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

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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

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Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.

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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

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Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.

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Buy us a coffee to say thanks!
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