Back to the microphones, Tim welcomes James and Nick to dig deeper into the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest, Sean Williams, Brand Ambassador of Cohiba Cigars. It's an episode of making sausage without telling you how it's made, or not. Tim lets James know how proud of him he really is. It's funny how much bigger the world is when you open your eyes. Nick gives insider information on how cigars are made from a blenders' perspective. The three reflect on a few questions that they wish were in the episode but just didn't make it this time.

James and Nick welcome Sean Williams to the show. Sean explains how he began in the cigar industry with his own brand, Premiere Mundo. The discussion turns to the pros and cons of boutique cigar companies vs the pros and cons of larger brands. Sean shares his passion for Cohiba and the blends he's done with them. We talk about the Cohiba Serie M, their collaboration with Weller, and the Spectre. We ask Sean what Cohiba blend he's most proud of, and what it's like going from boutique to "mainstream" cigars. Sean talks about why fans of boutique cigars should be more open-minded when it comes to the larger brands, and much more!

Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphone to discuss the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest Daniel Marshall who, as you know by now, is the world's #1 humidor maker. We dig a little deeper into a few of the conversations and stories that you heard on the episode and get some of their personal experiences and opinions.

Daniel Marshall was kind enough to give our audience a coupon code for 40% off select humidors and cigars, plus a free copy of his book with every order. Get yours before the offer disappears. Use code DMSimply40 at checkout!

James is joined by his Cuban Sub-Series host, Nick Syris of LH Cigars, as they discuss what makes Cuban cigars so unique...the soil. Before they discuss the unique properties of the soil in Cuba and the different growing regions around the island, Nick catches us up on some of the news coming our of Cuba. We also discuss the upcoming 55th birthday celebration of Cohiba, white ash vs black ash, and storing your cigars.

To order the Simply Stogies coffee blend from Janus Coffee Roasters, click here.

In a simulcast with Simply Stogies Presents: Cigars & Coffee, James welcomes his co-host from Cigars & Coffee (Timothy Allen) back to the podcast. They also welcome Shad and Shea Bates of Janus Coffee Roasters to the show. 

We talk with them about their cigar journeys, how Janus Tobak started, and their first foray into coffee roasting. Part two we dive into how Janus Coffee Roasters was started, their process and creativity, “coffee for a cause,” and some of the mistakes people make while making their coffee at home.

Plus, we announce the launch of our own coffee blend from Janus Coffee Roasters: the Simply Stogies Podcast blend! It's a 3 bean dark roast that is full body.  Simply Stogies has has notes of earth, nuts, cocoa, hints of caramel.   This blend and roast has relatively low acidity and can be enjoyed no matter your brewing choice.

While at the PCA 2022 Trade Show I sat down with Dan Ravanelli of 505 Cigar Review. Dan and I discuss this year's trade show before finding out more about Dan's cigar journey and how his 505 Cigar Review came into being. We talk about how he's gained traction and how he's been perceived by some in the industry. We then shift gears and talk about cigar media, our roles in that "sphere" and how we see ourselves.

Check out 505 Cigar Review's linktr.ee to find all of his content.

We continue our interviews from the PCA 2022 Trade Show floor with Rick Rodriguez of West Tampa Tobacco Co., Lee Marsh of Stolen Throne, John Laurendi of Peter James, Desiree Sylver of Drunk Chicken Cigars, Bradley Rubin of Alec Bradley Cigars, and Dan Thompson of Micallef Cigars. There is a lot of great information on their new blends, PCA attendee exclusives, and some thoughts on Cigar Aficionado from Dan Thompson.

James takes to the PCA 2022 Trade Show floor to interview Jeremy Casdagli of Casdagli Cigars, Uncle Bobi of XhaXhi Bobi Cigars, Dr. Stephan Lampert of Lampert Cigars, and Luis Falto of Falto Cigars. With James battling COVID he picked up as he was leaving Las Vegas, it falls to Tim to close this episode out!

You can see all of our PCA 2022 Trade Show coverage here!

