HAZARD CLASS

We explore cutting-edge research aimed at tackling one of the leading causes of firefighter line-of-duty deaths: sudden cardiac events.

Jake 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 Backgrounds

Host 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” Intro

Acknowledging 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 Firefighters

100+ 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 firefighting

11:06 – 15:13 | Pathophysiology & Detection Goals

Ischemic-induced arrhythmias as primary targetST segment changes as a key indicatorPredictive potential beyond real-time alerts

15:13 – 18:49 | Machine Learning 101 for ECG Interpretation

Training AI to “think” like a cardiologistFiltering noise from movement artifactsImportance of firefighter-specific datasets

18:50 – 21:49 | Wearable Device Development

Moving from bulky Holter monitors to modern wearablesChoosing chest-strap placement over wrist devices for reliabilityFDA-cleared continuous ECG with ischemia-specific lead

21:50 – 22:50 | Wearables & Tattoos

Unique challenges in signal detection through tattooed skinClinical validation study includes tattooed subjects

22:51 – 27:01 | Software + Hardware Collaboration

Balancing AI development with firefighter comfort & usabilityOpen questions about when/where to wear devices (on shift vs. during calls)Volunteer vs. career firefighter considerations

27:02 – 32:32 | Data Collection & Validation

Current study: monitors worn during structural fire trainingAvoiding alarm fatigue with careful algorithm tuningCombining hospital abnormal-event data with real-world firefighter data

32:33 – 39:20 | Model Performance & Future Applications

Accuracy: 95% with Holter data, 92% with wearable dataPotential expansion to police, military, EMSGoal: device-agnostic algorithms for broad accessibility

39:20 – 45:05 | From Research to Product

Regulatory hurdles: FDA approval for “software as a medical device”Public funding and the bridge between science and businessFocus remains on saving lives over commercialization

45:06 – 46:07 | Call for Participants

Recruiting volunteer, wildland, and career firefighters (18+) for ongoing studiesContact details provided in episode description and social media posts

In this heartfelt episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, the host opens up about their personal journey through mental health struggles, culminating in a transformative stay at the IAFF Center of Excellence (COE). This solo episode offers a raw, honest look at the importance of vulnerability, seeking help, and normalizing conversations around mental health within the fire service. Listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability, seek support, and prioritize their well-being.

[0:00 - 0:28] Introduction to the Episode

The host introduces a different format for this episode, focusing on their personal story after a stay at the IAFF Center of Excellence. The tone is reflective, with a commitment to share the experience to help normalize mental health struggles.

[0:56 - 1:35] The Need to Share and Normalize Struggles

The host reflects on the importance of being open about mental health, especially in the fire service, where stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help. They express a desire to share their story to inspire others to be open and vulnerable.

[1:36 - 4:19] The Struggle of Self-Loathing and the Desire for Change

The host discusses their inner battle with self-hatred, feelings of being unlovable, and the sense that no matter how much they accomplished, they never felt content. They acknowledge that the desire to “outwork” depression led to further dissatisfaction and despair.

[4:21 - 5:15] Decision to Seek Help at the IAFF Center of Excellence

The host explains the process of reaching out for help and checking into the COE. They highlight the supportive role of their union and city in facilitating this decision. This section touches on the support they received and the relief in finally seeking professional help.

[5:18 - 7:52] The Struggles Before Seeking Help

Before attending the COE, the host describes feelings of worthlessness and the overwhelming cycle of striving to be better without feeling any relief. They reflect on their efforts to achieve success in various areas of their life without gaining happiness.

[7:53 - 9:28] Childhood Trauma and Feeling Unwanted

The host explores the trauma from their childhood, including bullying, and how it shaped their feelings of being unwanted, both within social groups and even among friends. They express how this isolation led to self-doubt and difficulty connecting with others.

[9:32 - 13:44] Acknowledging Trauma and Striving for Self-Acceptance

Further elaboration on how childhood experiences created barriers to self-acceptance. The host shares how they tried to hide behind masks, believing that no one would like them if they knew the real story, further deepening their struggle.

[13:48 - 18:59] Healing and Transformation at the COE

After 39 days at the COE, the host describes feeling "incredible" and discusses how the experience allowed them to open up, build connections, and gain a fresh perspective on life. They express gratitude for the supportive environment and how healing comes from vulnerability.

