Hibernian Radio Hour #321: The Battle for North Riverside’s Firehouse

This week on Hibernian Radio, we welcome retired North Riverside firefighter Austin Nicholl and filmmaker Colin Hughes, the creative force behind the gripping new documentary film Fire Department, Inc. — a powerful exposé on the privatization fight that rocked a small Illinois fire department and the union brothers who stood their ground.

Austin recounts his 24 years on the job, the bruising eight-year war with village leadership, and how a red light ticket sent young Colin down the rabbit hole that led to his first feature-length film. Together, they dive into the legal battles, political betrayals, and union solidarity that defined a generation of North Riverside firefighters.

We also discuss Austin’s books — including Smile On Your Brother and Expecting to Fly — and how music and writing helped him heal post-retirement.

Special thanks to our sponsors: Madden Funds, Local 150, Fox’s Pizza, and Flood Brothers Disposal. And don’t miss the final tribute from Mike Houlihan, plus our ongoing push to support the 11th Annual Irish American Movie Hooley. Donations welcome at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/donate-to-hibernian-st-patricks-day–2025