I am joined by Cuban cigar expert and the owner of LH Cigars, Nick Syris, as we discuss the impact of the US embargo on Cuban cigars. The conversation begins with some news coming out of Cuba and quickly turns to the Habanos SA price increases. Nick gives his thoughts on why Habanos SA has raised their prices and what impact that will have on the cigar industry around the world. We talk discuss the future of Cuban cigars, if new manufacturers will be able to sustain their success given the current economic climate, and how the price increases will affect "New World" cigars.

If you'd like to have Nick Syris on your podcast, please contact him at his webiste.

I sit down, via Zoom with Peter James founder, John Laurendi. John and I discuss how he got into his cigars, and John shares with us his very first cigar experience. John tells us how Peter James came to be and the some of the obstacles that the company faced upon its inception. We then talk about his new cigar line, Los Estoico, that includes a Habano and a Maduro, his vision behind them, and how they were blended. John and I get into the weeds on coffee, before John talks about being an entrepreneur. Look for his podcast coming soon!!!

Peter James is a company that is synonymous with class, style, and luxury. They have a wide variety of high end products for any cigar aficionado or enthusiast. Check them out at peterjames.ca

*NOTE: We did have some technical issues later in the podcast where some audio was lost due to signal degradation. It has been edited.

I am joined by Nick Syris, owner of LH Cigars, my co-host for our Cuban Sub-Series. We discuss the latest news from Cuba: The explosion near Hotel Saratoga in Cuba, the Biden Administrations change in Cuban policy, and Habanos S.A. dramatically raising Cuban cigar prices. We then talk about the innovators of Cuban cigars: Christopher Columbus, Fidel Castro, Zino Davidoff, and more.

For this bonus episode, I chat with Luciano Meirelles of Ace Prime Cigars, Andy Yaffee of Micallef Cigars, Oscar Valladares of Oscar Valladares Tobacco & Co, Nick Syris of LH Cigars, Greg Free of Fuerte y Libre Cigars, and Dwight Adkins of FatAsh Cigar Lounge and My Old Kentucky Herf.

We find out why Dwight started the My Old Kentucky Herf and FatAsh Cigar Lounge, and also discuss what makes them both so successful. Dwight shares with us his vision and what's in store for the 3rd Annual My Old Kentucky Herf. The manufacturers tease what they'll bring to the 2022 PCA Trade Show, why cigar events like these are important, and much more.

To contact Dwight Adkins for information on The Munchies Continental Breefus or if you're a manufacturer or B&M wanting to attend next year's My Old Kentucky Herf call: (606) 254-0484

I sit down with Mo Maali, the man behind Patina Cigars. We talk about the behind-the-scenes of running a cigar company. Mo opens up about lanceros, limited edition, and tobacco availability. We discuss how he gets into new shops and how he knows if a shop is the right fit. We talk about the economy, his podcast (Sultans of Smoke), and of course Patina Cigars!

James and Nick welcome the world's #1 humidor maker, Daniel Marshall. Daniel tells us how he started making humidors, the trials and tribulations of getting started, and not letting anyone tell you "no" when you're following your dreams. Daniel discusses the importance of a good humidor; whether you're aging your cigars or just storing them for a short time, a good humidor will protect your investment. We also discuss what type of humidor works, pros and cons, and what Daniel Marshall offers. He also gives some insight into what humidity he prefers and why. We talk to Daniel about his charitable humidor projects, his current projects, his cigars, how he met Arnold Schwarzenegger, and much more. Daniel Marshall was kind enough to give our audience a coupon code for 40% off select humidors and cigars, plus a free copy of his book with every order. Use code DMsimply at checkout!

Nick Syris, owner of LH Cigars, joins me for the next installment of the sub-series this year, while we look at the history of Cuban cigars. We start from when they believe the tobacco plant arrived on the island and go all the way to present day Cuba. Of course, we stop a little along the way to discuss modern issues: the FDA, marketing, censorship, and why cigar reviewers breakdown their reviews by thirds. As always, Nick is a wealth of information. Do not miss this look at the history of Cuban Cigars.

You can follow Nick on Instagram, and Twitter.

