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Dax Shepard hosts Scott Harrison, the founder of Charity Water, a successful charity focused on providing clean drinking water to communities in need. Dax expresses his initial skepticism about charity work, particularly regarding Western involvement in Africa, but is captivated by Scott's story and mission. Scott shares his childhood experiences, including a traumatic incident where his mother suffered from a carbon monoxide leak, leading to her severe environmental illness. This experience shaped his perspective on health and caregiving, thrusting him into a caregiver role at a young age. Scott recounts his rebellious teenage years, moving to New York City to pursue a music career, where he became a nightclub promoter. However, after a decade of partying and substance abuse, he experienced a health scare that prompted a reevaluation of his life. He sought a radical change, volunteering with Mercy Ships, where he witnessed the dire need for clean water in impoverished communities. This realization led him to establish Charity Water, focusing on transparency and accountability in charity work. Scott emphasizes that 100% of donations go directly to projects, with operational costs covered separately by private donors. He highlights the importance of proving the impact of donations through technology and community involvement, ensuring that local people lead the projects. Charity Water has raised over $330 million, providing clean water to millions. Scott shares inspiring stories of individuals and communities transformed by access to clean water, emphasizing the broader implications for health, education, and empowerment, particularly for women and girls. He encourages a shift in the narrative around giving, promoting the idea of generosity as an opportunity rather than an obligation. Dax expresses his support by writing a personal check to Charity Water, reinforcing the positive impact of Scott's mission. The conversation concludes with Scott discussing his book, "Thirst," which details his journey and the stories of those affected by the charity's work, aiming to inspire others to join the cause.

In this episode of The Drive, Peter Attia interviews Scott Harrison, the founder and CEO of charity: water. The conversation begins with Attia expressing his admiration for Harrison's personal journey and the impactful work of charity: water, which focuses on providing clean drinking water to communities in need. Harrison shares his transformative life story, detailing his childhood in a family affected by environmental illness, which shaped his perspective on health and service. Harrison recounts his early life, marked by his mother's severe health issues due to a carbon monoxide leak, which led to her developing multiple chemical sensitivities. This experience forced him into a caregiver role at a young age, impacting his childhood and leading to feelings of resentment during his teenage years. He rebelled against the responsibilities placed on him and eventually pursued a career in the music and nightlife industry in New York City, where he became a successful nightclub promoter. Despite the outward success, Harrison struggled with substance abuse and a sense of emptiness. A turning point came when he experienced physical health issues that prompted him to reevaluate his life. After a particularly wild New Year’s Eve party, he began to seek a more meaningful existence, leading him to volunteer with humanitarian organizations, including Mercy Ships, where he documented life-changing surgeries for patients in need. Harrison's experiences on the ship opened his eyes to the global water crisis, particularly in Liberia, where he witnessed the dire need for clean water. Inspired by the impact of clean water on health, he decided to start charity: water, implementing a unique model where 100% of public donations go directly to water projects, while operational costs are covered by private donors. This model was designed to combat the skepticism surrounding charities and to ensure transparency. Throughout the conversation, Harrison emphasizes the importance of storytelling in fundraising and the need for a compelling brand that inspires hope rather than guilt. He discusses the challenges of building a nonprofit organization and the necessity of working with local partners to ensure sustainable solutions to water access. The episode concludes with Harrison sharing insights from his book, "Thirst," which details his journey and the mission of charity: water. He encourages listeners to consider the power of their contributions and the impact they can have on the lives of others. Attia expresses his admiration for Harrison's work and the inspiration he draws from his story, highlighting the potential for personal transformation and the importance of service to others.

Justin Wren, known as the "Big Pygmy," is making a comeback to MMA, fighting for Bellator on August 28th, primarily to raise awareness for his cause, Fight for the Forgotten, which focuses on helping the pygmy community in the Congo. After a five-year hiatus from fighting, Wren emphasizes that his motivation is to give a voice to his family in the Congo, where 80-85% of the population lives on less than a dollar a day. He shares insights about the extreme poverty and lack of resources in the Congo, highlighting that malaria has historically killed half of all people who have ever died. Wren discusses the innovative methods used in the Congo for medical treatment, such as using army ants for sutures, and the challenges faced in providing clean water. His organization has successfully drilled 25 water wells, empowering locals to manage their own water supply and create jobs. He stresses the importance of teaching locals to be self-sufficient rather than relying on foreign aid, which often undermines their dignity. The conversation touches on the cultural differences between the Congo and the U.S., with Wren reflecting on the stark contrast in lifestyles. He recounts the struggles of the pygmies, who face discrimination and are often treated as less than human. Wren's commitment to the pygmies is evident as he shares stories of their hardships, including the loss of children to waterborne diseases and the oppressive conditions they endure. Wren's approach combines fighting and philanthropy, using his platform to raise awareness and funds for the pygmies. He plans to leverage his upcoming fight to reach a broader audience, hoping to inspire others to contribute to the cause. He emphasizes the need for sustainable solutions, such as agriculture and land ownership, to improve the lives of the pygmies. The discussion also highlights the environmental issues in the Congo, including illegal logging and deforestation, which threaten both the ecosystem and the pygmies' way of life. Wren's dedication to preserving their culture and environment is a central theme, as he aims to empower the pygmies to reclaim their land and resources. Overall, Wren's journey reflects a deep commitment to social justice, environmental sustainability, and the empowerment of marginalized communities, with a focus on creating lasting change through education and self-sufficiency.

