WILDLAND FIREFIGHTING · Meet Harry Baden, a wildland firefighter based in Montana who followed an unexpected path from Minnesota to Hawaiʻi and into a life of fire service. In this episode of Heartbeat Narratives, he shares the fun, camaraderie, and standout moments that come from working long days on the fire line with friends who quickly become family. Harry talks about how discipline, training, and his athletic background influenced the way he approaches both the physical grind and the mental focus the job demands. He talks about the balance between intense, high stakes work and the joy found in teamwork, laughter, and shared purpose. At its core this episode is about adventure, friendship, and finding meaning through service. Mahalo for listening!
Episode Highlights
01:01 From Minnesota to Hawaiʻi
01:39 College days, diving boards, and big energy
02:24 How Harry traded campus life for the fire line
03:40 Training days, chainsaws, and learning the craft
06:06 Life inside the flames and what it really feels like
10:07 Crew chemistry, trust, and lifelong friendships
12:57 Fueling the body for long days and longer hikes
16:38 Stories from the frontlines
24:14 Thinking about fire life?
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Credits
🎙️ Host & Producer: Molly Mamaril
🎸 Guitar: Amund Gismervik
A Diversity of Experiences: Guests on Heartbeat Narratives share their own perspectives and experiences. Their views do not necessarily reflect those of the host or the podcast. We invite you to listen with an open mind and enjoy the joy and insight offered from many different vantage points.
