HAZARD CLASS

We’re joined by Eric Brenneman, president of Yoga for First Responders, fire service veteran, mental health advocate, and author of Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety. Eric shares his journey through the fire service, his decision to leave, and his ongoing mission to support mental fitness for first responders. From understanding the neuroscience of stress to the power of stoicism, Eric provides actionable insights for those in public safety and beyond.

Resources and References:

-Yoga for First Responders:

- Eric’s book, "Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety" - Available on Amazon.

- Breathwork Video:

“ASK STUPID QUESTIONS TO SMART PEOPLE”

Contact us at [email protected]

Pick out some swag at thehazmatguys.com/hazard-class

Follow us on the social media!

Thanks for listening and watching!

Segment Breakdown:

1. Introduction & Guest Background

  - Host introduces the show and Eric Brenneman, highlighting his career in the fire service and advocacy for mental health.

  - A lighthearted discussion on the origins of “stupid questions” and the firehouse culture of humor and camaraderie.

2. Eric’s Fire Service Journey

  - Eric recounts his entry into firefighting, following in his father’s footsteps, and his time as a fire service leader and lobbyist.

  - The transition from firefighting to mental health advocacy and his reflections on leaving the fire service.

3. Yoga for First Responders

  - How Eric discovered yoga and its applications for first responders.

  - A deep dive into the neuroscience of stress and how Yoga for First Responders (YFFR) helps with proactive mental health and building resilience.

  - The specifics of YFFR’s approach: job-specific, trauma-informed, and culturally aware yoga tailored for public safety professionals.

4. The Power of Breathwork and the YFFR Protocol

  - Importance of breathwork as the foundation of mental health training.

  - Insights into how YFFR uses job-specific drills and cognitive-behavioral therapy to rewire the brain and manage stress.

  - Proven results in reducing post-traumatic stress symptoms and improving resilience.

5. Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety

  - Eric shares his passion for stoicism and how it helps public safety professionals find purpose and perspective amidst chaos.

  - His journey in writing “Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety” and its practical teachings.

6. Final Thoughts and Call to Action

  - Eric discusses his vision for the future of YFFR and mental fitness in public safety.

  - How listeners can support the mission and find resources, including YFFR’s website, podcast, and Eric’s book.

⁠www. yogaforfirstresponders.org⁠⁠www.amazon.com/Everyday-Stoicism-Public-Safety-Brenneman/dp/B0DF5RR83D⁠⁠www.youtube.com/watch?v=Naae2v4JKp4⁠

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we’re joined by Eric Brenneman, president of Yoga for First Responders, fire service veteran, mental health advocate, and author of Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety. Eric shares his journey through the fire service, his decision to leave, and his ongoing mission to support mental fitness for first responders. From understanding the neuroscience of stress to the power of stoicism, Eric provides actionable insights for those in public safety and beyond.

Resources and References:

Video Exclusively on YouTube

“ASK STUPID QUESTIONS TO SMART PEOPLE”

Contact us at [email protected]

Pick out some swag at thehazmatguys.com/hazard-class

Follow us on the social media!

Thanks for listening and watching!

Segment Breakdown:

1. Introduction & Guest Background

  - Host introduces the show and Eric Brenneman, highlighting his career in the fire service and advocacy for mental health.

  - A lighthearted discussion on the origins of “stupid questions” and the firehouse culture of humor and camaraderie.

2. Eric’s Fire Service Journey

  - Eric recounts his entry into firefighting, following in his father’s footsteps, and his time as a fire service leader and lobbyist.

  - The transition from firefighting to mental health advocacy and his reflections on leaving the fire service.

3. Yoga for First Responders

  - How Eric discovered yoga and its applications for first responders.

  - A deep dive into the neuroscience of stress and how Yoga for First Responders (YFFR) helps with proactive mental health and building resilience.

  - The specifics of YFFR’s approach: job-specific, trauma-informed, and culturally aware yoga tailored for public safety professionals.

4. The Power of Breathwork and the YFFR Protocol

  - Importance of breathwork as the foundation of mental health training.

