic conservation organizations in the world? In this episode of Talking Apes , we sit down with Anna Rathmann, Executive Director of the Jane Goodall Institute USA , to find out. With a background spanning international conservation, business, and storytelling, Anna brings a refreshing perspective on what it means to carry forward Jane Goodall’s legacy—and build on it for the future. From her work with National Geographic to directing the Great Plains Conservation Foundation , Anna’s career has been all about connecting people to the planet. In our conversation, she shares how JGI is adapting to meet the challenges of modern conservation, and why listening—to science, to communities, and to each other—is more vital than ever. You’ll also hear Anna reflect on what drew her into this work in the first place, and what continues to keep her inspired, even in the face of tough environmental realities. Whether you’re curious about conservation leadership, passionate about protecting biodiversity, or simply want to hear thoughtful reflections from someone working at the intersection of hope and action, this one’s for you. Learn more about the Jane Goodall Institute: janegoodall.org Follow JGI USA on Instagram: @janegoodallinst About the JGI: The Jane Goodall Institute's worldwide recognition is undeniable. What started with chimpanzee research has become a international nonprofit with global impact. Through programs like Roots & Shoots it has inspired multiple generations to see the future with hope and a call to action. Joining Talking Apes to share it all is the Jane Goodall Institue's (JGI) Executive Director Anna Rathmann. Jane Goodall for more than 60 years has been spreading a message of conservation hope, inspiring action by generations of youth and the young at heart. Anna Rathmann embodies that same energy and drive, guiding the JGI in the USA as well as through the work of the 26 affiliates in countries around the world. More with Anna Rathmann at JGI More about the work of Jane Goodal Institue Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Earth Month Special: A Deep Dive into Global Conservation with Sean Southey “This is our global education moment. This is the time to champion. This is the time to be noisy. This is the time to dream.” What if we told you there’s a conservation powerhouse that’s been quietly shaping environmental policies, protecting endangered species, and inspiring global action for over 75 years—but most people have never heard of it? In this Earth Month special of Talking Apes , Gerry sits down with Sean Southey , CEO of the Canadian Wildlife Federation and a lifelong champion for nature, to uncover the incredible story of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) . From the IUCN Red List (the world’s go-to guide on endangered species) to its role in shaping major environmental policies, Sean reveals how this under-the-radar organization has influenced everything from wildlife trade regulations (CITES) to nature-based education initiatives. But conservation isn’t just about policies—it’s about people. Sean shares powerful stories of how simple, community-driven efforts can transform conservation, from opening up wildlife experiences to local children in Kenya to bringing nature into classrooms worldwide. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an aspiring conservationist, or just curious about how global environmental decisions are made, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights, inspiring stories, and a call to action. Tune in to learn how YOU can be part of the movement to protect our planet. Learn more about IUCN Get involved in the IUCN’s work Explore the Canadian Wildlife Federation Sean is Chair of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Commission on Education and Communication (CEC). In this role, he has worked tirelessly to enhance IUCN’s use of strategic communications for social change. This has included a lead role in designing and implementing IUCN’s #NatureForAll campaign. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

In this episode of Talking Apes , we’re joined by Dr. Andie Ang , a primatologist dedicated to the conservation of Southeast Asia’s elusive and endangered colobine monkeys. From the dense forests of Vietnam to the urban green spaces of Singapore, Andie has spent years studying these fascinating leaf-eating primates, whose complex digestive systems, striking colors, and secretive nature make them some of the least understood monkeys in the world. Andie shares her journey from a childhood experience as an accidental primate owner to leading international conservation efforts. She explains why colobine monkeys are so challenging to protect, how species action plans help coordinate efforts across countries and cultures, and the surprising ways ex-poachers and local communities play a role in saving these primates. Tune in to hear about the urgent work being done to protect these monkeys before it's too late. 🔗 Learn more about Dr. Andie Ang’s work: 🌿 Mandai Nature 🌏 IUCN SSC Primate Specialist Group 🐒 Jane Goodall Institute Singapore 📸 Primate Watching Send us a text Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Official website: talkingapes.org Instagram: @talkingapes_podcast Twitter: @talking_apes BUY OUR MERCH Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH

Bipedalism - How Walking Made Us Human with Jeremy DeSilva “The history of our lineage is filled with multiple species coexisting—this moment, with only one upright walking ape on the planet, is exceptionally rare.” Why do humans walk on two legs when no other mammal does? And what did it cost us? From back pain to difficult childbirth, our bipedal evolution has its drawbacks—but it also shaped everything about who we are today. In this episode of Talking Apes , we sit down with Jeremy DeSilva , a leading paleoanthropologist whose research has transformed our understanding of early human locomotion. Jeremy takes us on a journey through millions of years of evolution, from the discovery of Lucy, the famous 3.2-million-year-old hominin, to fossilized footprints that reveal a world where multiple human-like species walked side by side. With infectious enthusiasm and a deep passion for science education, Jeremy unpacks the mysteries of how and why we took our very first steps—and why it matters today. Dive into Jeremy’s book, First Steps: How Walking Upright Made Us Human Check out Jeremy's blog Send us Fan Mail Support the show Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO . Support the show BUY OUR MERCH