In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we sit down with Deputy Chief Daniel DeYear, a 45-year veteran of the fire service, including notable positions such as U.S. Department of State Fire Marshal and Deputy Chief of Dallas Fire Rescue. In a candid conversation, Chief DeYear shares stories from his extensive career, including his early days in the fire service, the evolution of EMS and fire tactics, and the importance of training and accountability in today's fire departments.

00:00 - Introduction to Chief Daniel DeYear

• Introduction of Chief DeYear and his illustrious 45-year career in the fire service.
• Overview of his roles in Dallas Fire Rescue and as an international fire marshal with the U.S. Department of State.

02:00 - Early Days in the Fire Service

• Chief DeYear reflects on his upbringing in the Bronx during the 1960s and 70s, and how he was drawn to the fire service from a young age.
• Becoming a junior volunteer firefighter at the age of 14.
• The early influence of the Emergency! TV show and Dennis Smith's Report from Engine Company 82.

05:30 - Firefighting in the 70s and 80s: Primitive Tools and Communication

• Description of early fire gear, including 15-minute SCBAs, and the lack of radios for firefighters.
• A look at the culture of firehouse accountability before formalized systems were introduced.
• Chief DeYear's early experiences with dangerous fires, such as the incident where he helped rescue a firefighter trapped under a collapsed beam at the age of 15.

09:40 - Realizing the Fire Service Was the Career Path

• Chief DeYear talks about his decision to pursue firefighting as a lifelong career and how his family supported his path despite their initial reservations.
• The competitive job market in the fire service at the time and his journey to becoming a firefighter in Texas.

14:00 - Transition to the Dallas Fire Department and Working as a Fire Marshal

• Chief DeYear’s move to Texas and his time at the Carrollton Fire Department.
• His work as a Fire Marshal, public educator, and later, a training officer.
• His time as an international fire marshal and what that role entailed while traveling to over 35 countries.

22:00 - The Evolution of EMS and Paramedicine

• Early days of EMS in the U.S. and Chief DeYear’s experience as a paramedic in the early 80s.

28:00 - Fire Tactics and Safety: A Changing Landscape

• Discussing the evolution of fire tactics, including changes in firefighting gear, communication, and building construction.
• The shift from traditional fire tactics to more advanced practices, including better understanding of fire science and building construction.

34:00 - The Role of Company Officers and Leadership

• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on what makes a good company officer in the fire service.

• The importance of mentorship, investing in the crew, and avoiding complacency.

43:00 - Line of Duty Deaths and Safety Culture

• Chief DeYear reflects on his experiences with line of duty deaths and the fire investigations that shaped his perspective on safety.
• The importance of assessing risk versus reward and the need for smart decision-making on the fireground.

50:00 - Training and Improving the Fire Service

• The value of continuous training, even after years of service, and the importance of self-assessment.
• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on how to cultivate a training culture that embraces learning, even among experienced firefighters.

1:00:00 - Handling Critiques and Learning from Mistakes

• Chief DeYear discusses how to properly handle post-incident critiques without turning them into punitive sessions.
• The importance of balancing positive reinforcement with constructive feedback in fire department training.

1:05:00 - Chief DeYear’s Advice for Young Firefighters

• The role of company officers in shaping the career trajectories of young firefighters.
• How to guide rookie firefighters and ensure they remain engaged and passionate about their work.

In the Season 2 premiere of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with John Esposito, Chief of Department for the FDNY, for an intimate and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, legacy, and the realities of life in one of the world’s busiest fire departments. From 9/11 reflections and the evolution of FDNY to the traits of impactful leaders and memorable fireground moments, Chief Esposito shares hard-earned wisdom and never-before-heard stories that offer rare insight into the heart of New York’s Bravest.

0:00 – 2:45 | Intro & 9/11 Reflections

Jake introduces Chief Esposito and shares a personal 9/11 memory.

Chief discusses how 9/11 reshaped the FDNY and the lasting impact on the department’s culture and capabilities.

2:46 – 6:00 | The FDNY’s National Influence

How FDNY’s decisions ripple across the American Fire Service.

