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. 5D AGO

    HC0058 - T. John Cunningham - Assistant Commissioner - MN Dept of Public Safety

    Jake sits down with T. John Cunningham, Assistant Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. With a background in fire service leadership and emergency management, Cunningham shares his unique journey from a young fire explorer in Greenwich, Connecticut, to overseeing statewide emergency response systems in Minnesota. John@tjohncunningham.com www.tjohncunningham.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjohncunningham/ Chapters: 00:00 - IntroductionHost Jake introduces T. John Cunningham, former fire chief, emergency manager, and current Assistant Commissioner at the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. 03:00 - Early Beginnings in Public SafetyT. John reflects on how his public safety journey began at the age of 13 in Greenwich, Connecticut, as a Fire Explorer, sparking his passion for firefighting and technical rescue. 07:00 - Moving to MinnesotaCunningham discusses his move to Minnesota to become fire chief and emergency management director in Elk River, including the personal challenges of relocating across the country. 10:00 - Leading Elk River Fire DepartmentCunningham talks about his time as Fire Chief in Elk River, transforming the department and overcoming challenges as a younger fire service leader. 14:00 - Transitioning to Brooklyn ParkCunningham shares the challenges of leading the Brooklyn Park Fire Department, transitioning from a volunteer workforce to a full-time career service. 18:00 - Building the Brooklyn Park Fire AcademyThe creation of a fire academy in Brooklyn Park to improve training standards and recruit from within the community. Cunningham discusses how they structured the academy for success. 22:00 - The Art of Leading a Career DepartmentCunningham talks about leading a career department, emphasizing the importance of setting clear expectations, building trust, and leading with empathy. 25:00 - Recruitment & Retention in the Fire ServiceCunningham discusses the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention in the fire service, stressing the need to market the profession and inspire new generations of firefighters. 29:00 - Addressing Mental Health & WellnessCunningham reflects on the challenges firefighters face, such as PTSD and cancer, and discusses efforts in Minnesota to prioritize health and wellness for public safety workers. 32:00 - Moving to the State Department of Public SafetyCunningham talks about his transition to the state level, where he now oversees the fire marshal division, emergency management, and 911 systems for Minnesota. 37:00 - The Future of 911 and Public Safety SystemsCunningham discusses Minnesota’s efforts to modernize its 911 system, the role of technology, and the potential for AI in improving emergency services. 42:00 - Navigating State Leadership and PolicyCunningham reflects on using his fire service leadership experience to bridge the gap between public safety agencies, the legislature, and local communities. 46:00 - Reimagining Emergency Services with DataCunningham talks about how data is increasingly shaping decisions in public safety, while also balancing the unpredictable nature of emergency services. 52:00 - Strategic Planning for Public SafetyCunningham explains how he works with his team to plan for the future of public safety, focusing on the needs of Minnesotans across fire services and EMS. 56:00 - The Importance of Community InvolvementCunningham stresses the importance of community involvement in shaping public safety, highlighting how strong relationships can improve emergency services outcomes. 1:00:00 - The Next Generation of Fire Service LeadersCunningham discusses the future of the fire service in Minnesota, citing the rise of new leaders bringing fresh perspectives to the profession. 1:04:00 - Closing ThoughtsCunningham shares his passion for public safety and encourages listeners to get involved, be proactive, and continue supporting the next generation of first responders.

    1h 13m

  2. FEB 26

    HC0057 - Jeremy Rebmann - FBI Sniper - Author of "Send Me: Chronicles of an FBI Sniper"

