Stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to some great conversations, and that's exactly what happened when we chatted with Jake Ricks. He was curious about the Hazma crew, and we were happy to share insights. Plus, Jake hosts an incredible show that you definitely need to check out and subscribe to!

Thank you to our sponsor for this episode:

ObexionFR

ObexionFR is a mobile solution for first responders dealing with lithium battery fires, created by former FDNY Hazmat experts. It uses advanced science to neutralize fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel, quickly containing and extinguishing them while keeping toxic gas levels safe. The process cools the battery, isolates oxygen, and prevents further ignition, providing a reliable tool for challenging battery fire incidents. Check it out.

908 Devices

908 Devices is a trusted name in the hazmat industry, renowned for its advanced handheld identification tools. Our MX908 mass spectrometer enables first responders to rapidly identify trace levels of high priority chemical and explosive threats, while our cutting-edge FTIR products (XplorIR, ProtectIR and ThreatID) provide precise identification of thousands of unknown substances, including hazardous chemicals and narcotics. These portable solutions are essential for detecting chemical spills, illicit drugs, and chemical warfare agents, delivering critical insights in emergencies. Learn more about 908 Devices (please use this link = https://info.908devices.com/l/679413/2024-09-17/34xmnr) and our full range of detection technologies.

Mirion

Mirion Technologies leads in radiation detection and analysis, providing advanced tools for first responders to ensure safety and security. Their technology helps detect and monitor radiation, allowing quick and informed decision-making in emergencies. With portable detectors and monitoring systems, they equip emergency personnel to manage hazardous environments safely. By focusing on innovation and user-friendly design, Mirion supports first responders in protecting communities and reducing risks,

making them vital in public safety and emergency preparedness. Check them out here

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• Hazard Class Show
• Industrial Strength Show | Haz Mat Harder
• U.S. & Eh?
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Conference, You Say?

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Don’t just get on the job, get into it.™

Episode Overview:

In this special crossover, Jake from Hazard Class sits down with the iconic duo behind The Hazmat Guys—Mike Monaco and Bobby Salvesen. These FDNY veterans-turned-educators share insights on how they've stayed engaged and passionate in hazmat after decades in the field. They dive deep into why teaching is essential to mastering a skill, how to beat imposter syndrome, and what it takes to build a true culture of continuous learning. It's candid, funny, and full of gold for hazmat pros, educators, and lifelong learners alike.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

1:08 – 3:30 | Meet the Guests + Pull Tab Story

Jake introduces Mike and Bobby and shares a hilarious anecdote about pull tabs and accidental gambling wins.

3:31 – 4:59 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

Would you rather have 3 arms and 1 leg or 3 legs and 1 arm? The trio debates mobility, combat tactics, and monkey-feet adaptability.

5:00 – 8:52 | Staying Curious After Decades in Hazmat

Mike uses the “hidden rooms in a house” metaphor to explain how endless curiosity keeps the field exciting. Bobby talks about his all-or-nothing personality that drives deep commitment.

8:53 – 11:26 | Why Teaching Is a Shortcut to Mastery

The guys argue that proficiency can be achieved on the job, but true mastery only comes through teaching—because explaining something forces you to understand it in multiple dimensions.

11:27 – 14:39 | Imposter Syndrome & Confidence in the Classroom

Even veteran instructors feel it. Mike shares how teaching science (not experience) helps build confidence. Bobby adds that if you know more than your audience, you’re already qualified to teach.

14:40 – 18:38 | Teaching Hazmat to PhDs

Real stories about teaching Nobel-adjacent audiences, and how even PhDs benefit from hazmat-specific framing of science they already know.

18:39 – 21:31 | Making Core Concepts Fresh Again

How to keep “vapor pressure” interesting after teaching it for years? By shifting angles, finding new metaphors, and connecting ideas in unexpected ways.

21:32 – 25:36 | Deciding What to Teach Next

From core topics to on-demand requests like “sewer gas 101,” the team shares how they build out their growing library of training content.

25:37 – 28:26 | The Maze of Compliance and Risk-Based Training

They dig into the balance of OSHA minimum standards, NFPA requirements, and the real-world need to prepare for emerging threats—like lithium-ion battery fires.

28:27 – 31:00 | National Training: Whose Job Is It?

Who’s responsible for keeping responders informed? The answer: everyone. It’s on individuals, departments, and educators to push updates and knowledge.

31:01 – 35:28 | Building a Culture of Hazmat Engagement

From the top-down to bottom-up, a culture of curiosity must be cultivated. Stipends and promotions are fine—but intrinsic motivation wins in the long run.

 Key Moments & Quotes:

• “Every time I think I’m opening a closet, I find a whole new floor in the house.” – Mike, on never running out of things to learn in hazmat.
• “You’ll hit proficiency on the job. You hit mastery when you start teaching.” – Bobby
• “Imposter syndrome never totally goes away. But if you know the science, you can own the room.” – Mike
• “We’re not really teaching anything new—we’re just putting a name to things you already experience.” – Mike, on demystifying complex science