James welcomes back co-host Nick Syris, a Master Blender and Cuban expert, to discuss his latest trip to Cuba. Is Cuba ready for tourism as the pandemic (hopefully) winds down? Nick talks about what he saw as he visited the island nation in April of 2022. From the changes in currency to the amount of inflation Cuba is now seeing, it does not bode well for those looking to travel to Cuba anytime soon. Nick discusses the ongoing exodus from Cuba and where they are all going, as well as how that won't affect Cuban cigar production. It's a very fresh look at a nation in the middle of a perfect storm of crippling inflation and effects of a 2yrs pandemic. 

You can contact Nick Syris on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

I welcome back to the show Nick Syris of LH Cigars. We return to our sub-series on Cuba and discuss the Cuban people. Nick explains their daily lives, what they go through, how they live, and how they work to steal. We talk about their views and general attitudes towards Americans, racism, and the impact of a Communist run economy that sees 77% inflation. It's an eye-opening look at a proud people.

You can contact Nick Syris on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

I am joined via Zoom by journalist, author, podcaster, and cigar aficionado Nick Hammond. Nick is the author of Around the World in 80 Cigars: The Travels of an Epicure. Nick and I discuss how the book came about before diving into some of the great stories found in the book. From his travels to Tunisia, Bosnia, Cuba, Nicaragua, and a safari in Africa Nick seamlessly weaves tales of his travels while bringing it all back to his love of cigars. Nick tells of his love affair with different countries around the world and how cigars have played into those experiences. I even put Nick on the spot to find out if he's a Star Wars fan. This was one of the most fun and informative interviews that I've done, and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did. Go and buy his book; I promise you won't be disappointed.

Click to purchase Around the World in 80 Cigars: The Travels of an Epicure

Or visit Nick's website

Listen to Around the World in 80 Cigars Podcast

This episode is a continuation of Episode 73, where Nick Syris (owner of LH Cigars and Cuban cigar expert) continue our discussion of the history of Cuba. We begin with the infamous Fidel Castro coming to power and how that changed things for the Cuban people and the geopolitical landscape. We discuss how the Russians helped prop up Cuba and talk about China now propping up the Communist regime in Cuba.

I am joined via Zoom by Christopher Moore, owner and founder of Carolina Blue Cigars. Christopher calls in from a cigar lounge (I apologize for the audio quality and background noise) to talk about his brand Carolina Blue Cigars. We discuss how his 30yrs in the military impacted his blending process, as well as how cigars in the military brought his fellow soldiers together. We talk about his vision for Carolina Blue, where he sees it in the next few years, and the challenges of a boutique cigar manufacturer. This leads us into a discussion around the TPE and PCA, the differences between the two, how boutique cigar companies may have to choose between them, and how Christopher would rather market directly to consumers.

To order Carolina Blue Cigars and taste the difference, visit Carolina Blue Cigars' website or order from Oxford Cigar Company.

This is the first of a new sub series of podcasts where myself and Nick Syris of LH Cigars will discuss all things Cuba. For Part 1, Nick and I discuss the beginnings of the island of Cuba, its Spanish colonization, and how the island of Cuba has been a political pawn for centuries. We make it through the Bautista era in this episode.

Join Nick and I for an in-depth look at the Cuban island, its people, and their cigars, once a month through most of 2022.

Thank you all so much for your support these past three years!! This is now the longest running podcast and most successful podcast that I've ever done. None of this would be possible without you, the listener. THANK YOU!!

I break down Cigar Aficionado's 2021 Top 25 and why it's still problematic. I also cover the PCA's announcement of adding manufacturers to their board and why that's a good thing.

LINK: https://halfwheel.com/pca-adding-more-manufacturers-to-boards-creates-new-mission-statement/403663/

I sit down with Devin Ashley, owner and founder of Bad Ash Cigars. Bad Ash Cigars is an ultra-boutique cigar company that is just getting off the ground. We discuss the challenges that face small cigar manufacturers, where he sources his tobacco, how he started rolling cigars, super tasters, and how he handles being in the cigar industry and the healthcare field.. We talk about the FDA, rules and regulations, and a lot more. 

Visit Bad Ash Cigars' website here!

