PTSD Survivor & Advocate

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

  • 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

What James Delivers

  • Unfiltered Truth & Hard-Won Wisdom

    No fluff, no clichés—just real stories, raw experiences, and actionable strategies that transform lives.

  • Resilience & Mental Health Strategies That Actually Work

    James teaches practical, battle-tested tools for navigating PTSD, overcoming setbacks, and building an unshakable mindset.

  • 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.

 My Message

Trauma Doesn’t Have to Be a Death Sentence

James has lived it. The trauma, the burnout, the self-destruction, the desperate search for meaning. He’s also made it through to the other side. Now, he’s on a mission to help others do the same.

Through his speaking, coaching, and writing, James is proving that PTSD doesn’t have to be the end—it can be the beginning of something greater.

Book James for your event, leadership training, or coaching session today.

Bring Capt. James Owen to Your Stage – Inspire, Motivate, Transform.

Fill out the form to request James as a speaker and take the first step toward an unforgettable event.