The Hazmat Files Podcast

July 2025

In this powerful episode of The Hazmat Files, seasoned railroad hazmat leaders Clay, Lane, and Brian share firsthand lessons from major incidents, close calls, and key developments that have shaped the future of rail emergency response. From communication and coordination to the critical training resources offered by railroads, this episode is a must-listen for every first responder committed to rail safety and hazmat preparedness.

Special Guests: Clay Reid, CHMM, Senior Director – Hazardous Materials Safety, BNSF Railway Company; Lane A. Sekavec, CHMM, Sr. Manager Hazardous Materials, Union Pacific Railroad; Brian Shanks, Manager Hazardous Materials, Norfolk Southern

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July 2025

In this gripping episode of The Hazmat Files, firefighters Tyler Hoke and Jason Gore reflect on their involvement in the 2022 ammonium nitrate fire in Winston-Salem, NC—an incident that came dangerously close to catastrophe. Through firsthand accounts, tactical insights, and lessons learned, listeners gain a rare look into the high-stakes decisions and coordination that kept a volatile situation from becoming a disaster.

Special Guests: Tyler Hoke, Firefighter, Greensboro (NC) Fire Department; Jason Gore, Firefighter, Winston-Salem Fire Department

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August 2025

In this captivating episode of The Hazmat Files, we uncover the hidden dangers of illicit and clandestine labs—from lethal fentanyl to the explosive volatility of meth production. Adam Weiss offers vital insights into how to spot early warning signs of illicit lab activity, the critical role of interagency planning and training, and the unique risks these environments pose to first responders. Whether you’re in hazmat, law enforcement, or EMS, this episode discusses how to stay safe and prepared in the face of these threats.

Special Guest: Adam Weiss, President and CEO, Downrange Solutions

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September 2025

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, we dive into the volatile world of monomers and polymerization—chemical processes that can rapidly escalate in emergencies. Our guests explain how these substances behave, key warning signs, and what first responders need to know to stay safe.

Special Guests: Pete Kirk, North American Emergency Services & Security Operations Leader, Dow, Inc.; Keith Silverman, PhD, Partner, GoldShield TEAM, Executive Committee, TRANSCAER

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September 2025

In this episode of The Hazmat Files, CSX’s Michael Scully offers a boots-on-the-ground perspective on the company’s Standard of Care—a comprehensive approach to rail safety, incident response, and community recovery. From emergency coordination to long-term environmental stewardship, discover how CSX integrates public safety into every layer of its operations and supports communities before, during, and after rail incidents.

Special Guest: Mike Scully, AVP, Risk Management, CSX Transportation

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October 2025

Explore the evolving world of hazmat response, from emerging chemical threats to changing preparedness standards. Industry leaders share insights on today’s top risks, future-ready tools and training, and how teams can stay ahead. A must-listen for both veterans and newcomers.

Special Guests: Chris Hawley, Partner and COO, EMSOL; Toby Frost, Training Program Manager, Safeware, Inc.

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October 2025

This episode dives into the rising risk of lithium-ion battery fires and how to respond. Lt. John Cassidy, Steve Sitton, and Sean Tuthill share insights on causes, safety strategies, and public education—vital for anyone navigating today’s battery-powered world.

Special Guests: Lieutenant John Cassidy, Fire Department City of New York (FDNY); Sean Tuthill, Director of Waste Management, AARCO Environmental; Steve Sitton, Director of Programs and Training, GrayMar Environmental Services

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June 18, 2024

The Hazmat Files Podcast explores hazardous materials, serving as a resource for first responders, industry professionals, and hazmat enthusiasts. Each episode features guest speakers sharing insights, experiences, and the latest safety protocols. We discuss emergency response tactics and all aspects of hazmat, providing essential knowledge on recommended practices and effective management of hazmat incidents.

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July 11, 2024

We reflect on the lessons learned from hazmat Line of Duty Deaths (LODDs), examining past incidents to understand what went wrong and how we can prevent future tragedies.

Special Guest: Chief John Tippett, Director of Fire Programs, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation

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July 23, 2024

We’ll explore the fascinating intersection of Hazmat and EMS, diving into the crucial overlap between hazardous materials management and emergency medical services. You’ll hear about recommended practices, essential training, and collaborative strategies for effective response.

Special Guest: Adam Weiss, is a current Nationally Registered Paramedic with over 30 years of advanced field medical experience both in country and abroad. He serves as the Senior Paramedic Instructor for a Tri-County National Registry Paramedic Program.

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August 7, 2024

We’ll delve into proactive emergency preparedness strategies within the chemical industry, emphasizing leadership and proactive measures rather than reactive responses.

Special Guest: Matt Paynter, Emergency Response and Preparedness Manager, Nutrien

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October 23, 2024

We’ll tackle the unique challenges and response strategies for dealing with hazmat emergencies within chemical facilities, focusing on on-site incident management and safety protocols.

Special Guest: Dr. Keith Silverman, GoldShield Team & TRANSCAER Executive Committee Member

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November 20, 2024

We’ll dive into the complexities of global chemical incidents, exploring the dangers faced by carriers, emergency responders, and the chemical industry when hazardous materials spill or leak.

Special Guest: Aaron Montgomery, President & CEO, OURAY

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December 4, 2024

We will have two Class 1 Railroad (BNSF & UP) hazardous materials managers join us for a discussion that will focus on the integration of safety protocols across major rail networks for hazmat transport. We’ll discuss the implementation and standardization of safety measures for transportation hazmat by rail and highlight rail industry challenges and solutions.

Special Guests: Paul Holt, Manager – Hazardous Materials, Union Pacific Railroad; Paul Hester, Manager – Hazardous Materials Field Operations & Emergency Response, BNSF Railway

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