HAZARD CLASS

Jake Ryks
  • 5.0 (14)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

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.

  1. 2d ago

    How Fire Departments Become Toxic | Dr. Candace Ashby | HC0080

    Dr. Candace Ashby has spent more than 40 years in the fire service, and she's convinced the biggest threat facing today's fire departments isn't what's burning. It's the culture inside the firehouse. In this episode, Candace shares the unlikely story that took her from a troubled teenager to Battalion Chief with the Indianapolis Fire Department before diving into the leadership lessons she learned the hard way. We discuss why company officers hold more influence than any fire chief, the difference between accountability and punishment, why communication breaks down inside organizations, and how fire departments can rebuild trust, ownership, and brotherhood. If you've ever been frustrated by toxic station politics, ineffective leadership, or the "us versus them" mentality between administration and operations, this conversation offers practical advice for creating a healthier culture from the kitchen table to the fireground. GUEST BIO: Dr. Candace Ashby is a Battalion Chief with the Indianapolis Fire Department and has served in the fire service for more than four decades. She holds a Doctorate in Management and Organizational Leadership and is the founder of Elite Public Safety Consulting, where she helps fire departments improve leadership, organizational culture, and officer development. Known for her direct, practical teaching style, Candace has become one of the fire service's most respected voices on accountability, communication, and building high-performing organizations. ELITE Public Safety Consulting ⁠https://www.elitepublicsafety.com/⁠ LinkedIn⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-candace-ashby-iaai-cfi-cfei-cfii-cvfi-mifiree-5010091a/⁠ Episode Sponsors HAIX USAhttps://www.haixusa.com Rigaku Analytical Deviceshttps://rigakuanalytical.com

  2. Jul 29

    Why Firefighters Are Burning Out and How to Fix It | James Geering | HC0079

    James Geering's path to the fire service is anything but conventional. Raised on a farm in England, he pursued careers as a stunt performer before immigrating to the United States and ultimately becoming a firefighter and paramedic. In this episode, James shares the experiences that shaped his perspective, the lessons learned from serving in multiple fire departments across the country, and how those experiences led him to create the internationally recognized Behind The Shield Podcast. The conversation explores firefighter wellness far beyond fitness. James explains why sleep deprivation, cumulative stress, organizational culture, and outdated scheduling models are driving many of the profession's biggest challenges, including burnout, cancer, injury, divorce, and suicide. He makes the case for the 24/72 shift schedule, discusses why recruitment and retention problems are symptoms of larger systemic issues, and outlines how departments can improve both firefighter performance and long-term health through evidence-based leadership. Jake and James also examine the power of long-form podcasting, the importance of meaningful human connection, and why difficult conversations are essential if the fire service hopes to evolve. This episode is an honest, thought-provoking discussion about leadership, resilience, and building a healthier future for the next generation of firefighters. Guest Bio James Geering is a former firefighter, paramedic, strength and conditioning coach, and the creator and host of the Behind The Shield Podcast, one of the most respected podcasts in the fire service and tactical performance communities. Over nearly 1,300 episodes, he has interviewed world-leading experts in medicine, psychology, military special operations, leadership, fitness, sleep science, and emergency services. Today, James is a leading advocate for firefighter health, performance, and organizational change, dedicating his work to improving recruitment, retention, mental health, and longevity across the fire service through free, evidence-based education. CONNECT WITH JAMES GEERINGBehind The Shield Podcasthttps://www.behindtheshieldpodcast.com/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/behindtheshield911/Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/behindtheshield911/YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@BehindTheShieldPodcastLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/james-geering/SPONSORSHAIX USAhttps://www.haixusa.com/Rigaku Analytical Deviceshttps://www.rigakuanalytical.com/FOLLOW THE HAZ MAT GUYSWebsitehttps://thehazmatguys.comTraininghttps://training.thehazmatguys.com

