Simply Stogies

James and Nick welcome Noel Rojas of Rojas Cigars to the podcast. Noel discusses growing up in Cuba: from working on tobacco farms at a young age, to his military service, and why he went back to tobacco. He gives us an in-depth look into his career in tobacco from Cuba, to the US, and to Nicaragua. We dive in to why he chose Nicaraguan tobacco, working with newcomers in the industry like Lee Marsh from Stolen Throne, and if he feels a responsibility to teach the next generation.

Tim brings James back to the microphone, to talk behind the scenes of the MOKH. During the 2025 My Old Kentucky HERF, Tim and James live streamed the event for nearly 7 hours, allowing you to experience the HERF from the comfort of your couch. After the dust settled, they talk about all the great things that made this year's MOKH a success. You can watch that live stream here: https://youtube.com/live/sKuUi7muscM.

James visits with Dwight Adkins and Stephen Wray at FatAsh Cigar Lounge 8110 US-60, Ashland, KY 41102. The trio talk My Old Kentucky Herf, multi-vendor events, the planning that goes into them, and more. James asks Dwight and Stephen about the culture they've built at FatAsh Cigar Lounge and if it could be duplicated elsewhere. A great conversation with even better people. Make sure to join them at MOKH next year!!!

Clear the Air is finally back after a nice little break following the PCA Trade Show. In this episode, Tim brings James and Nick back to discuss in further detail a little about the life of Alex Glez. Tim Admits he is the uneducated one and asks several questions of Nick and James to get a little more clarification of a few of the topics discussed in the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast.  

James and Nick welcome Alex Glez to the show. Alejandro González Arias, or Alex Glez, talks about his time in Cuba as a torcedores at the El Laguito factory and later at a hotel. Alex talks about the opportunities America has provided him, Alex farm rolls, and his company AG Cigars.

James and Nick welcome Andrew Considine and Dave West, from Small Batch Cigar and Avowed Cigars, back to the show. We ask Andrew and Dave their thoughts on this year's PCA Convention and Trade Show in New Orleans. They tell us about what upcoming releases caught their eye and what new releases they're looking forward to. We also dive into how Small Batch Cigar is able to find some of the hidden gems and bring their customers some of the best cigars in the boutique world. Once we're done talking about the trade show, we turn our attention to Avowed Cigars. We find out why they started the new venture, their vision for the brand, and their passion for all they do. This is a must watch episode!

James, Nick, and Tim give you their thoughts (sans Day 3) of the 2025 PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, Louisiana.

James and Nick welcome Charlie Minato of halfwheel.com back to the program. This special bonus episode and all of our 2025 PCA Convention & Trade Show is sponsored by Small Batch Cigar Our coverage is also brought to you by My Old Kentucky Herf. We ask Charlie what halfwheel will be looking for in New Orleans. It goes much deeper than what's this year's wrapper leaf of choice...it goes to the importance of the PCA's annual convention and trade show to the consumer. We discuss what consumers and our respective audiences look forward to each year and so much more!

Tim brings James and Nick back for another Simply Stogies After Show. Last week James and Nick interviewed Vance Taylor, founder of Stoic Cigars. The three talk about the troubles of finding good balance between the brand, the cigars, and the customers. Tim pleads his case that he was not scrolling Only Fans as they further discuss the seriousness in the cigar industry and how Stoic Cigars can fit into your normal rotation. Tim gives props for Nick's attention to details such as where a certain tobacco could be from and ability to see things in logos that most would overlook.

James and Nick welcome the owner and founder of Stoic Cigars, Vance Taylor, to Simply Stogies. Vance tells us how he was first in the cigar industry with LUJ Cigars, and how his first PCA trade show was in New Orleans. Bringing things full circle, his first trade show as an owner will also be this month in New Orleans. He discusses Stoicism and how that plays into his approach to the cigar industry and launching his own brand. We discuss if the industry is too serious, what Vance expects from the trade show, and much more!

Tim, James, and Nick are back for another after show. The three discuss cigars that may be meaningful enough to hold on to or smoke them to enjoy them when you can. They discuss some of the things behind the scenes to bring the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Michael Knowles of Mayflower Cigars to the show. James admits he may have been a little nervous about the interview but quickly relaxed as the conversation went on. From there, the conversation digs deeper into their discussion about dealing with politics or being known when you walk into a lounge. We are all grateful to Michael Knowles for being our guest, and to his staff Tessa, and Tara who helped arrange everything.

