Talking Apes

GLOBIO
  • 5.0 (10)
  • NATURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY
Talking Apes

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.orgTalking Apes is a program of the nonprofit GLOBIO. 

  1. 5D AGO

    World Chimpanzee Day with Dr Rachna Reddy | Episode 71

    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 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

    1h 8m

  2. JUN 24

    What BaYaka Children Can Teach About Being Human with Dr Deniz Salali | Episode 70

    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 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

    1h 22m

  3. JUN 10

    Talking Apes, Yes, All Apes! with Dr. Adriano Lameira | Episode 69

    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 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

    1h 23m

  4. MAY 13

    The Climbing Secret Behind Monkey Bars with Luke Fannin | Episode 68

    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 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

    1h 11m

  5. APR 22

    Happy EARTH DAY! With Jane Goodall Institute's Anna Rathmann | Episode 67

    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 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

    1 hr

  6. APR 8

    IUCN’s Role in Saving Our Planet with Sean Southey | Episode 66

    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 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

    1h 11m

  7. MAR 18

    Southeast Asia’s Secret Monkeys with Dr. Andie Ang | Episode 65

    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 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

    48 min

  8. MAR 2

    Tracing Our Footsteps Through Time with Jeremy DeSilva | Episode 64

    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 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

    1h 9m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

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.orgTalking Apes is a program of the nonprofit GLOBIO. 

Information

  • Creator
    GLOBIO
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Talking Apes
  • Show Website
    Talking Apes

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