Lessons learned through innovation and trial by fire.

6:01 – 12:00 | Staying Connected to the Streets

Chief Esposito explains how he maintains real-time awareness of field operations.

Insights on technology, communication systems, and his use of Citizen App.

12:01 – 14:26 | Origins & Career Beginnings

Why Esposito joined the FDNY in 1991.

Reflections on becoming a firefighter and the influence of Report from Engine Co. 82.

14:27 – 18:00 | First Fire & Early Lessons

Vivid recollection of his first fire.

Thoughts on preparation, performance, and the emotional charge of that first job.

18:01 – 21:15 | Transition to Special Operations

Moving to Squad 18 and working with elite fire personnel.

The rigorous process and mindset behind making the switch.

21:16 – 25:35 | Training Culture & Tough Calls

The philosophy of consistent, adaptive training.

Real-world example: A Bronx rescue where plan B wasn’t good enough—they needed plan E.

25:36 – 30:04 | Memories of Andy Fredericks

Personal stories and heartfelt tribute to a fire service legend.

A hilarious and humbling hydrant mishap involving Fredericks.

30:05 – 33:25 | Climbing the Ranks

Post-9/11 promotions and unexpected career trajectory.

How staying ready allowed him to rise in leadership.

33:26 – 36:32 | Leadership & Morale

The most important traits in fire service leadership.

Balancing empathy, accountability, and understanding your people.

36:33 – 38:08 | Caring for Morale

Where morale comes from and how leaders must foster it.

Real-life examples of FDNY’s finest doing heroic work.

38:09 – 40:00 | Pride & Purpose

What Chief Esposito is most proud of in his career.

Doing the right thing in gray-area decisions.

40:01 – 41:21 | The Stupid Question Returns

OG question: Who would win in a fight—grizzly, tiger, or gorilla?

Fun and lighthearted close with reflections on strength and instinct.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we sit down with Deputy Chief Daniel DeYear, a 45-year veteran of the fire service, including notable positions such as U.S. Department of State Fire Marshal and Deputy Chief of Dallas Fire Rescue. In a candid conversation, Chief DeYear shares stories from his extensive career, including his early days in the fire service, the evolution of EMS and fire tactics, and the importance of training and accountability in today's fire departments.

00:00 - Introduction to Chief Daniel DeYear

• Introduction of Chief DeYear and his illustrious 45-year career in the fire service.
• Overview of his roles in Dallas Fire Rescue and as an international fire marshal with the U.S. Department of State.

02:00 - Early Days in the Fire Service

• Chief DeYear reflects on his upbringing in the Bronx during the 1960s and 70s, and how he was drawn to the fire service from a young age.
• Becoming a junior volunteer firefighter at the age of 14.
• The early influence of the Emergency! TV show and Dennis Smith's Report from Engine Company 82.

05:30 - Firefighting in the 70s and 80s: Primitive Tools and Communication

• Description of early fire gear, including 15-minute SCBAs, and the lack of radios for firefighters.
• A look at the culture of firehouse accountability before formalized systems were introduced.
• Chief DeYear's early experiences with dangerous fires, such as the incident where he helped rescue a firefighter trapped under a collapsed beam at the age of 15.

09:40 - Realizing the Fire Service Was the Career Path

• Chief DeYear talks about his decision to pursue firefighting as a lifelong career and how his family supported his path despite their initial reservations.
• The competitive job market in the fire service at the time and his journey to becoming a firefighter in Texas.

14:00 - Transition to the Dallas Fire Department and Working as a Fire Marshal

• Chief DeYear’s move to Texas and his time at the Carrollton Fire Department.
• His work as a Fire Marshal, public educator, and later, a training officer.
• His time as an international fire marshal and what that role entailed while traveling to over 35 countries.

22:00 - The Evolution of EMS and Paramedicine

• Early days of EMS in the U.S. and Chief DeYear’s experience as a paramedic in the early 80s.
• How paramedic training was much less extensive back then compared to today, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on fire service safety protocols.

