In this deeply personal and powerful episode, 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.

THMG Presents: Hazard Class

Episode 0024

A FIRED FEDERAL EMPLOYEES STORY

Featuring:KENNY SCHROEDER

Resources & References:

National Firefighter Registry: nfr.cdc.gov

NIOSH Firefighter Resources: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/firefighters

0:00 – 1:09 | Intro & Guest Welcome

Jake 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 Questions

The age-old debate: “How many holes does a straw have?” sparks some philosophical fun.

2:30 – 4:44 | Kenny’s Abrupt Termination from NIOSH

Kenny 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 Program

Despite 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 Interference

Kenny 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 Matters

Kenny 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 Calling

From a high school CPR class to a lifelong calling—how Kenny fell into firefighting.

13:43 – 14:36 | Kenny’s First Fire

A 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 Retirement

Kenny opens up about the mental toll of retiring from a job that defined him for 26 years.

18:22 – 21:13 | Purpose After the Firehouse

Losing 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 Goals

Kenny’s advocacy continues through local outreach and national collaboration on firefighter cancer awareness.

25:43 – 27:01 | How to Join the Fight & Closing Words

Kenny provides resources to join the National Firefighter Registry and shares a final message of hope.