The HazMat Guys

Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • 4.9 (179)
  • COURSES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From a spark of knowledge on a podcast to a comprehensive training hub, we empower responders of all levels in the ever-evolving world of hazmat response. Through hundreds of episodes, online courses, and in-person programs, we bridge the gap between novice and expert, fostering a collaborative community of continuous learning. Together, we equip responders with the skills and knowledge to navigate hazardous situations safely and effectively.

  1. 8H AGO

    THMG547 – Top 5 C&P Properties You need for monitoring

    Recorded on-site at the Cold Zone Hazmat Conference, this conversation focuses on the key chemical and physical properties that help responders monitor hazards safely and effectively. Jake and Bob walk through the five core properties every hazmat professional should know, with practical discussion grounded in real-world hazardous materials monitoring. The episode is especially relevant for anyone interested in hazmat response, chemical safety, air monitoring, and emergency response operations. It’s a straightforward, useful listen for responders looking to strengthen their understanding of monitoring basics and improve safety on the job. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    30 min

  2. MAY 1

    THMG546 – AI for the Fail!!

    We start by unpacking common AI fails and how the quality of your input directly shapes the output. From there, Bob goes deeper into long-term context that may already be set up in your account without you realizing it, and how that hidden context can influence what an AI assistant generates over time. You’ll hear practical guidance on spotting when account-level memory or context is affecting responses and why that matters for accuracy. Bob also walks through how to disable that long-term context so you can regain control over what the AI is using behind the scenes. If you’ve been frustrated by inconsistent AI results, this conversation helps connect the dots between your settings, your prompts, and what the model gives back. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    29 min

  3. APR 24

    THMG545 – Haz Mat Draft Day!

    In this episode, the guys run a full-on draft where each person picks 10 different hazmat products while boxing the others out from grabbing the same items. As the rounds unfold, the conversation turns into a lively breakdown of choices, priorities, and the trade-offs that come with building a hazard response lineup. The result is a Frankenstein-style hazmat company, kind of weird on paper, but surprisingly capable when it comes to covering most hazards. If you’re into sports-style drafting and you like hearing how a team would piece together a practical (and slightly chaotic) hazardous materials setup, this one’s for you. Take a listen to hear how the draft plays out and what their final “company” looks like. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    28 min

  4. APR 21 ·  BONUS

    THMG544a – Join the JOIFF Community

    We sit down with Mark Feldman and Ralph Suppa to talk through the growing wave of questions we’ve been getting by email about class accreditation and what it really means in practice. To bring clarity and visibility to the current state of things, we teamed up with the gentlemen from JOIFF for a grounded conversation on how accreditation works and where the industry is headed. Along the way, we dig into the difference between holding a certification and actually demonstrating competence, and why that gap keeps coming up in real-world training discussions. If you’ve been wondering which credentials matter, how accredited classes are evaluated, or what to look for when choosing a course, this episode helps put the conversation into plain terms.

    32 min

  5. APR 17

    THMG544 – The Big Riff

    Right before hitting record, the crew has a lightning-bolt idea: Bob might not be able to join the conversation, but he can still shape it. Instead of sitting out completely, he drops five questions for Mike and Jake to tackle, spar, and “fight it out” over as the discussion unfolds. The result is a lively, question-driven episode where the energy comes from reacting in real time and debating each prompt. If you like podcast conversations with quick pivots, friendly rivalry, and a format that keeps moving, this one’s built around exactly that. Hit play and jump into the five-question challenge. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    29 min

  6. APR 10

    THMG543 – Mailbag

    In this mailbag-style episode, we pull a handful of standout emails and mix them with questions that come up in class. It’s a quick, conversational Q&A where we respond to real questions and talk through them in a practical way. If you like episodes that feel more interactive, built from listener feedback and classroom discussions, this one’s for you. We cover a few different topics based on what was submitted, keeping it straightforward and easy to follow. Take a listen and hear which questions made the cut this time. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    24 min

  7. APR 3

    THMG542 – Emerging threats V2026.2

    In this episode, we break down the United States’ emerging threats document and translate it into practical takeaways you can actually use. This is part of a two-part series, where we walk through six key points from the document and discuss how each one connects to the Hazard's Materials branch. Along the way, we focus on what these threat trends could mean for operations, readiness, and the kinds of hazards teams may need to anticipate. Part two will cover six additional points to complete the picture. If you’re attending conferences this year, expect to hear these topics showing up on the circuit, and this episode helps you get ahead of the conversation. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    24 min

  8. MAR 27

    THMG541 – Emerging threats V2026.1

    In this episode, we break down the United States’ emerging threats document and translate it into practical takeaways you can actually use. This is part of a two-part series, where we walk through six key points from the document and discuss how each one connects to the Hazard's Materials branch. Along the way, we focus on what these threat trends could mean for operations, readiness, and the kinds of hazards teams may need to anticipate. Part two will cover six additional points to complete the picture. If you’re attending conferences this year, expect to hear these topics showing up on the circuit, and this episode helps you get ahead of the conversation. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    20 min
See All (547)

4.9
out of 5
179 Ratings

About

From a spark of knowledge on a podcast to a comprehensive training hub, we empower responders of all levels in the ever-evolving world of hazmat response. Through hundreds of episodes, online courses, and in-person programs, we bridge the gap between novice and expert, fostering a collaborative community of continuous learning. Together, we equip responders with the skills and knowledge to navigate hazardous situations safely and effectively.

Information

  • Creator
    Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    547
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • Show Website
    The HazMat Guys

You Might Also Like