Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast

Episode #175: NFA Expo, Night 3 (Part 2) Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Special Guests: Steve Kozar & Paul Catucci, Pyro Junkie This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded during the National Fireworks annual Expo in Rogers, Arkansas. This episode took place from the lounge of the Embassy Suites after a day of trade show and an evening of demos. There’s a lot of pyro discussion, discourse andpredictions taking place during this episode. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #174: NFA Expo, Night 3 (Part 1) Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Special Guests: Keith Chua, JinLing & Chuck Decker, Uncle Sam This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded during the National Fireworks Annual Expo. This year’s event took place in Rogers, Arkansas and this episode was recorded from the lounge of the Embassy Suites after a long day of attending the trade show and an evening of incredible fireworks demos. There’s a lot of pyro discussion, discourse and 2026 predictions that take place during this episode. Special thanks to Keith and Chuck for joining us for the chat. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #173: Fireworks Can't Be Canceled Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker For over a decade John and Ron have read countless stories written by all kinds of folks that are eager to cancel fireworks. Very rarely do you come across a story in support of fireworks and all the good comes as a result of the industry. John and Ron take the time to discuss some valid reasons why fireworks need to be celebrated and not canceled. In the words of NFA President, Stacy Blake: “IF WE’RE GONE, PEOPLE ARE GONNA NOTICE”. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Car Talk & Johnny’s House Arrest Pyro Purge & Season Recap 2026 Preview 10 Reasons Why Fireworks Can’t Be Cancelled Fake Q’s NFA Preview Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #172: PGI 2025 Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker John and the guys are in Iowa experiencing the joys of PGI while Ron’s back home taking care of the administrative duties. The guys take some time virtually to discuss what’s going on in the markets and at the convention. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Firework Market News Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT Episode #170: Borrowed Time Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s the middle of retail week and the guys take some time to report on fireworks industry trends in real time. There’s some talk about the China tariffs, fireworks safety and what would you do to stay 18 years old! If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Riley’s Like a Dog Chasing a Bumper Warehouse and Salesroom Update Larry Lomaz’s 2000 Sparkler Fireworks Safety Home Made Fireworks Pros & Cons Illegal Fireworks Stories in Las Vegas and California Which Breed of Dog is Most Affected by Fireworks Retail Week Sales Trends WWJD Bryan Johnson Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #171: Johnny’s Shelf of Joy Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s Independence Day 2025 and the guys take some time to report on fireworks industry trends in real time. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Fireworks News MAGA Fountain How the Roman Candle Got It’s Name I want my MTV What Would Johnny Do? NFA & PGI Update Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT Episode #170: Borrowed Time Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s the middle of retail week and the guys take some time to report on fireworks industry trends in real time. There’s some talk about the China tariffs, fireworks safety and what would you do to stay 18 years old! If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Riley’s Like a Dog Chasing a Bumper Warehouse and Salesroom Update Larry Lomaz’s 2000 Sparkler Fireworks Safety Home Made Fireworks Pros & Cons Illegal Fireworks Stories in Las Vegas and California Which Breed of Dog is Most Affected by Fireworks Retail Week Sales Trends WWJD Bryan Johnson Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #170: Borrowed Time Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s the middle of retail week and the guys take some time to report on fireworks industry trends in real time. There’s some talk about the China tariffs, fireworks safety and what would you do to stay 18 years old! If you like our podcast, you’ll love our Youtube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Riley’s Like a Dog Chasing a Bumper Warehouse and Salesroom Update Larry Lomaz’s 2000 Sparkler Fireworks Safety Home Made Fireworks Pros & Cons Illegal Fireworks Stories in Las Vegas and California Which Breed of Dog is Most Affected by Fireworks WWJD Bryan Johnson Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT Episode #170: Borrowed Time Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s the middle of retail week and the guys take some time to report on fireworks industry trends in real time. There’s some talk about the China tariffs, fireworks safety and what would you do to stay 18 years old! If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Riley’s Like a Dog Chasing a Bumper Warehouse and Salesroom Update Larry Lomaz’s 2000 Sparkler Fireworks Safety Home Made Fireworks Pros & Cons Illegal Fireworks Stories in Las Vegas and California Which Breed of Dog is Most Affected by Fireworks Retail Week Sales Trends WWJD Bryan Johnson Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #169: The Deeper I Go; The More I Cry Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the warehouse of Starr Fireworks in Fargo North Dakota. It’s the start of retail week and the guys are getting ready for the 4th of July. There’s some talk about the China tariffs and fireworks safety. They also talk about quiet quitting and Rob Berk’s pinball shipping problems. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel! Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro My Bedroom is a Speakeasy Rob Berk’s Pinball Mania! Narcissist Insomnia Fireworks News WWJD “Chewy” Quiet Quitting Califailure Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #168: Now I Got a Fivehead Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The season is approaching fast, the dealer show is in the rear view mirror and Johnny is gearing up for the sales season. To make things even more interesting, the fireworks industry is facing a significant challenge due to the tariffs currently imposed on our products. Ron and John take some time to talk about what we’ve learned and what’s expected as we head into June and July. Some of the Topics Discussed Dealer Show Recap Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance What to do About Livestream Pirates New Car Discussion Tariff Talk Fireworks News What Would Johnny Do AI “Abundance” Book Discussion Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #167: Starr Fireworks Dealer Show - Pre Show Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker John and Ron hosted a Starr Fireworks Dealer Show - Pre-Show, live from the Starr Fireworks showroom in Fargo, North Dakota. John has just returned from China, and after the serious talk about the recent China tariffs, the guys talk about their surroundings. After a showroom artwork tour, they discuss some of the fireworks showcased at the dealer show. If you’ve never been to Starr Fireworks or have never seen a fireworks dealer show, be sure to watch the video on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #166: China Tariffs Threaten America’s Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Guests: Stacy Schneitter Blake, President of the National Fireworks Association | Steve Houser, Past President of the National Fireworks Association The fireworks industry is facing a significant challenge due to the tariffs currently imposed on our products. These tariffs threaten our businesses, livelihoods, and the long-standing traditions we work hard to uphold. To ensure the future of our industry, we must take action. The National Fireworks Association (NFA), alongside the American Pyrotechnicians Association (APA), has taken steps to advocate for our industry. It’s been a few days since the administration announced substantially increased tariffs on all products made in China and this episode we talk to Stacy and Steve from the NFA to find out more. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe and check out our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #165: Give Them All Corned Beef Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Guest: Hello Louie It’s St. Patrick’s Day and the guys are in Chicago. The fireworks business is starting to heat up. The 4th of July is a few short months away and it’s starting to get exciting. As discussed many times, the fireworks industry is slow to move so it’s not often that there’s a new product to premiere! John and Ron do their best to explain preloaded canister shells. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe and check out our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Fireworks Travel and Product Update Houthi Pirate Massacre Update and Effects on Shipping Costs Cabo Wabo Discussion & Joe Walsh’s Dentures Update New Products & Pre Load Canister Shells Dealer Show Update Fireworks News Pyro Market Purge Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #164: Loteria Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker It’s Super Bowl weekend and the guys are back in Cabo San Lucas Mexico for some much needed rest & relaxation. Louie joins Ron and John at the Casa Starr table for some fireworks discussion. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe and check out our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Fireworks Update Super Bowl Half Time Talk How to Play Loteria Fireworks News Pyro Market Purge Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

