HAZARD CLASS

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Johnny Torgeson—chief officer, leadership consultant, and author—to unpack his unconventional journey into the fire service and the leadership philosophy he’s built through real-world experience. From a last-minute decision in high school to becoming a U.S. Army firefighter, Dr. Torgeson shares how effort—not talent or grades—became the defining factor in his success.
The conversation dives into the realities of leadership in emergency services, including how to motivate individuals with different drives, how to lead people through difficult life “seasons,” and why the idea of a constantly “high-performing team” is flawed. Instead, he introduces the concept of building optimized teams—meeting people where they are while still maintaining standards.
Through powerful stories from boot camp, the firehouse, and his leadership career, Dr. Torgeson emphasizes self-belief, accountability, and understanding human behavior as the foundation of effective leadership. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to lead better, build stronger teams, and unlock their full potential.

Dr. Torgeson's Website:www.forgingteams.com
HAIX Boots:
www.haixusa.com
Rigaku Analytical Devices:
www.rigakuanalytical.com

00:00 – Intro & Guest Background
Meet Dr. Johnny Torgeson and his career across military and fire service leadership.
04:30 – Origin Story & Career Beginnings
A spontaneous decision leads to joining the Army as a firefighter.
11:00 – Military vs Civilian Fire Service
Key differences, experiences, and lessons from multiple systems.
17:30 – 9/11 Experience
Being on standby during 9/11 and the emotional impact on crews.
25:00 – Boot Camp & Effort Mindset
How basic training reshaped his belief in effort over ability.
33:30 – Motivation & Proving People Wrong
The role of doubt, self-belief, and internal drive.
45:00 – Leadership & Motivation Theory
Why discipline alone isn’t enough—and how leaders must adapt.
55:30 – Understanding Your People
Learning what drives individuals and tailoring leadership approaches.
1:05:00 – Life Seasons & Team Performance
Why teams fluctuate and how to lead through personal struggles.
1:13:00 – Accountability with Empathy
Balancing standards with compassion in leadership.
1:18:30 – Leading Former Peers
Navigating difficult dynamics, influence, and respect.
1:21:00 – Closing Thoughts & Resources
Where to connect with Dr. Torgeson and learn more.

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake talks to Sidd Thakur, founder and CEO of Paradigm Robotics, about his journey from childhood tinkering with Legos to creating robots that aid first responders in hazardous situations. Paradigm Robotics' innovative robots, like their heat-resistant models, help reduce risk and save lives in emergencies. Sidd shares the challenges of building these robots and discusses the future of robotics in emergency services.HAIX Boots: www.haixusa.com/
Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.rigakuanalytical.com

0:00 - 1:03 | Introduction to Sidd Thakur
Sidd Thakur, robotics innovator and founder of Paradigm Robotics, shares his background in engineering and robotics from a young age.
1:04 - 2:50 | Sidd’s Robotics Journey
Sidd discusses his early interest in robotics, from Legos to building systems for his mom’s garden and entering competitive robotics.
2:51 - 4:20 | Inspirations and Influences
Sidd reflects on the character Wall-E, which inspired his passion for robotics and engineering.
4:21 - 7:10 | Hardware vs. Software
Jake and Sidd talk about the balance between hardware and software in robotics and how both are needed for success.
7:11 - 11:07 | From Toys to Real-World Robotics
Sidd explains how he moved from toys like K’nex to building real robots and how online resources and cheap components made robotics accessible.
11:08 - 14:15 | Family Influence
Sidd shares how his parents, both engineers and entrepreneurs, created an environment of creativity and support that influenced his career.
14:16 - 21:01 | Why Emergency Services?
Sidd talks about how his early work on wildfire detection led him to focus on creating robotics for structural fire and rescue operations.
21:02 - 24:23 | Pain Points in the Fire Service
Sidd discusses the key challenges in the fire service, such as firefighter safety, staffing shortages, and emerging threats like lithium-ion fires.
24:24 - 30:28 | Limitations of Robotics
Sidd explains where robots can’t replace humans, such as in fast response situations, but can assist in high-risk environments like large-scale warehouse fires.
30:29 - 38:17 | Firebot’s Capabilities
Sidd introduces Firebot, a versatile robot designed for hazardous environments, capable of high-temperature operations and equipped with sensors for a wide range of tasks.
38:18 - 40:13 | Explosion-Proof Design
Jake asks how Firebot is explosion-proof, and Sidd explains the engineering behind making robots safe for explosive atmospheres.
40:14 - 47:35 | Modular Platforms
Sidd discusses how Paradigm Robotics’ modular design allows fire departments to customize Firebot with different sensors and features based on their needs.
47:36 - 50:37 | Training and Usability
Sidd shares how easy it is for first responders to operate Firebot, with training times as short as 15 seconds, and how the user interface is designed for quick deployment.
50:38 - 54:01 | User Interface and Control Systems
Sidd explains that Firebot uses a familiar, simple control system like a video game controller to ensure ease of use for anyone on the team.
54:02 - 59:03 | Connectivity in Challenging Environments
Sidd discusses how Paradigm Robotics ensures reliable communication in difficult environments like concrete buildings, using advanced radio systems and antennas.
59:04 - 1:03:35 | The Future of Robotics
Sidd looks ahead, predicting greater adoption of robotics in emergency services, with AI integration, and the ability to tackle emerging problems like staffing shortages.
1:03:36 - 1:05:55 | AI and the Singularity
Jake asks about the possibility of AI causing problems like in science fiction. Sidd reassures listeners that safety is the top priority in robotics development.
1:05:56 - 1:06:47 | Closing Thoughts
Sidd concludes the conversation, excited for the future of robotics in emergency services and the impact it will have on firefighter safety.

