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3 Point Firefighter

3 Point Firefighter

Jake Barnes 206 Episodes Jun 8, 2026

A podcast aimed at ambitious firefighters who want to improve their skills and contribute positively to the fire service. Each episode focuses on professional development, mindset, and practical advice for those dedicated to their craft. The show encourages listeners to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact in their departments and communities.

Episodes

S6 E8: FDIC PT3 Chuck Gunter, John Beebee, and Pete Michelak
S6 E8: FDIC PT3 Chuck Gunter, John Beebee, and Pete Michelak Jun 8, 2026 2781 Send us Fan Mail"Welcome back to Three Point Firefighter from Day 2 at FDIC 2026, live at the Fire Facilities booth! Host Jake Barnes sits down with training leaders and friends to talk building a strong training culture from the top down.First up, Chuck Gunner — Decatur Training Supervisor and Highlander Fire’s go-to rope and training guru — shares why a great training facility is only as go
S6 E7: FDIC 2026 Part 2 Chris Wiggins, Scott Wallace, Kevin Milan
S6 E7: FDIC 2026 Part 2 Chris Wiggins, Scott Wallace, Kevin Milan May 11, 2026 3028 Send us Fan MailJoin us on a journey into the world of firefighting with industry leaders Chris Wiggins, Scott Wallace, and Kevin Milan. This podcast delves into the challenges and triumphs of modern fire service, exploring how logistics, leadership, and innovative training shape the future of firefighting.Chris Wiggins, known for his strategic approach to department leadership, shares insights fr
S6 E6: FDIC 2026!! Part 1
S6 E6: FDIC 2026!! Part 1 Apr 28, 2026 1881 Send us Fan MailToday's first two guests are Zach Willard from Fire Facilities and Tony Ambrosia from Scottsdale Fire Department!Most fire departments underestimate the longevity and durability of their training towers—until they realize a Fire Facilities structure can last over 30 years with minimal maintenance. In this episode, Fire Facilities self-professed expert Jake Theman Barnes uncove
S6 E4: Why 'A La Carte' Firefighters Hurt the Fire Service — And What to Do About It
S6 E4: Why 'A La Carte' Firefighters Hurt the Fire Service — And What to Do About It Apr 3, 2026 843 Send us Fan MailThis episode isn’t just a pep talk—it's a blueprint for those who want to stay passionate, competent, and connected. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned veteran, you'll get practical tips on making your career meaningful and how to love this job every day, despite its challenges.If you've ever wondered how to be a better leader, help your brothers and sisters,
S6 E5:Rethinking Fire Service Leadership - Lessons from a Rookie's Journey
S6 E5:Rethinking Fire Service Leadership - Lessons from a Rookie's Journey Apr 3, 2026 865 Send us Fan MailDive into the transformative journey of Jake Barnes as he challenges the traditional, militaristic training methods in the fire service. Discover how respect, mentorship, and open communication can revolutionize leadership and foster a thriving environment for new firefighters. This episode is a candid reflection on building better fire departments through modern approaches and per
S6 E3: Justice Dulinsky P2
S6 E3: Justice Dulinsky P2 Feb 10, 2026 2029 Send us Fan MailIn this engaging episode of "3-Point Firefighter," host Jake Barnes welcomes his good friend Justice Dulinsky to discuss their shared passion for firefighting and training. They dive into the importance of emotional intelligence in the fire service, share humorous anecdotes from their careers, and explore the challenges and rewards of training new recruits. With a mix of
S6 E2: Justice Dulinsky: Elevating Firefighter Training and Leadership PT 1
S6 E2: Justice Dulinsky: Elevating Firefighter Training and Leadership PT 1 Dec 13, 2025 2029 Send us Fan MailThis conversation delves into the passion for training and the importance of building confidence in trainees. The speakers discuss their experiences with training facilities, the significance of confidence courses, and the impact of effective training on motivation and perseverance.Email me at 3pointFirefighter@Gmail.ComCheck out our Facebook Page 3 point Firefighter Podcasthttps:/
S6 E1: Part 3 of my PTSD journey and how I was treated by my brotherrs.
S6 E1: Part 3 of my PTSD journey and how I was treated by my brotherrs. Nov 16, 2025 1751 Send us Fan MailThis is pt3 of my PTSD series. I will update from time to time on my progress. Please reach out if there is anything I can do.https://www.frsn.org/https://institutesofhealth.org/ptsd-in-first-responders/https://www.nextrung.org/Email me at 3pointFirefighter@Gmail.ComCheck out our Facebook Page 3 point Firefighter Podcasthttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560769894306YouTube
S5 E36 : My PTSD Journey Part 2
S5 E36 : My PTSD Journey Part 2 Nov 5, 2025 988 Send us Fan MailI hope this emphasizes the importance of early communication and relationship-building with first responders in crisis management. It discusses the necessity of mental health resources, the role of community support, and strategies for effective crisis response.https://www.frsn.org/https://institutesofhealth.org/ptsd-in-first-responders/https://www.nextrung.org/Email me at 3pointFi
S5 E35: I talk about my PTSD part 1
S5 E35: I talk about my PTSD part 1 Oct 30, 2025 1040 Send us Fan MailI talk about my personal journey with PTSD as a firefighter, discussing the symptoms he experienced, the stigma surrounding mental health in the fire service, and the lack of support he faced. He reflects on the impact of his experiences on his family and his struggles with coping mechanisms, ultimately emphasizing the importance of seeking help and breaking the silence around ment
S5 E34: PT2 with Mark vonAppen
S5 E34: PT2 with Mark vonAppen Oct 22, 2025 1706 Send us Fan MailIn this interview Mark Van Oppen, a seasoned firefighter with 27 years of experience in California's fire service. They discuss the importance of grounded leadership, the challenges of firefighting in wildland urban interfaces, and the evolving nature of communication across generations. Mark shares his insights on the need for chief officers to stay connected with their crews
S5 E33: Part 1 with Mark vonAppen
S5 E33: Part 1 with Mark vonAppen Oct 14, 2025 1865 Send us Fan MailIn this episode of 3-Point Firefighter, hero/host Jake Barnes welcomes Mark Van Oppen, a seasoned firefighter and leadership expert. They discuss the origins of the phrase 'Excellence is my responsibility,' the critical role of company officers in the fire service, and the importance of accountability and trust within teams. Mark shares insights on leadership, the evoluti

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