  3. Jul 22

    The Firefighter Fitness System That Actually Works | Ryan Provencher | HC0078

    After eight weeks of following Firefighter Peak Performance, Jake sits down with coach Ryan Provencher to review the results, lessons learned, and what's next. Rather than talking about what the program should do, this episode focuses on what it actually did, including nearly 20 pounds of weight loss, improved body composition, measurable gains in firefighter specific performance, and the challenges of balancing fitness with the unpredictable reality of shift work. Ryan explains why firefighter fitness should be built around movement patterns, work capacity, recovery, and cognitive performance instead of traditional bodybuilding or gym routines. Together, Jake and Ryan discuss the Firefighter Tactical Fitness Assessment, the importance of managing intensity instead of constantly redlining, breathing techniques that improve efficiency, and why documenting workouts is just as important as completing them. The conversation also dives deep into nutrition, sustainable meal planning, body recomposition, the 80/20 NET Scoring System, and why consistency beats perfection every time. They explore how firefighters can build fitness programs that actually fit their schedules, remove common barriers to healthy eating, and create habits that last well beyond a temporary weight loss phase. The discussion expands into larger issues facing the fire service, including tactical athlete culture, firefighter wellness initiatives, academy standards, hiring philosophies, fitness requirements, and how departments can develop healthier firefighters without relying on punitive fitness testing. Whether you're looking to improve your own health or rethink how departments approach firefighter wellness, this episode offers practical, experience based strategies that can be applied immediately. GUEST OVERVIEW: Ryan Provencher is the founder of Firefighter Peak Performance and a retired Training Chief with decades of experience developing firefighter fitness, wellness, and performance programs. Combining a background in exercise science with a career in the fire service, Ryan specializes in helping firefighters improve strength, endurance, mobility, nutrition, recovery, and long term health through evidence based, job specific training. His Tactical Athlete philosophy focuses on preparing firefighters for the physical and cognitive demands of emergency response while creating sustainable fitness and nutrition habits that improve performance both on and off the fireground. Ryan Provencherhttps://www.firefighterpeakperformance.comFirefighter Peak Performance Coachinghttps://www.firefighterpeakperformance.com/coachingFirefighter Peak Performance Blog & Resourceshttps://www.firefighterpeakperformance.com/blogFirefighter Peak Performance Educationhttps://www.firefighterpeakperformance.com/educationFirefighter Peak Performance on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/firefighter-peak-performance/HAIX USAhttps://www.haixusa.comRigaku Analytical Deviceshttps://www.rigakuanalytical.com

  4. Jul 20 ·  Bonus

    I Flew in an F-16 With the Thunderbirds | Real Flight Footage + Maj. Sam "RaZZ" Larson

    This is not your typical episode of The Hazard Class Podcast. For this special bonus mini episode, we're doing things a little differently. Jake recently had the once-in-a-lifetime privilege of flying with Major Sam "RaZZ" Larson of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and throughout this episode, actual in-flight footage from Jake's flight with "RaZZ" serves as the backdrop for their conversation. You'll see the real experience unfold while hearing directly from the pilot who was in the cockpit with him. "RaZZ", a former F-22 Raptor pilot who transitioned to the F-16 and joined the Thunderbirds as Thunderbird 8, shares his journey from watching air shows as a kid in Iowa to flying with one of the most recognizable demonstration teams in the world. He also discusses the history and mission of the Thunderbirds and their role as ambassadors representing the Air Force and the United States. Then, Jake and "RaZZ" break down their flight together. From a max-afterburner quick-climb takeoff to low-level sneak passes, flying over Duluth, joining the Thunderbirds in formation, experiencing the Delta Burst, pulling 9Gs, and even giving Jake the controls of the F-16, "RaZZ" explains exactly what went into an experience that is almost impossible to put into words. But this episode goes beyond the flight itself. Jake and "RaZZ" dig into the culture behind the Thunderbirds and the lessons that can be applied far beyond aviation. They discuss why Thunderbird debriefs can last many times longer than the flights themselves, the importance of leaving rank and ego at the door, openly admitting mistakes, and constantly working to become better as individuals and as a team. "RaZZ" also explains the surprising balance between precision and fun within the Thunderbirds, including how their unique radio communications help maintain safety and synchronization while keeping the energy high. It's a short, unconventional episode about flying fast, pulling 9Gs, chasing perfection, learning from mistakes, building elite teams, and never losing sight of just how incredible it is to do something you love. For the full experience, this is one you'll want to watch on YouTube or Spotify Video.