[19:04 - 22:58] The Struggles of Public Recognition During a Personal Crisis

The host reflects on a particularly difficult period when they received awards for their work in a rescue operation, but the external recognition only deepened their internal struggles. They share the disconnect between public accolades and their private pain, and how this contributed to their depression.

[22:59 - 24:15] Reaching Peace and Accepting the Fire Service Awards

The host discusses their internal transformation, being able to accept the awards without feeling undeserving. They reflect on the value of teamwork and their pride in their colleagues, and how they finally reached peace with both their achievements and struggles.

[24:17 - 28:02] The Power of the Fire Service and Personal Growth

The host reflects on how the fire service gave them a sense of identity and achievement that they hadn’t experienced before. This section also touches on the all-consuming nature of their work and how it affected their personal life.

[28:02 - 28:45] The Importance of Talking About Mental Health

The host emphasizes the need for people to speak up about their struggles, especially the importance of normalizing the act of asking for help. They encourage listeners to push through the fear of reaching out for support.

[28:45 - 30:06] The Relief of Seeking Help

The host shares how, once they admitted they needed help, the process became more accessible, and the emotional burden lightened. This section encourages listeners to take the first step in seeking support when they’re struggling, emphasizing that help is available.

[30:06 - 31:10] Final Thoughts and Gratitude

The host wraps up with a message of hope and encouragement, expressing their gratitude for the support they received at COE, as well as their peers and clinicians. They reflect on their ongoing commitment to share their journey with others, with the hope of normalizing these important conversations.

• The pivotal moment when the host realizes that seeking help is essential for healing and growth.
• The message that "secrets keep us sick" and the power of vulnerability in recovery.
• A profound shift from internal pain to a sense of peace and acceptance, showing that brighter days are ahead even after struggling for years.

In this heartfelt episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, the host opens up about their personal journey through mental health struggles, culminating in a transformative stay at the IAFF Center of Excellence (COE). This solo episode offers a raw, honest look at the importance of vulnerability, seeking help, and normalizing conversations around mental health within the fire service. Listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability, seek support, and prioritize their well-being.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

[0:00 - 0:28] Introduction to the Episode
The host introduces a new episode format, focusing on their personal story after a stay at the IAFF Center of Excellence. The tone is reflective, aiming to normalize mental health struggles.

[0:56 - 1:35] The Need to Share and Normalize Struggles
The host reflects on the importance of being open about mental health, particularly in the fire service, where stigma often prevents seeking help. They hope to inspire others to share and be vulnerable.

[1:36 - 4:19] The Struggle of Self-Loathing and the Desire for Change
The host discusses battling self-hatred and feeling unlovable despite accomplishments. They acknowledge that trying to “outwork” depression only led to more dissatisfaction.

[4:21 - 5:15] Decision to Seek Help at the IAFF Center of Excellence
The host talks about reaching out for help and checking into the COE, with support from their union and city. This section highlights the relief in finally seeking professional help.

[5:18 - 7:52] The Struggles Before Seeking Help
Before attending the COE, the host describes feelings of worthlessness and constant striving without relief. They reflect on their efforts for success but still not feeling happy.

[7:53 - 9:28] Childhood Trauma and Feeling Unwanted
The host explores childhood trauma, including bullying, and how it shaped their sense of being unwanted, leading to isolation and self-doubt.

[9:32 - 13:44] Acknowledging Trauma and Striving for Self-Acceptance
The host further elaborates on how their childhood experiences hindered self-acceptance, trying to hide behind masks, fearing rejection, and deepening their struggle.

[13:48 - 18:59] Healing and Transformation at the COE
After 39 days at the COE, the host describes feeling “incredible,” having opened up, built connections, and gained new perspectives. They express gratitude for the supportive environment.

[19:04 - 22:58] The Struggles of Public Recognition During a Personal Crisis
The host reflects on receiving awards for a rescue operation while privately struggling, feeling a disconnect between public accolades and internal pain, which worsened their depression.

[22:59 - 24:15] Reaching Peace and Accepting the Fire Service Awards
The host discusses accepting awards without feeling undeserving, focusing on the value of teamwork, and reaching peace with both achievements and personal struggles.