  - Insights into how YFFR uses job-specific drills and cognitive-behavioral therapy to rewire the brain and manage stress.

  - Proven results in reducing post-traumatic stress symptoms and improving resilience.

5. Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety

  - Eric shares his passion for stoicism and how it helps public safety professionals find purpose and perspective amidst chaos.

  - His journey in writing “Everyday Stoicism for Public Safety” and its practical teachings.

6. Final Thoughts and Call to Action

  - Eric discusses his vision for the future of YFFR and mental fitness in public safety.

  - How listeners can support the mission and find resources, including YFFR’s website, podcast, and Eric’s book.

Jake dives into a compelling conversation with retired Deputy Chief Phil Jose of the Seattle Fire Department. With over 30 years of service under his belt, Chief Jose shares his journey into the fire service, his philosophy on leadership, and the lessons he's learned from training some of the best in the field.

Resources and References:

www.ignitionpointtraining.com

www.youtube.com/@phillipjose1092

Episode Breakdown:

(0:00 - 1:20) Introduction

• Jake introduces the Hazard Class Podcast and the guest, retired Deputy Chief Phil Jose.
• Overview of Chief Jose's credentials: over 30 years in the fire service, owner of Ignition Point Training, and expertise in reading smoke, air management, and tactical decision-making.

(1:30 - 2:04) Wheel of Stupid Questions

• Jake introduces the “Wheel of Stupid Questions” segment.
• Question: “What is your late-night, I’m-feeling-fat snack?”
• Chief Jose shares his love for chocolate-covered acai berries and their healthy twist.

(2:05 - 4:25) How It All Started

• Chief Jose shares his journey into the fire service, transitioning from studying computer engineering to volunteering at a firehouse.
• Reflects on his first fire experience, which solidified his passion for firefighting.

(4:26 - 10:14) Early Years in Firefighting

• Talks about living at the firehouse as a volunteer and balancing work, school, and service.
• The challenges of getting hired in the 1980s, including navigating the hiring process without modern technology.

(10:15 - 12:45) Rising Through the Ranks

• Progression from lieutenant to deputy chief.
• Realizations about influence and responsibilities at each rank.
• Early experiences as a training officer and developing teaching skills.

(12:46 - 15:42) Becoming an Effective Instructor

• Chief Jose discusses the moral obligation of instructors to ensure student success.
• His early struggles as an instructor and the effort to continuously improve his teaching methods.

(15:43 - 19:46) Tactical Decision-Making

• Importance of decision-making skills in firefighting and how they can be trained.
• Distinction between making decisions and effectively communicating them.
• Challenges of training chief officers due to the complexity and cost of scenarios.

(19:47 - 24:37) Low-Fidelity Training and Sets/Reps

• How low-cost, low-tech training methods can achieve high cognitive fidelity.
• The importance of providing frequent practice opportunities rather than high-fidelity simulations.

(24:38 - 27:02) Staying Calm Under Pressure

• Can calmness in high-stress situations be nurtured?
• The role of practice in building confidence and overcoming emotional responses in critical moments.

(27:03 - 34:51) Building a Culture of Learning

• The significance of post-incident analysis and the value of listening to radio communications.
• How reviewing incident tapes helps improve communication and decision-making.

(34:52 - 44:54) Tailboard Debriefs and Honest Feedback

• Transitioning from a punitive culture to a learning culture.
• Using questions to foster reflection during debriefs.
• The challenge of encouraging open and honest feedback in training environments.

(44:55 - 49:23) Decision-Making in High-Stress Situations

• How firefighters make decisions under pressure and the role of experience and training.
• Recognizing that everyone makes the best decision they can with the information available at the time.

(49:24 - 57:22) Addressing Organizational Weaknesses

• Using post-incident analysis to identify patterns and make improvements.
• Balancing outlier events with day-to-day operations when addressing weaknesses.

(57:23 - 58:53) The Phil Jose Legacy

• Reflections on his impact on the Seattle Fire Department.
• Continuing to teach and improve while balancing personal passions like travel and family.

