#1602 - Justin Wren
NaN minutesEpisode #1602
Justin Wren is a professional mixed martial artist, humanitarian aid-worker, and founder of Fight for the Forgotten: a non-profit benefiting the Mbuti Pygmy people of the Congo.
Episodes with Justin Wren
Episode Timestamps
Joe Rogan Podcast and Whiskey Tasting
- Introduction to the special gift for Joe Rogan from Fight for the Forgotten and Buffalo Trace
- Explanation of the process of whiskey tasting and selecting a barrel
- Details about the unique flavors of different whiskey barrels
Whiskey Tasting and Raffle Details
- Discussion on tasting different whiskey samples and choosing the preferred one
- Overview of the whiskey raffle organized by Fight for the Forgotten and Buffalo Trace
- Information about the experience offered in the whiskey raffle
Whiskey Tasting and Fundraising Goals
- Details about visiting a whiskey distillery, tasting straight from the barrel, and purchasing a barrel with 220 bottles
- Discussion on fundraising goals of $100,000 for charity work in Uganda
- Impact of fundraising efforts on providing clean water and land for Pygmy communities
Humanitarian Efforts and Conservation Challenges
- Narrative on the challenges faced by Pygmy communities in Uganda and the efforts to provide sustainable living conditions
- Description of the support from organizations like Good Fight Foundation and Manny Pacquiao's team in building homes and infrastructure
- Overview of the conservation issues and poaching incidents in African rainforests
Life After the Congo and Healing Journey
- Reflections on the experiences in the Congo and the impact it had on sleep patterns and survivor's guilt
- Heartbreaking account of trying to save a 14-year-old girl with a lung condition
- Discussion on the emotional toll, PTSD, and the process of healing from traumatic experiences
Struggles with Substance Abuse and Recovery Journey
- Details on entering rehab and experiencing relapses mainly involving oxy and weed
- Explanation of a major shoulder surgery and the challenges of addiction to pain medication
- Insights into the divorce, the impact on behavior, excessive use of marijuana, and the decision to seek a structured recovery program
Understanding Addiction and the Cycle of Relapse
- Explanation of addiction cycle and abnormal reaction to substances
- Discussion on the difference between discontent and discontented in addiction
- Personal experience of relapses and the emotional struggle faced during relapse
Seeking Help and Rehabilitation at Stone Gate
- Decision to seek help at Stone Gate in Dallas, Fort Worth
- Description of the strict environment and treatment procedures at the rehabilitation center
- Financial challenges and personal sacrifices made to afford rehabilitation
Struggles with Sickness and Self-Worth
- Discussion on creating problems and conflicts in life
- Anecdote about finding purpose through helping others in need
- Reflection on personal struggles with addiction and self-worth
Rehab Experience and Overcoming Addiction
- Description of a challenging rehab facility
- Struggles with addiction relapses and self-perception
- Insight into the psychological battles of addiction and the journey to recovery
Struggle with Addiction and Dark Thoughts
- Joe Rogan's downward spiral into addiction and dark thoughts
- Reflections on feeling trapped and hopeless like being stuck in a burning building
- Encounter with drugs and dangerous situations in Mexico leading to a negative mindset
Finding Peace in Meditation and Sobriety
- Joe Rogan's journey to finding peace through meditation and prayer
- Transition to a supportive tribe and structured practices for mental well-being
- Embracing a sense of peace and contentment after maintaining sobriety
Discovery of Vision and Journey to the Congo
- Narrative about a profound vision experienced by the speaker
- Meeting with Caleb, who identifies the vision as relating to the pygmy people in the Congo
- Decision to embark on a humanitarian mission to the Congo despite dangers, with the support of Caleb and his wife Jess
Embracing Purpose and Commitment to Fight for the Underprivileged
- Recounting the emotional encounter with the pygmy tribe suffering from various hardships
- Inspired to start 'Fight for the Forgotten' initiative to aid the disadvantaged community
- Accepting the calling to advocate for the oppressed and transitioning from a fighting career to a humanitarian cause
Struggle with Addiction and Revelation of Gratitude
- Narrative of shame and gratitude intertwined after a night of substance use
- Discussion about the difficulty of resisting temptation after realizing gratitude for life
- Personal experience of struggling with addiction even after moments of clarity and gratitude
Exploration of Recovery and Self-Discovery
- Conversation about addiction recovery and challenges of relapse
- Discussing potential alternative treatments and therapies for addiction
- Reflection on childhood trauma, transparency, and personal growth
Addressing Bullying and the Power of Intervention
