Justin Wren, CEO and Founder of Fight for the Forgotten, Keynote Speaker, Author, and Former MMA Heavyweight Fighter (UFC, Bellator), and…my soon to be husband!, joins us for a powerful conversation on how we can all create impact—both big and small. As a former MMA fighter turned humanitarian, Justin has spent over a decade serving the Batwa Pygmy people in Uganda and surrounding areas, building sustainable solutions for clean water, land, healthcare, and education. But impact isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about showing up, listening, and making a difference in ways that truly last.
In this episode, we explore what it means to create meaningful change, why impact starts with personal transformation, and how small actions—like a simple hug—can ripple into something bigger than we ever imagined.
Key Takeaways:
- Impact is a mindset, not just an action. Every moment is an opportunity to make a difference, whether through small daily acts of kindness or large-scale initiatives.
- The difference between giving and empowering. Justin shares why sustainability matters in philanthropy and how Fight for the Forgotten focuses on long-term solutions rather than short-term handouts.
- The paradox of contribution. True impact starts with deep listening and allowing communities to lead their own solutions.
- The link between self-care and impact. How Justin’s journey through recovery taught him that taking care of himself was the key to making a greater impact on others.
- Managing expectations in service work. The importance of patience and letting go of control when it comes to making a difference.
- The unexpected sources of support. Why the people who show up for your mission may not always be the ones you expect—and how to stay open to receiving help in surprising ways.
Mentions and Links:
Fight for the Forgotten: https://www.fightfortheforgotten.org
Join the Fight Club (Monthly Giving): https://www.fightfortheforgotten.org/donate
Follow Justin Wren: https://www.instagram.com/thebigpygmy
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!