In this episode, Mike and Nate enjoy smoking the Nest Maduro Toro cigar while diving into an extensive, candid review of the 2025 Disney live-action remake of Snow White. They discuss their expectations, the film’s heavy emphasis on modern, feel-good messaging over traditional storytelling, and its notable departures from the original animated classic. They critique the overly polished visuals, questionable costume design, excessive and mostly forgettable songs, and the diluted characterization—particularly of the Evil Queen, who comes off as far less menacing than expected. The hosts also analyze casting choices, with Rachel Zegler’s performance deemed adequate but not standout, and question Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen due to her youthful appearance.

Mike and Nate humorously unpack plot inconsistencies, such as the convenience of major events, the underwhelming “evil” actions of the Queen, and the surreal but lifeless tone that blurs the line between realism and fantasy. They poke fun at the politically correct changes, like the renaming of dwarves to “miners” or “they/thems,” the sanitized depiction of the forest and castle life, and the consensual “non-kiss” scene replacing the iconic true love’s kiss.

Despite numerous criticisms—from uneven pacing to uninspired magic effects—the duo ultimately finds the film “serviceable” and not the disaster many online claim it to be, giving it a middling rating. They recommend viewers stick to the original animated Snow White for a better experience but admit this remake can be passably entertaining if approached with low expectations. The episode ends with a note on comparable recent films, reflections on casting diversity, and candid thoughts on modern Hollywood storytelling trends.

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In this experimental episode, Mike and Nate light up a unique Dominican Sumatra cigar and chat about their flavor notes before diving into a lively discussion on classic movies getting re-released in theaters in 2025. They cover the enduring cult status and legal battles surrounding Kevin Smith’s Dogma, share personal takes on films like The Sound of Music, Brokeback Mountain, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Jaws, and Rocky Horror Picture Show, and reflect on changes in movie-going experiences and home theater setups. Tune in for cigar tasting, movie nostalgia, and offbeat insights on film, literature, and more.

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In this episode of "Nice Ashes," Mike and Nate discuss their experiences smoking the Chillin' Moose cigar while diving into the controversial documentaries by Matt Walsh, "What is a Woman?" and "Am I Racist?" Mike is skeptical about the Chillin' Moose cigar, describing it as having an odd flavor but adequate for an everyday smoke.

The conversation quickly shifts to the documentaries, where Mike, having watched "What is a Woman?", shares that Walsh's film addresses the complexities of gender identity through interviews with various experts, highlighting the evasive nature of some individuals when faced with straightforward questions. Nate, on the other hand, watched "Am I Racist?" and critiques Walsh’s abrasive style and comedic approach, suggesting that it often detracted from meaningful discourse. He expresses disappointment with Walsh's tendency to interject, arguing that the people he interviewed often presented irrational viewpoints that would have been more effective to let stand on their own without interruption.

Both hosts reflect on the nature of Walsh's film-making, comparing it to Michael Moore's style, characterized by an overt political agenda. They ultimately find both films lacking in terms of balance and insight, criticizing Walsh for not allowing authentic conversations to unfold while nonetheless acknowledging that they contain moments of significant commentary on societal issues. In the end, they both agree that there are better cigars to enjoy and more effective documentaries to watch.

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Mike and Nate smoke a CAO Black and talk about tattoos, piercings, age restrictions, professional dress, tanning beds, Nebraska's gender affirming surgery ban for minors, transtrending, plastic surgery, military recruiting, bullying, social media, Gifts From The Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, The Dawn of Everything by David Graeber and David Wengrow, writing systems, oral traditions, Star Wars, and camping.

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Mike and Nate smoke a Macanudo Inspirado Black and talk about the movies they've been watching, including Women Talking, Tar, Harvey Weinstein, Brendan Fraser, Avatar The Way of Water, The Mandalorian, Marvel, Book of Boba Fett, Cocaine Bear, Marcel The Shell With Shoes On, South Park, Good Burger, Rings of Power, television writers, the writers strike, Commando, The Barbarians, anime, Tokyo Godfathers, Ghost in the Shell, Your Name, A Silent Voice, Hustle, You People, Brokeback Mountain, and Russia downing a drone.

Mike and Nate smoke a CAO Italia for a Mike Knows episode about the Amish.

Mike and Nate smoke a CAO Brazilia and get heated about Star Wars, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Mandalorian, Solo: A Star Wars Story, Ahsoka, train jumping, Rogue One, James Bond, modern writing, Lord of the Rings Victorian novels, and OH MY GOD HOW MUCH DOES MIKE LOVE AHSOKA?!?!?!

Mike and Nate smoke a CAO America and talk about Surly Brewing, tools, hand staplers, and a "Mike Knows" topic about the Manson family.

