Podcasts about simply stogies

This week, Tim, James, and Jimmy are back at the microphones to dissect their recent interview with Vince McGlone of Vicente Blends. The audience feedback has been a total mixed bag, and the crew isn't holding back on why Vince's engineering background, low-volume production mindset, and luxury $60 price tags are polarizing the cigar community. From debating the definition of a true "industry disruptor" to exposing the smoke and mirrors of factory blends, the guys clear the air on how the demographics of premium tobacco are shifting in 2026.

James interviews Fat Ash Cigar Lounge owner Dwight Adkins and GM Paul Wood to launch the sixth annual My Old Kentucky HERF, introducing exclusive cigars like the "Open Carry" and "Sturdy Girl" that reflect the lounge's culture of freedom and hospitality. Jimmy later joins James and Tim for a recap, detailing the event's charitable support for the Gary Sinise Foundation and genuine industry networking with blenders like Rick Rodriguez and Hector Alfonso. The episode also highlights guest Detective Samantha Baliles' work with first responders, reinforcing that the HERF prioritizes relationships and community over profit.

The team at Simply Stogies has officially wrapped up another incredible year at the annual Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show! In this special edition episode of Clear the Air, James takes the host's chair to lead a lively discussion with Jimmy and Tim. Together, they break down their experiences from the massive convention floor, sharing their personal highlights and honest thoughts on each day of the big event.

In this episode of Clear the Air, hosts Tim, James, and Jimmy spend time reviewing a recent interview with Lou Cross of Lure Cigars and sharing their thoughts on different cigar products. They also discuss their upcoming trip to a major cigar trade show in New Orleans and officially announce that Jimmy D will be stepping up as the new co-host following the departure of a long-time team member.

Tim and Jimmy D lead this episode of Clear The Air by examining the balance between modern technology and classic cigar traditions. They explain how artificial intelligence can manage data and inventory so that professionals have more time for genuine human interaction. Jimmy D supports this focus on relationships by often giving away free cigars to help customers discover new blends. The hosts also advocate for more cooperation within the industry to ensure that the community remains strong for the next generation. Finally, they highlight the intense dedication of traveling brand representatives who spend hundreds of days on the road to support local lounges.

In this unfiltered "Clear the Air" session, Tim, James, and Jimmy break down the highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with the most recent powerhouse interview with Mike Szczepankiewicz of Powstanie Cigars. The trio dives deep into the "Santa Claus" effect of the cigar industry, debating whether knowing the raw reality of the people behind the brands adds to the experience or ruins the magic of the smoke. From candid discussions on humidor shelf space and the true value of high-ticket sticks to a sneak peek at the upcoming trade show season and the "My Old Kentucky Herf" event, this episode is packed with the industry insight and signature banter that Simply Stogies fans crave.

Tim, James, and Jimmy discussed the career and controversial opinions of industry veteran Dave Garofalo. The conversation focused heavily on Garofalo's bold business moves, specifically his decision to close profitable stores in Massachusetts and relocate to New Hampshire to escape a 12% tax—a gamble he took after competitors refused to unite against regulations.    The hosts also explored Garofalo's specific philosophies regarding retail strategy and media content. Key topics included the psychology behind his rule of placing price tags on every open box to avoid customer embarrassment and his "needs assessment" sales approach, illustrated by a story about upselling a golfer. Finally, they addressed his criticism of podcasting norms, specifically his pet peeve regarding excessive "banter" and his belief that industry media should avoid negative reviews to protect the cigar world from external attacks

In this episode of Clear the Air, the crew celebrates Simply Stogies' seven-year anniversary of the show , reflecting on its massive growth from a monthly hobby to a major industry voice. The conversation transitions into a deep dive on boutique cigar culture, comparing the different entrepreneurial paths taken by Lou Cross of Lure Cigars and recent guest Alex Martinez of Exile Cigars. A major theme of the discussion is the role of legacy and family, specifically focusing on how Martinez honors his father's Cuban immigrant story by naming his cigar lines after his father's shoe stores. Finally, the hosts share a personal and introspective look at how the cigar industry fosters generational traditions and deep personal connections, all while giving a special shoutout to the Fat Ash Cigar Lounge family and celebrating several community birthdays.

Industry titans collide as James, Nick, and Jimmy step into the arena to dissect the fallout from their explosive sit-down with PCA CEO Joshua Habursky. Representing the powerhouse trio of Manufacturer, Retailer, and Media, they bring perspectives that rarely align—and the tension is palpable. Just as the debate threatens to spiral out of control, a surprise return from an old friend shifts the energy, but the peace is short-lived. Nick pulls back the curtain on the manufacturing world with a revelation that changes the context of the trade show, while Jimmy pulls no punches, voicing the raw, unfiltered concerns of a brick-and-mortar retailer fighting to survive. The episode culminates in a high-stakes interrogation of the media's true role: are they industry watchdogs, or just part of the machine? Clear the air. Find the truth. Listen now.

