HAZARD CLASS

• HC0035 - The Life of A Buff Featuring: Shane Neckel

  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 & IcebreakerJake 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 StoryFrom visiting firehouses as a kid to launching a hyper-local news page in high school.(4:58 - 6:53) | Early Fires & Family InfluenceDescribes 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 RiseHow his content blew up after switching to mobile-only photography and embracing short-form video.(9:13 - 11:46) | Gear & On-the-Street LogisticsRelies on pagers, scanners, and deep Detroit street knowledge to catch fires in real time.(11:47 - 13:28) | Firehouse Relationships & Solo BuffingDescribes staying mobile and avoiding station ride-alongs to cover more ground.(13:29 - 15:30) | Detroit Then vs. NowReflects on the city’s efforts to address abandoned housing and reduce fire volume.(15:31 - 17:44) | Most Memorable NightsRemembers action-packed nights with 15+ fires, shootings, and wrecks—sometimes all in one shift.(17:45 - 20:35) | Buff Culture & Nationwide TravelTalks 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 BuffingCompares the experience to watching real-life action movies and describes the pull for younger generations.(22:11 - 25:41) | Vision & What’s NextNo rigid roadmap—just plans to keep growing his platform and enjoying the ride.(25:42 - 27:09) | Wrap-Up & Where to Find ShaneShares 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 & MentionsInstagram: @shaneneckelTikTok: @shaneneckel33Burn (Documentary) – A gritty look at Detroit’s fire department that inspired many buffs.Guest BioShane Neckel is a fire photographer and videographer from Monroe County, Michigan. Known for his high-adrenaline fireground footage in Detroit, Shane uses just an iPhone to document some of the most compelling emergency scenes in the U.S., earning millions of views online.“The Life of a Buff” is a wild ride through the world of firefighting, viewed through the lens of a passionate observer. Shane Neckel brings a raw, unfiltered perspective to life on the streets, fire after fire. Subscribe to the Hazard Class Podcast for more incredible interviews with the people who live and breathe emergency services.Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram to stay updated!

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• HC0034 - The Era of Battery Extinguishment Featuring: Paul Jameson

  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.Segment Breakdown & Timestamps0:00 - 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 & ReferencesFire Suppression Solutions (FSS): Fire SS Contact Page UL Testing & Kiwa Certification: Details available on LifeSafe’s website.Hazmat Guys: www.thehazmatguys.comGuest Bio: Paul JamesonPaul 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.

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• HC0033 - Let's Talk Weed (Kinda) Featuring: Jon Vought of Rescue 1 CBD

  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.comSegment Breakdown & Timestamps0:00 – 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.

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• HC0032 - Finding Peace Through Chaos Featuring: Justin Hite

  In this poignant episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, 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 & Timestamps0:00 – 0:49 | IntroductionMeet Justin Hite, Greensboro Fire Captain with nearly 20 years of service.0:49 – 4:02 | Icebreaker – The Gorilla DebateA light-hearted discussion about whether 100 men could beat a gorilla in a fight.4:03 – 8:53 | Justin’s Fire Service Origin StoryFrom playing in a metalcore band to becoming a paramedic and firefighter.8:54 – 15:27 | Climbing the RanksFirst fire experiences, hazmat roles, promotions, and navigating station politics.15:28 – 25:12 | When Things Fall ApartThe catalyst: a close colleague’s suicide. Justin reflects on his downward mental health spiral.25:13 – 33:13 | The Brink of SuicideDetailed account of Justin’s plan and preparations to end his life—and the moment that changed everything.33:14 – 43:03 | Healing and RecoveryTMS, ketamine therapy, EMDR, medication, and finding the right therapist.43:04 – 47:37 | Organizational Support & Looking AheadThe 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 & MentionsTranscranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)Ketamine Therapy for DepressionIAFF Center of ExcellenceEMDR TherapyGuest InfoJustin HiteFire Captain, Greensboro Fire DepartmentMental health advocateBackground in EMS and hazmatMusician and passionate supporter of first responder wellnessJustin 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.

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• HC0031 - A Culture of Extinguishment REVISTED Featuring: Ray McCormack

  In this compelling episode, We sit down with one of the most influential voices in the fire service, retired FDNY Lieutenant Ray McCormack. Known for his pivotal 2009 FDIC keynote, "A Culture of Extinguishment," McCormack opens up about his origins in the fire service, the legacy of bravery and tragedy in his family, and the philosophical rift in fire service culture surrounding safety and aggression. A powerful conversation unfolds about leadership, innovation, and the future of firefighting.Segment Breakdown & Timestamps0:00 – 1:14 | Introduction and IcebreakerHost introduces the podcast and Ray McCormack.“Lieutenant Ray McCormack, do you believe in ghosts?”"Ghosts? I don't think so. No... But okay. You're going to take team no ghost."2:25 – 5:06 | How Ray Got Into the Fire ServiceFrom CBS Television to firefighting by fate and family legacy.“I didn’t automatically want to follow in my father’s footsteps… but he was right. I would love it. And I did.”5:06 – 7:33 | Childhood Memories and First FireReflections on visiting the firehouse and vivid memories of his first fire.“It was the whole package at one time… That was my first experience. Kind of vague, you know?”7:33 – 9:57 | A Turning Point and the First ArticleDiscovering a passion for writing through improving tools organization.“You can do more than just come to work. You can make a difference.”9:58 – 13:34 | Journey into TeachingFrom writing to becoming an FDIC keynote speaker.“It takes time… The FDNY values time unofficially. You need the respect of your peers.”13:34 – 17:19 | Impact of ‘A Culture of Extinguishment’ SpeechHost shares a personal story of being inspired by Ray’s keynote.“Without your speech, I would not be a fireman now.”17:20 – 23:30 | The Message Behind the SpeechA critique of “safety culture” and the importance of aggressive, intelligent firefighting.“No one is asking you to go on a suicide mission… But you also have to be dependable.”23:30 – 29:36 | Tactical Safety and Cultural EvolutionInsights on incorporating safety into skills and procedures.“Aggressive is not bad. In fact, I want aggressive firefighters responding to my emergency.”29:36 – 36:23 | The Force Nozzle and InnovationDevelopment of a groundbreaking nozzle technology with HEN.“It reduces kinks and it fights for you… This little device fixes all that for you.”Key Moments & QuotesOn finding purpose:“You can make a difference in how things go in the company at the firefighter level.”On firefighting philosophy:“Aggressive is not bad at all. I want a group of aggressive firefighters responding to my emergency.”On industry change:“Firefighting is local… But we can’t bury our heads in the sand. We must advance technically.”Resources & ReferencesRay McCormack’s 2009 FDIC Keynote: “A Culture of Extinguishment”HEN Force Nozzle – HENNozzles.comGuest Info: Ray McCormackPosition: Retired FDNY LieutenantExperience: 39 years in the FDNY; author of the Engine Company Operations ManualNotable Work: 2009 FDIC Keynote, numerous fire service articlesAffiliation: HEN Nozzles, FDIC Advisory Board

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