In this episode, Jill reflects on the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall, exploring what it means to “do your little bit” in a world where not everyone starts from the same place. From Jane’s courage in defying gender norms to the continuing conversation around affirmative action, equity, and opportunity, this episode weaves together stories of perseverance, purpose, and the quiet power of small, determined acts. Jill connects Jane’s story to her own lessons from running cross-country, a mother’s unwavering support, and what it means to lift the next generation when we can’t always lift ourselves.

Key Takeaways

Starting Lines Aren’t Equal. Just like in a race, life’s starting points differ. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. wrote in Why We Can’t Wait, centuries of inequity can’t be erased by pretending the race is fair.

Affirmative Action as Fairness, Not Favoritism. President Kennedy’s 1961 executive order introduced “affirmative action” to open doors long kept closed, not to advantage one group, but to create opportunity where opportunity was denied.

The Double Tax. Economist Anna Gifty describes the “double tax” faced by women of color, the compounding burden of racism and sexism that leaves them underpaid, overcharged, and underestimated.

Jane Goodall’s Courage and Conviction. When the British government told Jane she couldn’t travel alone, her mother didn’t argue — she packed a bag. Together they faced malaria and isolation so Jane’s dream could take root. It’s the truest example of lifting someone by standing right beside them.

Say What You Mean, Mean What You Say. A lesson from Jill’s high school English teacher and one Jane Goodall embodied throughout her life — integrity, honesty, and consistency of purpose matter more than comfort.

Doing Your Little Bit. Jane reminded us that every person makes an impact every single day. Even small, imperfect actions move the world forward.

Death Readiness as Peace. Jane’s view of death as her “next great adventure” reframes readiness; it’s about living with purpose and peace, not fear.

Connect with Jill:

Website: DeathReadiness.com
Email: jill@deathreadiness.com
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This podcast provides estate planning guidance for women and discusses real, practical issues, from caregiving, pre-planning a funeral, how to avoid probate using beneficiary designations, planning for individuals with special needs (and special needs trusts), whether you need a professional fiduciary (trustee or executor), how the estate tax works and how to preserve your legacy.

Tuesday Triage episodes answer questions from listeners like you, from powers of attorney, healthcare advance directives (and whether they work when you’re pregnant), what a Last Will and Testament really is, whether you need a trust, how Medicaid works and how to have senior and elder care conversations and how to care for aging parents.

Disclaimer: This podcast and all related content are for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is established here. Use of this information without careful analysis and review by your attorney, CPA, and/or financial advisor may cause serious adverse consequences. For legal guidance tailored to your unique situation, consult with a licensed attorney in your state.

Why Jane Goodall’s Lessons Matter More Than Ever

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