28:00 - Fire Tactics and Safety: A Changing Landscape

• Discussing the evolution of fire tactics, including changes in firefighting gear, communication, and building construction.
• The shift from traditional fire tactics to more advanced practices, including better understanding of fire science and building construction.

34:00 - The Role of Company Officers and Leadership

• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on what makes a good company officer in the fire service.
• A look at how company officers should serve their crew and foster a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
• The importance of mentorship, investing in the crew, and avoiding complacency.

43:00 - Line of Duty Deaths and Safety Culture

• Chief DeYear reflects on his experiences with line of duty deaths and the fire investigations that shaped his perspective on safety.
• The importance of assessing risk versus reward and the need for smart decision-making on the fireground.

50:00 - Training and Improving the Fire Service

• The value of continuous training, even after years of service, and the importance of self-assessment.
• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on how to cultivate a training culture that embraces learning, even among experienced firefighters.
• How company officers can prevent complacency and foster a positive training environment.

1:00:00 - Handling Critiques and Learning from Mistakes

• Chief DeYear discusses how to properly handle post-incident critiques without turning them into punitive sessions.
• The importance of balancing positive reinforcement with constructive feedback in fire department training.

1:05:00 - Chief DeYear’s Advice for Young Firefighters

• The role of company officers in shaping the career trajectories of young firefighters.
• How to guide rookie firefighters and ensure they remain engaged and passionate about their work.

• "The fire service is about service to the community—everything else is secondary."
• "A company officer’s job is to serve their crew, to ensure they have the training, the tools, and the support they need to succeed."

In the Season 2 premiere of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with John Esposito, Chief of Department for the FDNY, for an intimate and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, legacy, and the realities of life in one of the world’s busiest fire departments. From 9/11 reflections and the evolution of FDNY to the traits of impactful leaders and memorable fireground moments, Chief Esposito shares hard-earned wisdom and never-before-heard stories that offer rare insight into the heart of New York’s Bravest.

0:00 – 2:45 | Intro & 9/11 Reflections

Jake introduces Chief Esposito and shares a personal 9/11 memory.

Chief discusses how 9/11 reshaped the FDNY and the lasting impact on the department’s culture and capabilities.

2:46 – 6:00 | The FDNY’s National Influence

How FDNY’s decisions ripple across the American Fire Service.

Lessons learned through innovation and trial by fire.

6:01 – 12:00 | Staying Connected to the Streets

Chief Esposito explains how he maintains real-time awareness of field operations.

Insights on technology, communication systems, and his use of Citizen App.

12:01 – 14:26 | Origins & Career Beginnings

Why Esposito joined the FDNY in 1991.

Reflections on becoming a firefighter and the influence of Report from Engine Co. 82.

14:27 – 18:00 | First Fire & Early Lessons

Vivid recollection of his first fire.

Thoughts on preparation, performance, and the emotional charge of that first job.

18:01 – 21:15 | Transition to Special Operations

Moving to Squad 18 and working with elite fire personnel.

The rigorous process and mindset behind making the switch.

21:16 – 25:35 | Training Culture & Tough Calls

The philosophy of consistent, adaptive training.

Real-world example: A Bronx rescue where plan B wasn’t good enough—they needed plan E.

25:36 – 30:04 | Memories of Andy Fredericks

Personal stories and heartfelt tribute to a fire service legend.

A hilarious and humbling hydrant mishap involving Fredericks.

30:05 – 33:25 | Climbing the Ranks

Post-9/11 promotions and unexpected career trajectory.

How staying ready allowed him to rise in leadership.

33:26 – 36:32 | Leadership & Morale

The most important traits in fire service leadership.

Balancing empathy, accountability, and understanding your people.

36:33 – 38:08 | Caring for Morale

Where morale comes from and how leaders must foster it.

Real-life examples of FDNY’s finest doing heroic work.

38:09 – 40:00 | Pride & Purpose

What Chief Esposito is most proud of in his career.

Doing the right thing in gray-area decisions.

40:01 – 41:21 | The Stupid Question Returns

OG question: Who would win in a fight—grizzly, tiger, or gorilla?

Fun and lighthearted close with reflections on strength and instinct.

