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. 18h ago

    Kevin Hazzard - Author of "No One's Coming" - 2014 Ebola Rescue Missions - Part 1 of 2 - HC0071

    In this episode of Hazard Class, Jake sits down with bestselling author, former Atlanta paramedic, journalist, and television writer Kevin Hazzard to discuss his gripping new book, No One's Coming. Known for his acclaimed works A Thousand Naked Strangers and American Sirens, Hazzard has built a reputation for uncovering the untold stories of emergency medicine and the extraordinary people who answer the call when others won't. The conversation takes listeners behind the scenes of one of the most remarkable medical rescue operations in modern history—the evacuation of Ebola patients from West Africa during the devastating 2014 outbreak. Kevin shares how he discovered the story through the team at Phoenix Air and spent years interviewing pilots, physicians, nurses, engineers, and aid workers to reconstruct the dramatic mission. Together, Jake and Kevin explore the challenges of turning complex real-world events into compelling narrative nonfiction, the psychology of healthcare providers who willingly enter high-risk environments, and the critical role preparation plays when disaster strikes. They also discuss the parallels between Ebola, COVID-19, and other public health emergencies, the recurring cycles of fear and misinformation that accompany disease outbreaks, and why some individuals are drawn to the most demanding and dangerous corners of emergency response. Along the way, Kevin offers a fascinating look into his writing process, from conducting hundreds of hours of interviews to adapting his books for film and television. Whether you're a firefighter, paramedic, healthcare professional, pilot, emergency manager, or simply a fan of incredible true stories, this episode delivers a powerful examination of courage, service, leadership, and the people willing to risk everything when lives are on the line. Connect with Kevin Hazzard Former paramedic, bestselling author, and storyteller Kevin Hazzard writes about emergency medicine, public service, and the extraordinary people who answer the call when others won't. Website: kevinhazzard.comInstagram: @kevinhazzardauthorFacebook: Kevin Hazzard Author Page THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! HIAX BOOTS: www.hiaxusa.com Rigiaku Analytical: www.RigiakuAnalytical.com

    1h 3m

  2. May 27

    Tom Putnam and Steve Martin - Into The Unknown - Filmmaker - Executive Producer - HC0070

    Jake sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Tom Putnam and retired Los Angeles County Fire Department Assistant Chief Steve Martin to discuss their groundbreaking documentary Into the Unknown: A Paramedic’s Journey. Known for the award-winning firefighter documentaries Burn and Burn X, Tom Putnam returns with an unfiltered, emotionally charged look at the realities of modern EMS and paramedicine in America. The film follows paramedics, EMTs, dispatchers, and emergency responders across multiple U.S. departments, capturing real emergency calls, mental health struggles, staffing shortages, PTSD, and the growing pressures placed on first responders. Throughout the conversation, Jake, Tom, and Steve dive deep into the challenges facing the American EMS system, including burnout, increasing call volumes, broken healthcare safety nets, and the emotional toll of repeated trauma exposure. They also discuss the years-long process of filming inside active emergency scenes, overcoming HIPAA and legal barriers, and creating a documentary that authentically portrays life on the ambulance without sensationalism. The episode highlights how Into the Unknown aims to educate the public, support mental health awareness for first responders, improve EMS recruitment, and provide lawmakers and communities with an honest look at what paramedics face every day. Tom and Steve also explain the film’s Kickstarter campaign, plans for theatrical screenings, digital release strategy, and how fire departments and communities can help bring the documentary to audiences nationwide. FILM LINKS: www.intotheunknowndoc.com https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/intotheunknowndoc/into-the-unknown-the-paramedic-documentary Sponsor Links:www.haixusa.com www.rigakuanalytical.com

    54 min

  3. May 20

    Ryan Provencher - Firefighter Peak Performance -Battalion Chief (Ret) -CRACKYL Magazine - HC0069