[24:17 - 28:02] The Power of the Fire Service and Personal Growth
The fire service gave the host a sense of identity and achievement, though it also consumed their personal life. This section touches on how their work affected their well-being.

[28:02 - 28:45] The Importance of Talking About Mental Health
The host stresses the need to speak up about struggles, especially in normalizing seeking help. They encourage listeners to overcome the fear of reaching out.

[28:45 - 30:06] The Relief of Seeking Help
The host shares how admitting the need for help lightened their emotional burden and made the process of seeking support more accessible.

[30:06 - 31:10] Final Thoughts and Gratitude
The host ends with a message of hope, gratitude for the support received at COE, and their ongoing commitment to share their journey to normalize these important conversations.

Jake sits down with fire photographer and social media sensation Shane Neckel to explore the raw and riveting world of fire buffing. Based just outside Detroit, Shane shares how he turned a childhood fascination into a booming online presence—all while capturing live fire scenes using just an iPhone. From his roots in Monroe County to traveling across the country chasing flames, Shane offers a rare glimpse into what fuels his passion and the culture of fire buffs.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

(0:00 - 2:30)

Intro & Icebreaker

Jake introduces Shane Neckel.They spin the “wheel of stupid questions” and bond over classic action stars like Burt Reynolds.

(2:31 - 4:57)

Shane’s Origin Story

From visiting firehouses as a kid to launching a hyper-local news page in high school.

(4:58 - 6:53)

Early Fires & Family Influence

Describes his first fire experiences and how his dad’s job towing wrecks brought him close to emergency scenes.

(6:54 - 9:12)

Instagram & iPhone: The Rise

How his content blew up after switching to mobile-only photography and embracing short-form video.

(9:13 - 11:46)

Gear & On-the-Street Logistics

Relies on pagers, scanners, and deep Detroit street knowledge to catch fires in real time.

(11:47 - 13:28)

Firehouse Relationships & Solo Buffing

Describes staying mobile and avoiding station ride-alongs to cover more ground.

(13:29 - 15:30)

Detroit Then vs. Now

Reflects on the city’s efforts to address abandoned housing and reduce fire volume.

(15:31 - 17:44)

Most Memorable Nights

Remembers action-packed nights with 15+ fires, shootings, and wrecks—sometimes all in one shift.

(17:45 - 20:35)

Buff Culture & Nationwide Travel

Talks about traveling to places like Baltimore and California, and the network of buffs he’s met.

(20:36 - 22:10)

Why People Are Drawn to Buffing

Compares the experience to watching real-life action movies and describes the pull for younger generations.

(22:11 - 25:41)

Vision & What’s Next

No rigid roadmap—just plans to keep growing his platform and enjoying the ride.

(25:42 - 27:09)

Wrap-Up & Where to Find Shane

Shares his social handles and thanks Jake for the convo. A warm invite to link up in the Twin Cities.Key Moments & Quotes

"I think every night is a crazy night up there."

– Shane on the ongoing unpredictability in Detroit.

"It's like watching real-life action movies."

– On the appeal of fire buffing.

"I don’t edit anything—I just post it."

– His raw, no-frills approach to sharing content.

Resources & Mentions

Instagram:

TikTok:

@shaneneckel33

Jake sits down with Paul Jameson, Chief Commercial Officer of LifeSafe Technologies, to discuss a revolutionary firefighting product—TRF+. Designed specifically to combat the long-standing challenge of lithium-ion battery fires, TRF+ is not only effective in extinguishing such fires but also prevents re-ignition. Jake and the HazMat Guys team have rigorously tested the product over six months and share their journey from skepticism to astonishment.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

0:00 - 1:19 – Intro & Guest Welcome

Jake introduces the show and guest Paul Jameson, setting the stage for a deep dive into TRF+.

1:20 - 2:55 – The Wheel of Stupid Questions

A light-hearted icebreaker: “Would you rather have three arms and one leg or three legs and one arm?”

2:56 - 6:02 – Initial Skepticism & First Impressions

Jake describes his initial doubts and the first meeting with Paul that started the journey of testing TRF+.

6:03 - 9:28 – Testing Begins

Details of field tests, including unconventional and rigorous methods used to challenge the fluid’s effectiveness.

