HAZARD CLASS

Jake Ryks
  • 5.0 (14)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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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

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. JAN 7

    HC0050 - Rob Ramirez - Jupiter Fire Rescue Division Chief - The Mayday Mindset

    Chief Rob Ramirez returns to the show to talk about one of the most unique opportunities in modern firefighting: helping build a brand-new fire department from the ground up. He shares stories of leadership, culture, training, and staying sharp after leaving the fire truck. Segment Breakdown & Timestamps [0:00 – 0:07] Intro & Career LeapRob returns to the podcast, recounting his jump from 20+ years in operations to a command role in a new department. [0:07 – 0:14] Why Start Now? The Motivation Behind the MoveRob explains the rare opportunity to help shape something from scratch and how it aligned with his career goals. [0:14 – 0:21] Starting from Zero: Gear, Trucks, and PoliciesDetails about acquiring vehicles, setting SOPs, navigating town bureaucracy, and learning fast. [0:21 – 0:28] Building the Team: Hiring & Leadership PhilosophyRob outlines their recruitment strategy, training plans, and what type of people they’re looking for. [0:28 – 0:35] Laying the Training FoundationWhy training won’t be optional. Rob discusses shift-based training, officer development, and ongoing standards. [0:35 – 0:42] The Isolation of LeadershipWhat it feels like to be out of the action, staying connected to fireground competency, and the temptation to slip into admin-only thinking. [0:42 – 0:49] How Culture is Built: People, Trust, and AccountabilityThe role of informal leaders, gatekeepers of culture, and using character-first hiring to prevent future problems. [0:49 – 0:56] Handling Mistakes & Measuring GrowthAfter-action reviews, creating safe learning environments, and how Rob approaches performance evaluation. [0:56 – 1:03] Search Urgency, Real-World Fire Talk & Caring About the JobRob and the host dissect a recent fireground situation involving victim removal, and what it reveals about urgency and culture. [1:03 – 1:11] Mentorship, Mastery, and Long-Term VisionMentorship models, when to promote, and how the right people and structure create long-term excellence. Key Moments “You can’t read your own label from inside the jar.” Rob’s final fire call as a captain, ending with gratitude and fireground clarity. The skunk-in-the-parking-lot moment—and what it teaches about perspective. “Our people are our greatest ambassadors.” Resources & Mentions: https://www.instagram.com/robramirez1075_official/?hl=enhttps://www.jupiter.fl.us/firerescue Guest Info: Chief Rob Ramirez Division Chief of Training, Jupiter Fire Rescue Founder of Mayday Mindset National fire instructor and speaker

    1h 12m

  7. 12/31/2025

    HC0049 - Dr. David Griffin - Charleston Fire Dept Assistant Chief

    Dr. David Griffin shares his transformation from minor league baseball player to fire service leader, shaped by one of the most devastating tragedies in firefighting history—the 2007 Sofa Superstore Fire in Charleston, SC. Griffin recounts the incident in vivid detail, reflecting on how it reshaped his view of leadership, mental health, and responsibility. Nearly two decades later, he continues to advocate for cultural change, peer support, and meaningful leadership within emergency services. This episode offers a candid look at trauma, recovery, and the evolution of a career dedicated to honoring the past while improving the future. Episode Breakdown & Timestamps: [0:00] Introduction and Background of Dr. David Griffin Overview of Griffin’s career and his shift from baseball to firefighting. [0:02] Journey to the Fire Service How a conversation with a fire chief led to an unexpected but lifelong career. [0:07] Training and Early Career Reflections Discussion on early training gaps and how outdated practices shaped his outlook. [0:10] Mental Health and Organizational Change The fire service’s growing focus on emotional well-being and leadership accountability. [0:18] Sofa Superstore Fire Incident A detailed, moment-by-moment account of the tragic fire that claimed nine lives. [0:27] Aftermath and Recovery The emotional toll, public reaction, and the beginning of personal and organizational healing. [0:34] Leadership Evolution and Legacy Post-incident changes and the long-term impact of the Charleston Nine on policy and culture. [0:40] Therapy, Speaking, and Personal Impact Griffin’s battle with PTSD, the healing role of therapy, and the emotional cost of public speaking. [0:51] Principles of Leadership The five core values that now guide his leadership style and mentorship philosophy. Key Moments: First-hand description of the 27-minute window that changed Charleston Fire forever. Reflections on leading with humility and empowering the next generation. The mental and emotional challenges of revisiting trauma through public speaking. How the loss of fellow firefighters spurred sweeping department-wide changes. Exploration of non-traditional therapies and long-term recovery strategies. Resources & Mentions: Rowley Report (Sofa Superstore Fire investigation) Upcoming book: 27 Minutes by Dr. David Griffin Waves of Recovery (Ibogaine therapy documentary) Related discussions: Travis Howes’ podcast on trauma Guest Information: Dr. David Griffin Assistant Chief, Charleston Fire Department Author and national speaker on leadership and mental health in public safety Website: drdavidgriffin.com Instagram: @drdavidgriffin