(58:54 - 1:03:07) Closing and Where to Find Chief Jose

• Chief Jose shares his website (⁠Ignition Point Training⁠), YouTube channel, and upcoming classes.
• Jake thanks Chief Jose for his insights and invites him back for a future episode on reading smoke.

In this episode of Hazard Class, Jake dives into a compelling conversation with retired Deputy Chief Phil Jose of the Seattle Fire Department. With over 30 years of service under his belt, Chief Jose shares his journey into the fire service, his philosophy on leadership, and the lessons he's learned from training some of the best in the field.

Chief Jose, the founder of Ignition Point Training, is known nationwide for his expertise in tactical decision-making, reading smoke, and air management. From his first days as a volunteer firefighter to becoming a deputy chief, he discusses the evolution of his career and his commitment to improving training standards for officers. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, decision-making, and fostering a culture of learning in emergency services.

Resources and References:

Video Exclusively on YouTube

“ASK STUPID QUESTIONS TO SMART PEOPLE”

Contact us at [email protected]

Pick out some swag at thehazmatguys.com/hazard-class

Follow us on the social media!

Thanks for listening and watching!

Episode Breakdown:

(0:00 - 1:20) Introduction

• Jake introduces the Hazard Class Podcast and the guest, retired Deputy Chief Phil Jose.
• Overview of Chief Jose's credentials: over 30 years in the fire service, owner of Ignition Point Training, and expertise in reading smoke, air management, and tactical decision-making.
• Chief Jose expresses gratitude for the opportunity to be on the podcast.

(1:30 - 2:04) Wheel of Stupid Questions

• Jake introduces the “Wheel of Stupid Questions” segment.
• Question: “What is your late-night, I’m-feeling-fat snack?”
• Chief Jose shares his love for chocolate-covered acai berries and their healthy twist.

(2:05 - 4:25) How It All Started

• Chief Jose shares his journey into the fire service, transitioning from studying computer engineering to volunteering at a firehouse.
• Reflects on his first fire experience, which solidified his passion for firefighting.

(4:26 - 10:14) Early Years in Firefighting

• Talks about living at the firehouse as a volunteer and balancing work, school, and service.
• The challenges of getting hired in the 1980s, including navigating the hiring process without modern technology.

(10:15 - 12:45) Rising Through the Ranks

• Progression from lieutenant to deputy chief.
• Realizations about influence and responsibilities at each rank.
• Early experiences as a training officer and developing teaching skills.

(12:46 - 15:42) Becoming an Effective Instructor

• Chief Jose discusses the moral obligation of instructors to ensure student success.
• His early struggles as an instructor and the effort to continuously improve his teaching methods.

(15:43 - 19:46) Tactical Decision-Making

• Importance of decision-making skills in firefighting and how they can be trained.
• Distinction between making decisions and effectively communicating them.
• Challenges of training chief officers due to the complexity and cost of scenarios.

(19:47 - 24:37) Low-Fidelity Training and Sets/Reps

• How low-cost, low-tech training methods can achieve high cognitive fidelity.
• The importance of providing frequent practice opportunities rather than high-fidelity simulations.

(24:38 - 27:02) Staying Calm Under Pressure

• Can calmness in high-stress situations be nurtured?
• The role of practice in building confidence and overcoming emotional responses in critical moments.

(27:03 - 34:51) Building a Culture of Learning

• The significance of post-incident analysis and the value of listening to radio communications.
• How reviewing incident tapes helps improve communication and decision-making.

(34:52 - 44:54) Tailboard Debriefs and Honest Feedback

• Transitioning from a punitive culture to a learning culture.
• Using questions to foster reflection during debriefs.
• The challenge of encouraging open and honest feedback in training environments.

(44:55 - 49:23) Decision-Making in High-Stress Situations

• How firefighters make decisions under pressure and the role of experience and training.
• Recognizing that everyone makes the best decision they can with the information available at the time.

(49:24 - 57:22) Addressing Organizational Weaknesses

• Using post-incident analysis to identify patterns and make improvements.
• Balancing outlier events with day-to-day operations when addressing weaknesses.

(57:23 - 58:53) The Phil Jose Legacy

• Reflections on his impact on the Seattle Fire Department.
• Continuing to teach and improve while balancing personal passions like travel and family.