James and Nick welcome Michael Knowles of Mayflower Cigars and The Daily Wire to the program. Michael discusses how is passion for cigars began and shares why cigars and Mayflower Cigars are very personal for him. He tells us about how he launched his career, writing his first book, and smoking cigars at The Daily Wire. Michael does a few impressions and has some fun while also waxing philosophical about cigars. We find out how politics can sometime show up in the lounge and how Michael deals with that. We also touch on journalism and politics, but the conversation quickly returns to Mayflower Cigars, planning for the PCA 2025 Convention and Trade Show, and much more. You can follow Michael by going to his website: https://www.michaeljknowles.com/  

Tim brigs James and Nick back to the stage to dig deeper int the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Riste of JSK Cigars. The three talk about controversial figures, the differences in the way JSK does things compared to the rest of the industry. Tim, James, and Nick also dive into a a little bit of information technology and how it could impact the industry. Of course nobody knows exactly what that would look like except for the Riste which James and Nick didn't get the chance to dig into during the podcast.

James and Nick welcome Riste Ristevski of JSK Cigars. Riste talks about how he got into the cigar industry, what's changed over the last ten years, and some of the risks that he's taken to make JSK what it is today. Riste talks about switching to his newest factory and what that entailed, as well as what it has done for his brand. We discuss the cigar industry at large, some of the problems that come with some B&Ms, cigar pricing, what's wrong with the industry, and what's next for Colonel Riste and JSK.

Tim brings James and Nick back for another episode of Clear the Air to talk behind the back of last week's guest, Vlada Stojanov of SOMM Cigars. The three work their way through technical difficulties while traveling down rabbit holes of tasting notes from fast food to cigars. Tim asks where in this country is the best place to live and enjoy cigars all year round. Nick gives us his inside on the blending processes, while James continues to give Tim grief!

James and Tim (sitting in for Nick who is in Costa Rica) welcome Vlada Stojanov of SOMM Cigars to the show. Vlada discusses being a new father, what scares him, and how he'll help his daughter develop her palate. Vlada also discusses if there are objective flavors to a cigar, romanticizing tasting, and if cigar reviewers deserve a bit of grace when it comes to their reviews. The discussion turns to cigar boxes and Vlada's unique idea to the cigar box problem, and much more!

Tim brings Nick back to the microphone to discuss some of the topics covered in the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest, Josh Habursky. The discussion focuses on some of the good times at the PCA Trade Show. They talk about PCA/TPE cigar exclusives, and the importance of being aware of laws that may affect your enjoyment of cigars. They quickly talk about laws moving from the Federal level to the State level and how that can make an impact in the hobby.

James and Nick welcome the Executive Director of the Premium Cigar Association, Joshua Habursky. The trio discuss the big wins for the cigar industry so far in 2025, and the importance of being vigilant against government overreach. Josh explains how the PCA, CRA, and CAA have all worked together to keep the government from taking the choice to smoke hand rolled, premium cigars away from informed adults. The discussion also turns to state advocacy, generational smoking bans, bipartisan support and challenges, and how the fight is at the state level. Of course, there is talk of the PCA Convention and Trade Show in New Orleans this year in April. We find out how long the show will be held in New Orleans, when it heads back to Las Vegas, and much more!!!

Tim welcomes James and Nick back to the microphones in order to dig deeper into the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest, Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego Cigars. Just as you would expect, it's an episode of rabbit holes that lead the three deeper into the world of "Herklotsisms". Seriously, how often to you get one of the best dressed men in the industry to dump a load of cigar industry wisdom at your front door? Almost never! The three take a few of the conversation pieces from the latest episode and do a little self reflection.

James and Nick welcome Michael Herklots of Ferio Tego to the show. Michael has been in the industry on the retail side and the manufacturing side; so, it's no surprise that the discussion turns to B&Ms and cigar lounges. Michael talk about customer service and what consumers should expect from their retailer and cigar lounges. Yes, there's a difference between a cigar retailer and a cigar lounge. The conversation centers around familiarity vs formality. The trio also discuss what Michael looks for in these shops as a manufacturer, before the discussion turns to the manufacturing side. We ask Michael what he thinks is wrong with the industry before turning our attention to Ferio Tego, TPE, PCA, and more! 

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 guest William "Cigar Coop" Cooper. While James tries to go right into his opinionated rants about a very well known cigar publication, Tim and Nick bring it back to a few food related stories of our own. Nick instantly regretted that decision. The three talk about friendships in the cigar industry and how hard it is to find the time to get everyone together to build those bonds. Viewers and listeners will also get a sneak peak at our #10 cigar of the year in advance.

James and Nick welcome back William "Cigar Coop" Cooper to Simply Stogies Podcast. The trio begin by discussing limited edition cigars, differences between limited edition and annual releases, and where the limited editions come and how much effort goes into them. The conversation then pivots to the Cigar of the Year lists, criteria, and what 2024 looks like. We talk PCA Trade Show, James asks Coop what Simply Stogies Podcast gets wrong, and much more!

