HAZARD CLASS

By Jake RyksEducation Self-Improvement

HAZARD CLASS episodes

September 24, 2025HC0042 - Counting On Death Featuring: Josh Shores
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.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:
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.

Resources & References:
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.
About the Guest – Josh Shores:
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.

Concluding Summary & Call to Action:
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.
46 min
September 17, 2025HC0041 Engine Company Wisdom Featuring: Eric Guida
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.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps
(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.

Key Moments & Insights
“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.”

Guest Info: Eric Guida
Former Role: Fire Captain, Sacramento Fire Department
Current Role: Sales Director, Henn Nozzles
Career: 30+ years in fire service
59 min
September 17, 2025HC0041 - Eric Guida - Sacramento FD - Fire Captain (Ret) - HEN Nozzles
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.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps
(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 Hen 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 Hen & A Mission to Give Back
New innovations, expanding reach, and Eric’s drive to make the fire service safer for the next generation.

Key Moments & Insights
“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.”

Guest Info: Eric Guida
Former Role: Fire Captain, Sacramento Fire Department
Current Role: Sales Director, HEN Nozzles
Career: 30+ years in fire service
59 min
September 03, 2025HC0040 - Tanner Shipman - 2024 MN Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
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.

Segment Breakdown with Timestamps:
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.
Key Segment: The Sturgis Gunfight (22:30 - 51:00)
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.

Emotional Aftermath & Reflections (51:00 – End)
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.
Key Moments & Quotes:
“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 dignit
59 min
September 03, 2025HC0040 - Courage Under Fire Featuring: Tanner Shipman
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.

Segment Breakdown with Timestamps:
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.
Key Segment: The Sturgis Gunfight (22:30 - 51:00)
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.

Emotional Aftermath & Reflections (51:00 – End)
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.
Key Moments & Quotes:
“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.”
59 min
August 28, 2025HC0039 - MEET THE GUYS Featuring: Bobby Salvesen
In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we chat with Bobby Salvesen, a retired FDNY Hazmat One member, co-founder of the Hazmat Guys, and former ultramarathon runner. Bobby shares his journey from growing up in Levittown, NY, to becoming a leading hazmat instructor. He discusses his time in FDNY, the origin of the Hazmat Guys podcast, and his passion for educating others in hazmat operations.

In this episode, Bobby discusses:
[2:06] – Wheel of Stupid Questions
AI’s future and whether it could become sentient and destroy humanity.
[5:52] – Bobby’s Origin Story
Growing up in Levittown and his love for running, which shaped his competitive mindset.
[8:49] – Early Firefighting Days
Joining the fire service at 18, and transitioning from EMS to FDNY.
[11:39] – Joining FDNY and Special Operations
His transition to FDNY, becoming part of Special Operations after 9/11.
[23:19] – Moving to Hazmat One
His move to Hazmat One after 12 years with Squad 288 and leveraging his chemistry degree.
[26:08] – The Beginning of Hazmat Guys
How the Hazmat Guys podcast started and the challenges of building a hazmat education platform.
[31:22] – Teaching and Mentorship
Bobby’s journey into teaching, from training officer in the volunteer fire service to FDNY's department-wide instructor.
[37:37] – The Future of Hazmat Guys
Upcoming projects and collaborations with states and countries.
[40:39] – Hobbies and Life Outside of Hazmat
His involvement in ultramarathons, owning a trophy shop, and competitive bagpiping.
[43:27] – Looking Back and Looking Forward
Bobby’s reflections on his career and his excitement for the Southern Most Hazmat Conference.

Follow us on Social Media.

Subscribe and Review:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
45 min
August 27, 2025HC0039 - Bobby Salvesen 2 - FDNY HazMat 1 - The HazMat Guys
We chat with Bobby Salvesen, a retired FDNY Hazmat One member, co-founder of the Hazmat Guys, and former ultramarathon runner. Bobby shares his journey from growing up in Levittown, NY, to becoming a leading hazmat instructor. He discusses his time in FDNY, the origin of the Hazmat Guys podcast, and his passion for educating others in hazmat operations.

