Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast

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 #153: 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,

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. E

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

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

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 conten

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 c

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 t

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 chec

NOEL NOAB Episode #03: Tom Wilson, Black Market 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 3 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker. Black Market Fireworks is the number 1 fireworks wholesaler in Joplin Missouri. Black Market features the biggest selection of fireworks in the 4 states area and like many fireworks businesses was established decades ago. The family was originally in the landscape and nursery business in the early 70’s and decided to add fireworks sales for some extra income after the busy spring season. Many say that selling fireworks is t

NOEL NOAB Episode #02: Amy Liu, Happy Family / Riakeo Fireworks Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The rack’s been secured, and it’s 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 nine important and influential people in the fireworks industry. Some of the guests have been on our show before, and for others this is a first. Enjoy day 2 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker. Amy Liu’s appreciation of fireworks started when she began working for the well-established Happy Family Fireworks. Never content and eager to expand, Amy started Riakeo Fireworks and has overseen tremendous growth and success. Amy’s appreciation and passion for fireworks, and her struggles as a woman in a predominantly male industry, are inspirational. Listen to Amy describe her desire to be treated

NOEL NOAB Episode #01: Paul Smith, President of the PGI 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 1 of this 9-day, 9-shot rack of holiday cheer from Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker.  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.pgi.org Visit Starr Fireworks In search of the largest selection of f

Episode #152: OnceAgain I Sound Like a Narcissist Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The guys have been apart for over a month and there’s much to discuss. The bulk of the episode is a recap of John’s annual buying trip in China and what the wholesalers can expect for next year. This episode was recorded at the Pyropodcast studios in suburban Illinois. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe and check out our YouTube channel. Some of the Topics Discussed Bedazzled Picture Frames China Buying Trip Recap New Products for 2025 and Beyond Fireworks News & Fireworks Judge Other News WWJD Choke on That 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 #151: JohnnyStarr & Ron The Banker Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker The night before John leaves for his annual China buying trip, Ron and John get together to recap recent events at NFA and discuss future plans. This annual Halloween episode was recorded at the Pyropodcast 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 What does a PyroSlut do for the Semiquincentennial Strike Update and Effects on the Industry NFA Recap Fireworks News & Fireworks Judge Things a Narcissist May Say Other News Pyro Sex Party? WWJD Sing It Bitch 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 #150: Larry Lomaz Roundtable - Live From NFA Fall Expo Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Special Guests: Steve Kozar and Robert Burke This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in Erie, Pennsylvania during the NFA’s annual Fall Expo. There’s always some great fun and fascinating stories when the name Larry Lomaz is spoken. Considering that they were all in Erie, Pennsylvania. and so close to Larry’s home of Deerfield Ohio, the guys decided to gather some of Larry’s friends and talk everything Lomaz. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Larry Lomaz Stories 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 #149: Pro Line Product Discussion - Live From NFA Fall Expo Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker Special Guests: Steve Hauser, Past President NFA & Ed Vasel, Vice President NFA This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in Erie Pennsylvania during the NFA’s annual Fall Expo. There was a noticeable increase in “Pro Line” product being displayed during the Expo and John and Ron wanted to discuss the product in depth with the experts. Also the guys get an update on the NFA, the success of the 2024 Expo and the expectations moving forward. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Steve Hauser, Past President of the National Fireworks Association She Thinks My Pyro’s Sexy Parody Song Ed Vasel, Vice President of the National Fireworks Association Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropodcastspotify.com/firew

Episode #148: Bum Bum Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker This episode of the Fireworks Brigade - A Pyro Podcast was recorded in the Fireworks Brigade Studios in suburban Illinois. The selling season and the Independence Day Holiday are now over. John and Ron are in Chicago to wrap up the season and look forward to the NFA Expo. They take some time to interview the organizer of the British Fireworks Championships to discuss the recent judging drama. Also, John’s just had a Tiramisu and there’s no telling what he might say. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Final Countdown Long Hours & Little Pay At What Age is it Appropriate to Yell At Kids? It’s Garbage Can; Not Garbage Can’t Warehouse Staff Gets the Boot Fantasy Fireworks Draft Recap Sales Stats From The Showroom Johnny Wants A Vacation Let's Talk Pyro CONTACT US Follow Us! youtube.com/fireworksbrigadetwitter.com/pyropod

Episode #147: I Thought These Were Fake Handcuffs 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 4th of July and the guys are prepared for the Final Countdown. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Final Countdown Long Hours & Little Pay At What Age is it Appropriate to Yell At Kids? It’s Garbage Can; Not Garbage Can’t Warehouse Staff Gets the Boot Fantasy Fireworks Draft Recap Sales Stats From The Showroom Johnny Wants A Vacation 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 #146: She Thinks My Pyro’s Sexy 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 are getting somewhat “loopy”. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Vendor Spotlight Update Pyro Purge Fireworks Stats Starr Sales Figures A Pyro Parody “She’s Thinks My Pyro’s Sexy” 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 #145: 360 Shots of Pure Pleasure 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 moving out of their comfort zones. You can also watch this episode on our YouTube channel. If you like the podcasts, please subscribe to our YouTube channel. Some topics covered in this episode are: Some of the Topics Discussed Intro Pyro Purge NFA & PGI Updates Fireworks News WWJD 360 Shots of Pleasure Roman Candle Korean Crap Balloons Best of Recap 2024 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