#687 - Justin Wren

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Justin Wren Discusses His Fight Comeback and Pygmy Advocacy

  • Justin Wren announces his return to fighting with Bellator to raise awareness.
  • He discusses the dire conditions faced by pygmies in the Congo.
  • Wren shares insights on unique survival methods in Congo, including natural remedies.
• 00:07:11

  Empowering Local Communities Through Water Well Projects

  • A podcast discussion on building sustainable water wells in Congo.
  • Efforts focus on empowering locals rather than imposing foreign solutions.
  • The initiative has successfully created 25 water wells to date.
• 00:13:59

  Empowering Pygmies: Water Access and Land Ownership Initiatives

  • Local community empowerment is crucial for addressing the water crisis in Congo.
  • Long-term relationships, not quick fixes, are key to sustainable development efforts.
  • Understanding the historical context of land ownership is vital for supporting Pygmy rights.
• 00:24:50

  Challenges and Techniques in Water Well Drilling

  • Drilling for water involves significant planning and overcoming geological challenges.
  • Water scarcity impacts communities, particularly affecting women's daily lives.
  • Health risks from contaminated water highlight the urgency of sustainable solutions.
• 00:33:22

  Exploring the Dense Ecosystem of the Congo Rainforest

  • The Congo hosts the second-largest rainforest and dense wildlife biodiversity.
  • Experiences in the rainforest highlight challenges like navigating thick vegetation.
  • Unique wildlife includes large bumblebees and aggressive ants, making exploration intense.
• 00:39:02

  Exploring Cultural Practices and Food Sources in Indigenous Communities

  • Discussion centers on Sangie and his family in a village setting.
  • Unique music and food practices, including bush meat consumption, are highlighted.
  • Cultural interactions illustrate significant differences in lifestyle and survival methods.
• 00:44:22

  Exploring Endangered Species and Cultural Preservation Efforts

  • Discussion about the okapi, an endangered species from the Congo.
  • Challenges faced by pygmies due to deforestation and hunting difficulties.
  • Efforts to replant trees and preserve cultural heritage in the Congo.
• 00:52:26

  Exploration of Congolese Culture and Environmental Issues

  • Discussion highlights the cultural significance of photography in the Congo.
  • Illegal logging in the Congo is causing significant environmental damage.
  • Historical atrocities in the Congo are referenced, including King Leopold's reign.
• 01:00:35

  The Impact of Waterborne Diseases and Deforestation in Congo

  • 5,000 children die daily from waterborne diseases in Congo.
  • Deforestation in Congo affects both environment and local communities.
  • Cultural indifference towards global health crises is alarming and needs addressing.
• 01:13:50

  Fighter Advocates for Pygmies While Training for Bellator

  • The speaker discusses the stark contrast between poverty levels in America and the Congo.
  • Fighting is used as a platform to raise awareness for Pygmy communities.
  • A partnership is being formed to provide sustainable water solutions for affected areas.
• 01:25:35

  Empowering Communities through Sustainable Agriculture and Water Projects

  • Emphasis on creating long-term opportunities beyond short-term aid initiatives.
  • Local empowerment through agricultural projects fosters dignity and self-sufficiency.
  • The importance of water access and land for sustainable living and farming.
• 01:33:20

  Impact of Cultural Differences and Sports on Global Awareness

  • 5,000 children die daily due to lack of clean water.
  • The speaker reflects on their unique experiences with isolated cultures.
  • Sports can serve as a bridge to raise awareness for global issues.
• 01:43:25

  Justin Wren's Fight for Freedom and Pygmy Rights

  • Justin Wren shares his journey from UFC fighter to advocate for Pygmy rights.
  • A crowdfunding campaign aims to support a documentary about Pygmy communities.
  • The importance of giving a voice to marginalized communities is emphasized.
• 01:50:16

  Challenges of Visa and Life in Congo Explored

  • Visa complications arise due to incorrect documentation during travels.
  • Personal experiences highlight the dangers and realities of life in Congo.
  • MMA fighter discusses recovery and training after a long hiatus.
• 01:58:54

  Motivational Insights from a Fighter's Journey and Philanthropy

  • Fighter discusses the importance of selflessness in their team's mission.
  • Challenges faced in healthcare while working in Uganda highlighted.
  • Excitement builds for upcoming Bellator fight and community support.