In this episode, Bobby discusses:
[2:06] – Wheel of Stupid Questions
AI’s future and whether it could become sentient and destroy humanity.
[5:52] – Bobby’s Origin Story
Growing up in Levittown and his love for running, which shaped his competitive mindset.
[8:49] – Early Firefighting Days
Joining the fire service at 18, and transitioning from EMS to FDNY.
[11:39] – Joining FDNY and Special Operations
His transition to FDNY, becoming part of Special Operations after 9/11.
[23:19] – Moving to Hazmat One
His move to Hazmat One after 12 years with Squad 288 and leveraging his chemistry degree.
[26:08] – The Beginning of Hazmat Guys
How the Hazmat Guys podcast started and the challenges of building a hazmat education platform.
[31:22] – Teaching and Mentorship
Bobby’s journey into teaching, from training officer in the volunteer fire service to FDNY's department-wide instructor.
[37:37] – The Future of Hazmat Guys
Upcoming projects and collaborations with states and countries.
[40:39] – Hobbies and Life Outside of Hazmat
His involvement in ultramarathons, owning a trophy shop, and competitive bagpiping.
[43:27] – Looking Back and Looking Forward
Bobby’s reflections on his career and his excitement for the Southern Most Hazmat Conference.

Follow us on Social Media.

Subscribe and Review:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave us a review on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ or ⁠Spotify⁠.
45 min
August 20, 2025HC0038 - Mike Manaco 2 - FDNY HazMat 1 - The HazMat Guys
Jake sits down with Mike Monaco—co-founder of The Hazmat Guys, retired FDNY Hazmat One specialist, and one of the leading hazmat instructors in the world. From growing up in Texas and ballet studios to battling dyslexia, his experience during 9/11, and building a global hazmat education platform, Mike shares his remarkable story. Along the way, we dive into personal quirks, firehouse culture, hazmat training, and the unexpected path that led to starting one of the most impactful hazmat podcasts out there.
This conversation is equal parts funny, raw, and inspiring—and yes, it begins with a 10-minute debate on the “right way” to wipe.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps
[0:00] – Welcome & Introduction
Host sets the stage: why this show is about the people behind the uniform.
Introduction of guest Mike Monaco and his reputation as a brilliant instructor, terrible speller, and all-around great guy.
[4:15] – The Wheel of Stupid Questions (Bathroom Debate)
Standing vs. sitting: the age-old wiping debate.
Cultural shame, bidets, and why “rub, squirt, rub” might just be the ultimate method.
A lighthearted (and hilarious) start that reveals Mike’s humor.
[14:00] – Mike’s Early Life & Background
Growing up in Tomball, Texas before moving to New York.
German roots, Italian family culture, and a childhood spent in ballet studios.
His mother’s career as a ballet dancer with the American Ballet Theatre.
Battling dyslexia, ADHD, and defiance disorder in school.
How Catholic school and a switch in majors got him through education.
[28:45] – College, 9/11, and the FDNY Path
Studying chemistry, physics, and ultimately biology/neurophysiology at Stony Brook.
Volunteering in the fire service during college.
His 9/11 experience as part of Northern Brookhaven Tactical Rescue, working at Ground Zero for a week.
Joining the FDNY less than a year later (July 2002).
[40:30] – Hazmat One: Baptism by Fire
Transitioning from Engine 233 in Brooklyn to Hazmat One.
The house culture post-9/11 and tensions between Hazmat and Squad 288.
The grueling spin-up process: 1,500+ hours of training and equipment sign-offs.
Why hazmat techs often know more than incident commanders—and the responsibility that carries.
[55:10] – Teaching, Learning, and the Origin of The Hazmat Guys
Why teaching is the best way to learn in hazmat.
How Bobby pitched the idea of a hazmat podcast.
The first “atrocious” recordings in the dining room.
Turning real-world calls into podcast episodes.
When they realized people were actually listening—and recognizing them at conferences.
[1:08:30] – Growing Beyond the Podcast
Moving from podcast to training and conference teaching.
Building a global hazmat education brand.
Balancing passion for firefighting with the career opportunities hazmat provided.
[1:19:00] – The Future: Training, Conferences, and Games
Plans for The Hazmat Guys: podcasting, training, books, and the new Hazmat board game.
Preview of the upcoming Southernmost Hazmat Conference in Key West.
How they’re rethinking conferences to integrate vendors, hands-on training, and student engagement.
