Pyro Talk
A podcast made by pyros, for pyros. We’ll discuss fireworks best practices, safety, history, and much more!
Episodes
In this reflective solo episode, I trace the unlikely path from my first day as a completely green 1.3G crew member—wet behind the ears, overwhelmed, and instantly hooked—to becoming a podcaster trusted by voices from every corner of the fireworks world. What started as lugging racks and learning safety basics became a journey fueled by curiosity, connection, and the simple power of saying “yes” when opportunities appeared.
You’ll h...
This week on Pyro Talk, we dig deep into the debate surrounding 1.4g “Professional Use Only” fireworks. What’s the real difference between a code and a law, and how does legislation like this actually move from an idea to enforcement? Jason breaks down who should have access to 1.4g pro-use materials, what it truly means to be a “professional” in the fireworks industry, and why training and certification matter more than ever. Plus...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, host Jason Rude sits down with Tony Kilgore from the Northeast Ohio Pyrotechnics Group (NEOPG) to break down the latest — and extremely controversial — change to Ohio’s fireworks code. A new rule threatens to severely restrict access to 1.4G “Professional Use Only” fireworks, impacting hobbyists, professionals, and small display operators across the state.
Jason and Tony unpack what happened, why it mat...
This week on Pyro Talk, Jason sits down with Scott Smith to discuss the next evolution of professional fireworks training — Elevate. Formerly known as Cobra Con, Elevate is more than just a new name — it’s a complete reimagining of the firework shooter’s learning experience. Scott breaks down what’s changing, what’s coming next with the all-new Elevate Platform, and why this year’s event is set to be the can’t-miss opportunity for ...
This week on Pyro Talk, Jason sits down with Victor Diaz, the innovative mind behind PyroTool.com . — the guy who literally put electricity in pyro pokes.
Victor shares his journey into the fireworks world, the spark that led to creating PyroTool.com, and how he’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in pyrotechnic tools and tech. From hobbyist beginnings to running a full-fledged innovation hub for pyros, this episode dives de...
We might be a year out, but it’s never too early to start talking PGI! In this episode, Jason sits down with Craig Hetherington to take a way too early look ahead at PGI 2026 in Kaukauna, Wisconsin — from where to stay and what to eat, to what makes this location unique. The guys also look back at PGI 2025, recap highlights from the NFA Convention, and share some thoughts on Sky Wars. Whether you’re a pyro veteran or planning your ...
Starting a fireworks display company sounds like a dream—but the reality is far from easy. In this episode of Pyro Talk, I sit down with Devin Vargas of Deep South Fireworks to unpack what it really takes to build a display company from the ground up. We’ll dispel the common myths, including why it’s not as simple as grabbing some 1.4g fireworks and shooting them off. From navigating regulations and finding clients, to financial hu...
The instant reaction to the shows at Sky Wars!
In this special preview episode of Pyro Talk, I’m getting you fired up for Sky Wars 2025! From the friends we’ll reconnect with, to the jaw-dropping shows we’ll witness, Sky Wars is the ultimate gathering of the fireworks community. I’ll walk through some of the people you’ll want to meet, the competitions and displays you can’t miss, and a few cool things that are debuting this year. Come find Victor Diaz or me to find out about t...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, Jason Rude sits down with Danny Turner, creator of Fireworks Fallout Zone—an innovative online resource that serves as a one-stop shop for all your site layout and diagram needs. Whether you’re planning a small display or a massive show, Fireworks Fallout Zone makes it easier to design safe, compliant, and professional layouts. Danny shares the story behind the platform, how it helps shooters and opera...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, host Jason Rude sits down with Peter Rogoz of 76Proline to dive into the world of product development and innovation. From concept to launch, Peter shares how 76Proline approaches creating new effects that stand out in the marketplace. The spotlight is on smoke effects—how they’re designed, tested, and brought to life for both pros and enthusiasts. Whether you’re curious about the science behind the sm...
The countdown is on! 🎆 In this episode of Pyro Talk, Jason sits down with Allison Cowgill from the National Fireworks Association to get the inside scoop on the upcoming NFA 2025 Convention. From the jam-packed schedule to the legendary evening demo shows, we cover everything you need to know before heading to the fireworks industry’s biggest event of the year. Plus—get ready for some fun as we talk about the 90s Night party, the ...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, we dive into the explosive legacy behind Cincinnati’s most iconic celebration—Riverfest. Joe Rozzi takes us through the remarkable history of Rozzi Fireworks and his own journey as a pyrotechnician, sharing how his family’s artistry has lit up the skies for generations. We also hear from Brian Dunaway, who reveals how fans can enjoy the show from the best seats in town while making a real difference fo...
Stop in for a quick update of what's going on in the world Pyro Talk! We'll talk about our thoughts of PGI and how much fun we had there. We'll also talk about how you can learn some new things on a new series called Pyro teach. We'll talk about my little spill. It will give you an idea what's coming up in the back end of the season all before we get set for Sky Wars in Missouri in September!
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My instant reaction to the shows I saw this week! Thank you 76 Pro Line for sponsoring instant reactions!
https://youtu.be/IpNQVH0G9gU?si=AF3HR66AArddcEEU
Here’s the instant reaction to the PGI competition shows and shells. Brought to you exclusively by 76 ProLine.
In this episode of Pyro Talk, we’re joined by fireworks designer Travis Kramer to dive deep into the behind-the-scenes story of his show, Take Flight. What was supposed to be a soaring pyromusical quickly turned into a logistical nightmare when relentless rain and flooding threatened to ground the entire production. Travis walks us through how he and his crew fought back against mud, water, and weather delays to bring the show to l...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, we’re joined by Gretchen Demko and Dan Muzzey to give you the ultimate insider's guide to PGI 2025! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned member, this episode covers everything you need to know before heading to Boone:
How to register (and what to bring when you pick it up)
Where things are located on-site
What food is available at the fairgrounds and in the area
Things to do when you'...
In this episode of Pyro Talk, we're joined by Dan Muzzey—PGI Seminar Chair and candidate for Vice President of Communications. Dan gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how the educational side of PGI comes together, from lining up speakers to curating a diverse lineup of seminars for the upcoming convention in Boone. We also discuss his vision for the future of communication within PGI and why he's throwing his hat in the r...
In this highly engaging Independence Day episode of Pyro Talk, we sit down with Ocean Williams—an up-and-coming fireworks innovator whose passion for chemistry and storytelling is lighting up the industry. Ocean isn’t your typical young adult. While others were playing video games, he was buried in books, labs, and launch sites. His unique path led him to invent smokeless black powder—yes, you read that right—a new product that’s a...
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