    Jeremy Redman, a former FBI Special Agent and SWAT sniper with over two decades in the Bureau and prior experience with the U.S. Air Force and the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI). Jeremy walks through the winding path from a childhood dream of being a fighter pilot to a career built around investigations, tactical operations, and leadership—plus what Hollywood gets wrong, why preparation is everything, and how faith and family helped him carry the weight of the job. Book Available Here: https://www.amazon.com/Send-Me-Chronicles-FBI-Sniper/dp/B0FB95BSW4?ref_=ast_author_dp Chapter Breakdown & Timestamps 0:00 – 9:21 — Intro + Jeremy’s origin story (fighter pilotdream → OSI)   Jeremy explains the early obsession with aviation, the doorsthat shut, and how OSI became the first real “this is it” moment ininvestigations.   9:21 – 19:41 — Overseas interviewing + why “torture” failsat truth   Jeremy describes field interviewing detainees,rapport-building, and why coercion creates bad intelligence when you actuallyneed actionable truth.   ~19:41 – 24:28 — Quantico mindset: open cases, protectvictims, don’t assume guilt   A major lesson: follow the evidence, stay constitutional,and avoid “I just want to catch a bad guy” thinking.   24:29 – 29:06 — How field offices choose priorities + “youcan’t go home” rule   Jeremy explains national priorities vs local realities (likeOklahoma’s context) and why the Bureau historically avoids sending agents totheir home regions.   29:06 – 39:35 — Joining FBI SWAT: selection, training, andstaying a “street agent”   Jeremy breaks down the path: agent → operator → sniper, pluswhy SWAT operators are still expected to be strong investigators first.   39:36 – 46:40 — Logistics, big ops, and what TV getshilariously wrong   From convoys and armored vehicles to the “badge flip”myth—Jeremy explains why Hollywood’s version of federal ops is entertaining…and wildly off.   46:40 – 55:00 — Working with local law enforcement + the“prep wins” philosophy   He talks cooperation vs friction, what federal databaseschange, and why every op gets serious planning—because the “easy mission”mindset is how teams lose people.   55:01 – 1:04:31 — Mistakes, AAR culture, sniper pipeline,and gear choices   Jeremy shares early “quiet mistakes,” the importance ofhonest debriefs (“hot wash”), and how sniper certification is really just “alicense to learn.” He also discusses why .308 / 7.62 NATO remains a workhorseround for police/sniper work.   1:04:31 – 1:12:45 — Lethal force policy + faith, humanity,and carrying the darkness   Jeremy lays out the FBI lethal-force standard (necessity +probable cause + imminent threat), and how faith shapes his view of bothvictims and offenders.   1:14:29 – 1:26:17 — Coming home, retirement, and why hewrote the book   A powerful closing stretch: how to “reset in the driveway,”why leaving the team can be emotionally crushing, and how journaling turned into "Send Me".

    1h 27m

  3. FEB 18

    HC0056 - Eli Yetter-Bowman - Filmmaker - PFAS Awareness Advocate

    Jake talks with filmmaker/advocate Eli Yetter-Bowman about how learning his hometown Wilmington, NC had been drinking PFAS-contaminated water (publicly revealed in 2017) pushed him into documentary work—and into confronting PFAS (“forever chemicals”) exposure in the fire service. They cover why storytelling can turn complex science into action, the realities of funding independent documentaries, how Burned became a major impact campaign, and why Eli’s feature ** GenX ** will be released primarily through in-person screenings to drive change. 0:00 – 5:31 — Intro + Eli’s path into advocacy filmmaking; GenX as the origin story behind Burned. 5:32 – 12:36 — Wilmington’s PFAS water crisis + why “invisible” contamination is hard to grasp without story. 12:37 – 16:41 — Personal driver: Eli’s mom’s autoimmune neurological illness + the “root cause” view of public health. 16:43 – 28:13 — Funding the work: why crowdfunding/investors weren’t the answer; the grind of donor fundraising. 28:14 – 32:57 — Why GenX took 8 years; how turnout-gear PFAS urgency paused the feature and sped up Burned. 32:58 – 41:30 — Turning film into a movement: Burned campaign impact (1500+ in-person events) + lessons in change-making. 41:30 – 45:47 — What departments can do now: proactive screenings, gear replacement organizing, and how to follow GenX. Resources: genxthefilm.org — newsletter, screening requests, tour updates ⁠https://etherealfilms.org/ — team + project info Their Substack/newsletter (via the sites)

