Hope of Jane Goodall with Katie O'Neill

Jane Goodall has been called the Mother Theresa of our environment. She has spent the last 60 years dedicated to protecting chimpanzees in the wild. Recently, Matt and his wife Katie had the opportunity to meet with Jane and ask her questions about making the world a better place. 

Jane shared stories about how her mother encouraged her to be curious and didn’t punish her for wanting to understand how the world worked, even when it got Jane into trouble. Matt and Katie share how these insights have shaped the way they wish to raise their four children. 

Jane’s message to Matt and Katie was also about hope for a bright future for the planet, but only if we act with urgency to address the issues facing all of us. Tune in to learn simple actions you and your family can take to help to protect the Earth. 

Here are some power takeaways from today’s conversation: 

• The power of curiosity and exploration

• Supporting your kids’ dreams and passions

• Showing up for family through difficult circumstances

• The importance of patience and understanding in parenting

• Jane Goodall's groundbreaking chimpanzee research and environmental activism

[02:56] Lessons From Her Mom

Jane Goodall's mother played a pivotal role in shaping her future as a renowned conservationist. She fostered Jane's curiosity, even when it led to minor inconveniences, and always encouraged exploration. She backed Jane's dreams, no matter how improbable they seemed, and never let fear of danger or inconvenience stifle her daughter's curiosity. Through thick and thin, she showed unwavering support, even accompanying Jane to Africa to live in an army tent. This nurturing environment cultivated Jane's enduring love for nature and animals, ultimately fueling her groundbreaking career in conservation.

[09:22] The Importance of Patience and Understanding in Parenting

In our fast-paced lives, it's crucial to slow down and fully comprehend the moments we're experiencing, especially with our children. Caught in the whirlwind of life, Katie recently found herself profoundly affected by Jane’s message, urging her to slow down and appreciate the present. She realized the potential harm in hastily reprimanding children during their moments of curiosity and exploration. These instances, though seemingly insignificant, are crucial to their growth, and this has prompted Katie to adopt a more patient and understanding approach towards parenting. 

[21:32] The Interconnectedness of Everything

Before Jane Goodall, the prevailing philosophy separated humans from the rest of nature. However, Goodall revolutionized this belief by promoting the concept of interconnectedness. She observed that humans, animals, and the environment are not distinct entities, but rather parts of a greater whole. Drawing parallels with Buddha's teachings, Goodall emphasized that the survival and prosperity of humans are intrinsically linked to the health of the animal kingdom and the planet itself.

Notable quotes:

[09:37] Any little situation or anytime we get upset with the children or fuss at them, we could be having some negative consequences. [09:44]

[22:00] We can't thrive if the animal world is dying. We can't thrive if the planet is dying. [22:08]

Resources Mentioned: 

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About the Guest 

Katie O'Neill is the Chief Financial Officer of Matt O’Neill Real Estate, a $10 Million enterprise. She is married to Matt O’Neill and together they raise four amazing children. Prior to becoming the CFO, Katie practiced law for 10 years at a law firm in Mount Pleasant, SC. As a working mom, Katie is truly super-human in her ability to get the homework done, cook great meals, and manage the finances of a major corporation.