Mike and Nate smoke a Kristoff Connecticut and talk about Christmas, friends, The Case for Christ, The Case Against the Case for Christ, the origins of religion, Tammy Faye, mega-churches, fetishes, gay conversion, Egypt's sunken city, faith stories and snowmobilers.

Mike and Nate smoke a 5 Vegas Cask Strength, battle tech issues and talk about snow blowers, taxes, Marjorie Taylor Greene, national divorce, secession, moving for work, Britain's 4-day workweek trial, remote work productivity, artificial intelligence, Russian hackers, small towns, light beer, bowling, and technical issues.

Mike and Nate smoke a 5 Vegas Series A and talk about Confessions of An Economic Hitman, happiness index, corporatocracy, pollution, shamanism, American ideals, the Matrix, online dating, app privacy, retirement age, job satisfaction, Epstein, Musk, Alex Jones, Ukraine, Area 51, Manson family, and gambling.

Mike and Nate smoke a 5 Vegas Classic and talk about Nate's new recording setup, Brittney Griner, spy balloons, airborne toxic event, railroad contract, social security, retirement, student loan forgiveness, Hunter Biden's laptop, GOP recordings, Twitter files, population control, journalism, Catch 22, Ukraine, halftime shows, higher education, and artificial intelligence art.

In the Season 1 finale, Mike and Nate smoke a Plasencia Alma Fuerte and talk about beards, Stephen King, cigar shop recommendations, 3D printing, bowling, black Friday, drugs, beer, board games, highlights and lowlights from the year, social pressures, A Christmas Story, John Carter and the Princess of Mars, Superman, Dolly Parton, failure, and looking forward to 2023.

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Mike and Nate are joined by a special guest, Keith—their sole listener—who is launching his own podcast, "Life After the Military: Now What?" The episode features lighthearted banter, cigar discussion, and personal narratives about transitioning from military life to civilian careers. Keith shares insights on his experiences and the unique challenges faced by veterans after service, as well as his plans for future podcast episodes featuring fellow veterans. The trio enjoys cigars from La Gloria Cubana while discussing topics ranging from military life to craft beer, and the importance of structure for veterans entering civilian life. The episode wraps up with personal reflections and a lighthearted rating of the cigars smoked during the show. Listeners can find Keith's podcast and more information at 28 April Productions or email keith[at]28aprilproductions[dot]com.

*note, due to a mistake Nate made during recording, Keith's audio is lesser quality than it should have been*

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Mike and Nate smoke a CAO Extremem Quad and talk about hunting, target shooting, environmental conservation, getting lost, the food cycle, the loss of innocence, Cecil the Lion, fishing, veganism, wine, Nic Cage, and Cowboy Bebop.

Mike and Nate smoke a CAO Flathead V554 Camshaft and talk about cold weather smoking, open enrollment, etymology, are words racist or is it linguistic tyranny, Crocs vs Uggs, cultural appropriation, Middle English, PTSD, and acronyms.

Mike, Nate and special guest Al smoke a Dark Shark and talk about board games, cigarettes, duckpin bowling, youth hunting, G4, video games, We Need to Go Deeper, Vegas, casinos, manicures, and car dealerships.

Mike and Nate smoke a Nub Double Maduro and talk about Lord of the Flies, THC soda, banned books, Robinson Crusoe, Deathwatch, Hatchet, Red Badge of Courage, Julie of the Wolves, media ratings,

Mike and Nate smoke an Oliva Nub Maduro and talk about Hocus Pocus, Hocus Pocus 2, diversity in movies and stories, Cruella, Stargate, Star Trek, television writing, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Batman, Superman, Captain Marvel, Joaquin Phoenix, Pinocchio, politics of Hollywood, Robin Hood, and Obi-Wan.

Mike and Nate smoke an Oliva Nub Connecticut and talk about corrupt non-profit organizations, Catholic churches, Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, televangelism, Tammy Faye, porn parodies, telemarketers, Black Lives Matter, NRA, Susan G. Komen, and student debt relief.

Mike and Nate smoke an Oliva Nub Cain F and talk about editing the podcast, cheroots, adding a smoking lounge to a garage, watches, selling on eBay, watch straps, daylight savings, the inexperience of youth, Midlemarch, Victorian literature, American Bloomsbury, transcendentalism, Hunter S Thompson, Winston Churchill, Dune, Stephen King, Presidential biographies,

Mike and Nate smoke an Oliva Nub Habano 5" and talk about aliens, Steven Greer, Bob Lazar, Close Encounters of the Fifth Kind, Unacknowledged, Ancient Aliens, the god helmet, Star Trek, Erich von Däniken, Coast to Coast, Mysterious Universe, the war on terror, Ukraine, propaganda, ammunition, Gulf of Tonkin, Ghislaine Maxwell, Survival Russia, watches and bowling balls.

