Burnout, bravery and gratitude: The story behind ‘Code 3’

In this episode of the EMS One-Stop podcast, host Rob Lawrence sits down with Patrick Pianezza, co-writer of the new EMS film “Code 3”, a deeply honest and compelling portrayal of life on the ambulance.

The film stars Rainn Wilson (“The Office”), Lil Rel Howery (“Free Guy”) and Aimee Carrero (“Elena of Avalor”), delivering a powerful performance that captures both the pressures and the humanity of EMS work. Using real-world experiences and stories from the field, “Code 3” highlights the passion, dedication and emotional toll experienced by EMS professionals every day. From burnout, to systemic challenges, the movie invites the public into the high-stakes world of emergency medical services, showing both the challenges and the heart behind the uniform.

Patrick and Rob discuss not only the storytelling process, but also the personal experiences that informed the movie. Pianezza candidly shares the emotional toll of EMS work, the reality of burnout and the importance of mental health support for first responders.

This episode is both a celebration of the dedication of those who serve in 911 and a call for awareness and gratitude for the vital work they perform. “Code 3” opens in selected cinemas on Sept. 12, 2025.

Memorable quotes

• “I remember going to one of my old bosses and saying, ‘I think I'm burning out.’ The reaction I got was this dark chuckle … ‘We're all burnt out. Get back on the truck.’ That kind of festering mentality is not healthy.” — Patrick Pianezza

• “Six out of six people that I have worked with have unfortunately [died by] suicide, and the suicide rates for first responders is double that of the regular population … which is a statistic we need to fix.” — Patrick Pianezza

• “And it is … a good representation of life on the truck, on the street, with a guy who’s clearly burned out; but a person that cares, that has passion, commitment and will always do the right thing.” — Patrick Pianezza

• “There was no way to confront the story without talking about salaries, without talking about reimbursements … No one's gonna see a movie about Medicare, Medicaid, but we are as honest as we can be.” — Patrick Pianezza

• “This movie is nothing more than a gratitude tour for everyone who works in 911 … I’ll be a broken record here: thank you for what it is that you do because it matters. I’ve been in those boots and I’m here to tell you thank you.” — Patrick Pianezza

• “And as I say in my review, those who know me know my ability to take tactical naps during movies. Well, this one got two eyes open and absolutely five stars.” — Rob Lawrence

Episode timeline

00:00 – Introduction: Rob Lawrence introduces Patrick Pianezza and the film “Code 3” starring Rainn Wilson

02:31 – Origins of “Code 3:” How the project started and the vision behind telling an authentic EMS story

05:01 – Creative team & casting: working with actors, crew and Rainn Wilson

08:01 – On-the-Street authenticity: translating real EMS experiences into the film

12:01 – Depicting burnout: emotional and mental challenges in EMS work

16:01 – Mental health & seeking help: Autobiographical elements and confronting burnout

20:01 – Systemic issues: salaries, Medicare, and Medicaid reimbursement challenges

24:01 – Impact on families & relationships: emotional toll beyond the job

27:01 – Personal reflection: Patrick’s journey, struggles and growth in EMS

29:01 – Gratitude tour: purpose of the film and acknowledging EMS professionals

32:01 – Closing thoughts: film release details, upcoming trailer and final messages of appreciation

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