Special Guest: Scott Jennie | Firefighter Cancer Support Network

In this powerful and timely episode, the crew sits down with retired Captain Scott Jennie, National Training Program Manager and California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN). This conversation dives deep into the realities of occupational cancer in the fire service, the cultural shifts needed to protect firefighters, and the life-saving resources available when the unthinkable happens.

🔥 Episode Highlights

• Scott’s transition from the fire floor to national cancer advocacy

• Why firefighter cancer rates continue to rise nationwide

• Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of annual safety stand-downs

• The myth of “it’s just part of the job” — and why it doesn’t have to be

• The critical role of peer-to-peer (badge-to-badge) support during a cancer diagnosis

• How Firefighter Cancer Support Network helps firefighters and their families, free of charge

• What to do immediately after receiving a cancer diagnosis

• Navigating workers’ comp, presumptive laws, and self-advocacy

• Why overhaul is one of the most dangerous exposure periods

• “If you smell smoke, you smell cancer” — fighting fire aggressively and smart

• Culture change: accountability at every rank, from probie to chief

• Why engineers often experience the highest PAH exposure levels

• Small daily habits that significantly reduce cancer risk

• Early detection, screenings, and why education saves lives

  
  

  🧠 Key Takeaways

• No firefighter should ever fight cancer alone

• Occupational cancer is preventable with awareness, behavior change, and accountability

• Clean gear, clean air, clean cab — every call, every time

• Leadership is not rank-dependent; anyone can speak up and make a difference

• Firefighters must prioritize long-term health to enjoy retirement with family

🎗️ About Firefighter Cancer Support Network

Firefighter Cancer Support Network is a nationwide nonprofit providing:

• Peer-to-peer mentorship

• Cancer toolkits and survivor guides

• Education and training

• Navigation support for diagnosis, treatment, and recovery

• Resources for firefighters, EMS professionals, and immediate family members

All services are free of charge.

👉 If you or someone you know needs help:
🌐 https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/
📞 Assistance available via website or hotline
🧑‍🚒 Volunteer mentors and state directors available nationwide

🛒 Support the Podcast

Check out our latest merch and help support the show:
👉 https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections

🤝 What’s Next

The Cool Fireman Podcast will be planning a future Fill the Boot–style fundraiser to directly support the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Stay tuned for details.

As always — thank you for listening, supporting, and being part of this community.

🎙️ Roll it, Gigi.