It seems no one suggested this but maybe you could try getting in touch with the person who got fired? Buy them the beverage of their choice and figure out what

It seems no one suggested this but maybe you could try getting in touch with the person who got fired? Buy them the beverage of their choice and figure out what happened (and if you’re next in X years) let them know the pickle you’re in (and that you don’t blame them of course), and ask for some tips if they are willing to give you some. You worked together, surely there was some rapport there?