Justin Wren, fresh from the jungle, celebrated his recent Bellator fight success, attributing his performance to effective training at a new camp in Oklahoma with Rafael Lovato Jr., a top Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu grappler. Wren highlighted Lovato's unique grappling style, which he found challenging yet beneficial for his own skills. He expressed excitement about Bellator's growing roster, including notable fighters like Rory McDonald and the upcoming Fedor Mitrione fight, despite the challenges of transitioning to pay-per-view events. Wren shared insights into the physical toll of weight cutting, particularly kidney stones, which he compared to childbirth in terms of pain. He discussed his own weight management, noting that he feels optimal around 240-245 pounds for performance. His training regimen has shifted to a more consistent, healthy lifestyle, focusing on nutrition tailored to his Celiac disease, with guidance from a strength coach. Reflecting on his time in the Congo, Wren recounted his experiences working with the pygmy community, emphasizing the importance of clean water access and the impact of his organization, Water4. He detailed the progress made in drilling wells and empowering locals to manage their water resources sustainably. Wren's commitment to the pygmies is deeply personal, as he has formed bonds with families affected by the water crisis. He shared stories of loss within the community, illustrating the dire consequences of contaminated water and the urgent need for clean sources. Wren's advocacy is fueled by the memory of children he knew who suffered from preventable diseases, reinforcing his mission to provide clean water and improve living conditions. Wren also discussed the cultural differences he observed between his life in America and the pygmies' communal lifestyle, where support systems are strong and shared experiences are valued. He noted the importance of education for the pygmies, as it could lead to greater representation and rights within the Congolese government. The conversation touched on the broader implications of charity versus empowerment, with Wren advocating for sustainable solutions that enable communities to thrive independently. He expressed hope for the future, envisioning a world where clean water is accessible to all, driven by local initiatives and self-sufficiency. As he prepares for future fights, Wren remains focused on his dual mission of competing in MMA and advocating for the pygmy community, believing that success in the cage can amplify his message and support for those in need. He concluded by inviting support for his ongoing projects, emphasizing the transformative power of clean water and community empowerment.

Scott Harrison, founder of Charity Water, shares his transformative journey from a hedonistic nightclub promoter in New York to a humanitarian dedicated to providing clean water globally. After a decade of partying and materialism, he experienced a pivotal moment in South America, realizing he wanted to make a positive impact. He volunteered in Liberia, witnessing extreme poverty and the dire need for clean water, which inspired him to start Charity Water. Harrison established a unique model promising that 100% of donations would fund clean water projects, while operational costs would be covered separately. This transparency attracted donors, especially in the tech community. He also discussed the Bitcoin Water Trust, encouraging donations in Bitcoin, which could appreciate over time, potentially helping millions more people. Harrison aims to raise significant funds to tackle the global water crisis, emphasizing the importance of creativity and boldness in philanthropy. He believes Bitcoin can be a powerful tool for change, enabling substantial contributions to humanitarian efforts.

Scott Harrison shares his transformative journey from a nightclub promoter to the founder of Charity: Water. Initially dejected by rejection from humanitarian organizations, he paid to volunteer in Liberia, a country recovering from civil war. His experiences there, including witnessing the dire need for clean water, ignited his passion for humanitarian work. After a wake-up call regarding his health, he sought to radically change his life, pivoting from a hedonistic lifestyle to one focused on service. Harrison established Charity: Water with a unique model: 100% of donations go directly to water projects, funded separately through overhead donations. This transparency addresses public skepticism about charities. Over 17 years, Charity: Water has raised $750 million, providing clean water to 16.8 million people. Harrison emphasizes the importance of storytelling and branding in charity work, aiming to inspire rather than induce guilt. He also discusses innovative fundraising strategies, such as leveraging social media for birthday donations and creating a subscription community called The Spring. Harrison believes in the joy of giving and encourages others to embrace generosity. His mission continues to grow, aiming to provide clean water to every person in need globally.