  5. Jul 15

    Firefighter Nutrition Myths Busted | GLP-1s, Protein & Weight Loss | Megan Lautz | HC0077

    Nutrition advice is everywhere, but how much of it actually applies to first responders? In this episode of The Hazard Class Podcast, registered dietitian and RescueRD founder Megan Lautz returns to separate fact from fiction when it comes to firefighter nutrition, performance, and long-term health. The conversation explores why crash diets fail, how to build sustainable eating habits in an unpredictable profession, and why many firefighters unknowingly sabotage their own performance through unrealistic expectations. Megan also tackles some of today's biggest nutrition debates, including GLP-1 weight loss medications, energy drinks, protein intake, body recomposition, meal timing, organic foods, processed foods, and the role of convenience foods on shift. Along the way, she shares practical strategies firefighters can actually use, from improving station eating habits to making smarter choices during busy shifts without chasing the latest fad diet. Whether you're trying to lose weight, improve fitness, perform better on the fireground, or simply build healthier habits that last, this episode delivers evidence-based guidance tailored specifically to the realities of emergency responders. Guest Overview Megan Lautz is an award-winning registered dietitian, strength coach, and the founder of RescueRD, where she specializes in nutrition and performance for firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, and other first responders. After serving as an embedded fire department dietitian, she now works full-time with departments across the country, helping agencies improve health, fitness, and operational readiness through practical, science-backed nutrition strategies. Megan is also the team dietitian for the Baltimore Orioles and the author of the upcoming firefighter nutrition book Fueling Fire. RescueRD Websitehttps://www.rescuerd.com Rescue RD CHALLENGE! https://www.rescuerd.com/free-challenge.html Nutrition Coaching & Department Serviceshttps://www.rescuerd.com/departments.html Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/rescue.rd/ LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/meganlautz/ Thanks to our sponsors! Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.RigakuAnalytical.com HIAX Boots: www.HIAXUSA.com

  6. Jul 8

    What 5,000 Firefighter Rescues Taught Us About Saving Lives | Jeff Bryant | President of Fire Nuggets | HC0076

    What actually happens when firefighters rescue people from burning buildings, and what does the data tell us that decades of tradition never could? In this episode of Hazard Class, I sit down with Jeff Bryant, President of Fire Nuggets, member of the Brothers in Battle cadre, and one of the driving forces behind the Firefighter Rescue Survey. We dive into the research that's changing the way the fire service thinks about search, rescue, victim survivability, and firefighter training. Jeff shares his journey from growing up in a firefighter family to becoming a nationally recognized instructor and advocate for evidence-based fireground tactics. We discuss firefighter recruitment, the shortcomings of traditional Firefighter I & II curriculums, training scars, search techniques, victim location data, thermal imaging, engine company operations, and why collecting real-world rescue data matters. If you're passionate about improving fireground performance, challenging outdated assumptions, and making more successful rescues, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Guest Bio Jeff Bryant is a third-generation firefighter with the Aurora, Illinois Fire Department, where he has served on both engine and truck companies since 2014. He began his fire service career as a volunteer in 2007 and has become widely recognized for his work in firefighter rescue research, education, and operational training. Jeff serves as President of Fire Nuggets, is a member of the Brothers in Battle instructional cadre, and plays a leading role in the Firefighter Rescue Survey, helping collect and analyze firefighter rescue data from across North America. His work focuses on improving search operations, victim survivability, firefighter rescue tactics, and evidence-based fireground decision-making. Jeff regularly instructs at conferences and training events across the country, helping firefighters translate real rescue data into better outcomes on the fireground. Firefighter Rescue Survey Learn more about the survey, report firefighter rescues, and explore the data driving evidence-based fireground tactics. Firefighter Rescue Survey FAQ Answers common questions about the survey, how rescues are defined, and how the data is collected. Firefighter Rescue Survey: About the Project Background on the mission, history, and contributors behind the Firefighter Rescue Survey. Fire Nuggets Jeff Bryant serves as President of Fire Nuggets, a nonprofit dedicated to providing high-impact firefighter training nationwide. Jeff Bryant Instructor Profile Jeff's instructor bio, current assignments, affiliations, and areas of instruction. Fire Nuggets Classes & Events Find upcoming classes taught by Jeff Bryant and other nationally recognized instructors. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.rigakuanalytical.com HIAX Boots: www.HIAXUSA.com

