Arbor Day Foundation Podcast Features Jane Goodall Institute USA Executive Director

Anna Rathmann shares insights from Dr. Jane Goodall and her own conservation journey

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Arbor Day Foundation's new podcast 'Unearthing Optimism' features an interview with Anna Rathmann, executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute USA. In the conversation with CEO Dan Lambe, Rathmann discusses what she has learned from Dr. Jane Goodall and reflects on her path from Yellowstone park ranger to global conservation advocate.

Why it matters

The 'Unearthing Optimism' podcast aims to provide a platform for influential voices shaping the conversation around climate change and environmental issues. Featuring Rathmann, a leader in the conservation movement, helps to spread messages of hope and the power of connecting people with nature.

The details

In the podcast episode, Rathmann shares her personal journey from working as a park ranger in Yellowstone to becoming the executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute USA. She discusses the lessons she has learned from the legendary Dr. Jane Goodall and how those insights have informed her work in global conservation efforts.

  • The Arbor Day Foundation launched its new 'Unearthing Optimism' podcast in 2026.
  • The episode featuring Anna Rathmann was released on February 17, 2026.

The players

Anna Rathmann

The executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute USA, Rathmann has worked in conservation efforts after starting her career as a park ranger in Yellowstone National Park.

Dan Lambe

The CEO and host of the Arbor Day Foundation's 'Unearthing Optimism' podcast, Lambe leads the organization's efforts to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.

Jane Goodall

The legendary primatologist and anthropologist, Goodall is the founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a pioneer in the field of conservation.

Arbor Day Foundation

A global nonprofit organization that inspires people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees, the Arbor Day Foundation has helped plant more than 500 million trees since its founding in 1972.

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What they’re saying

“Anna shared such an inspiring perspective during our conversation, illustrating the power of connecting people and nature to grow a better future. She reminds us that we all have the ability to create positive change.”

— Dan Lambe, CEO and Host, Arbor Day Foundation (Business Wire)

“'Unearthing Optimism' is a new kind of climate conversation, featuring a series of influential and trusted voices shaping culture, science, and how we understand our changing world.”

— Dan Lambe, CEO and Host, Arbor Day Foundation (Business Wire)

What’s next

The Arbor Day Foundation plans to continue releasing new episodes of the 'Unearthing Optimism' podcast, featuring more influential voices in the environmental and conservation movements.

The takeaway

The 'Unearthing Optimism' podcast provides a platform for sharing messages of hope and the power of connecting people with nature, as exemplified by Anna Rathmann's insights from her work with the Jane Goodall Institute USA. This aligns with the Arbor Day Foundation's mission to inspire people to take action in addressing environmental challenges.