In this compelling episode, Jake is joined by Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher, a veteran U.S. Air Force pilot with nearly 20 years of service. Gallagher's story is one of deep personal loss, resilience, and unwavering dedication to preserving life—both on and off the battlefield. From harrowing combat rescue missions in Afghanistan and Iraq to evaluating cutting-edge aircraft as an experimental test pilot, Quinn shares a raw and insightful look into military aviation, emotional endurance, and the pursuit of purpose through service.

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome

Jake introduces the episode and welcomes Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher to the show.

06:51 – Wheel of Stupid Questions: Can You Beat a Cheetah?

Kicking things off with a humorous debate about whether Quinn could beat a cheetah in a fight.

13:42 – Quinn's Childhood and Motivation for Service

Quinn recounts early childhood experiences that sparked his desire to serve others.

20:34 – Tragedy and Early Exposure to Loss

He shares tragic events that shaped his understanding of life and death from a young age.

27:25 – Firefighting vs. Military – Career Crossroads

Exploring the decision between firefighting and joining the military.

34:17 – Path to the Air Force Academy

How Quinn got into the Air Force Academy, including a unique presidential nomination.

41:08 – Air Force Training and Vision Waivers

Discussion of the challenges and special accommodations needed to become a pilot.

48:00 – Flight Training and Choosing Helicopters

An inside look at military flight school and why Quinn opted to fly helicopters.

54:51 – First Combat Deployment: Afghanistan

Stories from Quinn’s first deployment in Afghanistan and his early combat missions.

61:43 – Crew Composition and Helicopter Operations

Details about helicopter crew roles, mission dynamics, and technical aspects of flying.

68:34 – SERE School and Mental Preparation

Insights into SEER training and how it prepares pilots for survival and resistance.

75:25 – Second and Third Deployments: Iraq and Africa

Operations in Iraq and Africa, comparing the intensity and mission scope.

82:17 – Test Pilot Work and Evaluating Aircraft

Gallagher's role as a test pilot and what it’s like evaluating advanced military aircraft.

89:08 – Reflections on Service and Returning Home

Quinn reflects on combat, mental health, burnout, and transitioning to civilian life.

The Hazard Class Podcast takes a step back to reflect on one year of podcasting. Celebrating the show's first anniversary, he shares behind-the-scenes insights, the journey so far, mental health milestones, and exciting future directions. This episode offers a rare, personal look into the making of the podcast, the powerful impact of its guests, and what’s ahead—including a few intriguing curveballs like Bigfoot and ghost hunters.

• [00:00] Welcome & Introduction
• Reflecting on the anniversary and how it all began.
• [01:30] Gratitude to Listeners & Guests
• Expressing deep appreciation for the audience and highlighting iconic guests like John Norman, Dennis Lagear, Ray McCormick, and Coralie Moore.
• [04:50] Podcast Milestones & Guest Highlights
• A recap of some standout moments and interviews from the past year.
• [07:10] Mental Health Journey
• Personal update on visiting the IAFF Center of Excellence and how it’s impacted his life and the podcast.
• [09:25] Current Challenges & Behind-the-Scenes
• Discussing the grind of weekly production and the realities of running a podcast solo.
• [11:10] Upcoming Fire Fusion Conference & Medal of Valor
• Sharing the honor of receiving a national award and traveling to Charleston, SC.
• [14:00] Mason’s Deployment & Team Acknowledgment
• Recognizing his colleague Mason, currently deployed, and emphasizing the team effort behind the recognition.
• [16:30] Life Updates & Lighter Moments
• Talking about kayaking with dolphins, crocodile paranoia, and keeping the tone light and fun.
• [18:30] What’s Next for the Podcast
• Plans to diversify guest topics including Bigfoot, aliens, and ghost hunters. A sneak peek into a curious and expanded vision for future episodes.
• [21:00] Closing Remarks & Thank You
• A sincere thank-you to listeners and encouragement to continue supporting the show.

• “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd talk to these people.” – A moment of humility reflecting on conversations with industry legends.
• Honest insight into the emotional and logistical challenges of independent podcasting.
• Teaser for future content: From hazmat to the paranormal—because it’s his podcast, and he’ll do what he wants.