Michael W. Brown joins the Hazard Class Podcast to trace his path from retail security in Cincinnati to a 32-year DEA career spanning Detroit, Bolivia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Tajikistan, and Myanmar. He explains how overseas counter-narcotics work evolved from raiding labs and airstrips to targeting the chemical supply chains that keep global drug production running. The second half shifts to the modern drug landscape, where Brown breaks down fentanyl, cartel business models, border smuggling, and why precursor interdiction and field technology are central to the fight today.
LinkedIn: Rigaku — linkedin.com/company/rigakucorp
X: @rigaku — x.com/rigaku
YouTube: @RigakuCorporation — youtube.com/@RigakuCorporation
Instagram: @rigaku_corporation — instagram.com/rigaku_corporation
Facebook: RigakuCorp — facebook.com/RigakuCorp

00:00 — Intro and Michael Brown’s background
Brown is introduced along with his DEA career and current role at Rigaku.
01:18 — What inspired him to join DEA
A 60 Minutes segment on DEA operations in South America pushes him away from law school and toward federal service.
03:35 — The recruiter, the suit, and getting accepted
Brown tells the story of first showing up underdressed, getting sent back, and quickly landing a training slot.
08:49 — First assignment: Detroit
He begins his career in Detroit and describes the pace and intensity of narcotics work there.
13:31 — Undercover buys and street-level enforcement
The conversation moves into informants, cover stories, and what an actual buy-bust looked like.
26:29 — Bolivia and Operation Snowcap
Brown describes deploying to Bolivia, working with UMAPAR, and targeting cocaine labs, airstrips, and precursor hubs.
35:50 — Why the drug war never stayed contained
He reflects on early overseas operations, cartel adaptation, and the political limits of long-term success.
44:08 — Pakistan, 9/11, Afghanistan, and India
The discussion shifts to his overseas career arc and how counter-drug work intersected with broader geopolitical events.
49:58 — Myanmar and the pivot to chemical interdiction
Brown explains how meth production in Myanmar pushed him toward technology-based counter-narcotics work.
55:44 — Precursors as the center of gravity
He argues that precursor chemicals are the real lifeblood of fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and meth production.
58:03 — How fentanyl spread
Brown gives his view of the fentanyl timeline, from opioids and heroin to cartel-driven synthetic drug production.
65:02 — Cartels as Fortune 500-style enterprises
He explains why modern cartels operate more like multinational corporations than street gangs.
74:51 — How drugs actually cross the border
Brown breaks down smuggling through points of entry, vehicle concealment, parcels, and volume overwhelm.
85:03 — Retirement and work at Rigaku
He closes by explaining how his current role helps agencies use technology to identify drugs and precursors more safely.

