On Monday, May 13th, Jane Goodall delivered the keynote address at the seventh annual Starmus Festival, hosted this year in Slovakia. Titled "Reasons for Hope," Goodall's speech aimed to spread optimism during these challenging times. Speaking from Istanbul, Turkey, where she was traveling, Goodall expressed her belief that her current purpose is to inspire hope.

Jane Goodall stands as a beacon of hope, particularly at 90 years old, she commands universal respect and admiration worldwide. Her efforts to raise awareness about environmental issues and animal consciousness through her groundbreaking studies on chimpanzees resonate across borders, transcending divisive barriers and uniting people in pursuit of common goals.

Goodall's influence is unparalleled. Even through the lens of a Zoom call at seven on a Sunday morning in Los Angeles, her presence is both comforting and awe-inspiring. Having interacted with numerous celebrities, from Oscar winners to music legends and even a Nobel laureate, I can confidently say that few have left a more profound impact on the world than Jane Goodall.

It was with great honor that Sage Bava and I sat down to facilitate Goodall's message of hope and discuss why she views this era as the most exciting for studying animal behavior, along with her perspectives on music and more.

Steve Baltin: Your ability to offer hope seems like your greatest gift in these challenging times. What is the source of that hope for you?

Jane Goodall: I believe my purpose on this planet is to instill hope in people, especially during tumultuous times. Previously, my mission was to awaken awareness about environmental issues, which remains relevant today. Without hope, our efforts are futile. So, I encourage individuals to focus on local actions they can take, emphasizing that even small contributions can make a significant difference. Initiatives like cleaning up litter, fundraising for charity, or caring for stray animals can ignite change. Witnessing the impact of these local efforts can inspire further action and global solidarity. The youth, engaged in programs like Roots & Shoots across 70 countries, embody this hope by actively shaping a better world. Additionally, advancements in renewable energy and increased environmental consciousness signify progress. Nature's resilience and examples of species recovery, such as the California Condor, offer tangible reasons for optimism. Finally, the indomitable spirit of individuals who defy the odds, like Nelson Mandela or Martin Luther King Jr., serves as a testament to human potential.

Baltin: Who has inspired you with their indomitable spirit throughout your life?

Goodall: My grandmother's resilience and my uncle's dedication during wartime were early sources of inspiration. More recently, individuals like Muhammad Yunus, who combats poverty, and countless young activists in organizations like Roots & Shoots continue to inspire me. Witnessing individuals rise above adversity, especially those born into poverty, reaffirms our innate capacity for resilience and determination. Many people possess untapped potential; they simply need the courage to act.