I am joined via Zoom by the PCA's Head of Government Affairs, Joshua Habursky, and State Advocacy Director, Glynn Loope. We take a look back at the legislative victories of 2021 and then look forward to the legislative fights coming in 2022. We discuss the how the PCA approaches the Federal Government fights, and the multi-faceted fights at the state and local levels. We also let our listeners know how they can become involved in the fight, by going to cigaraction.org, staying up to date on the fight, and letting your local, state, and federal lawmakers know where you stand. You can even have your local B&M reach out to Josh and Glynn to have them appear in-person or over Zoom to educate and help with grassroots efforts in your area. 

You can email Josh at joshua@premiumcigars.org

You can email Glynn at glynn@premiumcigars.org 

Tim, James, and Nick are back to talk about one of their favorite guys in the industry, Dan Thompson of Micallef Cigars, behind his back! Luscious locks and hand modeling in the cigar industry can be a thing. The three tell a few fun tales from their interactions at the PCA Trade Show with Dan over the past few years, while they enjoy some Micallef Cigars. They cover the pros and cons of boxes vs bundles, industry collabs and their breakups, and how to be a decent human being.

I chat, via Zoom, with the one and only Tommy Zman. Tommy "Zman" Zarzeki is a writer, producer, voice actor, humorist, and content creator. While he has worked on projects outside of the cigar industry, Tommy is well-known for his work in the cigar industry. Tommy talks about how he broke into the cigar industry and where his journey took him. Tommy recalls his time at JR Cigars and Famous Cigars, among other, and what it was like working with guys like Steve Saka. Tommy also talks about his arrest after leaving Famous Cigars and how the case was dismissed, all charges dropped, and his record expunged. We also touch on how "PC" and cancel culture has an affect on humorists and comedians, the politics of cigar smokers, and much more. You do NOT want to miss this episode.

You can see what Tommy is up to and some of the things he's worked on in the past by going to his website tommyzman.com.

You can check out his Facebook group Cromag Nation here.

I welcome Lucas Da Silva, owner of oxfordcigarcompany.com, back to the podcast. We discuss the state of cigar retail, what it's like to do business during the second cigar boom, and how Oxford Cigar Company chooses what new cigar manufacturers to carry. Lucas also talks about the current logistical problems plaguing the industry and why it may be harder to find your favorite cigar on store shelves and online. Lucas tells us what hot new products and cigars will make the perfect Holiday gift for that cigar smoker in your life. We talk about Oxford's huge Black Friday sale (Nov 21 - Nov 28, 2021). And Lucas announces the Oxford Cigar Company Airstream Mobile Lounge. A mobile cigar lounge and walk-in humidor that is perfect for your next event! To inquire about having the Oxford Mobile Cigar Lounge at your next event, email Lucas at lucas@oxfordcigarcompany.com

I welcome Nick Syris, the owner and Master Blender of LH Premium Cigars and a Subject Matter Expert on all things Cuban cigars, to the show. Nick and I run the gamut of Cuban cigars, as we discuss the U.S. embargo on Cuba and some of the effects on the Cuban people, the changing U.S. stance on Cuba from administration to administration, some of the challenges Cuban cigars face, how the rest of the world views Cubans and "New World" cigars, what Cuban cigars might look like in a post-embargo world, and what is currently allowed and not allowed under the Biden administration. Nick is a wealth of knowledge about Cuban cigars. Over the last 12yrs Nick has visited Cuba countless times and has worked hard to create a bridge cigar in his LH Premium Cigar lines.

Don't forget to visit Oxford Cigar Company and use coupon code "SimplyStogies" for 10% off your entire order!

I travel to Capital Cigar Lounge in Lincoln, Nebraska and sit down with Alec Rubin of Alec Bradley Cigars. Alec and I discuss what it was like growing up in the industry and his unique cigar journey. Alec describes what it's like working with family, what he believes makes a cigar manufacturer "boutique," and his opinions on vitolas and accessories. We touch a little bit on how the global pandemic has affected the industry, how it affected their business, and that leads to a discussion on the meaning behind the Kintsugi (and why it was 6mos behind schedule).  A huge thank you to Jeff Fry, GM of Capital Cigar Lounge, and owners Tony and Austin for allowing me the opportunity to sit down with Alec Rubin and talk with him.

