Jane Lee on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jane Lee. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Jane, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I love to start my day with some sort of movement, whether it’s swimming at the pool, birding outdoors, or a yoga session, beginning my day with exercise helps sets the tone for my day.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a bird guide and I lead private and public group outings in the Denver area. I teach a “Mindful Birding” course at the Denver Botanic Gardens, and I’ll be teaching at both the York St and Chatfield Farms locations in 2026. I’ve also worked with Lafayette Open Space to provide free and accessible bird outings to the community. And I’ve guided with Environment for the Americas, Denver Audubon, Hey Birdie, and the DU Graduate School of Social Work.

I work full-time as the volunteer coordinator at Denver Audubon, a local non-profit that aims to inspire actions that protect birds. I’m also a co-organizer with the Denver Front Range Chapter of the Feminist Bird Club.

What sets me apart from others is my background. I didn’t formally go to school to study birds, but I’ve worked hard to learn as much as I can. I’m also Chinese and being a minority in a field that historically has been a white-dominated space makes me different and unique. I want to tear down stereotypes and show that birding is for everyone.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I didn’t have a voice and had to simply abide by my parents. Over time, I’ve learned that parents are human too, and that I do have a voice, one I can use to share everything I know about birds.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear of being alone, and I’m still working on this!

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
The belief that anyone can be a birder, regardless of their background, education, or knowledge. I enjoy sharing my love and passion for birds to everyone, whether it’s through guided bird outings, bird talks, or in my role at Denver Audubon. I love inspiring others to learn more about birds, to pay attention to birdsong, and spend time in nature.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m birding. Whether it’s at a local park, a new birding spot, or somewhere in another state or country. Birding is a mindfulness practice for me; I focus solely on what I can see and hear, and everything else falls away. Research shows that birding offers numerous mental health benefits, including lowering heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels. After a birding session, I feel refreshed and grounded, which is why it’s something I love to advocate for during my guided tours.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://birdingwithjane.wixsite.com/birding-with-jane
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdingwithjane/
• Youtube: BirdingwithJane
• Other: TikTok: @birdingwithjane

Image Credits
Jane Lee