JRE #826 – Justin Wren

This podcast features MMA fighter Justin Wren discussing his humanitarian work with the Pygmy people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and delving into his personal struggles with bullying and depression, highlighting the contrast between these experiences and his current life dedicated to helping others.

Provocative topics include the realities of poverty and disease in the Congo, the dangers of malaria, the prevalence of corruption, the cultural significance of rhino horns, the impact of deforestation, and the shocking prevalence of bullying in America. Underlying themes explore the power of finding purpose and meaning in life, the transformative potential of helping others, and the importance of confronting difficult experiences.

Major Topics

1. Justin Wren’s Humanitarian Work in the Congo

   1. Wren’s dedication to helping the Pygmy people of the Congo through his organization “Fight for the Forgotten.”
   2. Wren’s focus on providing clean water through drilling wells and his organization’s goal to end the global water crisis.
   3. Wren’s emphasis on empowering local communities to become self-sufficient and sustainable.
   4. Wren’s commitment to improving living conditions through initiatives like land rights, housing, and sanitation.

2. The Realities of Life in the Congo

   1. The widespread prevalence of malaria, a dangerous and debilitating disease that Wren has contracted multiple times.
   2. The challenges of accessing healthcare and the limited effectiveness of available medications, especially for those living in remote areas.
   3. The rampant corruption that Wren has experienced, including visa issues and attempts to extort money from foreign visitors.
   4. The devastating impact of poaching, particularly on endangered species like rhinos and okapis, driven by demand for traditional medicine and status symbols.

3. Justin Wren’s Battle with Bullying and Depression

   1. Wren’s experiences with severe bullying from childhood to adolescence, leading to suicidal thoughts and a long-term struggle with depression.
   2. Wren’s realization that his own experiences with bullying paled in comparison to the suffering he witnessed in the Congo, which helped him to find a sense of purpose and meaning.
   3. The role of his parents and their support system in helping him to overcome his suicidal thoughts and the importance of reaching out for help.
   4. Wren’s belief that finding a sense of purpose and helping others were crucial factors in his recovery from depression and addiction.

4. The Impact of Bullying and its Prevalence

   1. The pervasive nature of bullying, particularly among children, and the often-devastating consequences it can have on victims.
   2. The danger of cyberbullying, which allows for constant harassment and has made it harder for victims to escape.
   3. The importance of active bystanders who speak up against bullying, even if it is just by inviting the victim into their group.
   4. Wren’s concern about the potential for bullying to push individuals over the edge, especially in the context of school shootings and acts of violence.

5. The Power of Finding Purpose

   1. Wren’s transformation from a depressed and struggling individual to a passionate humanitarian with a clear sense of purpose.
   2. The importance of having a goal and a clear direction in life, exemplified by the impact of writing down goals and visualizing them, as Wren learned from his wrestling coach.
   3. Wren’s belief that helping others is a transformative experience that brings a greater sense of fulfillment and happiness than material possessions.
   4. Wren’s inspiration from the Pygmy people in the Congo, who despite facing unimaginable challenges, consistently display generosity and compassion.

6. Justin Wren’s MMA Career

   1. Wren’s return to MMA after a 5-year hiatus, balancing his fighting career with his humanitarian work.
   2. Wren’s determination to use his MMA platform to raise awareness for “Fight for the Forgotten” and inspire others.
   3. Wren’s recognition of the pressure and responsibility that comes with fighting for a cause beyond himself.
   4. Wren’s ultimate goal of fighting for the UFC heavyweight championship and using the platform to further his humanitarian work.

7. The Importance of Finding the Right Training Partner

   1. Wren’s dedication to training in multiple disciplines, including wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and MMA, to become a well-rounded fighter.
   2. Wren’s recognition that finding the right training partners who push him and support his goals is crucial for success.
   3. Wren’s willingness to seek out the best trainers and facilities, including the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, to elevate his skills.
   4. Wren’s belief that the right training partners can provide motivation, accountability, and a sense of camaraderie, which are essential for achieving high-level goals.

8. Texas Homecoming Mums

   1. A deep dive into the unique tradition of Homecoming Mums in Texas high schools, with elaborate floral arrangements, decorations, and sometimes even LED lighting.
   2. Wren’s amusing recollection of his own experience with Homecoming Mums in middle school, where his effort to impress a crush backfired when she revealed she had made other plans.
   3. The cultural significance of Homecoming Mums in Texas, showcasing a specific tradition with a dedicated industry.
   4. The humorous and fascinating glimpse into a cultural phenomenon unique to Texas high schools, offering a contrast to the more serious topics discussed in the podcast.

Memorable Quotes

• “And so it just comes back? Yeah. It can. Like, when your body’s really run down when you’re really tired, your immune system’s low. Like training for a fight.” – Wren discusses the cyclical nature of malaria and its impact on his body.
• “I almost went to Tanzania this summer, was gonna go on Safari, and too many people scared the shit out of me with malaria talk.” – Wren highlights the real concern surrounding malaria and its effects on travelers.
• “That is so fucked up that some shitty mean kids can all of a sudden throw this monkey wrench in your life.” – Wren expresses his frustration and anger towards the lasting impact of bullying on his life.
• “It shrinks it. It makes it microscopic whenever you stop just focusing on your own problems. You start looking at others, other problems that maybe you can be a part of helping solve that problem.” – Wren reflects on how helping others put his own struggles into perspective.
• “I want my ceiling to be their floor. I want them to to go farther than I can go because then that means that I actually made a impact that mattered. That mattered to them enough that it continued, that it had a residual effect. It just kept kept on going.” – Wren expresses his desire for his work to have a lasting and positive impact on the Pygmy people.