As the Hazard Class Podcast wraps its first year, this episode offers gratitude, reflection, and a preview of what’s next. From tactical insights to unexplored curiosities, the host promises to keep conversations meaningful and the content evolving.

Enjoyed the episode?

• Subscribe on your favorite podcast app
• Share it with friends and colleagues
• Follow us on Social Media
• Leave a review – it helps more than you know

In this episode, we welcome Chief Corley Moore, retired battalion chief, author, podcaster, and the mind behind Firehouse Vigilance. Known for his thought leadership in fire service culture, leadership development, and his popular “Weekly Scrap” podcast, Corley shares his personal journey from a young father working dead-end jobs to becoming a leader and voice in the fire service.

This episode is packed with relatable stories, valuable leadership principles, reflections on organizational culture, and a deep dive into the importance of training, humility, and continual growth within the fire service.

0:00 – 1:04 | Introduction & Guest Welcome

Introduction to Chief Corley Moore, his background, and work with Firehouse Vigilance.

1:05 – 3:37 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

Corley reveals his nerdy side, including his love for sci-fi, D&D, and 80s fantasy trivia.

3:38 – 10:48 | Corley’s Firefighting Origin Story

From marrying young and raising three kids by 23 to joining the fire service by chance, Corley shares how he found his calling.

10:49 – 18:28 | Early Career & Moore FD Culture

What the Moore FD was like in the late ‘90s, from frat-house vibes to a lack of training, and the slow shift toward professionalism.

18:29 – 25:49 | The Culture Shift & Value of Training

Corley recounts the challenges and triumphs in shifting from complacency to a culture of excellence—and how training became the cornerstone.

25:50 – 33:03 | Leadership Journey & Writing Process

Corley discusses his passion for leadership, the origins of his “Nine L’s,” and how laying tile taught him to write books.

33:04 – 37:11 | First Fire & Lessons Learned

Corley recalls his first real fire, the adrenaline, the mistakes, and the lessons about preparedness and training.

37:12 – 44:00 | Promotions, Growth, and Self-Assessment

Reflections on career transitions—from firefighter to driver, to company officer, and eventually to BC—plus what skills matter at each step.

44:01 – 59:28 | Leadership Standards & Culture Creation

Deep dive into setting expectations, accountability, and servant leadership—plus the challenge of promoting healthy firehouse culture.

59:29 – End | Staying Engaged, Building Impact, and Final Reflections

How high-performing leaders stay motivated, the role of conferences, and why expectations at the top determine performance at the bottom.

Corley Moore’s Work:

• Firehouse Vigilance Website
• The Nine L’s of Leadership – Book
• Weekly Scrap Podcast: Interviews with fire service leaders
• 
  

Chief Corley Moore is a retired battalion chief from the Moore Fire Department in Oklahoma, with over 28 years of service. He is the founder of Firehouse Vigilance, host of the Weekly Scrap podcast, and author of The Nine L’s of Leadership. His mission is to fight complacency and raise the standard of fire service culture through training, accountability, and meaningful leadership.

In this powerful and emotionally charged episode, the host sits down with Josh Shores, a Marine Infantry Combat Veteran, Purple Heart recipient, retired firefighter, and author of the raw and gripping memoir "Counting on Death." Together, they explore Josh's harrowing experiences during the Iraq War, his emotional return to civilian life, his time in the fire service, and his long journey through trauma, identity, and healing.

Whether you're a veteran, a first responder, or someone seeking to better understand the impact of trauma and the path to recovery, this episode offers profound insights and a deeply human story of perseverance.

0:00 – 1:31 | Introduction & Guest Welcome

Introduction to the podcast and guest Josh Shores, highlighting his military service and new book Counting on Death.

1:32 – 5:49 | Writing Through Trauma

Josh discusses how the book started as cognitive therapy and eventually became a published work despite pushback for its raw content.

5:50 – 8:50 | Writing for Self vs. Audience

The discussion explores how writing for himself allowed Josh to dig deeper emotionally and share more honestly.

