JRE #603 – Justin Wren

This podcast takes listeners on an immersive journey with Justin Wren, an MMA fighter who traded the octagon for a year-long mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo to help the Pygmy people. The conversation explores Wren’s experiences battling malaria, navigating a world rife with corruption and violence, and his unwavering commitment to building a sustainable future for the Pygmy community. The podcast delves into the heart of a forgotten people, shedding light on their struggles and resilience, and the complexities of humanitarian work in a challenging environment.

Provocative topics include the brutal realities of malaria, the rampant corruption in the Congo, the threat of rebel groups and cannibalism, the deep-rooted prejudice against the Pygmy people, and the challenges of working in a region with a long history of exploitation and violence. Underlying themes explore the importance of empathy and action in the face of suffering, the power of human connection to inspire change, the complexities of cultural differences and the importance of understanding them, and the constant struggle against corruption and injustice.

1. Justin Wren’s Transformation from Fighter to Humanitarian

• Wren’s initial trip to the Congo sparked a deep-seated desire to help the Pygmy people, leaving him feeling a sense of calling.
• The experience of seeing firsthand the suffering of the Pygmy community, driven by poverty, lack of access to clean water, and enslavement, ignited his passion for their cause.
• He channeled his fighting spirit and passion for helping others into creating Fight for the Forgotten, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of the Pygmy people.
• His journey reflects the transformative power of empathy, where witnessing injustice can lead to a powerful commitment to making a difference.

2. The Brutal Realities of Malaria

• Wren’s own harrowing experience battling malaria in the Congo highlights the deadly nature of this disease, particularly in resource-limited environments.
• The lack of access to proper medical care in the Congo meant Wren faced misdiagnosis and a prolonged struggle with the disease.
• The story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the Congo’s environment and the importance of preventative measures.
• His vulnerability to malaria while fighting for those without access to treatment underscores the interconnectedness of human suffering.

3. The Rampant Corruption in the Congo

• Wren’s encounters with corruption at every level, from border officials to local authorities, demonstrate the pervasiveness of this issue in the Congo.
• His efforts to provide clean water and land to the Pygmy community are repeatedly hampered by officials seeking bribes and personal gain.
• The story paints a bleak picture of a system where even humanitarian efforts are exploited for personal profit.
• The constant battle against corruption underscores the immense obstacles faced by those trying to bring positive change to the region.

4. The Threat of Rebel Groups and Cannibalism

• The presence of rebel groups, including the Mai Mai, who engage in violence, exploitation, and even cannibalism, paints a picture of ongoing conflict and danger in the Congo.
• The story of the rebel leader Morgan, who was killed after peacefully turning himself in, illustrates the distrust and fear that fuel the ongoing conflict.
• The chilling practice of drinking from pygmy skulls as a ritual to gain invincibility adds a layer of barbarity and underscores the deep-seated cultural beliefs that fuel violence.
• The threat of rebel groups and the lingering presence of cannibalism highlight the precariousness of life in the Congo and the challenges of creating a secure and peaceful environment.

5. The Deep-Rooted Prejudice Against Pygmy People

• The podcast reveals the long-standing prejudice and exploitation of the Pygmy people in the Congo, often seen as inferior and lacking basic rights.
• Wren’s efforts to provide land and clean water are met with resistance from those who view the Pygmy people as lesser and not deserving of such resources.
• The story of their enslavement, often for minimal compensation, underscores the systemic oppression they have faced.
• The podcast serves as a call for awareness and action to challenge these deeply ingrained prejudices and fight for the equal treatment of all people.

6. The Challenges of Humanitarian Work in a Challenging Environment

• Wren’s story highlights the immense challenges of humanitarian work in the Congo, navigating corruption, violence, and cultural barriers.
• The lack of infrastructure, limited access to resources, and the constant threat of danger test the resilience and dedication of those working for positive change.
• The difficulty of securing funding and navigating bureaucracy further complicates efforts to improve lives.
• Wren’s experience underscores the importance of collaboration, persistence, and a deep understanding of the local context in achieving lasting impact.