[1:30:00] – Closing Reflections
Mike’s pride in building something bigger than himself.
Host and guest share laughs about ballet, dyslexia, and life lessons.
53 min
August 20, 2025HC0038 - MEET THE GUYS Featuring: Mike Manaco
In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with Mike Monaco—co-founder of The Hazmat Guys, retired FDNY Hazmat One specialist, and one of the leading hazmat instructors in the world. From growing up in Texas and ballet studios to battling dyslexia, his experience during 9/11, and building a global hazmat education platform, Mike shares his remarkable story. Along the way, we dive into personal quirks, firehouse culture, hazmat training, and the unexpected path that led to starting one of the most impactful hazmat podcasts out there.
This conversation is equal parts funny, raw, and inspiring—and yes, it begins with a 10-minute debate on the “right way” to wipe.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps
[0:00] – Welcome & Introduction
Host sets the stage: why this show is about the people behind the uniform.
Introduction of guest Mike Monaco and his reputation as a brilliant instructor, terrible speller, and all-around great guy.
[4:15] – The Wheel of Stupid Questions (Bathroom Debate)
Standing vs. sitting: the age-old wiping debate.
Cultural shame, bidets, and why “rub, squirt, rub” might just be the ultimate method.
A lighthearted (and hilarious) start that reveals Mike’s humor.
[14:00] – Mike’s Early Life & Background
Growing up in Tomball, Texas before moving to New York.
German roots, Italian family culture, and a childhood spent in ballet studios.
His mother’s career as a ballet dancer with the American Ballet Theatre.
Battling dyslexia, ADHD, and defiance disorder in school.
How Catholic school and a switch in majors got him through education.
[28:45] – College, 9/11, and the FDNY Path
Studying chemistry, physics, and ultimately biology/neurophysiology at Stony Brook.
Volunteering in the fire service during college.
His 9/11 experience as part of Northern Brookhaven Tactical Rescue, working at Ground Zero for a week.
Joining the FDNY less than a year later (July 2002).
[40:30] – Hazmat One: Baptism by Fire
Transitioning from Engine 233 in Brooklyn to Hazmat One.
The house culture post-9/11 and tensions between Hazmat and Squad 288.
The grueling spin-up process: 1,500+ hours of training and equipment sign-offs.
Why hazmat techs often know more than incident commanders—and the responsibility that carries.
[55:10] – Teaching, Learning, and the Origin of The Hazmat Guys
Why teaching is the best way to learn in hazmat.
How Bobby pitched the idea of a hazmat podcast.
The first “atrocious” recordings in the dining room.
Turning real-world calls into podcast episodes.
When they realized people were actually listening—and recognizing them at conferences.
[1:08:30] – Growing Beyond the Podcast
Moving from podcast to training and conference teaching.
Building a global hazmat education brand.
Balancing passion for firefighting with the career opportunities hazmat provided.
[1:19:00] – The Future: Training, Conferences, and Games
Plans for The Hazmat Guys: podcasting, training, books, and the new Hazmat board game.
Preview of the upcoming Southernmost Hazmat Conference in Key West.
How they’re rethinking conferences to integrate vendors, hands-on training, and student engagement.
[1:30:00] – Closing Reflections
Mike’s pride in building something bigger than himself.
Host and guest share laughs about ballet, dyslexia, and life lessons.
53 min
August 13, 2025 HC0037 - Using AI to Predict and Prevent Firefighter Death Featuring: Dr. Andy Tam and Dr. Dillion Dzikowicz
In this episode, we explore cutting-edge research aimed at tackling one of the leading causes of firefighter line-of-duty deaths: sudden cardiac events. Host [Your Name] speaks with Dr. Andy Tam (NIST) and Dr. Dillon Dzikowicz (University of Rochester) about their groundbreaking project combining AI-driven ECG analysis with wearable technology. Their goal? A real-time, portable monitoring system that can detect dangerous heart rhythms in firefighters before it’s too late.The conversation covers the science behind ischemic heart events, the challenges of collecting high-quality ECG data during firefighting, the role of machine learning in interpreting those signals, and the path from public research to a usable, life-saving product. You’ll also hear some lighter moments, including a debate about aliens and the quirks of wearable devices for tattooed users.