8:51 – 12:51 | Counting on Death & Mental Weight of War

Josh expands on a haunting line from the book and explains how unclear missions and moral ambiguity left deeper scars than combat itself.

12:52 – 15:08 | Who Should Read This Book?

Josh articulates the book’s purpose: as a tool for veterans and first responders to help others understand what they can’t say aloud.

15:09 – 19:51 | Humor, Irony, and the Bonds of War

A humorous anecdote about a malfunctioning rifle leads into a broader reflection on the camaraderie and absurdity found in war.

19:52 – 23:08 | From Warfighter to Firefighter

Josh shares his transition to the fire service, drawing parallels between combat and firefighting, and the eventual emotional and physical toll.

23:09 – 26:39 | Injury, Advocacy & Departure from the Fire Service

A serious injury and lack of institutional support led Josh to leave the fire service. He reflects on loss of identity and resilience.

26:40 – 29:33 | Judgment & Misconceptions

The hosts reflect on how people misunderstand mental health struggles and the fire service’s rumor mill.

29:34 – 36:06 | Mental Health in High-Stress Careers

A candid conversation on therapy, the compounding stress of first responder life, and the generational shift toward addressing mental health.

36:07 – 44:40 | Parenting, Perspective, and the Fragility of Life

Josh reflects on fatherhood, the importance of patience with children, and how his exposure to death reshapes his everyday decisions as a parent.

44:41 – End | Final Reflections & Where to Find the Book

Josh shares the core hope behind his book: helping others understand the mental toll of trauma and how to open conversations around it.

Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman’s Journey from the Frontlines of Combat to the Fight for Peace

• Available on:
• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble
• Audible
• Casemate Publishers
• Podcast Mentioned:
• Nomadic Research Podcast with Dagan Van Oosten – an in-depth discussion on the book and Josh’s experiences.

Josh Shores is a Marine Corps infantry veteran with combat deployments to Ramadi, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After military service, he became a firefighter, only to later leave due to a debilitating injury and the emotional toll of accumulated trauma. His memoir Counting on Death is a candid, unfiltered look at war, loss, healing, and resilience.

Josh’s story is a raw testament to the unseen battles faced by veterans and first responders. His courage to share openly creates a space for others to find language for their own pain and paths to healing.

Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode, and continue the conversation around mental health, trauma, and recovery.

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake talks with Eric Guida, a retired Fire Captain from Sacramento Fire Department and now Sales Director at HEN Nozzles. With more than 30 years of experience, Eric opens up about his early inspirations, firefighting culture, leadership lessons, and why the future of fireground safety lies in innovation. It’s a candid conversation bridging tradition and technology, with advice that resonates far beyond the firehouse.

• (0:00–1:13) – Welcome & Guest Intro
• Host introduces Eric Guida and gives context to his 30-year career and current role with HEN Nozzles.
• (1:15–3:20) – Wheel of Stupid Questions: Talking Dogs
• Eric shares a lighthearted moment about the one animal he’d want to talk to if he could—his family dog.
• (3:20–12:44) – From Vet School Dreams to Fire Service Reality
• Eric recounts his unexpected journey into firefighting, including a pivotal moment with a bottle of ouzo and a phone book.
• (12:45–17:47) – Adjusting to Big City Firefighting
• From Fair Oaks to Sacramento, Eric discusses the cultural shift, increased call volume, and lessons from his early mentors.
• (17:48–20:36) – When Firefighters Should Start Speaking Up
• Exploring leadership from the backseat and the reality of who gets heard—and why.
• (20:37–27:03) – Promotion, Influence & the Value of Ideas
• Eric reflects on his motivation to promote and the challenges of filtering good ideas in a data-driven world.
• (27:04–30:39) – Engine Company Ops: What's Being Missed?
• Advice on fundamentals: line deployment, water application, and the importance of not rushing at the cost of effectiveness.
• (30:40–36:18) – Captain Lessons: If I Knew Then What I Know Now
• Eric shares what he would tell his newly promoted self about finding rhythm, style, and staying adaptable.
• (36:20–39:20) – Combating Pride in the Fire Service
• The importance of humility and asking questions, and why firehouse culture must be safe for learning.
• (39:22–42:15) – Saying Goodbye: The Reality of Retirement
• An emotional look at transitioning out of the fire service and what Eric misses the most about the job.
• (42:15–46:08) – Firehouse Marriage Advice from 37 Years
• Eric offers wise and empathetic advice on marriage, parenting, and showing up at home while serving the public.
• (46:08–50:59) – Joining Henn Nozzles: From Retirement to Reinvention
• A LinkedIn message leads to a second career helping shape the future of firefighting tools.
• (50:59–56:43) – The Bladed Stream: Rethinking the Fire Nozzle
• Eric explains the science and field testing behind Henn’s groundbreaking nozzle design.
• (56:43–End) – What’s Next for Henn & A Mission to Give Back
• New innovations, expanding reach, and Eric’s drive to make the fire service safer for the next generation.