Justin Wren discusses his journey back to fighting after a five-year hiatus, during which he focused on humanitarian work in the Congo, particularly drilling wells for pygmy communities. He shares the challenges of balancing his fight training with his commitments in Congo, including dealing with malaria multiple times and navigating corruption related to his visa. Wren emphasizes the importance of community development and sustainable solutions, highlighting the need for clean water and proper sanitation in the regions he serves. He recounts personal experiences with bullying during his childhood, which led to long-term struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Wren reflects on how these experiences shaped his desire to help others, particularly the pygmies, who face their own hardships. He expresses a deep connection with the people he works with, noting their generosity despite their poverty. Wren also shares insights into the impact of his work, stating that the pygmies are now empowered to take charge of their own development. He mentions the establishment of 45 water wells and the ongoing efforts to educate the community on sustainable practices. His ultimate goal is to end the water crisis and improve living conditions for the pygmies. He discusses the emotional weight of fighting, especially with the added pressure of representing the pygmies and the fight against oppression. Wren acknowledges the need for focused training to succeed in MMA, particularly as he prepares for future fights in Bellator. He expresses gratitude for the support he receives from his team and the community, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving their goals. Wren concludes by encouraging others to get involved with his mission through donations, highlighting that even small contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need. He reflects on the transformative power of love and community, stating that living for others has brought him fulfillment and purpose.

In this conversation, Rich Roll interviews Scott Harrison, founder of Charity: Water, discussing the organization's mission to provide clean drinking water globally. Harrison shares insights into the impact of clean water on communities, particularly emphasizing how it saves time for women and girls who traditionally collect water, allowing them to pursue education and work. He highlights a UN report indicating that every dollar invested in clean water yields a return of four to eight dollars in economic benefits. Harrison recounts his personal journey from a hedonistic lifestyle as a nightclub promoter to a life dedicated to humanitarian work. He describes pivotal moments and mentors who inspired him to change, including his experiences in Liberia. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in engaging donors and raising awareness, stating that compelling narratives can motivate people to contribute to meaningful causes. The conversation touches on the challenges of fundraising and the need for sustainable funding models. Harrison introduces the concept of "The Spring," a monthly giving program aimed at providing consistent support for clean water projects. He reflects on the emotional and transformative power of giving, sharing stories of individuals, including a six-year-old girl named Nora, who raised funds for clean water through her allowance. Harrison expresses optimism about the future of Charity: Water, noting that they have helped over eight million people gain access to clean water, but he believes there is still much work to be done. He stresses the importance of community involvement and the joy that comes from giving, encouraging listeners to participate in the mission of providing clean water to those in need. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to support Charity: Water, particularly through Harrison's birthday campaign, emphasizing the collective impact individuals can have in addressing global water issues.

Scott Harrison shares his transformative journey from a nightlife promoter to the founder of Charity Water. Initially, he lived a hedonistic lifestyle filled with drugs and excess, leading to feelings of emptiness and moral bankruptcy. A pivotal moment occurred when he realized the dire global water crisis, with 10% of the world drinking dirty water. This inspired him to create a charity model promising that 100% of donations would directly fund clean water projects, addressing public skepticism about charities. Harrison recounts a traumatic childhood incident involving a carbon monoxide leak that severely affected his mother’s health, shaping his caregiving role and instilling a sense of responsibility. His experiences with Mercy Ships in Africa revealed the profound impact of clean water on health, leading him to commit to providing it globally. Despite initial struggles to fund his organization, a chance meeting with entrepreneur Michael Birch resulted in a significant donation, allowing Charity Water to thrive. Today, Charity Water has helped over 15 million people gain access to clean water, with a transparent model that resonates with donors. Harrison emphasizes the importance of service and generosity, advocating for a culture of giving without expecting anything in return. He invites others to join the mission, highlighting the joy of contributing to a cause that transforms lives.

Justin Wren discusses his experiences in the Congo, focusing on his humanitarian efforts to help the pygmy people. He shares his struggles with health issues, including malaria and parasites, which he contracted during his time in the jungle. Wren recounts a harrowing experience of being misdiagnosed multiple times before finally receiving treatment for malaria, revealing that up to 70% of his bloodstream was infected with parasites at one point. Wren emphasizes the harsh living conditions in the Congo, where diseases like malaria are rampant due to poor sanitation and lack of medical resources. He describes the brutal realities faced by the pygmies, including mob justice and accusations of witchcraft leading to violence against vulnerable individuals. He highlights the importance of providing clean water, stating that access to clean water can reduce illness by 85%. He shares his commitment to sustainable development, explaining how he collaborates with organizations like Water4 to empower local communities by teaching them to build water wells and manage resources. Wren expresses a desire to create opportunities rather than just providing charity, believing that empowerment is key to long-term change. Wren also discusses the cultural differences he encounters, including the pygmies' traditional practices and their initial fear of him as a white outsider. He shares anecdotes about their hunting techniques and the joy of introducing them to modern technology, such as cameras, which allows them to see themselves for the first time. Throughout the conversation, Wren reflects on his journey from being a UFC fighter to becoming a humanitarian advocate. He expresses a desire to return to fighting, using the platform to raise awareness and funds for his cause. He believes that by fighting again, he can bring attention to the struggles of the pygmies and continue to support their needs. Wren encourages listeners to donate to his nonprofit, Fight for the Forgotten, and emphasizes the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities. He concludes by reaffirming his commitment to the pygmies and the belief that everyone deserves a voice and the opportunity to thrive.