(58:54 - 1:03:07) Closing and Where to Find Chief Jose

• Chief Jose shares his website (Ignition Point Training), YouTube channel, and upcoming classes.
• Jake thanks Chief Jose for his insights and invites him back for a future episode on reading smoke.

The Rant and The Ramble#0002 - Walkie-Talkie Stopie-TalkieHosted by Jake Ryks of THE HAZARD CLASS PODCASTThis is a bite-sized opinion podcast, where I have a chance to share my personal opinion about things in and around the world of emergency response.Like - Follow - Subscribe - ShareCheck out the main podcast, HAZARD CLASS, for interviews with interesting people in and around the world of emergency response. New Episodes released every Wednesday at 7am CST.

Hosted by Jake Ryks of THE HAZARD CLASS PODCAST

This is a bite-sized opinion podcast, where I have a chance to share my personal opinion about things in and around the world of emergency response.

Like - Follow - Subscribe - Share

Check out the video version exclusively on YouTube.

Check out the main podcast, HAZARD CLASS, for interviews with interesting people in and around the world of emergency response. New Episodes released every Wednesday at 7am CST.

In this engaging episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with retired Battalion Chief David Rhodes, a true legend in the fire service. With nearly 40 years of experience in the Atlanta Fire Department, Rhodes shares his incredible journey, from his early days as a rookie firefighter to his current roles as Editor-in-Chief of Fire Engineering Magazine and leader at FDIC, the world’s largest fire department conference. This episode dives into pivotal moments, lessons in leadership, and Rhodes' relentless dedication to training and innovation in the fire service.

Resources and References:

- FDIC International: www.fdic.com

- Fire Engineering Magazine: www.fireengineering.com

- Georgia Smoke Divers: www.georgiasmokediver.com

Email: [email protected]

Video Exclusively on YouTube

“ASK STUPID QUESTIONS TO SMART PEOPLE”

Contact us at [email protected]

Pick out some swag at thehazmatguys.com/hazard-class/

VIDEO PODCAST AVAILABLE FREE ON YOUTUBE!

Follow us on the socials:

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

TikTok

Thanks for listening and watching!

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

0:00 - 0:17: Introduction

Jay introduces the podcast and this week’s guest, David Rhodes, highlighting his illustrious career and current contributions to the fire service.

0:18 - 1:09: Meet David Rhodes

Overview of Rhodes’ background: his tenure at the Atlanta Fire Department, role in the Georgia Smoke Divers Program, and leadership at FDIC and Fire Engineering Magazine.

1:10 - 2:35: Icebreaker - The Wheel of Stupid Questions

David answers a playful question about the largest animal he could fight bare-handed, bringing humor and camaraderie to the conversation.

2:36 - 4:14: How It All Began

David reflects on his early inspiration to join the fire service, a pivotal encounter with a local fire chief, and the live burn that solidified his passion.

4:15 - 6:08: First Fires and Early Lessons

Memories of intense early training experiences, including a harrowing flashover and lessons learned in his formative years.

6:09 - 10:54: Career Highlights in Atlanta

David recounts his career trajectory, from his first department to becoming Battalion Chief. He shares key milestones and challenges, including his time as union president during a transformative period for Atlanta’s fire service.

10:55 - 15:05: Reviving the Georgia Smoke Divers Program

David discusses his role in rejuvenating the Georgia Smoke Divers Program and the challenges of maintaining its high standards and reputation.

15:06 - 21:20: The Writing Journey

David explores his evolution as a writer, from humorous newsletters to becoming a prolific contributor to Fire Engineering Magazine. Notable works like “Science for Dummies” and the infamous “T-Shirt Management” article are highlighted.

21:21 - 31:19: The Growth of FDIC

A behind-the-scenes look at the expansion of FDIC, from its modest beginnings to its current status as a premier training and education event with over 36,000 attendees and 900 exhibitors.

31:20 - 34:03: What Drives David Rhodes

David shares what keeps him motivated after decades of service: a passion for training, improving lives, and watching the next generation of firefighters thrive.