    Jake sits down with retired Battalion Chief Ryan Provencher for a deep conversation about firefighter fitness, resilience, leadership, and what it truly means to sustain a long and healthy career in the fire service. With more than 30 years in the fire service, Ryan shares his journey from volunteer firefighter to operations battalion chief, training chief, paramedic, safety officer, and nationally recognized advocate for firefighter wellness and tactical fitness. The conversation explores the evolution of firefighter culture, hiring standards, recruit training, mental health, and why firefighters should begin thinking of themselves as tactical athletes. Jake also opens up about his own recent struggles with stress, mental health, and losing focus on fitness after treatment at the Center of Excellence. Together, Jake and Ryan launch a 16-week firefighter transformation journey focused on rebuilding performance, improving health, and creating sustainable habits through the Firefighter Peak Performance model. ​Why Ryan chose the fire service and how fitness shaped his career​What firefighter hiring looked like in the 1990s versus today​The importance of self-awareness and situational awareness in recruits​Why academy performance often predicts career performance​The shift toward viewing firefighters as tactical athletes​How firefighter fitness programs should mirror professional sports performance models​The problem with random workouts and “smoke session” PT​Preventing injuries during recruit academies​Firefighter culture, wellness, recovery, and mental resilience​The role of unions, departments, and individuals in firefighter health​Ryan’s vision for the future of firefighter wellness programs​Jake’s 16-week “fat to fit” firefighter transformation journeyRyan explains that firefighter wellness is far more than just gym workouts or body composition. True performance includes sleep, nutrition, recovery, stress management, behavioral health, and long-term resilience. He argues that departments should approach firefighter health the same way professional sports organizations approach athlete performance. The episode also dives into leadership and accountability in recruit academies, discussing why departments must maintain clear standards while simultaneously providing meaningful support and coaching for firefighters at every stage of their careers. RYAN PROVENCHER: is a retired operations battalion chief with over three decades of fire service experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in Nutrition from Washington State University and is the founder of Firefighter Peak Performance, a coaching and consulting platform focused on firefighter fitness, mobility, resilience, and career longevity. He also serves as Executive Fitness Advisor for CRACKYL Magazine. Ryan's Links:Firefighter Peak Performance Website  CRACKYL Magazine  Coaching Programs Education Platform Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

    1h 35m

  4. May 13

    Tyler DeLuca - The Volly House Podcast - Command Media Network - HC0068

    Jake welcomes firefighter, podcaster, and media creator Tyler DeLuca for a wide-ranging conversation about the volunteer fire service, leadership, firehouse culture, and the future of firefighter media.Tyler shares his unconventional path into firefighting — a decision that started almost as a joke while hanging out in the woods with friends on Long Island — before quickly turning into a lifelong passion. He discusses the adrenaline and camaraderie that hooked him early, how the fire service helped him overcome anxiety, and the importance of teamwork and mentorship throughout his career.The conversation dives deep into the challenges facing volunteer departments today, including declining volunteerism, rising living costs, leadership failures, and generational shifts in commitment and recruitment. Tyler offers candid insight into leadership in the firehouse, emphasizing communication, mentorship, emotional intelligence, and handling conflict through private conversations instead of public confrontation.Jake and Tyler also discuss the differences between volunteer and career fire service culture, expectations around training and professionalism, and the critical importance of maintaining standards regardless of pay status.The episode closes with Tyler explaining the origins of the Volly House Podcast and the vision behind Command Media Network — a growing platform aimed at bringing together firefighter-focused podcasts, training resources, and authentic firehouse conversations that go beyond tactics and tradition. The two also announce their upcoming collaboration, The Out of Service Podcast, which promises a more humorous and unfiltered look at life around the firehouse. HIAX Boots: www.HaixUSA.com Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.RigakuAnalytical.com

    1h 14m

  5. May 6

    Tony Perrone - HazMat Specialist - FDNY - Owner of Down Range Ops - HC0067

    In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we sit down with FDNY veteran Tony Perrone to explore his journey from small-town volunteer firefighter to hazmat specialist in one of the busiest fire departments in the world. With over 19 years of service in the FDNY, Tony shares how he transitioned from aspiring lawyer to becoming a HazMat Technician at Engine 44 in Manhattan, and what it takes to operate at a high level in both firefighting and hazardous materials response. This episode dives deep into: -The realities of joining the FDNY in the aftermath of 9/11-The challenges of mastering hazmat operations versus traditional firefighting -How elite instructors train the next generation of responders -The importance of humility, adaptability, and continuous learning in emergency services Tony also discusses his role as a lead instructor in the FDNY HazMat Technician program and owner of Downrange Ops Hazmat Training, offering insight into how hazmat education is evolving across the country. Tony Perrone is a highly respected figure in the hazmat and fire service community, known for his operational experience, instructional expertise, and passion for developing others. Tony is known for: -Making complex hazmat topics accessible and practical -Blending real-world experience with humor and relatability -Emphasizing broad competency over narrow specialization -Creating buy-in from students, even those initially resistant to hazmat training

    1h 9m

  6. May 4 ·  Bonus

    BIGFOOT - The Dueling Mustache Conspiracy Hour: Co-Hosted by: The Salty Paramedic Feat. Charlie Raymond of The Kentucky Bigfoot Research Organization