- Discussion on the issue of bullying and its impact on individuals, especially children
- Insight into the dynamics of bullying and the psychological aspects behind it
- Exploration of the importance of bystander intervention in stopping bullying behaviors
Journey of Healing, Self-Love, and Helping Others
- Personal story of healing and self-discovery through breathwork and meditation
- Realization of the significance of self-love and its role in personal growth and healing
- Embracing the idea of healing oneself to be able to positively impact and help others in their healing journey
Finding a Supportive Community and Overcoming Addiction
- Discussion about upgrading friend group to find like-minded and supportive individuals
- Facing rock bottom moments and the realization to seek help for addiction
- Importance of community, empowerment, and seeking help in overcoming addiction
Self-Reflection, Meditation, and Building Boundaries
- Exploration of self-love and the impact of meditation on self-awareness
- Establishing boundaries and self-care practices like journaling and meditation
- Managing overwhelming situations, setting boundaries, and prioritizing mental well-being over external demands
Recovery Journey and Healing from Severe Illness
- Discussion on the importance of surrounding oneself with valuable people for guidance and support
- Personal experience of battling severe illnesses like schistosomiasis, cerebral malaria, and parasites
- Struggling with addiction triggered by physical health challenges and the journey to recovery
Finding Purpose and Making a Difference through Adversity
- Plans to make a podcast for sharing inspiring stories and messages of hope
- Engagement in humanitarian efforts like providing clean water sources in Uganda
- Importance of prioritizing holistic healing and full recovery before considering professional fighting career
Health Challenges and Immune System Recovery
- Discussion on health challenges like malaria and weakened immune system
- Importance of building up the immune system for recovery
- Anecdote about training limitations due to health issues and injury
Self-Care and Personal Growth
- Explanation on the importance of self-care and setting boundaries
- Reflecting on distractions and overcommitment
- Realization about the significance of personal time and self-improvement
Overcoming Injury and Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for Charity
- Discussion about overcoming a knee injury while training for a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Raising funds for charity through the climb despite the setback
- Making it to the top of Kilimanjaro within six weeks of being non-weight bearing, showcasing the potential of regenerative medicine
Challenges in Medical Regulations and Promoting Preventative Healthcare
- Exploration of the challenges in medical regulations, especially concerning stem cell treatments
- Discussing the importance of preventative healthcare in addressing chronic diseases
- Gratitude for access to advanced treatments and a call to focus on prevention over treatment
Dealing with Malaria and Gratefulness
- Discussion about getting malaria multiple times and the experience of battling the disease in different countries
- Reflecting on the perspective gained from facing life-threatening situations like malaria
- Gratitude towards supporters, doctors, and the learning experience from the illness
Life Lessons, Gratitude, and Overcoming Challenges
- Reflections on personal growth and overcoming challenges in life
- Expressing gratitude for support received in difficult times and the impact of self-care and self-love
- Anecdote about the importance of staying on the right path and being connected to the present moment
Reflection on Recent Fights and Potential Future Boxing Matches
- Discussion on the impact of low calf kicks in recent fights and the potential strategy around them
- Exploration of the future boxing match possibilities including suggestions for fighters and concerns post-loss
- Speculations on the fighting future of key contenders based on recent performances and potential matchups
CTE Research and Personal Story
- Insight into CTE research and the involvement of UFC in psychedelic mushroom therapy for CTE
- Personal anecdote about a sponsor and former training partner who suffered from CTE-related issues
- Discussion about the potential of psychedelic mushroom therapy in aiding brain recovery
Supporting Friends in Retirement and Moving on from Fighting
- Discussion about supporting friends who retire from fighting and caring for their well-being
- Importance of recognizing when it's time to move on from a career in fighting to maintain health
- Personal reflection on transitioning to a healthier mindset towards fighting and avoiding unnecessary damage
Promoting Fight for the Forgotten and Future Plans
- Encouragement to support Fight for the Forgotten organization through donations or joining the fight club
- Announcement of a whiskey experience fundraiser on the organization's website
- Expressing gratitude and love towards listeners and supporters