Tim returns for another edition of Clear the Air: A Simply Stogies Podcast After Show. Joined by James and Jimmy, the crew breaks down the latest episode featuring Law Ream, Ambassador for Zino Cigars (now with Camacho brand...thanks LAW!). But there is a major plot twist: Tim enlists a friend—Drew Estate Territory Manager Dave Payne—to facilitate a "conversation" regarding James' recent rants. All hell breaks loose, and you won't want to miss the fallout.

In this episode of Clear the Air, the Simply Stogies crew breaks down their interview with industry legend Pete Johnson of Tatuaje Cigars. They dive into Pete's genuine nature, his thirty-two-year journey in the cigar world, and his unique perspective on limited editions and supporting brick-and-mortar shops. The conversation gets lively as the hosts debate Pete's take on self-regulation and marketing in the industry, offering their own unfiltered opinions on the state of cigars today. Beyond the serious cigar talk, expect plenty of laughs as the guys share stories about double entendre , bass guitars, and Tim's new "Simple Tim" nickname. They also answer listener questions (originally meant for Nick) in hilarious fashion. Tune in for a mix of insightful industry analysis, candid commentary, and the usual Simply Stogies banter.

This episode of Clear the Air features the Simply Stogies crew reflecting on Matt Booth's transformative role in the cigar industry, from his bold Room 101 brand to his provocative marketing that redefined premium cigars. They discuss how Booth and similar trailblazers injected irreverent energy, driving innovation in blends and branding that elevated the culture.   The hosts unpack Booth's lasting impact, celebrating how his unfiltered style challenged conventions, inspired competition, and built a more dynamic, enthusiast-focused market that continues to captivate aficionados.

Dive into the latest episode as the team unpacks the shifting buying patterns in the cigar industry—spotlighting who's getting it right and who's missing the mark. Explore the realities of rising cigar prices and the looming risk of pricing out loyal customers. Ever wonder what it means when sales are down but revenue is up? The crew breaks it all down, then brings it back to Dave and the appeal of Small Batch. Tim shares insights from a military mindset, drawing parallels to how Small Batch and Avowed approach the market compared to other industry players. It's a candid, no-holds-barred look at the business side of cigars, and why some brands continue to stand out.

Tim, James, and Jimmy return to Clear The Air to unpack the latest Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Brian Desind of Privada Cigar Club, taking on free speech in cigar artwork and the myth that edgy designs are marketed to kids. They dig into Privada's collectible info cards, debate the good and bad of gatekeeping in cigar culture, and make the case for why cooler-dors still deliver despite industry pushback. Stick around for bonus questions that keep the conversation candid and fun.   Join our Patreon and watch us record LIVE beginning Dec 2!

Tim, James, and Jimmy return for another episode of Clear the Air to dive deeper into the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Zack Van Ginkel of HDA Cigars. The crew dive into a range of topics from their conversation with Zack — including how brick-and-mortar shops can better support homegrown brands, why HDA chooses to maintain consistent pricing by avoiding discounts and sticking to MSRP, and what really separates micro cigar brands from boutique ones. Tune in for an insightful discussion on authenticity, brand identity, and the evolving cigar market.

In this episode of Clear The Air, Tim, James, and Jimmy return to the microphone for another engaging discussion. This time, they take a closer look at the latest episode of Simply Stogies. Tim handles the intro and outro with a bit of self-deprecating humor. James and Jimmy step in to guide the conversation, diving deeper into the content and themes presented. The episode ultimately shifts into a thoughtful discussion about the need for greater transparency and knowledge across the entire cigar industry, from consumers to manufacturers. The hosts argue that fostering this openness can help the industry not only survive but thrive in the future.

Tim, James and Nick are back for another installment of Clear The Air, this time about Aaron Paoletta of LaVega Cigars. The three talk about creative types in the industry, the hardships in starting a new cigar company, and much more all at Tim's expense. James and Nick try their best to make Tim cry the entire time.

In an unusual episode of Clear The Air, Tim and James are back to dive a little deeper into the stories told by Sean Brown and Jillian Hinton of Dogs Inc from the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast. The conversation jumps through a few other key points from the episode including how service members may look at companies that say they are all about the veterans, cigar communities that support causes such as Dogs Inc, and much more. To donate to Dogs Inc. please go here: https://dogsinc.org/ To purchase the Dogs In. Cigador ($20 of every purchase goes to Dogs Inc.) please go here: https://thecigador.com/pages/dogs-inc-cigador  

Back to the microphones after last week's episode of Simply Stogies Podcast where Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphone to talk behind Zino Brand Ambassador, Law Ream's back. The three talk a little bit more about the Republic of Debauchery and how the industry really needs some more laughs. They spend time talking about the amount of time and effort it can take to produce such content. They end the episode with some conversation about the Zino Tour and life on the road before we finally find out, "What's Bugging James!".