34:04 - 34:48: Closing Thoughts

Jay wraps up the conversation, expressing gratitude for David’s contributions and sharing how listeners can connect with him and learn more about FDIC and Fire Engineering Magazine.

Jake sits down with retired Battalion Chief David Rhodes, a true legend in the fire service. With nearly 40 years of experience in the Atlanta Fire Department, Rhodes shares his incredible journey, from his early days as a rookie firefighter to his current roles as Editor-in-Chief of Fire Engineering Magazine and leader at FDIC, the world’s largest fire department conference. This episode dives into pivotal moments, lessons in leadership, and Rhodes' relentless dedication to training and innovation in the fire service.Resources and References:- FDIC International: www.fdic.com- Fire Engineering Magazine: www.fireengineering.com- Georgia Smoke Divers: www.georgiasmokediver.com Email: [email protected]“ASK STUPID QUESTIONS TO SMART PEOPLE”Contact us at [email protected] out some swag at thehazmatguys.com/hazard-class/Follow us on the socials:YouTubeInstagramFacebookLinkedInTikTokThanks for listening and watching!Segment Breakdown & Timestamps0:00 - 0:17: IntroductionJay introduces the podcast and this week’s guest, David Rhodes, highlighting his illustrious career and current contributions to the fire service.0:18 - 1:09: Meet David RhodesOverview of Rhodes’ background: his tenure at the Atlanta Fire Department, role in the Georgia Smoke Divers Program, and leadership at FDIC and Fire Engineering Magazine.1:10 - 2:35: Icebreaker - The Wheel of Stupid QuestionsDavid answers a playful question about the largest animal he could fight bare-handed, bringing humor and camaraderie to the conversation.2:36 - 4:14: How It All BeganDavid reflects on his early inspiration to join the fire service, a pivotal encounter with a local fire chief, and the live burn that solidified his passion.4:15 - 6:08: First Fires and Early LessonsMemories of intense early training experiences, including a harrowing flashover and lessons learned in his formative years.6:09 - 10:54: Career Highlights in AtlantaDavid recounts his career trajectory, from his first department to becoming Battalion Chief. He shares key milestones and challenges, including his time as union president during a transformative period for Atlanta’s fire service.10:55 - 15:05: Reviving the Georgia Smoke Divers ProgramDavid discusses his role in rejuvenating the Georgia Smoke Divers Program and the challenges of maintaining its high standards and reputation.15:06 - 21:20: The Writing JourneyDavid explores his evolution as a writer, from humorous newsletters to becoming a prolific contributor to Fire Engineering Magazine. Notable works like “Science for Dummies” and the infamous “T-Shirt Management” article are highlighted.21:21 - 31:19: The Growth of FDICA behind-the-scenes look at the expansion of FDIC, from its modest beginnings to its current status as a premier training and education event with over 36,000 attendees and 900 exhibitors.31:20 - 34:03: What Drives David RhodesDavid shares what keeps him motivated after decades of service: a passion for training, improving lives, and watching the next generation of firefighters thrive.34:04 - 34:48: Closing ThoughtsJay wraps up the conversation, expressing gratitude for David’s contributions and sharing how listeners can connect with him and learn more about FDIC and Fire Engineering Magazine.

The Rant and The Ramble

#0001 - Outlaw The Denver Tool

Hosted by Jake Ryks of THE HAZARD CLASS PODCAST

This is a bite-sized opinion podcast, where I have a chance to share my personal opinion about things in and around the world of emergency response.

Like - Follow - Subscribe - Share

Check out the main podcast, HAZARD CLASS, for interviews with interesting people in and around the world of emergency response. New Episodes released every Wednesday at 7am CST.

Hosted by Jake Ryks of THE HAZARD CLASS PODCAST

This is a bite-sized opinion podcast, where I have a chance to share my personal opinion about things in and around the world of emergency response.

Like - Follow - Subscribe - Share

Check out the video version exclusively on YouTube.

Check out the main podcast, HAZARD CLASS, for interviews with interesting people in and around the world of emergency response. New Episodes released every Wednesday at 7am CST.