Episode #186: Fustanella

Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker

Special Guest: Dino

Spring is in the air and John and Ron recruit Dino from Starr Fireworks and Fat Cat Fireworks to help them get ready for the season. Dino and the guys discuss current fireworks news and complete their fireworks brackets. There’s an update on tariffs and an update about America’s Birthday Bash!

Episode #185: Explode Go Boom!

Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker

America 250, also known as the Semiquincentennial, is fast approaching.  Johnny and Ron got you covered and are here to help you plan for America’s Birthday Bash. The guys get together to recommend some novelty items, smoke items, and fountains for your 4th of July.

Episode #184: I’m Like Your Therapy Dog

Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker

Johnny and Ron gather with a bunch of their friends at Casa Starr in Cabo San Lucas for their annual Big Game Party. After a short description of “spite drinking” at the Baja Cantina, they move on to fireworks. If you like our podcast, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Episode #183: The Monster Did Not Come to You!

Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker

The last New Year’s Eve salute has rung out in the cold January air, and John and Ron are together, talking about fireworks. There’s some tariff talk, some production updates, and a preview of the Semiquincentennial. Come to think of it, we’re tired of mispronouncing the word, so from now on we’re calling it America’s Birthday Bash. If you like our podcast, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Episode #182: Holiday Bonus – NFA Expo Night 4, Pyro Junkies!

Hosts: Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker

Special Guests: Jeff Siddle (Pyro Junkie) John Ye (Legend Fireworks), Kristy Hunnewell (Galaxy Fireworks) & Steve Kozar

After we get together in the studio to review 2025 and preview 2026, we unleash this unfiltered, special Holiday Bonus episode. This somewhat disjointed piece of audio is a little something we found on the cutting room floor. Strap in and buckle down because it’s kind of like being on a treadmill. This episode of the Fireworks Brigade – A Pyro Podcast was recorded during the National Fireworks annual Expo in Rogers, Arkansas. The interview portion of this episode took place after the night 4 demo back at the hotel lounge. If you like our podcast, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Episode #181: It’s A 2 Dog Night

Hosts: Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker

It’s time for our annual Christmas episode, and as usual, Louie’s in the studio to add to the festivities. While the tendency is to stray from the fireworks discussions this time of year, we manage to stay on track for most of this episode. John shares his 2026 market predictions, and we review what’s going on with the Semiquincentennial initiative. This episode was recorded at Pyropodcast Studios in Chicago. This episode was recorded at PyroPodcast Studios in Chicago. If you like our podcast, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Episode #180: Stuffing & Tariffs

Hosts: Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker

Thanksgiving is right around the corner and what could be tastier than a discussion about tariffs? So keep an eye on grandpa, put the kids in front of their screens and gather the adults around the table to discuss tariffs. What is the impact of tariffs on the 2026 season, what is the current rate and are they legal? All these questions, and much more will be answered in this episode of the Fireworks Brigade. This episode was recorded at PyroPodcast Studios in Chicago. If you like our podcast, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Episode #179: The Truth of It

Hosts: Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker

When it comes to fireworks, we’ve long established that Johnny Starr has a “buying problem”. It’s October and that means Johnny is in China trying to scratch the itch. Johnny takes the time to chat about what he’s seen and what he expects for the 2026 selling season. There’s also some discussion about tariffs and new products. This episode was recorded via Zoom and there’s a video version on our YouTube channel. If you haven’t been to our channel, what are you waiting for? Please like and subscribe!

Episode #178: Demurrage

Hosts: Johnny Starr & Ron the Banker

It’s Halloween and what can be scarier than a demurrage invoice? Stay on the road, keep clear of the moors, avoid the tool shed and get that container out of port! This episode has some tricks and a special treat. Follow Johnny as he does a deep dive into container programs. The pros and the cons of buying an entire container are clearly discussed. This episode was recorded at Pyropodcast Studios in Chicago. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel!

Episode #177: NFA Expo, Night 4 – Your Agent in China

Hosts: Mr. Terry T. Winkle, Your Agent in China & Louie

Special Guests: Mr. Terry T. Winkle, Your Agent in China & Louie

This episode of the Fireworks Brigade – A Pyro Podcast was recorded during the National Fireworks Association’s annual Expo in Rogers, Arkansas. This episode took place in the hotel lounge after the demo on night 4. Terry Winkle has been in the fireworks business for decades and he gives us his thoughts about the industry and what to expect for 2026. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel!

Episode #176: NFA Expo, Charity Auction

Hosts: Johnny Starr and Ron the Banker

Special Guests: Louie & Steve Kozar

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 banquet hall during the live auction. If you like our podcast, you’ll love our YouTube channel!

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 and
predictions taking place during this episode.

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.

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:

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:

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:

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:

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.

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.

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:

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:

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:

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.