CONTACT DILLION:
[email protected]

0:00 – 3:50 | Introduction & Guest BackgroundsHost introduces the episode’s focus: AI detecting abnormal heart rhythms in firefighters.Meet Dr. Andy Tam (mechanical engineering, machine learning, firefighting technology)Meet Dr. Dillion Dzikowicz (registered nurse, PhD, cardiovascular research in firefighters)3:51 – 4:13 | The “Wheel of Stupid Questions” IntroAcknowledging the show’s tradition of opening with fun, offbeat questions.4:24 – 8:02 | Stupid Question: Do You Believe in Aliens?Andy: Yes, as a mix of curiosity and belief.Dillion: No — prefers evidence-based conclusions.8:02 – 11:05 | The Problem: Sudden Cardiac Death in Firefighters100+ firefighter deaths annually in the U.S. from cardiac eventsPast interventions: diet, exercise, rehab — but missing the unique on-duty risk windowShift toward real-time monitoring during actual firefighting11:06 – 15:13 | Pathophysiology & Detection GoalsIschemic-induced arrhythmias as primary targetST segment changes as a key indicatorPredictive potential beyond real-time alerts15:13 – 18:49 | Machine Learning 101 for ECG InterpretationTraining AI to “think” like a cardiologistFiltering noise from movement artifactsImportance of firefighter-specific datasets18:50 – 21:49 | Wearable Device DevelopmentMoving from bulky Holter monitors to modern wearablesChoosing chest-strap placement over wrist devices for reliabilityFDA-cleared continuous ECG with ischemia-specific lead21:50 – 22:50 | Wearables & TattoosUnique challenges in signal detection through tattooed skinClinical validation study includes tattooed subjects22:51 – 27:01 | Software + Hardware CollaborationBalancing AI development with firefighter comfort & usabilityOpen questions about when/where to wear devices (on shift vs. during calls)Volunteer vs. career firefighter considerations27:02 – 32:32 | Data Collection & ValidationCurrent study: monitors worn during structural fire trainingAvoiding alarm fatigue with careful algorithm tuningCombining hospital abnormal-event data with real-world firefighter data32:33 – 39:20 | Model Performance & Future ApplicationsAccuracy: 95% with Holter data, 92% with wearable dataPotential expansion to police, military, EMSGoal: device-agnostic algorithms for broad accessibility39:20 – 45:05 | From Research to ProductRegulatory hurdles: FDA approval for “software as a medical device”Public funding and the bridge between science and businessFocus remains on saving lives over commercialization45:06 – 46:07 | Call for ParticipantsRecruiting volunteer, wildland, and career firefighters (18+) for ongoing studiesContact details provided in episode description and social media posts
47 min

About HAZARD CLASS

From the publisher's feed

HAZARD CLASS is the podcast where the curiosity of genuine questions in and around the world of emergency services is met with the knowledge of leading experts in their fields.