Sixty years ago, at the age of 12, Debbie Jacob found solace in the life of Jane Goodall, the English-born primatologist, whose journey mirrored her own isolated upbringing on a remote Ohio dairy farm. Surrounded by cows, dogs, and horses, Jacob’s father named each of his 56 dairy cows, fostering a deep connection with animals that paralleled Goodall’s groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Africa. Goodall’s unconventional approach—naming the chimpanzees she studied and observing their tool-making abilities—challenged scientific norms and redefined humanity’s understanding of animals. This shared reverence for animals inspired Jacob to spend 14 years researching and writing about police dogs, a testament to the profound influence of role models. Role models, Jacob argues, provide purpose, build confidence, and validate life choices. They remind us to be resilient and relevant, qualities exemplified by Goodall, who reinvented herself in her later years as an animal activist and environmentalist. Goodall’s tireless efforts to protect the planet for both humans and animals left an indelible legacy of hope and ecological awareness. Her message remains clear: we share this planet with animals and must work together to preserve it. Goodall’s journey also highlights the importance of curiosity and ambition over formal qualifications. Discovered by archaeologist Louis Leakey, who saw potential in her despite her lack of expertise, Goodall became the first person to observe chimpanzees in the wild. This belief in untapped potential shaped Jacob’s career, allowing her to excel in diverse fields without formal training. However, Jacob laments the modern world’s reluctance to take chances on individuals driven by heart and ambition. In an era dominated by systems and curricula, the qualities once valued in role models—honesty, diligence, trust, and risk-taking—are increasingly overlooked. Yet, the need for role models remains urgent, as the world grapples with a lack of positive guidance. Jane Goodall’s legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of role models and the enduring importance of curiosity, resilience, and reinvention.