Mike and Nate smoke an Oliva Nub Habano and talk about pipe tobacco, Toppling Goliath Brewery, coffee, Oliver Pluff & Company tea, liquor cigars, mixed drinks, and beer.

Mike and Nate smoke a Nub Cameroon and talk about the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, Donovan's Reef, Island in the Sky, Alfred Hitchcock, Paint Your Wagon, The Cowboys, Bruce Dern, Night of the Living Dead, Night of the Demons, Stargate, the decline of television shows, professional wrestling, and beard growing.

Welcome to this week's episode of Nice Ashes! Join hosts Nate and Mike, along with special guest Dawn from Patriot Assistance Dogs, as they dive into a blend of cigars, conversation, and impactful stories. Today, they're smoking the M by Macanudo, a sweet coffee-flavored cigar, while Dawn shares the inspiring work her organization does to provide service dogs to veterans struggling with PTSD and other mental health challenges.

Discover how these canine companions not only enhance the lives of veterans but also create a supportive community that promotes healing and hope. Dawn talks candidly about the transformations she's witnessed, including heartwarming anecdotes of dogs saving lives and helping veterans regain their independence.

In addition, the group discusses the importance of community support for veterans and the various ways individuals can get involved—from fostering dogs to volunteering, or participating in fundraising events.

This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the bonds between humans and their furry friends, and the collective effort to help those who have served their country. Whether you’re a veteran seeking assistance or someone wanting to support the cause, you'll find valuable insights and how to make a difference.

Tune in for a blend of engaging conversation and heartwarming stories, and don't miss the links in the description for more information on how you can contribute to Patriot Assistance Dogs!

Visit their website here: Patriot Assistance Dogs

Send them an email: info@padmn.org or call 218-844-6003

Watch them on YouTube!

Donate here!

Check out their upcoming events!

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Mike and Nate smoke Alec Bradley seconds and talk about boots, Slaughterhouse-Five, post-modernist literature, WWII, grandfathers, Game of Thrones, Rings of Power, Fantastic Beasts, and Harry Potter.

Mike, Nate and special guest Dev smoke a Buffalo Trace and talk about how to smoke a cigar, taxing cigarettes, socket adapters, National Night Out, killer bees, the male urge to fight, Fight Club, Cuban cigars, assault weapon bans, wrestling. and prison reality shows.

Mike and Nate smoke a Perdomo Reserve Champagne 10th Anniversary Super Toro and talk about Whole Foods, deodorants, incels, volcels, migtow, MRA, Shakespeare, pornography, Magic the Gathering, offensive jokes, divorce, gender disparity, Tom Cruise, child support, and domestic abuse.

Mike and Nate smoke a Partagas Black Label and talk about Animal Farm, James Bond, Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie, The Stand, Kindle Paperwhite, vinyl, CDs, concept albums, Green Day, Titus Andronicus, Brave New World, Slaughterhouse Five, Lord of the Flies, Mark Cuban's pharmacy, Elon Musk, Salman Rushdie, and quiet-quitting.

Mike and Nate smoke a Macanudo Inspirado Red and talk about media, shitty movies, Prey, Sharks of the Corn, Llamageddon, and Oats Studios.

Mike and Nate smoke a Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 and talk about Joe Biden and marijuana laws, the Minneapolis Teacher's Union contract, tenure, nurses, reverse racism, women's studies and Mein Kampf, ladies night, being single in society, early settler bathing habits, soap preferences, local news, Breonna Taylor, gulag culture, the political party switch, state vs federal, abortion fallout, and the process to legalize things.

Mike and Nate smoke a Rocky Patel Vintage 1992 and talk about removing brand logos, gendered products, trap shooting, target shooting, white liquor, fragile masculinity, men's fashion, hobbies, bowling, New Glarus beer, antiquing, plumbing, and pickle ball.

Mike and Nate smoke a Rocky Patel The Edge Fuma and talk about Brittney Griner, marijuana laws, serving in the military, draft dodging, wars, Ukraine, student loan debt, Roe v Wade, protests, effecting change, term limits, minimum wage, inflation, and CGI.

Mike and Nate smoke a Rockey Patel Edge torpedo and talk about protests, bike laws, antiquing, the Van Gogh Immersive Exhibit, instant pot cold brew, tea, coffee making, Trader Joe's, microbreweries, Duluth/Superior hot spots, and liquor laws.

Mike and Nate smoke a The Edge maduro Howitzer from Rocky Patel and talk about vacations, Rockfest, curry, cast iron cooking, New York City, modern bowling shoes, American flag myths, Lewis and Clark, art museums, Georgia O'Keeffe, Salvidor Dali, Chuck Close, Minnesota politicians, weed and tobacco laws, antique guns, Rx meds, immigration, vending machines, ice cream trucks, and knife laws.