    46 min

  4. FEB 11

    HC0055 - Chad Costa - Petaluma Fire Department - Assistant Chief

    Chad Costa, Assistant Fire Chief at Petaluma Fire Department, has over 25 years of experience in municipal, rural, and wildland fire operations. In this episode of Hazard Class Podcast, he shares his journey from growing up in rural Sonoma County to becoming a seasoned leader in the fire service. Chief Costa discusses early career challenges, recruitment and retention issues, and the balance between structural and wildland firefighting. With insights on leadership, community involvement, and the evolving fire service, he offers advice for aspiring firefighters and emphasizes the importance of building a strong, well-rounded department. www.chadcosta.org [0:00 - 2:00] – IntroductionIntroduction to Chief Chad Costa and his role. Overview of his career and background. [2:01 - 7:26] – Why the Fire Service?Chief Costa talks about his rural upbringing and how a friend’s encouragement led him to pursue firefighting, despite having no prior connection to the field. [7:26 - 8:55] – Early Career ChallengesHis first volunteer experience and the challenges he faced in gaining acceptance and building his skills. [8:56 - 9:56] – Lessons from Early DaysThe importance of hard work, reliability, and building relationships in the fire service. [9:57 - 12:22] – Instilling Values in New FirefightersChief Costa discusses how he imparts core values like dedication and reliability to new recruits and the challenges of hiring firefighter-paramedics. [12:23 - 15:30] – Recruitment ChallengesThe evolving challenges in attracting and retaining qualified firefighter-paramedics in today’s job market. [15:30 - 16:16] – The Changing LandscapeHow the fire service has evolved, with new generations of recruits leaning more towards tech roles than traditional blue-collar jobs. [16:16 - 20:27] – Becoming a FirefighterThe path to becoming a firefighter, emphasizing education, certification, and gaining experience. Chief Costa stresses the importance of mentorship and decision-making. [20:27 - 24:16] – Balancing Wildland & Structural FirefightingThe difficulty in excelling at both wildland and structural firefighting and how departments balance these two critical disciplines. [24:17 - 31:39] – Transition from Volunteer to Career FirefighterChief Costa reflects on his transition from volunteer to career firefighter and the steps required to build a successful career. [31:40 - 38:37] – Promotion and Career GrowthHow Chief Costa knew it was time for promotion and the role of the organization in making these decisions. [38:39 - 41:35] – Leadership and FeedbackThe challenges of staying connected with frontline firefighters and how Chief Costa seeks feedback to refine his leadership. [41:36 - 42:36] – Handling CriticismHow Chief Costa processes both positive and negative feedback and adjusts his leadership style accordingly. [42:36 - 46:03] – Department MoraleChief Costa discusses how morale is managed at various levels of the department and strategies for fixing morale issues within a fire service organization. [46:04 - 49:00] – Balancing Service and BudgetThe challenge of maintaining high-quality service while managing a department’s budget, especially with dual-role firefighter paramedics. [49:00 - 57:11] – Dual Role vs. Single Role EMSA discussion on the pros and cons of dual-role firefighter paramedics and the push towards single-role EMS services as a solution to firefighter burnout. [57:12 - 1:00:21] – Career Reflections and LegacyChief Costa reflects on his proudest achievements, including creating a career camp for high school students interested in the fire service. [1:00:21 - End] – Closing ThoughtsChief Costa shares his future plans and final advice for those entering the fire service.

    1h 1m

  5. FEB 4

    HC0054 - Dr. Michael Guirguis - Raven Medical Support - San Bernardino Sheriff Air Rescue

    Dr. Michael Guirguis, an emergency medicine physician whose career has defied every conventional path. From hoisting patients off cliffs with the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Air Rescue, to advising executive protection teams and serving as Chipotle’s medical director, Dr. Guirguis has lived multiple lives in one. This conversation explores the gritty truths of ER medicine, the high stakes of protective health care in elite circles, and the challenges of raising kids with a trauma-informed lens. 0:00 — Introduction & Guest BackgroundJake introduces Dr. Guirguis and his remarkable multidisciplinary resume. 0:07 — Childhood Dreams to Medical RealityDr. Guirguis recounts his early passion for law enforcement and how a sports injury rerouted him into medicine. 0:19 — From UCLA to Harvard: Medical School InsightsHe discusses the intense journey from back surgery to earning a spot at Harvard Med and how pass/no-pass grading shaped collaboration. 0:28 — Emergency Medicine & Burnout RealitiesWhy he chose emergency medicine and how ER shows influenced that choice, plus the emotional toll of the modern ER system. 0:42 — Systemic Failures in U.S. Health CareA candid critique of ER overuse, homelessness, and lack of primary care access. 0:51 — Law, Violence & Accountability in ERsDr. Guirguis on legal handcuffs, hospital violence, and where administrators get it wrong. 0:56 — Training with the Sheriff’s DepartmentDetails of how he combined ER residency with tactical air rescue and law enforcement work. 1:04 — Building Raven Medical & Executive Protection WorkBehind the scenes of high-profile security medicine, global protocols, and unique travel logistics. 1:14 — Inside Corporate Medicine: Chipotle & XPJHow medical infrastructure is built for corporations, and why brands like Chipotle are ahead of the curve. 1:21 — Parenthood, Risk Awareness & Mental LoadHow emergency medicine shaped his parenting, emotional resilience, and risk perception. 1:31 — Career Evolution & What’s NextWhat drives Dr. Guirguis today: industry education, client care, and raising kids with purpose. Key Moments “You’re only as good a doctor as what you take out of it.” “Burnout is real, but I chose to do this on my own terms now.” “Executive protection isn’t just brawn—it’s brains, logistics, and medicine.” “The bane of my existence is calling someone a ‘medic’ after a weekend course.” “If something bad happens, you don't want to be the guy who didn’t prepare.” Resources & Mentions XPJ — High-risk medics for executive protection Raven Medical Support Group — Dr. Guirguis' organization “Untold Stories of the ER” — TLC TV show featuring Dr. Guirguis EMTALA Laws (Emergency Medical Treatment & Labor Act) TCCC / TECC training distinctions in security medicine

    1h 17m

  6. JAN 28

    HC0053 - Mike Dugan - FDNY - Captain (Ret.)