• “You can lead from all rungs of the ladder.”
• “Fail in training, not on the fireground.”
• “I wasn’t looking to retire—but it was time.”
• “This is the best firefighting nozzle ever made.”

• Former Role: Fire Captain, Sacramento Fire Department
• Current Role: Sales Director, Henn Nozzles
• Career: 30+ years in fire service

Jake sits down with Tanner Shipman, a seasoned law enforcement officer from Anoka County, Minnesota, who recently received national acclaim for his courageous actions while off duty during a gunfight in Sturgis, South Dakota. With 20 years of service under his belt, Tanner recounts the harrowing incident that earned him multiple "Officer of the Year" honors and reflects on his career, the evolving landscape of policing, and the deeply personal impact of that life-altering day.

0:00 – Introduction & Guest Bio

Meet Tanner Shipman: 20-year veteran, former FTO and apprehension deputy, two-time Medal of Valor recipient, and recent awardee for his off-duty heroism.

1:10 – The Jiu-Jitsu Champion

Tanner shares a lighthearted take on his recent jiu-jitsu victory and competing in the "Masters 4" division.

2:36 – Stupid Question Tradition

Jake asks: “Who would play you in the movie of your life?” Tanner's answer adds a humorous start to the episode.

3:35 – Why Law Enforcement?

Tanner talks about growing up in Anoka County and how a high school tour of a jail sparked his interest in law enforcement.

6:45 – Career Path & Early Struggles

Details about Tanner’s unconventional path to becoming a deputy, including setbacks and working his way through tech school.

9:00 – The Realities of Field Training

An inside look into the phases of field training and the “dog watch” night shift experience.

11:15 – Anoka County Demographics

An overview of the county Tanner serves: size, structure, and how deputies are assigned.

13:00 – The Evolution of Policing

How societal changes since 2014 have affected law enforcement recruitment and morale.

15:15 – Body Cams & Public Perception

Tanner discusses the pros and cons of body cameras and the importance of context in interpreting footage.

18:00 – Misconceptions About the Job

He shares how the public often underestimates the complexity and emotional intensity of law enforcement.

20:30 – Building Trust with the Community

The role of citizens' academies and reserve programs in improving public understanding.

Tanner recounts the harrowing moment he intervened in an active shooter situation while off duty in Sturgis, South Dakota:

• Witnessing a trooper in a gunfight
• Running unarmed toward danger
• Using his sister-in-law’s handgun
• Engaging the suspect
• Providing emergency medical aid
• Emotional aftermath with his family

This is a powerful, moment-by-moment retelling of bravery, faith, and instinctive action under life-threatening circumstances.

51:00 – Processing the Event

Tanner discusses the emotional toll on himself and his family and the unexpected waves of trauma post-event.

54:30 – Public Recognition & Awards

How the law enforcement community responded, and what it felt like to be celebrated for something he considered simply “the right thing to do.”

58:00 – Philosophical Reflections

A thoughtful discussion about good vs. evil, humanizing both the badge and the people law enforcement serves, and what true service means.

• “There was no hesitation. I knew I had to act.”
• “Wouldn’t any cop do that?” — a question Tanner asks himself until others tell him, “No, not everyone would.”
• “Even these people... the only thing they’re left with is their dignity.”