In this episode of Nice Ashes, Mike and Nate dive into the polarizing topic of fluoride, exploring its history, benefits, and controversies. They start with a cigar review of the Tatiana Vanilla, sharing their thoughts on its flavor profile while sipping on Lagunitas IPA and Guinness Draft Stout. The discussion quickly shifts to fluoride's role in public health and its recent resurgence in the news, particularly due to RFK Jr.'s campaign against it.

Nate shares insights on the origins of water fluoridation in the U.S., its effectiveness in reducing cavities, and the backlash from communities and individuals against mandatory fluoridation. They touch on scientific studies, concerns about the potential neurotoxic effects of fluoride on developing brains and possible links to health issues, including dental and skeletal fluorosis.

The conversation weaves through historical anecdotes, cultural perceptions, and contemporary debates, all while encouraging listeners to consider both sides of the fluoride argument. The episode wraps up with reflections on personal experiences with fluoride exposure, including differing views on whether it’s beneficial or harmful, and ends with their ratings of the cigar they smoked.

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Mike, Nate and guest Dave smoke a CAO Moontrance and talk about transgender prostitutes, education, George Carlin, push ups, ice cream trucks, sighting in guns, new insults, inchworms in alcohol, parenting, half baths and Wesley Willis.

Mike and Nate smoke a The Edge Connecticut Howitzer from Rocky Patel and talk about cigar lighting methods, spank banks, the Supreme Court case decisions, Boy Scouts, metal and paper straws, January 6th, French haircuts, spice-heads, tea, Ancient Aliens, religion, Green Book, retirement, universal healthcare, monkey pox, masks, and smoking in buildings.

Mike and Nate smoke a Punch Clasico and talk about cigar cutters and lighters, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Star Trek, Dune, Alien, multiverses and reboots.

Mike and Nate smoke a Cult Blood Red Moon (cherry) cigar and talk about the recent Supreme Court rulings, vodka and other liquor cigars, genital mutilations, the green book, and voting.

Mike and Nate continue the CAO Flavours journey with the Cherry Bomb and talk about gun control solutions, advertising, big data, and licensing,

Mike and Nate continue their CAO Flavours taste test and talk about Juneteenth, the power of words, inflation, school shootings, arming teachers, and 9/11.

Mike and Nate continue their CAO Flavours taste test with Eileen's Dream and talk about corporatism, bad Jesus paintings, Terry Pratchett, politician loans, capital punishment, legalizing drugs and boot recommendations.

Mike and Nate continue their CAO Flavours with Bella Vanilla, free the nipple, Depp v Heard, Taiwan, and the most dangerous jobs in the country.

Mike and Nate start their CAO Flavours taste-test with Moontrance, and talk light beers, the Roe v Wade leak, John Stuart Mill, preventative laws, roundabouts, how politicians/media manipulates the population, and prescription drugs.

Mike and Nate battle the wind, smoke a Cohiba Black and talk about the third co-host's destructive behavior, paddle fishing, cigar legislation and favorite historical facts/periods.

In this episode of "The Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike smoke a Cuban Delights premium cigar while discussing a controversial topic: Project Esther, a national strategy to combat anti-Semitism developed by the Heritage Foundation. The discussion begins with light banter about their cigars and drink pairings, leading into a deeper conversation about current events surrounding protests related to Israel and Palestine. The hosts examine the implications of Project Esther, including its aim to equate anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism, and the potential consequences for free speech on college campuses. They stress the importance of being critical thinkers amid prevailing narratives and encourage listeners to engage in dialogue about complex geopolitical issues. The episode concludes with a review of the cigar, which surprises both hosts with its quality.

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Mike and Nate smoke Rocky Patel The Edge and talk about matches vs lighters, cigar cutters, Viking Dan and NASCAR Natalie, NA beer, beans, chili, hazing, electricity, Ayn Rand, transgender, Catholic priests, Unitarianism and Brainerd diarrhea.

Mike and Nate smoke Tequila Cigars and talk about Rock Paper Scissor championships, Brooklyn subway shooting, Trader Joe's Boatswain beer (Monroe Brewing), Star Trek Picard, Doctor Who, Clone Wars, Exit West by Moshin Hamid, white privilege, inflation, taxes, pollution, Elon Musk, and painting Mike's bathroom.

Mike and Nate smoke Diesel Whiskey Rows and talk about N.E.E.T.s, N.L.F.E.T.s, Hikikomori, careers, cry bullies, cultural appropriation, Chinatown, dreadlocks, India, boveda bags, spring weather and parenting books.