Tim, James, and Nick are back to do what they have trouble doing, talking behind people's back. It's hard to do when the guests of Simply Stogies Podcast are so good. After James and Nick sit down with Dave and Andrew from smallbatchcigar.com, the three reflect on only a small portion of the great conversation. It didn't make sense to create back to back 2 hour shows. They cover a few of the inconsistencies in the show such as getting right cigar laws in California before the normal pre-game banter. The conversation continues with expansion on the difficulties of running a cigar lounge with or without an online presence and more secrets of the industry. James rounds out the show asking about his thoughts on the American pallet and tries to spread far fetched rumors about Tim. It's fun, friendship, and cigars all rolled into one.

James and Nick welcome Dave and Andrew from smallbatchcigar.com to the show. The quartet quickly jump to it as they discuss the new tobacco laws in California. Andrew's answer was insightful and gave some much needed context and perspective that seemed to be lacking in the coverage up to this point. We then talk about their magically fast shipping and packaging practices, how they maintain relationships in the industry, their philosophy on customer service, and working with manufacturers. Dave and Andrew then discuss their blind reviews and what Andrew thinks of them, reviewing biases in cigar reviews, what it's like working with manufacturers for shop exclusives, and so much more! This was a great conversation that we hope you enjoy as much as we did!

Tim, James, and Nick are back to continue the journey down the rabbit hole where the of “Relax and enjoy” still hold true. The three don't spend too much time talking about their favorite TV shows but reflect on Nicaragua being on their bucket list of places to visit. Join a discussion where digging deeper into different tobaccos from various regions of the world will product something similar but far enough apart that it pays homage to its origins.

James and Nick welcome Enrique Sanchez of 1502 Cigars to the show. Enrique talks about how he got into the business and working with the Plasencia family on his first release. He shares his passion for Nicaragua and the differences between InterTabac and the PCA Trade Show, and his philosophy of "Relax and enjoy." Enrique also discusses being a boutique brand and what separates them from the "big guys," and why quality matters. James shares his thoughts on the Sopranos, volcanos, and freshwater sharks.

As usual, Tim gets all the facts wrong but luckily James and Nick are back to help set him straight as they discuss the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest Hector Alfonso Sr., the blender and Director of Factory Operations for Espinosa Cigars. The three reflect on getting old as they continue to enjoy their cigars. Tim tries to revive the greatest movie quotes and punchlines Hector delivered during the episode without success, and they cover the rising costs of obtaining goods such as cigars and pizza.

James and Nick welcome blender and Director of Factory Operations for Espinosa Cigars, Hector Alfonso Sr., to the show. The trio discuss the cigar industry at large: the differences in B&M's, the internal politics of lounges and how one or two "Alpha Dogs" can sway others in the lounge, and what differentiates "cigar slingers" from those who actually sell cigars. They also discuss why Simply Stogies Podcast is "legit" and what we do differently than others in the media space. Hector talks about Cigar of the Year lists before we dive in to how he met Erik Espinosa and and how Espinosa Cigars began. He also discusses working with Guy Fieri and how he's just build different than other celebrities in the cigar space. Hector also discusses where he thinks Espinosa Cigars will be in five years. 

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 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!

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.

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.

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.

James and Nick welcome Mo Maali, owner and founder of Patina Cigars back to the show. We discuss the current economy, its impact on the cigar industry, and how it affects cigar releases and how Patina approaches releases. Mo talks about the Oro de Nicaragua, which factory it came from, and why it was released before the PCA Trade Show. He gives advice to new boutique manufacturers on the scene. We talk about the smoke and mirrors of the cigar industry and how it reflects society. We also touch on his podcast, Sultans of Smoke, Patina's Anniversary blend releasing in different vitolas, the cost of cigars, and Mo's and Nick's celebrity look-a-likes.

Tim, James, and Nick go down rabbit hole after rabbit hole following the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Nimmer Ahmad of Valacari Cigars. It's easy to do and that's what Clear the Air is all about. Join the trio as they talk about many troubles within the cigar industry.

Nimmer Ahmad of Valacari Cigars returns to Simply Stogies Podcast to chat with James and Nick about what he has been up to. Nimmer talks about his process of validating blends and the time it takes to make sure they're ready for release. He also discusses his latest release, the Astronomia. The Astronomia is the newest addition to Valacari Cigars' core lines. Nimmer tells us why it was important to get the Astronomia right and why it took so long to add to his core line.

Tim brings your favorite cigar podcast hosts back to the microphone to talk about the latest episode featuring Eddy Guerra, head of marketing for some of the best cigars around, Davidoff. As always, Tim leads James and Nick down rabbit holes that prove hard to get out of.

James and Nick welcome Eddy Guerra, Head of Brand Marketing for Davidoff Cigars, to the show. Eddy tells the story of how he got in the industry and the type of people that he interacted with. Eddy's goal was to eventually work for Davidoff, but his journey had a few stops along the way. Eddy talks about cigar marketing in the industry, the good and the bad, as well as what he believes hurts the industry. There's a great discuss of "cigar events" vs "cigar experiences" and what he and Davidoff have done to change the game for the industry.