7. The Power of Human Connection to Inspire Change

• The bond Wren develops with the Pygmy community is a testament to the power of human connection to transcend cultural differences.
• His commitment to their wellbeing, even in the face of adversity, creates a sense of trust and hope.
• The story highlights the importance of understanding and valuing the unique cultures and traditions of different communities.
• Wren’s dedication to giving a voice to the Pygmy people inspires hope that even in the most challenging circumstances, compassion and empathy can pave the way for a better future.

8. The Importance of Understanding Cultural Differences

• Wren’s journey illuminates the importance of understanding cultural differences, particularly in the Congo where language, beliefs, and traditions are diverse.
• The misunderstandings and sometimes humorous interactions between Wren and the Pygmy people highlight the need for sensitivity and patience.
• His willingness to learn the local language, embrace their customs, and understand their perspective demonstrates the value of cross-cultural exchange.
• The podcast underscores the fact that understanding different cultures can be a powerful tool for building bridges and fostering cooperation.

9. The Constant Struggle Against Corruption and Injustice

• Wren’s unwavering determination to fight for the Pygmy people, despite the obstacles he faces, highlights the importance of standing up against corruption and injustice.
• His experiences in the Congo reveal the deep-rooted systemic inequalities that permeate the region, hindering progress and perpetuating suffering.
• The podcast serves as a reminder that fighting for a better world often requires confronting these challenges head-on.
• Wren’s commitment to challenging the status quo inspires hope that even in the face of overwhelming odds, individuals can make a difference.

10. Justin Wren’s Potential Return to Fighting

• Wren contemplates a return to MMA, driven by a desire to use his platform to raise awareness for his humanitarian work.
• He aims to channel the success and attention he could gain from fighting into further supporting the Pygmy community.
• His ambition to combine his passions for MMA and humanitarian work showcases the power of using one’s strengths to make a positive impact.
• The prospect of Wren potentially fighting for the championship while advocating for the Pygmy people creates a compelling narrative that could inspire millions.

11. The Importance of Training Smart

• Wren’s approach to training focuses on smarter, more sustainable methods, particularly for heavyweight fighters who endure a significant amount of impact.
• He emphasizes the importance of recovery and proper training strategies to prevent injuries and optimize performance, drawing from his own experiences.
• The discussion on training practices offers valuable insights for athletes, particularly heavyweights, on how to maintain longevity and minimize risk.
• His perspective on training aligns with the growing emphasis on holistic health and wellness in the sport, balancing intensity with recovery.

12. The Controversial Issue of Eye Pokes in MMA

• The conversation dives into the growing issue of eye pokes in MMA, emphasizing the need for stricter penalties and potentially new glove designs.
• Wren discusses the impact of eye pokes on fighters, including vision loss and long-term damage, highlighting the need for greater safety measures.
• The discussion on potential glove modifications, particularly covering the fingertips, offers a practical approach to reducing the frequency of eye pokes.
• The topic prompts a conversation on the future of safety regulations in MMA, balancing the excitement of the sport with the need to protect fighters from serious injuries.

13. The Importance of Respect for Fighters Who Lose

• Wren highlights the lack of respect often shown to fighters who lose in America, in contrast to the Japanese appreciation for warriors who fight their hardest.
• He criticizes the online harassment and ridicule that fighters sometimes face, emphasizing the emotional toll it takes on them.
• The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of all fighters, regardless of the outcome.
• Wren’s appreciation for the Japanese culture of respect for all warriors prompts a discussion about the need for greater empathy and sportsmanship in American MMA.

14. The Need for Better Judging in MMA

• Wren criticizes the inconsistent and often inaccurate judging in MMA, highlighting the need for a more qualified and experienced pool of judges.
• He expresses concern about the lack of grappling experience among some judges, leading to misinterpretations of ground exchanges and unfair decisions.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of having judges who truly understand the intricacies of MMA, including grappling, striking, and strategy.
• Wren’s call for reform in judging underscores the need to improve the fairness and integrity of the sport, ensuring that the best fighters are rewarded for their performance.

