#826 - Justin Wren cover

#826 - Justin Wren

NaN minutesEpisode #826

Justin Wren is an American MMA fighter. Justin is currently fighting in Bellator to help raise more awareness for helping the Pygmy people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Categories

Key Takeaways

Wren's battle with malaria showcases health risks in tropical regions.

This highlights the importance of awareness and prevention in health care.

Cultural and economic factors contribute to health issues in Africa.

Understanding these factors is crucial for addressing health disparities.

Corruption in Congo complicates personal and professional life.

Understanding the local environment is crucial for effective engagement.

Malaria poses serious health risks, affecting locals frequently.

Awareness of health issues is vital for anyone visiting or working in the region.

The significance of homecoming traditions reflects local culture and community ties.

Understanding these traditions helps appreciate regional differences in high school experiences.

Episode Timestamps

  • Justin Wren Discusses Malaria and Challenges in Congo

    • Wren shares his experiences with malaria while working in Congo.
    • He emphasizes the struggles faced during his fight training and health issues.
    • Wren highlights the poverty and health challenges in African communities.
  • Navigating Corruption and Personal Struggles in Congo

    • The speaker discusses personal experiences with corruption in Congo while training.
    • Malaria and its severe impacts on health are highlighted during the discussion.
    • Cultural observations about Texas traditions are shared alongside personal anecdotes.
  • Exploring High School Traditions and Mental Health Challenges

    • Homecoming traditions, like mums and garters, are unique to Texas culture.
    • Bullying and mental health issues are significant challenges faced by students.
    • Personal experiences reveal the lasting impact of childhood trauma and depression.
  • Addressing the Impact of Bullying and Finding Purpose

    • Bullying in childhood can lead to severe mental health issues in adulthood.
    • Helping others through volunteer work can transform personal pain into purpose.
    • Team camaraderie in sports fosters a supportive environment and healing.
  • Exploring the Impact of Bullying and Violence in Society

    • Bullying can lead to severe consequences for both victims and perpetrators.
    • The instinct to bully often stems from personal insecurities and societal pressures.
    • Historical and recent events highlight the ongoing issue of violence in schools.
  • Discussing Bullying, Poaching, and Cultural Myths

    • Bullying can often be mitigated by immediate group intervention against aggressors.
    • Poaching remains a critical issue, especially concerning endangered species like rhinos.
    • Cultural beliefs about animal parts, like rhino horns, often lack scientific basis.
  • Impact of Deforestation and Wildlife Poaching Discussed

    • Rhino horn demand leads to extreme wildlife poaching and extinction risks.
    • Deforestation for logging and cattle grazing is rapidly destroying ecosystems.
    • Indigenous communities face violence and loss of habitat due to exploitation.
  • Discussion on Clean Water Solutions and Cultural Insights

    • Emphasis on the importance of properly constructed water wells for communities.
    • Highlighting the challenges faced in accessing clean water in remote areas.
    • Cultural exchanges and the significance of community support in overcoming hardships.
  • Community Development Initiatives in Congo and Water Sanitation

    • Efforts to improve sanitation and water access in Congolese villages.
    • Community-led initiatives focus on sustainable solutions and education.
    • The significance of clean water highlighted in combating diseases.
  • Finding purpose and joy beyond materialism and comparison

    • Life fulfillment comes from helping others, not material possessions.
    • Comparison with others steals our joy and peace.
    • Experiences in Congo reveal the true meaning of happiness.
  • Discussion on Tuberculosis and Sustainable Solutions in Health

    • Tuberculosis is linked to low immune systems and environmental factors like smoke.
    • Sustainable cooking solutions are proposed to combat health issues from smoke exposure.
    • MMA and personal stories illustrate the intersection of health and sports culture.
  • Building Sustainable Communities through Eco-Friendly Housing Initiatives

    • Discussion on the importance of building wells for clean water access.
    • Exploration of eco-friendly housing solutions like earthbag homes.
    • Emphasis on community development and culturally sensitive assistance.
  • Acts of kindness and resilience in challenging environments

    • Young men drillers are making a significant impact in water access.
    • Survivors of violence are transforming their lives through community service.
    • The importance of setting goals is highlighted through a Harvard study.
  • Writing Goals and Achieving Success Through Focus

    • Writing down goals can help clarify focus and direction.
    • Sharing personal success stories motivates others to pursue their dreams.
    • Visualizing goals aids in the journey toward achieving them.
  • MMA Fighter Discusses Career, Training, and Team Dynamics

    • Fighter reflects on team changes and financial agreements in MMA.
    • Discusses training and preparation for upcoming Bellator fights.
    • Mentions personal health challenges faced during training trips.
  • Fighter discusses training, goals, and charitable efforts

    • Fighter shares personal experiences with training and injury recovery.
    • Emphasis on community support and charitable work through fightforgotten.org.
    • Discussion of key figures and training strategies for MMA success.

People Mentioned

Justin Wren

Fighter, Activist, MMA Fighter, Activist, MMA Fighter, Philanthropist

+1 more

Ben

Friend, Translator

Unnamed Speaker

Podcast Host/Participant

Justin (mentioned in context)

Victim of bullying

Sissy Spacek

Actress

John Travolta

Actor

Papa Roach

Musical band

Matt

Director of Implementation, Chief Operating Officer

Chief Leome

Community leader

Dan Henderson

MMA Fighter

Kimbo Slice

MMA Fighter

Josh

Community builder, Advocate for sustainable living

Francis Ngannou

UFC Fighter

Johnny Hendricks

MMA Fighter

Places Mentioned

Congo

Country

+31 more

Tanzania

Country

+2 more

London

City

Texas

State

+5 more

Serengeti

National Park

Uganda

Country

+3 more

California

Location of eco-dome training

Colorado

State where training occurs

+2 more

Books Mentioned

Helping Without Hurting

Unknown

Harvard Business Study

Unknown

Notable Quotes

"That's that's tougher fight."

Discussing the challenges of fighting while dealing with malaria.

"Dude, retreat they're kids stuff."

Talking about the serious health effects of malaria and its treatment.

"Yeah, honestly, feel like much scarier place personally."

Reflecting on the challenges faced in Congo.

"33 pounds lost in five days."

Describing the severe effects of malaria on health.

"I attempted suicide... thinking, know, would this? would mom? know, love mom."

Discussing personal struggles with mental health and suicidal thoughts.

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