This week on Talking Apes, we’re entering the personal world of gorillas and a remarkable woman who has dedicated her life to their stories: Beth Armstrong. As a former gorilla keeper at the Columbus Zoo, Beth’s career spans from revolutionizing gorilla care in zoos to advocating for conservation in the wild. She brings decades of experience, wisdom, and unapologetic passion for these gentle giants.
Beth’s stories from the field are as vivid as they are moving. She describes the transformation of gorilla enclosures from barren cages to enriched spaces that reflect the dignity these animals deserve, built on the simple principle of listening to what the gorillas were telling her. Her work didn’t stop at the zoo gates—Beth’s commitment to field conservation and questioning the role zoos play in the bigger picture of species survival has reshaped how we view these institutions today.
In this episode, Beth also shares poignant reflections on humanity’s connection to gorillas, the injustices they’ve faced, and how each of us can play a part in their story. From heartwarming tales of gorilla mothers to the challenges of fostering community-driven conservation, Beth’s insights remind us that conservation is, at its core, about relationships—between people, animals, and ecosystems.
‘Conservation is nothing but personal—it’s about relationships and community.’
Tune in to hear Beth’s unforgettable journey, her advice for anyone passionate about making a difference, and why telling these stories matters more than ever. You won’t want to miss this one!
Beth is the author of the 2020 memoir Voices from the Ape House
Talking Apes is an initiative of the nonprofit GLOBIO.
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