HAZARD CLASS

• HC0040 - 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 gunfightRunning unarmed toward dangerUsing his sister-in-law’s handgunEngaging the suspectProviding emergency medical aidEmotional aftermath with his familyThis 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.”

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• HC0039 - 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 QuestionsAI’s future and whether it could become sentient and destroy humanity.[5:52] – Bobby’s Origin StoryGrowing up in Levittown and his love for running, which shaped his competitive mindset.[8:49] – Early Firefighting DaysJoining the fire service at 18, and transitioning from EMS to FDNY.[11:39] – Joining FDNY and Special OperationsHis transition to FDNY, becoming part of Special Operations after 9/11.[23:19] – Moving to Hazmat OneHis move to Hazmat One after 12 years with Squad 288 and leveraging his chemistry degree.[26:08] – The Beginning of Hazmat GuysHow the Hazmat Guys podcast started and the challenges of building a hazmat education platform.[31:22] – Teaching and MentorshipBobby’s journey into teaching, from training officer in the volunteer fire service to FDNY's department-wide instructor.[37:37] – The Future of Hazmat GuysUpcoming projects and collaborations with states and countries.[40:39] – Hobbies and Life Outside of HazmatHis involvement in ultramarathons, owning a trophy shop, and competitive bagpiping.[43:27] – Looking Back and Looking ForwardBobby’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.

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• HC0038 - 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 & IntroductionHost 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 & BackgroundGrowing 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 PathStudying 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 FireTransitioning 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 GuysWhy 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 PodcastMoving 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 GamesPlans 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 ReflectionsMike’s pride in building something bigger than himself.Host and guest share laughs about ballet, dyslexia, and life lessons.

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• 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]: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

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• HC0036 - REHAB RAMBLINGS

  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 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.Key Moments and Takeaways: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.

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