Deputy Assistant Chief (Ret.) Frank Leeb, a veteran of over 31 years with the FDNY. From his humble beginnings in East Farmingdale Volunteer Fire Department to retiring from the FDNY, Frank shares a wealth of knowledge and personal stories. He discusses his early days in volunteer firefighting, his journey through FDNY, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Frank’s passion for the fire service is evident as he talks about mentorship, training, leadership, and his work with the First Responder Center for Excellence, a program dedicated to addressing the mental and physical challenges faced by first responders.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction to Chief Frank Leeb:
Meet Chief Frank Leeb, a veteran firefighter with over 31 years of service. He shares his career journey and current work with the First Responder Center for Excellence.
2:00 - Early Beginnings in East Farmingdale Fire Department:
Frank reflects on his childhood and how his brother’s involvement in the East Farmingdale Fire Department inspired him to join, highlighting the diverse group of people who mentored him in his early volunteer years.
4:00 - The Influence of His Brother and Volunteer Fire Service Mentors:
Frank discusses how volunteer mentors shaped his understanding of leadership and service, emphasizing the importance of learning from everyone around you.
7:00 - The FDNY Connection and the Path to Joining the Department:
Frank talks about his decision to pursue a career in the FDNY, passing the entrance exam at 17, and the early connections he made with city firefighters.
10:00 - Lessons from the First Real Fire:
Frank recalls his first significant fire in New York City and the lessons learned about preparation, teamwork, and using all firefighting equipment.
19:00 - The Value of Training and Lifelong Learning in the Fire Service:
Frank highlights the importance of continuous education in the fire service and how a lifelong commitment to learning shaped his leadership style.
26:00 - The Evolution of Fire Academy Training and Changes in Expectations:
A look back at fire academy training in Frank’s early days and how it has evolved, particularly with EMS integration and the ongoing challenge of meeting modern demands.
30:00 - The Importance of Fire Academies Being Both Difficult and Realistic:
Frank discusses the debate about fire academy standards and the need for a balance between difficulty and realistic expectations for the job.
41:00 - Transition from Engine Work to Special Operations (Squad 270):
Frank shares his experiences transitioning to Squad 270, one of the FDNY's special operations units, and how the specialized training prepared him for complex fire scenes.
50:00 - The Impact of 9/11 on the FDNY and the Fire Service Community:
Frank gives an emotional account of the events of September 11, 2001, discussing the loss of colleagues and the strength of the FDNY’s response in the aftermath.
1:10:00 - The Importance of Resilience and Leadership After Tragedy:
Frank talks about the FDNY's resilience after 9/11, sharing lessons in leadership and pride from the department's response to the tragedy.
1:15:00 - Frank’s Work with the First Responder Center for Excellence:
Frank discusses his current role at the First Responder Center for Excellence, focusing on the organization's efforts to address mental health, cancer awareness, and other challenges faced by first responders.
Important Resources:
First Responder Center for Excellence
Frank’s books: Cornerstones of Leadership, On and Off the Fireground, 30 Fires You Must Know.

Jared Vermeulen, a South Florida fire captain with nearly 20 years in the fire service and author of The Modern Fire Officer.
Jared shares his unconventional journey into firefighting, his early involvement in special operations, and the lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy. The conversation explores firehouse culture, mentorship, career development, and the evolving responsibilities of today’s fire officers.

https://modernfireofficer.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Fire-Officer-Building-Endures-ebook/dp/B0GQDNXM6T?ref_=saga_ast_ss_dsk_dp

0:00 – Introduction
The host introduces the Hazard Class Podcast and welcomes fire captain and author Jared Vermeulen.
2:18 – Jared’s Origin Story
Jared explains how he originally planned to pursue industrial design before firefighter friends encouraged him to try the fire service.
3:25 – Special Operations Career Path
Early in his career, Jared pursued specialized rescue disciplines including rope rescue, trench rescue, confined space, hazmat, and vehicle machinery rescue.
4:59 – EMS and Fire Service Operations
Discussion of how South Florida fire departments operate integrated EMS systems where firefighters frequently function as paramedics and handle a high volume of medical calls.
7:13 – Becoming a Paramedic First
Jared attended paramedic school before fire academy due to hiring delays, which ultimately helped him secure a position with his department.
9:39 – Training and Probation
New hires undergo an intensive onboarding program and rigorous medical protocol training before operating independently.
14:49 – Traveling Before the Fire Service
Before becoming a firefighter, Jared spent significant time traveling throughout Central and South America, gaining life experience that shaped his worldview.
16:16 – Perspective from Ecuador
A powerful story about working with shrimp fishermen in Ecuador highlights how travel helped him gain appreciation for life and opportunity in the United States.
21:07 – The Firefighter Mindset
Jared discusses how many firefighters are driven by a desire for challenge, adventure, and testing themselves under pressure.
24:00 – Early Years in the Firehouse
Starting as the youngest member on his crews, Jared learned from firefighters with decades of experience.
26:27 – Learning Through Observation
He emphasizes that much of the best learning occurs during everyday calls through observation, discussion, and informal training moments.
32:24 – Promotions and Leadership
Jared reflects on moving quickly through the ranks and navigating the challenges of leading firefighters who once trained him.
40:06 – Why Become a Fire Officer
He explains that becoming a captain was about shaping culture and building a firehouse environment where firefighters can succeed.
42:08 – The Invisible Work of Leadership
Much of leadership involves unseen responsibilities—mentoring, managing relationships, and supporting firefighters through difficult calls.
45:41 – Developing Future Officers
Firefighters who aspire to lead must begin building technical competence, leadership ability, and strong relationships early in their careers.
49:57 – The Modern Fire Officer
Jared explains the concept behind his book and how the fire service has evolved due to expanded responsibilities, public scrutiny, and increasing expectations.
53:13 – Wearing Multiple Leadership Hats
Modern fire officers must act as incident commanders, mentors, coaches, and peer supporters depending on the situation.
55:22 – Mentorship in the Fire Service
A lack of mentorship is one of the biggest leadership gaps in many departments. Intentional mentoring programs are essential for developing future leaders.
58:25 – Morale and Firehouse Culture
Station-level officers play a critical role in shaping morale, while administrators must provide support and empowerment for those leaders.