    1h 9m

  8. 12/24/2025

    HC0048 - Deane Benninghoven - Therapeutic Hypnotist

    Deane Benninghoven, a certified hypnotherapist who specializes in treating anxiety, PTSD, addiction, and emotional trauma through hypnosis. Deane shares his personal journey from chronic pain and opioid dependency to healing through self-hypnosis, leading to a decades-long career helping others unlock the power of their subconscious. This conversation challenges common misconceptions, dives into how hypnosis works, and explores its surprising compatibility with traditional therapy. 00:00 – 01:16 | IntroductionJake introduces Deane and sets the tone for a curious, open-minded exploration of hypnosis. 01:17 – 07:57 | Deane's Origin StoryDeane recounts how a life-altering car accident led him to discover hypnosis as a tool for pain management and emotional healing. 07:58 – 12:08 | What Hypnosis Really IsA breakdown of hypnosis, the subconscious mind, and how symptoms like anxiety or addiction often stem from unresolved patterns. 12:09 – 16:42 | The Critical Faculty & Pattern ProtectionDeane explains the “guard” between the conscious and subconscious, and how hypnosis temporarily suspends it for healing. 16:43 – 23:41 | Natural Hypnotic States & Trauma LoopsExamples of everyday hypnosis (e.g., driving, daydreaming) and how trauma gets “stuck” in the subconscious. 23:42 – 34:20 | Rewiring Trauma with HypnosisThe mechanism behind changing one’s relationship to trauma without re-experiencing it, using Deane's "splinter" analogy. 34:22 – 40:47 | Guided Hypnosis SessionDeane leads a short, safe, and relaxing live hypnosis session—ideal for first-time listeners. 40:48 – 45:11 | How Hypnosis Empowers ChangePost-session discussion and anchoring techniques that help retrain emotional responses long-term. 45:12 – 51:54 | Certifications, Credibility & Finding a PractitionerTips for finding a credible hypnotherapist and info on Deane’s work, especially with first responders. "Hypnosis saved my life." – Deane shares how desperation led him to self-teach hypnosis after conventional treatments failed. “It’s not my hypnosis, it’s yours.” – Deane clarifies that hypnosis taps into the listener’s own natural state of mind. “Your subconscious doesn’t know you’re safe now.” – A powerful insight into how past trauma continues to echo through present-day behaviors. “Hypnosis is not sleep. It’s that in-between place we all experience.” – On the true nature of trance states. Summit Hypnosis NW: www.summithypnosisnw.com National Guild of Hypnotists (Certification Body): www.ngh.net Deane Benninghoven Certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists Over 20 years of experience Specializes in working with trauma, anxiety, and first responders Offers free consultations and hypnotherapy training Website: summithypnosisnw.com

    52 min
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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
    62
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jake Ryks
  • Show Website
    HAZARD CLASS

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