9:29 - 13:32 – How TRF+ Works

Paul explains the science behind TRF+, including how it disrupts the fire triangle by removing heat and suppressing oxygen buildup.

13:33 - 18:10 – Certifications & Testing Evidence

Discussion of third-party testing, environmental safety, and regulatory standards that back up LifeSafe’s claims.

18:11 - 21:00 – Shelf Life & Longevity

TRF+ has an impressive eight-year shelf life with consistent performance, a rare trait in firefighting fluids.

21:01 - 24:57 – Application Methods & Surface Tension Science

How TRF+ can be deployed through various methods, including fire trucks and handheld canisters, and why it outperforms traditional foams.

24:58 - 28:53 – The Origin Story of TRF+

From a goal of simplifying fire extinguishment to unexpectedly solving lithium battery fires, Paul recounts LifeSafe’s evolution.

28:54 - 35:10 – Wildfire Pro: The Wildland Solution

A look at another LifeSafe product that pre-treats and protects areas from wildfires—complete with real-world testing anecdotes.

35:11 - 37:30 – Where to Learn More & Final Thoughts

Jake and Paul wrap up with resource links, testimonials, and a call for more emergency services to explore this promising tech.

Key Moments & Quotes

• "Take it, try to make it not work." – A challenge from Paul that fueled six months of independent testing.
• “Even if you put it out, it’s just going to reignite.” – A belief shattered during the field trials.
• “I put my hand on red-hot embers—and it wasn’t even warm.” – Jake's firsthand experience with Wildfire Pro.
• "Every big fire starts as a small fire." – LifeSafe’s design philosophy behind multipurpose extinguishment fluids.

Resources & References

• Fire Suppression Solutions (FSS): ⁠Fire SS Contact Page⁠
• UL Testing & Kiwa Certification: Details available on LifeSafe’s website.
• Hazmat Guys: ⁠www.thehazmatguys.com⁠

In this groundbreaking episode, Jake sits down with Paul Jameson, Chief Commercial Officer of LifeSafe Technologies, to discuss a revolutionary firefighting product—TRF+. Designed specifically to combat the long-standing challenge of lithium-ion battery fires, TRF+ is not only effective in extinguishing such fires but also prevents re-ignition. Jake and the HazMat Guys team have rigorously tested the product over six months and share their journey from skepticism to astonishment.

0:00 - 1:19 – Intro & Guest Welcome

Jake introduces the show and guest Paul Jameson, setting the stage for a deep dive into TRF+.

1:20 - 2:55 – The Wheel of Stupid Questions

A light-hearted icebreaker: “Would you rather have three arms and one leg or three legs and one arm?”

2:56 - 6:02 – Initial Skepticism & First Impressions

Jake describes his initial doubts and the first meeting with Paul that started the journey of testing TRF+.

6:03 - 9:28 – Testing Begins

Details of field tests, including unconventional and rigorous methods used to challenge the fluid’s effectiveness.

9:29 - 13:32 – How TRF+ Works

Paul explains the science behind TRF+, including how it disrupts the fire triangle by removing heat and suppressing oxygen buildup.

13:33 - 18:10 – Certifications & Testing Evidence

Discussion of third-party testing, environmental safety, and regulatory standards that back up LifeSafe’s claims.

18:11 - 21:00 – Shelf Life & Longevity

TRF+ has an impressive eight-year shelf life with consistent performance, a rare trait in firefighting fluids.

21:01 - 24:57 – Application Methods & Surface Tension Science

How TRF+ can be deployed through various methods, including fire trucks and handheld canisters, and why it outperforms traditional foams.

24:58 - 28:53 – The Origin Story of TRF+

From a goal of simplifying fire extinguishment to unexpectedly solving lithium battery fires, Paul recounts LifeSafe’s evolution.

28:54 - 35:10 – Wildfire Pro: The Wildland Solution

A look at another LifeSafe product that pre-treats and protects areas from wildfires—complete with real-world testing anecdotes.

35:11 - 37:30 – Where to Learn More & Final Thoughts

Jake and Paul wrap up with resource links, testimonials, and a call for more emergency services to explore this promising tech.

• "Take it, try to make it not work." – A challenge from Paul that fueled six months of independent testing.
• “Even if you put it out, it’s just going to reignite.” – A belief shattered during the field trials.
• “I put my hand on red-hot embers—and it wasn’t even warm.” – Jake's firsthand experience with Wildfire Pro.
• "Every big fire starts as a small fire." – LifeSafe’s design philosophy behind multipurpose extinguishment fluids.