    Jake sits down with one of the most revered names in the American fire service—Captain Mike Dugan. With over 40 years of firefighting experience, including a distinguished career with the FDNY and multiple valor awards, Captain Dugan shares a raw, heartfelt, and unfiltered look into the culture, brotherhood, and challenges of the fire service. From childhood inspiration to rooftop rescues, and from leadership lessons to life after 9/11, this conversation is a masterclass in service, humility, and integrity. 00:00 – IntroductionJake introduces Captain Mike Dugan and highlights his 40+ year legacy in the fire service, including his FDNY tenure and national teaching contributions. 03:10 – Childhood Inspiration: The Fire That Started It AllMike recounts the fire at his grandmother’s house that sparked his lifelong passion for firefighting. 08:50 – Growing Up DuganA glimpse into Mike’s upbringing in a big, loving Irish-Catholic family and the community values that shaped him. 15:00 – Entering the Fire Service & Early Days VolunteeringHis transition from volunteer firefighter to NYPD officer, and ultimately joining FDNY. 23:00 – Academy Stories & First AssignmentsA dive into his "sleep officer" training, first slow company assignment, and the career-defining transfer to Spanish Harlem. 34:10 – Firehouse Culture & Leadership LessonsThe importance of pride, ownership, and tradition in building elite fire companies. 43:30 – The Famous Roof Rope RescueA gripping retelling of the 1991 rooftop rescue that earned Mike high departmental honors and media attention. 57:00 – The Reality of RecognitionNavigating media attention, departmental politics (including the infamous “mustache incident”), and public recognition. 1:04:20 – From Firefighter to OfficerHis decision to promote, lessons learned as a lieutenant and captain, and how to prepare others to lead. 1:15:00 – Morale, Accountability & CultureWhy company culture is built from within, and how great companies self-regulate and support each other. 1:25:00 – The Anatomy of a Great FirefighterHeart, humility, and relentless curiosity—Mike defines what makes someone exceptional in this calling. 1:35:00 – Training for the UnthinkableWhy training for the 90% and the 1% are both vital—and how to make the most of your district time. 1:47:00 – 9/11 ReflectionsAn emotional segment on being at the FDNY training academy on 9/11 and losing close friends from the firehouse the day before. 1:55:00 – Legacy and Final ThoughtsMike shares how the fire service continues to evolve and his hopes for future generations of firefighters. Captain Mike Dugan is a retired FDNY firefighter and former captain of Ladder 123. He has received numerous awards for bravery and served as a national instructor and keynote speaker. Known for his integrity, mentorship, and practical leadership, he continues to shape the fire service through writing, teaching, and speaking. Fire Engineering Profile Notable Speech: FDIC 2011 Keynote: Why Are You Here? Like what you heard? Subscribe to Hazard Class on your favorite podcast platform.Share this episode with a fellow firefighter or leader who needs to hear it.Follow us on Instagram, Spotify, YouTube or Facebook for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

    1h 40m

  7. JAN 21

    HC0052 - Marc Aloan - West Columbia (SC) Fire Dept - Battalion Chief - Creator of The Fire Inside