  7. Jul 1

    Life Behind the Wheel of a Monster Truck | Paul Strong & Kaila Savage | HC0075

    In honor of America's 250th Birthday, we take a hard left turn from emergency services and dive headfirst into the wild world of monster trucks! Jake sits down with husband-and-wife monster truck drivers Paul and Kaila Strong for an inside look at what it really takes to build, race, crash, and survive in one of motorsports’ most chaotic arenas. Paul shares his incredible story of how a difficult season in life, while spending years at the hospital with his premature twin daughters, unexpectedly led him to discover monster trucks and completely change the course of his life. From quitting a stable software career to chasing teams, buying their first truck, and learning everything the hard way, Paul and Kaila break down the reality behind the sport: the mechanics, the crashes, the cost, and the adrenaline. Kaila also shares the story behind becoming the first female driver to successfully land a monster truck backflip, including the nerves, the risk, and the unforgettable moment the stadium erupted. The conversation dives deep into how monster trucks are actually driven, how drivers use rear steer, throttle, and brakes to control the truck in midair, what parts break the most, and how the sport has evolved from old-school car-crushing chaos into the polished arena spectacle fans know today. They also talk about their newest venture: the Monster Truck Driving School at Horsepower Park in North Carolina, where fans can finally stop wondering what it feels like and actually find out for themselves. This one is pure gearhead fun. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to send 12,000 pounds flying through the air, this episode is for you Guest Bios: Paul Strong is a veteran monster truck driver with nearly 20 years behind the wheel. Since starting in 2005, he has driven for major promotions including Monster Jam and currently pilots Quad Chaos on the Monster X Tour. Beyond competition, Paul co-owns Horsepower Park in North Carolina and is helping launch one of the first dedicated Monster Truck Driving Schools in the country. Kaila Strong is a professional monster truck driver and trailblazer in the sport. In 2011, she became the first woman in history to land a monster truck backflip, cementing her place in motorsports history. Alongside Paul, she continues to compete, build trucks, and help grow the next generation of monster truck fans and drivers through Horsepower Park and their new driving school. MONSTER TRUCK DRIVING SCHOOL: https://monsterfreestyle.com/ Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.RigakuAnalytical.com HIAX Boots:www.HIAXUSA.com

  8. Jun 24

    Everything You Know About Fire Attack Might Be Wrong | Dr. Dan Madrzykowski | UL FSRI | HC0074

    Jake sits down with Dr. Dan Madrzykowski, one of the most respected minds in fire science, for a conversation focused on the gap between fireground tradition and research-backed tactics. Drawing from more than 30 years of fire research, Dan walks through the evolution of modern fire dynamics and how major incidents, firefighter fatalities, and large-scale testing helped reshape the way we understand ventilation, suppression, and fire behavior. The discussion explores ventilation-limited fires, flow path management, wind-driven fires, transitional attack, search tactics, and the science behind interior versus exterior water application. They also tackle some of the fire service’s most debated topics, including fog versus smooth bore nozzles, positive pressure ventilation, the “power cone” myth, and why many long-standing firefighting beliefs continue to persist despite clear scientific evidence. This episode is a deep but practical look at how firefighters can make better decisions on the fireground by understanding the why behind the tactics, not just the how. If you care about firefighter survival, smarter suppression, and evolving with the modern fire environment, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Guest Overview: Dr. Dan Madrzykowski is a leading fire protection engineer and one of the most influential fire researchers in the world. He currently serves as Senior Director of Research at the Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). He spent more than three decades at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), where he authored over 85 technical reports, studies, and book chapters focused on fire behavior, suppression tactics, and firefighter safety. Throughout his career, Dan has played a key role in some of the most impactful fire service research projects in North America, including studies on wind-driven fires, ventilation-limited fire behavior, search and rescue operations, and tactical fire attack. His work has directly helped shape modern firefighting strategy and continues to influence departments around the world. FSRI.org  Access to all of our research activities including Battery Fire Safety (FF tactics, exposure hazards, and decon), data science and NERIS, firefighter health and safety, fire modeling and materials, and WUI.    Training.fsri.org Fire Safety Academy which offers free online training courses and downloadable resources that instructors may want to incorporate into their classes.  Below are links to specific material covered in our conversation: https://training.fsri.org/course/109/evidence-based-structural-firefighting https://training.fsri.org/resources/228/cherry-road-fire-isfsi-and-ul-fsri-understanding-and-fighting-basement-fires https://training.fsri.org/resources/94/understanding-flow-paths-low-intake-and-high-exhaust https://training.fsri.org/resources/409/residential-fire-near-miss-in-lagrange-ga-incident-video HIAXUSA.com RIgakuAnalytical.Com

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5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jake Ryks
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    91
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jake Ryks
  • Show Website
    HAZARD CLASS

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