I chat, via Zoom, with Antonio Lam of Reinado Premium Cigars. There are things in the world that are more important than cigars and more important than business. Antonio and I discuss one of those things: family. Antonio explains where he has been for the past seven years and the reason for Reinado's long hiatus from the industry. We talk about the cigar industry, what it means to be boutique, and where Reinado's seat at the table is. Antonio also talks about the future of Reinado before we have a bit of fun.

Reinado Cigars is a proud supporter of the Dementia Society of America.

Visit Reinado Cigars website.

Halfwheels' article on Reinado's return.

Cigar Coop's article remembering Reinado.

I am joined via Zoom by Andy Sweis, owner of Cedar Room Fine Cigars & Lounge in Scottsdale, AZ. We talk about how he got into the cigar industry and how it is a family affair for him and his brother. Andy talks about staying on the bleeding edge of boutique cigars and new releases. We talk about both the physical space and their online space and the challenges of competing in an online market. We find out how Andy sees his customers as family and how that translates into one of the best experiences I've had in a cigar lounge. We learn about their Cigar Text Club and how they are innovators in the industry!

Andy announces the Simply Stogies Sampler on both their website and via the Cigar Text Club! The Simply Stogies Casdagli Sampler - $90 value for $69.99 - add to cart and priority shipping will be included.  You can join the Cigar Text Club and order the Simply Stogies Casdagli Sampler by texting keyword "stogies" to 1-833-855-6464

I sit down with Joe from Evil 3mpire Cigar 5ociety at Prime Cigars in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Joe and I have a great conversation that covers a wide array of topics. We get to know Joe and how he started his cigar journey before getting to know what the Evil 3mpire Cigar 5ociety is all about. Joe explains their focus on those in and around the cigar industry, how they got started, and what's next for the E3C5. Joe and I also discuss Instagram "influencers" and what it means to be an "influencer," the politics of the cigar industry, if we should be involved in those politics and how, and we talk about the cigar community. Joe also shares with us upcoming projects. It was a great conversation that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

You can follow Evil 3mpire Cigar 5ociety on Instagram here.

While at the PCA 2021 Trade Show, I sit down with Dan from the Cigar Saver. The Cigar Saver is a product that, well, saves your cigar. When you find it necessary to step away from your lit cigar, the Cigar Saver allows you to quickly put it out, saving your cigar to be easily re-lit when you can come back to it. Dan walks us through the process of creating the new cigar accessory, some of the difficulties and challenges of getting it manufactured, and verifying the proof of concept. We discuss Dan's cigar journey and find out when they hope to launch this new product.

Visit the Cigar Saver website!

I sit down with Dean Parsons of Epic Cigars at the 2021 PCA Trade Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Dean and I discuss his journey from Canadian hockey player, to police officer, to real estate development, to finally finding his passion and starting Epic Cigars. Dean opens up about the industry and the amount of effort, time, and money it takes to become successful. We discuss the Epic core lines and how they are a reflection of the cigar industry. Dean talks about his newest cigar, the Epic Ten, teases a new cigar and a new project, and his relationship with Zander-Greg and Nat Cicco. We also touch on TPE and the importance of supporting the industry with the PCA and CRA.

Buy Epic Cigars from Oxford Cigar Company and get 10% off using code SimplyStogies

I sit down at the Recluse Cigars/Iconic Leaf Cigar Company booth on the PCA Trade Show floor with owner and blender Scott Weeks. Scott and I talk about his and his family's background in the cigar industry and how he started Recluse Cigars and Iconic Cigar Leaf Company. We talk about federal regulations and how Scott navigates that. Scott discusses the pros of being a small cigar manufacturer versus a larger manufacturer and his approach to blending. Scott highlights Recluse's intubar/intubado rolling technique, its advantages, and its drawbacks. 

Visit Iconic Cigar Leaf Company's website to find a retailer.

James and Nick welcome Dan Thompson, President of Micallef Cigars, back to the show. Dan talks about the new Micallef Red and the manufacturing and research & development that went into the Red and all of their color series. Dan discusses what's next and teases something new for the PCA 2025 Trade Show in New Orleans. We talk about the "Micallef Effect," what James thinks it is, and what Dan believes it is. There is discussion around the cigar industry, pricing, how manufacturers work with B&M's and much more.

