BONUS Episode - Kenny Schroeder -Fire Lieutenant (Ret) - Fired Federal Employee

Jake sits down with Kenny Schroeder, a retired fire lieutenant and passionate advocate for firefighter health and cancer prevention. Kenny shares the heartbreaking story of being abruptly let go from his dream post-retirement job with the National Firefighter Cancer Registry (NFCR) due to a political shift and sudden executive orders. He speaks candidly about mental health, purpose, and why the fire service is more than just a job — it’s an identity.0:00 – 1:09 | Intro & Guest WelcomeJake introduces the podcast and welcomes guest Kenny Schroeder, who served 26 years in the fire service and recently worked with NIOSH on the NFCR before being unexpectedly terminated.1:10 – 2:29 | Wheel of Stupid QuestionsThe age-old debate: “How many holes does a straw have?” sparks some philosophical fun.2:30 – 4:44 | Kenny’s Abrupt Termination from NIOSHKenny recounts the chaotic days following executive orders that resulted in his termination just months into the role:“Literally there was one day where I was told in the morning I had been terminated, but three hours later I was told I still had a job.”4:45 – 6:42 | Hope for Rehiring & State of the NFCR ProgramDespite the setback, Kenny remains hopeful about the registry’s mission and a potential return.6:43 – 10:30 | Inside the Registry Work & Impact of Political InterferenceKenny breaks down the goal of enrolling 200,000 firefighters and the abrupt halt to outreach work due to communication restrictions.10:31 – 12:10 | Why This Mission MattersKenny discusses the personal origin of his advocacy—his mentor losing a leg to cancer on day one of Kenny’s career.“We don’t sign up for cancer.”12:11 – 13:42 | Finding Firefighting as a CallingFrom a high school CPR class to a lifelong calling—how Kenny fell into firefighting.13:43 – 14:36 | Kenny’s First FireA vivid recollection of fear, adrenaline, and smoke.“You can’t even see your hand in front of your face.”14:37 – 18:21 | Mental Health & Transitioning to RetirementKenny opens up about the mental toll of retiring from a job that defined him for 26 years.18:22 – 21:13 | Purpose After the FirehouseLosing a job doesn’t mean losing your purpose. Kenny reflects on what he lost—and what he’s still fighting for.21:14 – 25:42 | Continuing the Fight: FACE Team & Future GoalsKenny’s advocacy continues through local outreach and national collaboration on firefighter cancer awareness.25:43 – 27:01 | How to Join the Fight & Closing WordsKenny provides resources to join the National Firefighter Registry and shares a final message of hope.