• Fire Suppression Solutions (FSS): Fire SS Contact Page
• UL Testing & Kiwa Certification: Details available on LifeSafe’s website.
• Hazmat Guys: www.thehazmatguys.com

Paul is the Chief Commercial Officer at LifeSafe Technologies. With over seven years at the company, he’s helped steer it from a multipurpose fluid concept to pioneering solutions for modern firefighting challenges, especially lithium-ion battery fires.

We dive deep into a compelling conversation with Jon Vought, a firefighter-paramedic from South Florida and the founder of Rescue 1 CBD. Jon shares his personal and professional journey—starting from growing up in a firefighting family to creating a CBD company aimed at supporting first responders. We explore the challenges of introducing hemp-derived products into emergency services, the scientific and regulatory landscape of CBD, and Jon’s commitment to safety, integrity, and transparency.

⁠www.rescue1cbd.com⁠

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

0:00 – 1:10 | Intro & Guest Welcome

Meet Jon Vought, a South Florida firefighter-paramedic and founder of Rescue 1 CBD. Introduction to the episode's theme.

1:11 – 2:52 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

The hosts debate whether Rambo in First Blood was a hero or a villain, illustrating the value of perspective.

2:53 – 6:53 | Jon’s Path into Firefighting

Jon talks about his firefighter mother’s influence, the Explorer program, and how equality in the fire service shaped his worldview.

6:54 – 12:15 | Early Career & First Fire Experience

Jon recounts his first fire and reflects on the excitement and responsibility of being a new firefighter.

12:16 – 20:25 | The Road to Rescue 1 CBD

A bad surgery recovery and interest in e-commerce lead Jon to CBD. He explains the challenges and motivations behind starting a CBD company specifically for first responders.

20:26 – 24:39 | Navigating Integrity in Business

Jon opens up about a pivotal moment at FDIC when a batch tested positive for THC and how integrity guided his decision to be transparent.

24:40 – 28:30 | CBD Manufacturing & Testing

Insight into Rescue 1 CBD’s meticulous manufacturing and lab-testing process to ensure 0.000% THC—critical for job safety in emergency services.

28:31 – 34:02 | Science & Skepticism

Jon discusses overcoming CBD skepticism by focusing on sleep, mood, and inflammation—backed by research and user results.

34:03 – 39:06 | The Future of THC in Emergency Services

A look at evolving policies, generational shifts, and comparisons to existing prescriptions to argue for thoughtful THC policy reforms.

39:07 – 42:45 | What’s Next for Rescue 1

Jon shares his openness to Rescue 1’s evolution (or closure) post-THC legalization and reveals a sneak peek into a new nicotine-free pouch product.

42:46 – 46:42 | Product Development and Wrap-Up

Jon details the development process of the new product, testing hiccups, and his plans for community-sourced naming and launch.

Key Moments & Quotes

• “Don’t ever forget how excited you were to get this job.” – On staying passionate in the fire service.
• “If it doesn’t work for you, I’ll give your money back—no questions asked.” – On Rescue 1 CBD’s integrity-first approach.
• “This isn’t about getting on the Forbes list; it’s about helping people.” – On the mission behind Rescue 1.

This week on the Hazard Class podcast, we dive deep into a compelling conversation with Jon Vought, a firefighter-paramedic from South Florida and the founder of Rescue 1 CBD. Jon shares his personal and professional journey—starting from growing up in a firefighting family to creating a CBD company aimed at supporting first responders. We explore the challenges of introducing hemp-derived products into emergency services, the scientific and regulatory landscape of CBD, and Jon’s commitment to safety, integrity, and transparency.

www.rescue1cbd.com

0:00 – 1:10 | Intro & Guest Welcome

Meet Jon Vought, a South Florida firefighter-paramedic and founder of Rescue 1 CBD. Introduction to the episode's theme.

1:11 – 2:52 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

The hosts debate whether Rambo in First Blood was a hero or a villain, illustrating the value of perspective.

2:53 – 6:53 | Jon’s Path into Firefighting

Jon talks about his firefighter mother’s influence, the Explorer program, and how equality in the fire service shaped his worldview.

