#337 - Justin Wren
Justin Wren is an American MMA fighter, formerly on the Ultimate Fighter. He is currently on a 1-year mission helping the Pygmy people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Learn more about his project here: FightFortheForgotten.com
Episodes with Justin Wren
Categories
Key Takeaways
Pygmies in the Congo face severe oppression and slavery.
Understanding their plight can foster awareness and action against human rights abuses.
Technology demands contribute to the exploitation of resources and people.
Recognizing this link is crucial for ethical consumerism and corporate responsibility.
The Pygmies face severe human rights violations and discrimination.
This underscores the urgent need for awareness and humanitarian efforts.
A partnership aims to provide sustainable living solutions for the Pygmy community.
This approach promotes empowerment and long-term change, rather than temporary aid.
Pygmy cultures utilize complex tonal languages and unique musical traditions.
Understanding these languages enriches our appreciation of cultural diversity.
Episode Timestamps
Justin Wren Discusses Pygmy Slavery in the Congo
- Justin Wren shares his experiences helping Pygmies in the Congo.
- Discussion highlights the harsh realities of slavery faced by Pygmies.
- The impact of tech demand on conflict minerals in the Congo is explored.
Exploring Pygmy Culture and Human Rights in Congo
- The discussion highlights the plight of Pygmies in the Congo region.
- Efforts to free enslaved individuals and promote sustainable living are emphasized.
- Cultural insights reveal the unique lives and challenges faced by Pygmies.
Exploring Pygmy Culture and Unique Traditions
- Discussion of pygmy languages and unique communication methods like polyphonic singing.
- Insights into traditional pygmy practices including food and body modifications.
- Humorous anecdotes about cultural experiences and observations from the speaker.
Maasai Warriors Discuss Lion Encounters and Spear Use
- Maasai warriors engage with lions to protect their herds using traditional weapons.
- Warriors demonstrate spear techniques for hunting and protecting livestock from predators.
- Humorous anecdotes highlight personal encounters with wildlife, including lions and domestic pets.
Wrestling, Survival Skills, and Toughness in the Wilderness
- Discussion of the unique toughness of Maasai warriors in wrestling.
- Comparison of survival skills between different cultures and environments.
- A humorous take on the challenges faced during wilderness survival.
Encounters with Nature: Wildlife in the Congo
- Discussion of dangerous wildlife in the Congo, including black mambas and hippos.
- Insights on pygmy tribes' interactions with local fauna and their ecosystem.
- Reflections on the beauty and peril of the Congo's natural environment.
Exploration of Pygmy Culture and Colonial Impact in the Congo
- Discussion on the Pygmy people's treatment and their cultural significance.
- Insights into deforestation and its effects on the Congo rainforest.
- Historical context of European colonization and its consequences in the Congo.
Deforestation and Human Rights Exploitation in the Congo
- Deforestation in the Congo has led to severe environmental degradation.
- Pygmies face exploitation and loss of their traditional hunting rights.
- Wildlife conservation efforts have failed to protect the interests of indigenous peoples.
Exploring Relationships and Personal Growth Amidst Hardships
- The speaker discusses personal struggles with addiction and their journey to recovery.
- A significant relationship and its challenges are highlighted, particularly concerning future plans.
- Insights into the Congolese conflict illustrate a broader context of social issues.
Overcoming Bullying and Addiction Through MMA Journey
- The speaker shares personal experiences of bullying in middle school.
- MMA and wrestling became a transformative outlet for the speaker's struggles.
- The impact of addiction on their fight career and personal life is discussed.
Journey from Addiction to Recovery in Combat Sports
- The speaker shares his struggles with addiction and recovery journey.
- He highlights the importance of finding purpose in life.
- The discussion touches on the culture within MMA training environments.
Overcoming Addiction and Finding Hope Through Personal Experience
- Discussion focuses on personal struggles with addiction and injury recovery.
- The importance of community support and authentic experiences is emphasized.
- A transformative retreat led to significant personal and spiritual growth.
Exploring Love, Faith, and Sustainable Living in the Congo
- Discussion centers on the intersection of love, faith, and humanitarian efforts.
- The speaker emphasizes sustainable living for the Pygmies in the Congo.
- A call for action to support self-sustainability and liberation efforts is made.
People Mentioned
Justin Wren
Humanitarian, Activist, Activist, Mixed Martial Arts Fighter
Joe Rogan
Podcast Host, Comedian
Jay Lua
Dean of Community Development
Maasai Warriors
Cattle herders, Hunters
Brian Callen
Comedian, Podcast Host
Unnamed Speaker
Podcast Host/Participant
David Cho
Explorer, Researcher
Pygmy Communities
Indigenous People
Trevor Whitman
Coach
Justin
MMA Fighter, Addiction Recovery Advocate
Jeff Duncan
Friend, Supporter
Boss Rootin
Podcaster, Recovery Advocate
Places Mentioned
Congo
Country
Rwanda
Country
Uganda
Country
Mexico
Country
Dairy Queen
Fast Food Restaurant
Boulder
City
Summit County
County
Texas
State
Notable Quotes
"4 out of 10 children die by age 5."
Discussing the dire situation of Pygmy children in the Congo.
"There's a bizarre, fascinating sort of statement of humanity."
Referring to the complex relationship between technology and exploitation.
"He's the coolest motherfucker on earth."
Describing the excitement about meeting a significant figure in the Congo.
"Corruption nuts. Warlords whole system that, they've got going there."
Discussing the extreme corruption impacting the Congo's wealth.
"Wow. that's ones remote locations, ones slaves years years years, they've started learn speak Swahili."
Talking about language adaptation among pygmies.