James is holding Cigar Apocalypse in Livermore, IA at Smoldering Cigar so Tim has no choice but to find a replacement. Tim and Nick welcome first time guest host Jimmy who is not only a video reviewer for Simply Stogies but a lounge owner. Jimmy owns and operates The Drawing Room in Davenport, IA. Anyway, Tim, Nick, and Jimmy dive deeper into the discussion that Nick and James had on the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with Les Mann of ST Dupont Cigar Accessories. They talk about the different collabs that ST Dupont has done, Nick provides his guidance on getting into your first ST Dupont lighter, and the three wrap up the show throwing a few guesses as to who the big collaboration would be that would make Les think about having up his busy hat and enjoying some retirement time.

Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphone to discuss some of the topics that were discussed in the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Robert Caldwell of Caldwell cigars. Tim digs a little deeper into the back story of how Nick and Caldwell became friends before digging into the science behind how your cigars are presented to you in a humidor. They talk about LE's and Core Lines and how cigar enthusiasts choose their cigar and the cigar journey that comes with years of enjoying a premium product.

In this episode of Clear the Air, Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphone to discuss more of the last episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with guest Trey Mac Shipley, National Sales Manager of JRE Tobacco. They discuss the industry and how deals are starting to go away from handshakes, how business is conducted in different regions of the country, the generational changes in how business is conducted int the cigar industry and much more.

This week on Episode 393, the boys gear up for Blend & Barrel this Thursday and a sizzling private dinner with Skip Martin on July 5th. Mike dives into a wild takedown by Simply Stogies—apparently their aftershow is better than the interview! We cover massive stories: U.S. strikes Iran's nuclear site, Tesla drops robotaxis in Austin, and Kevin Durant's shocking trade to Houston. Plus, Nicaragua slams the brakes with new speed limits, Davidoff slows production, and spicy new cigars from Patina and 601 La Bomba. Two reviews. One warhead. All hustle.

In this special episode of Clear The Air, Nick plays the role of host while bringing James and Tim back to the microphone for a behind the scenes perspective of the latest interview on Simply Stogies Podcast with Mike "BDP" Palmer, the Pospiech Nation Sales Manager. The trio start off by talking about the "Cinderella Story" that got Mike Palmer to where he is today before talking about cigar podcasting quality and content.

Tim brings James and Nick back to the microphones to dive deeper into the latest episode of Simply Stogies Podcast with special guest Noel Rojas of Rojas Cigars. The trio dive deeper into Noel's story of growing up as a young student in Cuba working on the farms to becoming a troublemaker and eventually making his way through Mexico into the United States. We spend time in awe over Noel's work ethic, passion, and drive in everything he has done to get where he is today.

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.

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.  

Listen in as we welcome Fred Rewey from Cigar Press Magazine, along with James Giehm and Timothy Allen from Simply Stogies to Episode 286 of HBTC Live! We talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly from the 2025 PCA Trade Show, and much more!   Visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube Channel. #HBTCigar #HowBoutThatCigar #Cigars #PremiumCigars #CigarPodcast #CigarShow #HBTCLive #PremiumTobacco #CigarLife #CigarCulture #BOTL #SOTL #ISmokeCigars #BurnCigarsNotBridges

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.

On Prime Time Special Edition 173, Nick Syris and James Giehm are our special guests. Both are the hosts of Simply Stogies. Nick also owns LH Cigars and is our unofficial Cuban correspondent. Nick will update us on the Habanos Festival and LH Cigars. James and Nick will then catch us up on Simply Stogies. Tonight, we also debut a brand new segment, “Under the Sea,” sponsored by Artesano del Tobacco. Plus, we have our Espinosa this Day in Sports History and Tabacalera USA Great Things are Happening Here segments. References 9 year old surrvivor creates dream sandwich A Circular Wooden ‘Stonehenge' Discovered in Denmark Is 4,000 Years Old 

On Prime Time Special Edition 173, Nick Syris and James Giehm are our special guests. Both are the hosts of Simply Stogies. Nick also owns LH Cigars and is our unofficial Cuban correspondent. Nick will update us on the Habanos Festival and LH Cigars. James and Nick will then catch us up on Simply Stogies. Tonight, we also debut a brand new segment, “Under the Sea,” sponsored by Artesano del Tobacco. Plus, we have our Espinosa this Day in Sports History and Tabacalera USA Great Things are Happening Here segments. References 9 year old surrvivor creates dream sandwich A Circular Wooden ‘Stonehenge' Discovered in Denmark Is 4,000 Years Old 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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".

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.