    In this episode of the Dueling Mustache Conspiracy Hour, host Jake Ryks and The Salty Paramedic explore the mystery of Bigfoot sightings in Kentucky and Appalachia with renowned investigator Charlie Raymond. As the founder of the Kentucky Bigfoot Research Organization, Raymond shares insights from over 800 eyewitness reports and decades of field research. The conversation dives into the world of cryptozoology, examining whether Bigfoot is a myth, a misidentified animal, or an undiscovered hominid species potentially linked to ancient humans like the Denisovans. The episode covers Bigfoot behavior, intelligence, and physical evidence including footprints, DNA samples, and vocalizations. Key topics include: Why Bigfoot sightings are common in forested regions like KentuckyThe possibility of Bigfoot living near human populations undetectedTheories of government involvement or cover-upsAnalysis of famous cases such as the Patterson-Gimlin footageWhy modern technology hasn’t produced more definitive proofWhether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this episode offers a detailed look at one of America’s most enduring mysteries. Charlie Raymond is a leading Bigfoot researcher and founder of the Kentucky Bigfoot Research Organization. With more than 30 years of experience, he has: Investigated hundreds of Bigfoot sightings across AppalachiaConducted over 800 eyewitness interviews, including law enforcement and military witnessesCollected and analyzed physical evidence such as tracks, hair samples, and environmental interactionsRaymond’s work centers on the idea that Bigfoot may be a highly intelligent, flesh-and-blood hominid species that has adapted to avoid human detection. He is also a featured speaker at events like the Red River Gorge Bigfoot Festival, where he shares his research and field experiences with the public. Known for his credibility and measured approach, Raymond focuses on evidence-based investigation and careful evaluation of eyewitness testimony.

    59 min

  7. Apr 30

    Logan Harris - Drone Detection Expert - CEO of Spotter Global - HC0066

    Jake sits down with Logan Harris, founder and CEO of Spotter Global, to explore the rapidly evolving world of advanced radar technology, drone detection, and critical infrastructure security.From building homemade radios as a kid to leading one of the most innovative compact radar companies, Logan shares his journey into electrical engineering, defense technology, and entrepreneurship—including how the September 11 attacks reshaped his career and inspired him to develop solutions for national security. This episode dives deep into how radar works vs. LiDAR, breaking down complex concepts into simple terms while explaining why radar is essential for detecting threats in challenging environments like fog, dust, and low-altitude airspace. Logan also explains how small, portable radar systems are revolutionizing surveillance—capable of monitoring hundreds of acres and detecting even small drones with precision. A major focus is the modern drone threat landscape, including real-world insights from conflicts like Ukraine, where rapidly evolving drone technology—such as fiber-optic guided drones—is changing warfare and security strategies. The conversation highlights the growing risks of drone-based attacks, airspace disruptions, and public safety concerns, especially for law enforcement, firefighting operations, and large public events. Listeners will also learn how AI-powered radar and video systems are transforming detection by reducing false alarms, identifying threats (from drones to weapons), and enabling faster, smarter responses. Logan shares how customer-driven innovation shapes product development at Spotter Global, along with practical insights into entrepreneurship—including his productivity framework: Record, Remind, Report. Whether you're in emergency services, defense, public safety, or technology, this episode offers a compelling look at the future of security systems, AI integration, and counter-drone solutions—and why staying ahead of these threats is more critical than ever. Logan's Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/lh1937 Spotter Global Website:www.spotterglobal.com HAIX Boots: www.HIAXUSA.com Rigaku Analytical Devices: www.RigakuAnalytical.com

    52 min

  8. Apr 22

    Keith "Flip" Griffin - US Navy - Command Master Chief (Ret) - Creator of Firehouse Freedom - HC0065

    Keith “Flip” Griffin, a retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief with over 23 years in elite search and rescue (SAR) operations. During his military career, Flip led high-risk missions and logged more than 1,300 flight hours, operating across combat zones, ocean rescues, and medevac deployments. After retiring, Flip transitioned into leadership development, creating the Everyday Leader Framework—a practical system focused on accountability, communication, and trust. He now works closely with the fire and EMS community through his Firehouse Freedom program, helping leaders build stronger teams and more effective station culture. Website: www.firehousefreedom.com LinkedIn: Keith’s LinkedIn HIAX Boots: www.hiaxusa.com Rigaku Analytical: www.RigakuAnalytical.com Jake sits down with Keith “Flip” Griffin to explore leadership, military experience, and the realities of high-risk emergency work. Flip shares the story behind his nickname—earned during an unforgettable early leadership moment—and uses it to highlight the role of mentorship, humility, and team integration. From there, the conversation traces his path from a suburban upbringing to becoming a Navy SAR corpsman and eventually a Command Master Chief. The discussion dives into the demands of search and rescue medicine, including operating as an independent provider in high-pressure environments where critical decisions must be made without backup. Flip reflects on the transition from training to real-world missions and the mindset required to perform when lives are on the line. A major focus of the episode is leadership. Flip breaks down the core principles that shaped his approach—honesty, consistency, and transparency—and explains how these traits build trust, accountability, and strong team culture. The conversation also explores the personal side of leadership, including how becoming a husband and father changed his perspective on risk, responsibility, and decision-making. Flip offers insight into balancing family life with demanding careers in the military and emergency services. This episode delivers practical takeaways for fire, EMS, and military professionals, including: ​Leading effectively under pressure​Building trust within teams​Transitioning from operator to leader​Applying real-world experience to leadership growth

    1h 38m
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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
    81
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jake Ryks
  • Show Website
    HAZARD CLASS

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