    Battalion Chief Marc Aloan of the West Columbia Fire Department discusses his two-decade career in the fire service. From chasing fire trucks as a child to becoming a battalion chief, Marc reflects on his experiences, including the challenges, leadership lessons, and learning from mistakes along the way. He also shares insights into the role of education in his career, the value of hands-on firefighting, and how he navigates the complexities of leadership in the fire service. 0:00 - 1:49: Introduction to Battalion Chief Marc AloanTopic: Marc’s Early Fire Service Connection Marc Aloan, Battalion Chief at West Columbia Fire Department, is introduced. He shares how he was drawn to the fire service at a young age, starting with his fascination with fire trucks and following them on his bike. 1:49 - 5:38: Marc’s Early Fire Service JourneyTopic: Starting in the Fire Service and Volunteering Marc discusses his early days in the fire service, including his experiences as a junior firefighter and his time training to be a paramedic, before eventually joining the Air Force. 5:38 - 10:56: First Fire ExperienceTopic: Marc’s First Fire and the Impact of Compassion Marc recounts his first fire response during a mutual aid call. He shares the emotional experience of dealing with a family’s loss and the importance of compassion alongside the thrill of firefighting. 10:56 - 13:56: Transitioning to Battalion Chief and Leadership PhilosophyTopic: Leadership and Empowering the Team Marc reflects on his leadership journey as a Battalion Chief, discussing how he empowers his team while balancing the role of a leader and a firefighter. He highlights the importance of allowing individuals to develop their own styles while maintaining department standards. 13:56 - 18:30: Learning from Mistakes and Constructive CriticismTopic: The Importance of Post-Incident Reviews The discussion shifts to Marc’s approach to post-incident debriefs. He explains how focusing on mistakes and failures helps the team improve and evolve. He emphasizes the need for candid reflection and learning from each experience. 18:30 - 23:45: Grinders vs. Naturally Gifted FirefightersTopic: Hard Work vs. Natural Talent in the Fire Service Marc talks about the difference between grinders, who work tirelessly to improve their skills, and naturally gifted firefighters. He explains why he aligns more with grinders and how their consistent effort leads to success over time. 23:45 - 29:41: Balancing Leadership with Hands-On FirefightingTopic: Staying Involved as a Battalion Chief Marc shares how his role as a Battalion Chief requires balancing leadership responsibilities with staying active in the field. He emphasizes the importance of being present for his team while supporting them with resources and leadership when necessary. 29:41 - 35:07: Conducting Effective CritiquesTopic: Accountability and Constructive Feedback Marc discusses how he approaches critiques and feedback in the fire service. He stresses the importance of leading by example, being self-reflective, and creating an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and learning from mistakes. 35:07 - 39:49: The Role of Education in Marc’s CareerTopic: The Value of Formal Education for Firefighters Marc shares his experience with formal education, including his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He highlights the value of education for career development, leadership skills, and personal growth within the fire service. 39:49 - 45:36: Reflecting on Early Career and MistakesTopic: Growth Through Challenges and Learning from Mistakes Marc reflects on his earlier years as a firefighter and the lessons learned through mistakes. He shares how these experiences shaped his approach to firefighting and leadership, emphasizing the importance of continuous self-improvement. Contact Information: Blog: The Fire Inside Facebook: The Fire Inside Facebook Page Instagram: @TheFireInside

    58 min

  8. JAN 14

    HC0051 - Gary Oldham - Apple's Former Head of Global Strategy for Public Safety

    Jake dives deep into the multifaceted career of Gary Oldham, a veteran in public safety with experience as a police officer, dispatcher, and global strategist at Apple. Gary shares the evolution of his career—from the front lines of law enforcement to managing major technological transitions in emergency services, and now running his own consulting firm, Accelerant 4. This episode is rich with leadership insights, practical innovation in emergency response, and a strong advocacy for tech that genuinely serves first responders. Introduction and Gary's Background (00:00 – 06:00) Early start in public safety Police Explorer to full-time officer at 18 Initial career motivations Transition from Police Work to Dispatch (06:00 – 15:00) Burnout and cynicism in law enforcement Finding new purpose in dispatch Differences between fire and police public perception Challenges in Emergency Dispatch Systems (15:00 – 27:00) Evolution from manual dispatch to Pro-QA Misuse of 911 and liability concerns Complexity of triage and human judgment Public Sector to Private Sector Shift (27:00 – 36:00) Transitioning to project management roles Working with San Diego and navigating bureaucracy Managing layoffs and organizational changes Tech Leadership and Working with Vendors (36:00 – 45:00) Leading expert teams as a non-expert Avoiding micromanagement Managing expectations in large-scale projects Joining Apple and Building Public Safety Programs (45:00 – 1:00:00) Overcoming skepticism and 0% market share Building global police summits Influencing product features like CarPlay integration Creating Impact and Culture at Apple (1:00:00 – 1:12:00) Apple’s unique culture and hiring practices Commitment to privacy and ethical leadership Working with first responders worldwide Launch of Accelerant 4 and Consulting Focus (1:12:00 – 1:20:00) Why Gary left Apple Helping companies better engage with public safety Tailoring technology to solve real-world problems Leadership Insights and Future of Public Safety Tech (1:20:00 – 1:30:00) Balancing team dynamics and technical talent Evolving responder technology Building realistic, scalable solutions Gary Oldham is a seasoned public safety expert with over three decades of experience. His career spans police work, dispatch leadership, and tech innovation. At Apple, he led global public safety strategy, taking their market share from 0% to 70%. Now, he runs Accelerant 4, a consultancy helping companies and agencies implement effective, meaningful technology solutions in emergency services.Website: accelerant4.com

    1h 18m
See All (65)

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
    65
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jake Ryks
  • Show Website
    HAZARD CLASS

You Might Also Like