15. The Importance of Sustainability in Humanitarian Work

• Wren emphasizes the importance of sustainable solutions in his humanitarian work, focusing on empowering the Pygmy community to maintain their own progress.
• He utilizes water-filtration systems and training programs that provide long-term solutions, ensuring self-sufficiency and independence.
• His approach aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable development, where projects are designed to have lasting positive impact.
• Wren’s commitment to sustainability reflects his dedication to creating a brighter future for the Pygmy people and their community.

16. The Power of Storytelling and Giving Voice to the Forgotten

• Wren recognizes the power of storytelling to shed light on the struggles of the Pygmy people and inspire action for their cause.
• His podcast interview serves as a platform to share their story with a wider audience, raising awareness and sparking empathy.
• He emphasizes the importance of giving a voice to those who are often silenced, ensuring that their struggles are heard and acknowledged.
• Wren’s commitment to storytelling reflects his belief that sharing stories can be a powerful tool for creating change.

17. The Personal Impact of Witnessing Suffering

• Wren shares his emotional journey, acknowledging the profound impact of witnessing suffering and loss in the Congo.
• He speaks candidly about the challenges of bearing witness to the hardships of the Pygmy people, including the deaths of children.
• His vulnerability underscores the human cost of injustice and the emotional toll it takes on those working to make a difference.
• Wren’s story reveals the importance of acknowledging and processing the emotional impact of humanitarian work, reminding listeners of the human element behind the cause.

18. The Importance of Empathy and Action

• Wren’s story serves as a call for empathy and action, urging listeners to recognize the suffering of others and contribute to making a difference.
• His dedication to helping the Pygmy people, even in the face of immense challenges, is a testament to the power of compassion and empathy.
• The podcast encourages listeners to consider their own roles in promoting justice and alleviating suffering, both locally and globally.
• Wren’s story demonstrates the importance of turning empathy into action, highlighting the transformative power of individual choices.

19. The Role of Sport as a Platform for Change

• Wren’s potential return to MMA underscores the potential of using sport as a platform for positive change.
• His ambition to channel his success and influence into raising awareness for the Pygmy people showcases the power of using one’s platform for a greater purpose.
• The conversation prompts a discussion about the responsibility of athletes to use their visibility to advocate for social justice and humanitarian causes.
• Wren’s story demonstrates how even seemingly disparate worlds, like MMA and humanitarian work, can be combined to create positive impact.

20. The Importance of Hope and Resilience

• Despite the immense challenges he faces in the Congo, Wren maintains a sense of hope and unwavering commitment to his work.
• His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of belief in a better future.
• The podcast encourages listeners to hold onto hope, even in the face of adversity, and believe in the possibility of creating positive change.
• Wren’s journey reminds us that even small acts of kindness and compassion can make a difference in the lives of others.

5 Memorable Quotes:

• “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping in a room with a mosquito.” – Wren shares a Congolese proverb that speaks to the power of individual action, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
• “It’s different than anything that we experience here because that corruption isn’t…I mean, sure there’s scrub stuff that goes on here, but it’s not so open, so public.” – Wren highlights the stark contrast between corruption in the Congo and in the United States, emphasizing the open and pervasive nature of this issue in the African nation.
• “I just want them to know that they’re loved, that they’re not forgotten, and that this is a lifelong thing for me.” – Wren expresses his unwavering commitment to the Pygmy people, highlighting his deep-seated passion for their cause.
• “That’s not gonna happen. It’s not gonna happen, and so he’s, like, trying to pull it out of my hand. So what if I give you this?” – Wren recounts a humorous incident where he uses a UFC trading card as a bribe to avoid conflict with a corrupt official, demonstrating the absurdity of the situation.
• “I could have started crying then, you know, watching them. It was pretty intense. But I was so blown away by rumble too. It was like it was like this…it was like this combination of…” – Wren candidly reveals his emotional response to Gustafsson’s loss, highlighting the emotional investment fans have in fighters.