I talk, via Zoom, with Nick Syris of LH Cigars. We discuss his journey from an audio business to his life as a retailer and how he eventually started LH Cigars. Nick talks about what he's learned and where LH Cigars is going in the future. We discuss the cigar industry, what it means to be boutique, how the global pandemic spurred cigar sales, and Nick's thoughts on trade shows in a post COVID-19 world. Nick briefly discusses his time in Cuba and what it means to be a true Master Blender. 

James and Lucas, owner of Oxford Cigar Co., discuss the 2021 PCA Trade Show LIVE from the show floor. Lucas is open and transparent with what he sees as good and bad about this year's trade show. The pair discuss how things could be better, fi the PCA will survive, if TPE is good for the premium cigar industry, and why Oxford Cigar Co. does what's best for their customers.

I am joined, via telephone, with Instagram influencer, entrepreneur, and representative of Karen Berger Cigars, Anya Ramirez. We talk about her journey into the world of cigars and how it's a lifestyle for her and not just a hobby. We discuss how she came to be a rep for Karen Berger Cigars and some of the things she's seen in the industry. I ask her about women in the hobby and how smaller B&Ms can better cater to this growing demographic. Anya opens up about her experience starting a new cigar brand, how some in the industry treat women, and how she uses her platform on Instagram to influence others. You do not want to miss this episode! Follow Anya on Instagram here.

I sit down with Giannis Koutsoupias, the Director of Business Development for the Vintage Whiskey and Cigar Bar in Charlotte, North Carolina, on the patio at the Vintage. We talk about Giannis' cigar journey, the lessons learned from his time in the restaurant and hospitality sector, the friends he made in the cigar industry, and his shared vision for the Vintage with Dan the owner. Giannis and I discuss how they curated their humidor, the blending process for the house stick (made by Nick Syris of LH Premium Cigars), and the relationships that he has made.

When you're in the Charlotte area, the Vintage Whiskey and Cigar Bar is the place to visit, at 215 E Worthington Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203. They have a wide range of whiskeys, scotch, wine, port, and a great cup of coffee. The staff is friendly and extremely knowledgeable, and they have a great space in a wonderful neighborhood. Tell 'em Simply Stogies sent you!

James travels to sunny Orlando, Florida to have a conversation with Lucas Da Silva of Oxford Cigar Company. The pair sit outside next to large fans and a train station to discuss how Oxford Cigar Company does business, how they treat their customers, and their vision for the cigar industry. We also cover the PCA, the state of the cigar industry, some of the craziest things Lucas has seen, and the future of cigars. This is a great conversation that you're sure to enjoy.

Visit Oxford Cigar Company and give them a shot. You won't be disappointed.

I travel to sunny Orlando, Florida to chat live and in person with Jeremy and Donovan from Deep South Cigars. The three of us have a candid conversation about everything from politics, southern culture, diversity, family, cigars, self-promotion, the future, dating, starting your own business, and demystifying the cigar industry. This was a great conversation with a couple of real, down to earth, and generous BotLs that took time out of their schedule to sit down and have as open a chat as you'll find in the industry. You do not want to miss this.

Visit Deep South Cigars

Purchase the 770 BBC from Deep South Cigars and more here!

I visit Capital Cigar Lounge in Lincoln, Nebraska to sit down and talk with Jeff Gaston. Jeff is the owner and founder of GSTN Cigar, who makes quality wood ashtrays for every budget and every need. Jeff and I discuss how he started his cigar journey and what led him to start GSTN Cigar. We talk about his process of making ashtrays, what inspires him, his inventory, and how long it takes him to ship out an order. We also dive into Jeff's background as a content creator, the podcasting process, and so much more. It was a great time getting to meet Jeff and spend some time with him.

Jeff is also GIVING AWAY a custom engraved Wade \/s Evans ashtray to one lucky listener! Just go to Episode 53: A Conversation with GSTN Cigar and leave a comment on the episode's page between May 1 and June 15, 2021 and you'll be automatically entered to win. Winner will be announced on the July 1 episode of Simply Stogies Podcast.