Episode #163: We All Have to Have an Expert Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker It’s January and the inauguration is over. President Trump is in office and Ron and John get together to recap recent events and discuss what this means to the industry of fireworks. This episode was recorded at the Pyro Podcast studios in suburban Illinois. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe and check out our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Pyro Purge How to track your fireworks on a spread sheet Trump Inauguration fireworks California Wildfires Will AI take over fireworks label generation North Dakota news Wind of Change CIA conspiracy Inaugural episode of the Pyro Market Purge Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #10: Surprise! Ron the Banker and Johnny Starr Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 10 of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  2024 has brought about many challenges in the fireworks industry. Higher shipping costs, production shortfalls and increased regulations all combined to put the average pyro in a fetal position under the dinner table. Everyone knows that it’s much easier to face challenges head on and with the help of some long time friends. The guys get together with some very near and dear friends to talk about the holidays and what it all means to them. Enjoy this 10th and final shot of our NOEL NOAB! If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #09: Ed Vasel, Dominator Fireworks & Vice President of the NFA Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 9 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  Ed Vasel, President of the NFA got his start in the business when he realized that Dominator was using his videos in their online platform. Ed’s up to date with the current fireworks regulations and is an invaluable resource for anyone in the fireworks industry. Ed even knows why the guys at 76 call is Sky Bacon and that’s good enough for me. If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest www.dominatorfireworks.com Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #08: Steve Houser, Red Rhino Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 8 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  Anyone who’s familiar with the show has heard Steve Houser before. Steve’s insight as Past President of the NFA combined with his experience at Red Rhino give him a unique perspective and an understanding of the industry that is unmatched. Steve’s knowledge is second to none and like EF Hutton once said, when he talks everyone should listen. If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest www.redrhinofireworks.com/ Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #07: Darci Hoesley, Maximum Load Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 7 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker. A first timer on the show, Darci says she doesn’t like fireworks yet she sure knows what she likes. This self described “Red Neck Woman” has learned to appreciate fireworks and understands the passion. Darci and her husband own Maximum Load Fireworks in Arcadia, Wisconsin and have taken the town by storm with a great assortment and customer service.  If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest www.maximumloadfireworks.com/ Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #06: Wilson, Chili / Black Scorpion Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 6 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  Wilson has been on the show several times and he always give us a realistic opinion of what’s going on in China. This discussion helps the listener gain perspective into what’s going on in the Chinese manufacturing plants. Wilson is a new father and is very proud of his son whom they call Pipi after a popular Chinese cartoon called Pipi Liu. If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest www.chilifireworks.com/ Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #05: Matt Roach, Pyro Buy Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 5 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  If you are looking for passion there’s no need to look any further than Matt Roach. As Ron likes to say, Matt knows where all of the bodies are buried! Matt lives most of the year in China so he can be the eyes and ears for Dominator Fireworks. Whenever Johnny Starr travels to China, they spend their nights together singing karaoke, eating popcorn and disposing of body parts. Matt has a distinct passion for daytime fireworks and tells the guys about his achievements with the Pennsylvania Organization of Recreational Chaos or PORC. If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest www.pyrobuy.com Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT

NOEL NOAB Episode #04: John Jersey, Red Rooster Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, wired for ignition, and ready to launch! Considering most people in the fireworks industry are hyper-stressed in June and July, they tend to relax and smell the potassium nitrate during the holidays. During this downtime, we get to know 9 important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some guests have been on our show before, and for others, this is a first. Enjoy day 4 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  John Jersey has been in the fireworks business for years and he’s a good friend of the show. He’s looking forward to vacationing in Cabo San Lucas and is seeking that perfect cup of coffee. For anyone familiar with the rock band Kiss, you’ll notice that John has that familiar New York accent and sounds uncannily like lead guitarist Ace Frehley. If you enjoyed the audio, we invite you to explore even more content by checking out this episode along with over 275 Fireworks Brigade videos available on our YouTube channel. Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/fireworksbrigade Visit Our Guest Red Rooster Fireworks Facebook Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of fireworks in North Dakota? Visit our store online or in person, year round. CHECK US OUT