Speaker • Author • PTSD Advocate
“Helping First Responders, Leaders, and High-Performers Overcome Trauma and Lead with Strength.”
James Owen – Speaker | Author | Consultant | PTSD Advocate | Life Coach
James Owen is a man forged in fire—literally and figuratively. A retired fire captain, PTSD survivor, and nationally recognized leader in resilience, mental health, and high-performance leadership, James has dedicated his life to helping others navigate trauma, reclaim their power, and lead with authenticity.
With over 30 years of experience in crisis leadership, emergency response, and mental health advocacy, James brings battle-tested wisdom, raw storytelling, and real-world strategies to help first responders, veterans, executives, and high-performance professionals overcome adversity, break free from self-sabotage, and lead with purpose.
Why James? A Track Record of Leadership & Impact
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30-Year Fire Service Veteran & Retired Fire Captain
Led elite emergency response teams through high-stakes, life-or-death operations, including commanding $35 million fireboats that protected international shipping at the Port of Long Beach.
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Meritorious Bravery Award Recipient
Recognized for extraordinary heroism in the line of duty, proving that grit, leadership, and composure under pressure aren’t just theories—they’re lived experience.
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Commendation from the Los Angeles District Attorney
Honored for his transformational work with the Rescue Youth Program, mentoring at-risk teens and shaping the next generation of leaders.
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Fire Service Leadership & PTSD Advocacy
Worked directly with CalChiefs and fire departments across California to develop mental health, resilience, and leadership strategies for first responders.
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Corporate Leadership & Facilities Management Expert
Successfully managed multimillion-dollar budgets at Hoag Presbyterian Hospital, where his leadership and strategic innovation saved over $500,000 in operational costs
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Co-Founder of Camp Pivot
A first responder wellness initiative that provides resources, training, and support for those navigating PTSD, trauma recovery, and resilience building
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Author of The Last Patient
A gritty, deeply personal memoir about PTSD, trauma recovery, and the journey from survival to purpose. This book is a wake-up call, a guide, and a lifeline for anyone battling their own unseen demons.
James’ Work & Mission
🔥 Speaker & Motivator – James delivers high-impact keynote speeches and workshops on resilience, mental health, and leadership for first responders, corporate teams, and high-achievers. His approach is raw, unfiltered, and deeply transformative.
🔥 Consultant & Leadership Coach – Works with fire departments, corporations, and leadership teams to build cultures of resilience, mental wellness, and high-performance leadership. His expertise combines real-world crisis leadership with modern neuroscience and practical tools.
🔥 Life Coach & PTSD Advocate – Coaches men, first responders, and high-performance professionals on how to own their trauma, break free from limiting beliefs, and rebuild a life filled with meaning, strength, and impact.
What James Delivers.
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Unfiltered Truth & Hard-Won Wisdom
No fluff, no clichés—just real stories, raw experiences, and actionable strategies that transform lives.
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Resilience & Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work
James teaches practical, battle-tested tools for navigating PTSD, overcoming setbacks, and building an unshakable mindset.
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High-Impact Leadership & Performance Coaching
Whether you’re a firefighter, CEO, veteran, or entrepreneur, James will help you master leadership under pressure, own your story, and create a life of purpose and power.
Bring Capt. James Owen to Your Stage – Inspire, Motivate, Transform
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!