6:54 – 12:15 | Early Career & First Fire Experience

Jon recounts his first fire and reflects on the excitement and responsibility of being a new firefighter.

12:16 – 20:25 | The Road to Rescue 1 CBD

A bad surgery recovery and interest in e-commerce lead Jon to CBD. He explains the challenges and motivations behind starting a CBD company specifically for first responders.

20:26 – 24:39 | Navigating Integrity in Business

Jon opens up about a pivotal moment at FDIC when a batch tested positive for THC and how integrity guided his decision to be transparent.

24:40 – 28:30 | CBD Manufacturing & Testing

Insight into Rescue 1 CBD’s meticulous manufacturing and lab-testing process to ensure 0.000% THC—critical for job safety in emergency services.

28:31 – 34:02 | Science & Skepticism

Jon discusses overcoming CBD skepticism by focusing on sleep, mood, and inflammation—backed by research and user results.

34:03 – 39:06 | The Future of THC in Emergency Services

A look at evolving policies, generational shifts, and comparisons to existing prescriptions to argue for thoughtful THC policy reforms.

39:07 – 42:45 | What’s Next for Rescue 1

Jon shares his openness to Rescue 1’s evolution (or closure) post-THC legalization and reveals a sneak peek into a new nicotine-free pouch product.

42:46 – 46:42 | Product Development and Wrap-Up

Jon details the development process of the new product, testing hiccups, and his plans for community-sourced naming and launch.

• “Don’t ever forget how excited you were to get this job.” – On staying passionate in the fire service.
• “If it doesn’t work for you, I’ll give your money back—no questions asked.” – On Rescue 1 CBD’s integrity-first approach.
• “This isn’t about getting on the Forbes list; it’s about helping people.” – On the mission behind Rescue 1.

Jake welcomes Greensboro Fire Captain Justin Hite for a deeply personal and powerful conversation. Justin shares his two-decade journey in the fire service, the unique path that led him there, and a brutally honest account of his struggles with mental health, including suicidal ideation. This episode breaks stigmas and highlights the importance of seeking help, finding the right support, and the transformative power of vulnerability and honesty in healing.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

• 0:00 – 0:49 | Introduction
• Meet Justin Hite, Greensboro Fire Captain with nearly 20 years of service.
• 0:49 – 4:02 | Icebreaker – The Gorilla Debate
• A light-hearted discussion about whether 100 men could beat a gorilla in a fight.
• 4:03 – 8:53 | Justin’s Fire Service Origin Story
• From playing in a metalcore band to becoming a paramedic and firefighter.
• 8:54 – 15:27 | Climbing the Ranks
• First fire experiences, hazmat roles, promotions, and navigating station politics.
• 15:28 – 25:12 | When Things Fall Apart
• The catalyst: a close colleague’s suicide. Justin reflects on his downward mental health spiral.
• 25:13 – 33:13 | The Brink of Suicide
• Detailed account of Justin’s plan and preparations to end his life—and the moment that changed everything.
• 33:14 – 43:03 | Healing and Recovery
• TMS, ketamine therapy, EMDR, medication, and finding the right therapist.
• 43:04 – 47:37 | Organizational Support & Looking Ahead
• The role of the fire department and union in mental health. Hope for the future.

Key Moments

• “I wrote 14 letters…” – A hauntingly detailed moment where Justin shares how close he came to suicide.
• Ketamine Therapy & TMS – An informative dive into cutting-edge mental health treatments.
• Support Systems Matter – The pivotal role of peer support, therapy, and leadership in his recovery.
• “Just enjoy a mundane, regular Wednesday.” – Justin’s heartfelt new approach to life.

Resources & Mentions

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
• Ketamine Therapy for Depression
• IAFF Center of Excellence
• EMDR Therapy

Guest Info

Justin Hite

• Fire Captain, Greensboro Fire Department
• Mental health advocate
• Background in EMS and hazmat
• Musician and passionate supporter of first responder wellness

Justin Hite’s story is a raw and necessary reminder that even the strongest among us can face unimaginable battles. His courage in speaking out, seeking help, and committing to recovery is a beacon for others. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help—and hope—available.

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need to hear it. Follow Hazard Class on social media for more content that matters.