Tim brings your favorite cigar podcasters back to the microphone once again to dive deeper into the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Rick and Sara Rodriguez of West Tampa Cigar Company. The trio talk about the fun that can be had in the industry when going to events and meeting you favorite cigar "icons". There's more to the industry than just a cigar and a price. We have lots of laughs and admire WTTC, Rick, and Sara as they pave a pathway to the cigar industries future. Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/ZYo2DN3rq90 Watch on Rumble: https://rumble.com/embed/v57sksh/?pub=14sdft

James and Nick sit down with Chef Rick Rodriguez and his daughter Sara, of West Tampa Tobacco Co. We discuss what they've learned since starting West Tampa Tobacco. From what they thought being prepared looked like, to wearing different hats for the company, to learning to delegate. Sara discusses the stories that she's making, the memories and the friends along the way. She also talks about forging her own path and focusing on the human side of the industry.

Tim, James, and Nick are back at the microphones to make another attempt to talk behind peoples back. Listen as they discover how hard that is to do when it's great people like Al and Amanda Micallef of Micallef Cigars. The three talk about the latest episode and dive deeper into things like the "Micallef Effect".

James and Nick sit down for an in-depth discussion about business and entrepreneurship with Al Micallef, founder of Micallef Cigars, and his daughter and head of marketing, Amanda Micallef. The conversation begins with Al discussing how he had an interest in business from a young age and how he parlayed that into where he is now. We find out that Amanda started as a producer in Hollywood, and has her own IMDB page. The four of also discuss working with family, how Dan Thompson (President of Micallef Cigars) joined the team and how he navigates differences of opinions between Al and Amanda, as well as women in the cigar industry and their importance of growing the consumer base and the industry. We talk cigar pricing and the "Micallef Affect." It was a great conversation. You can talk with Al, Amanda, and more of their team at their Micallef Socials later this year (you can find one nearest you on Eventbrite).

Tim brings James and Nick back to the studio to talk about the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Miguel Schodel with Crowned Heads and OZ Family Cigars. We notice there are no screaming children in the background while we  appreciate the hard work  and dedication that goes into leading a team to success. Nick tells us how boutique cigars are still a vital part of the industry and we discuss how information at our finger tips can hurt and help the industry.

This episode we have a great conversation with Crowned Heads and OZ Family Cigars' National Sales Manager, Miguel Schoedel. Miguel walks us through his history in the cigar industry: from his early interest in tobacco and agriculture, to his time with CAO, and ultimately to where he is today. Miguel discusses informed cigar consumers and how they have made the industry better and more competitive. We also talk about how technology has impacted the business through consumers, as well as the pros and cons of boutique and mainstream cigar makers. Miguel talks in-house sales reps, being the leader you want to see, and he gives us his predictions for the cigar industry. This episode is brought to you by Valacari Cigars and Small Batch Cigar.

How hard is it to run a good cigar of the month club? Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphones to discuss the this and much more about the latest episode of the Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Ben Rotem and Luxury Cigar Club. Enjoy this conversation while saving 15% at luxury cigar clubs website. Use coupon code "SIMPLE" at checkout for 15% off anything except subscriptions at luxurycigarclub.com

James and Nick sit down with Ben Rotem, one of the founders and owners of Luxury Cigar Club. If you're not familiar with luxurycigarclub.com now, you will be after this episode. Luxury Cigar Club is more than just a "cigar of the month" club. They have a large online inventory of cigars, accessories, and humidors for the discerning cigar enthusiast. They boast a discord server that connects their customers to both manufacturers and themselves. Ben talks how they started, their ideas, their focus on customers service, and their new B&M outside of Reno, NV that's a Room 101 branded cigar lounge. Ben then gives our audience a SIMPLE coupon code to save some dough on your next purchase.

In this episode we dig behind the scenes of the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Lou Cross, brand owner of Lure Cigars. We have been hearing the hype behind this new brand, and we're on board for the ride as we talk personality and story behind a brand.

James and Nick welcome Lou Cross III, founder of Lure Cigars to the show. Lou talks about honoring his late father, Lou Cross Jr., to naming his cigars after his family, and walks us through his journey. We discuss the "grind" that boutique cigar manufacturers go through to promote their brands and his focus on connecting directly with consumers. We also learn about his latest offering, "The Last Cast," an LE made to remember his dad. To find where you can try Lure Cigars, visit their website.

In this episode of Clear the Air Tim, James, and Nick go behind the scenes of Episode 128 where James sits down and talks to Dwight Adkins and Stephen Wray of FatAsh Cigar Lounge. The three discuss the dynamics of what makes a cigar lounge enjoyable and friendly. They dig into what makes the My Old Kentucky Herf an event that you don't want to miss.