Go to GSTN Cigar and use code SImplystogies for a 15% discount off of everything in his store!!

This episode I chat with Evan, the founder of The Blend Newsletter, via Zoom and we discuss his cigar journey, how he fell in love with cigars, how the global pandemic helped him find his passion for the leaf, and how he curates the newsletter each week. We end up talking about what it's like being a content creator in the cigar industry, the time it takes to create content, how it affects our personal lives, and the relationships we've made along the way. It was a great conversation that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

To sign up for The Blend please click here.

If you'd like to find out more about Smoked, the cigar-centric event hosted by The Blend, or to buy your tickets, please click here.

I visit the Drawing Room QC and chats with two of the owners, Eric Norton and Shale Sage. The trio discuss the cigar community and rich cigar history in Davenport, Iowa, the cigar industry, how cigar manufacturers sell cigars to B&Ms, and how Eric and Shale started their cigar journeys. They also discuss opening a cigar lounge during a pandemic, how they train their staff, and so much more. 

Visit the Drawing Room on their Facebook Page.

I sit down with the third generation owner of David's Fine Tobaccos in Clive, Iowa, Sean David. Sean and I discuss a wide range of topics that both his customers and cigar aficionados and enthusiasts will find interesting. We talk about the 40+ year history of David's Fine Tobaccos, what's changed over that time, and the growing diversity of cigar smokers. We find out what goes into an event, how Sean views the PCA and CRA, state level politics, and where he sees the business in the next few years.

Tim brings James back to the microphone to discuss the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast about Mo Maali of Patina Cigars. The two dig deeper into judging a brand by it's Connecticut Cigar, cigar journeys, the PCA Trade show, the Oro De Nicaragua, and some business practices of small and large cigar manufacturers.

I welcome Robin Blue, founder and creator of Blue Smoke ATL, to the show. Robin and I discuss how she approaches creating her line of cigar pokers, flasks, and key chains. We talk about how she began her cigar journey, what prompted her to start her business, and how women are different cigar smokers than men. We find out how she chooses which lounges to do business with and how women have found their place in the cigar community. It was a great conversation that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

Please visit and support Robin. She makes quality cigar accessories that are unique and can be customized to fit your tastes.

Blue Smoke ATL

Blue Smoke ATL Etsy

Follow Robin on 

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

I sit down and chat via Zoom with the founder and admin of Keepers of the Flame cigar club, Anthony. We discuss how Anthony got into the cigar hobby as well as his thoughts on boutique cigars, diversity, growth during COVID, his approach to moderating, and the Cigarmageddon contest with the Simply Stogies cigar club. This was a great conversation that I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

Keepers of the Flame Instagram

I chat (via a Zoom call) with two of the three organizers of the Queen City Cigar Fest, Clinton Douglas and Damon Robinson. Clinton and Damon tell us about the upcoming Queen City Cigar Fest being held in Charlotte, NC from May 19 - May 23, 2021. There will be daily and nightly events held at different cigar lounges across the Queen City those five days that will highlight both the cigar culture and local small businesses in Charlotte. We discuss how the Queen City Cigar Fest was brought about and the challenges of organizing such an event during a global pandemic. We also nerd out over the movie Hand Rolled: A Film About Cigars and find out about Clinton's time on a reality show. It was a great conversation that you won't want to miss.

Tickets will be going on sale soon! Please follow the Queen City Cigar Fest on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date ticket information, a full list of partner lounges and even sponsors, and for information on the launch of their website.

https://www.facebook.com/queencitycigarfest/

https://www.instagram.com/queencitycigarfest/?hl=en

You can follow Clinton Douglas on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mrcdiddy/

You can follow Damon Robinson on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/damon_thecigarculturalist/?hl=en

You can follow Drida Hyde on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/elegantplume/?hl=en

If you would like to become a sponsor or have questions concerning the Queen City Cigar Fest you can email them at queencitycigarfest@gmail.com

Partner Lounges for Queen City Cigar Fest:

Tailored Smoke

Gold Leaf Cigar Lounge

Smoke & Barrel

Aroma Cigars Etc. Lounge