Nice Ashes: Cigars and Culture

Join hosts Mike and Nate on Nice Ashes as they light up cigars soaked in tequila and dive into their candid takes on cult-favorite cigars. Special guest Al returns to test his palate with the infamous Cult Blood Red Moon cigar, sparking plenty of laughs and honest reviews. Along the way, the trio shares nostalgic movie chats, debates Hollywood’s firearm inaccuracies, and critiques recent sci-fi and fantasy hits. Tune in for cigars, culture, and unfiltered banter beyond the smoke!

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In this podcast episode, hosts Nate and Mike enjoy smoking a well-aged Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur Dark Knight Toro cigar while diving into a deep and detailed true crime discussion. They focus on the 1983 murder of Barbara Grams in Tampa, Florida, exploring the investigation, trial, and wrongful conviction of Robert DuBoise, who spent 37 years in prison due to flawed bite mark forensic evidence and unreliable jailhouse informant testimony.

They provide historical context around the 1980s Tampa crime climate, the pressure on law enforcement to close cases quickly, and how forensic odontology—widely accepted at the time but no...

In this episode, hosts Nate and Mike smoke the Peloto Cubano cigar, sharing candid impressions of its inconsistent quality and unusual labeling. Nate recounts a recent trip to Chicago to meet longtime friend Simcha and experience a traditional Jewish Shabbos (Sabbath) with him and a guest named Thomas, an incoming convert to Judaism. They discuss the cultural and religious practices observed during Shabbos, including the unique restrictions and rituals around lighting fires, using electronics, and kosher food traditions.

Nate also explores Chicago’s rich architectural history, taking a detailed tour of the historic Rookery Building and reflecting on...

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 st...

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, Nate and Mike enjoy the Nest Blackbird Cigar Company Connecticut Toro while diving deep into the controversial and tangled world of healthcare in America. They discuss the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, the company's practices of denying claims, whistleblower allegations, shareholder lawsuits, and the broader systemic issues in for-profit health insurance. Alongside candid debates about work personas, socialized insurance, and modern healthcare challenges, they reflect on personal experiences and the moral implications of profiting from sickness and death. Plus, they wrap up with their impressions of the cigar and a note about the upcoming trial...

In this episode, Nate and Mike smoke the visually striking Marco V Dieci X cigar while joined by special guest Ryan Burns — a leading DB Cooper expert and top contributor to the DB Cooper subreddit. They dive deep into the legendary airplane hijacking case from 1971, revealing fascinating insights from recently released FBI files, witness accounts, and new theories about the mysterious hijacker's identity and fate. Plus, they discuss Cooper’s meticulous planning, surviving the infamous parachute jump, and the intriguing discovery of ransom money years later. Tune in for a captivating blend of cigar chat and one of America’s grea...

In this episode, Mike and Nate enjoy a budget-friendly Hoya del Jefe cigar while diving into a fascinating history topic: some of the shortest-lived countries in history. From quirky frontier republics like the Great Republic of Rough and Ready to the Republic of Ezo in Japan, the brief Palmetto Republic of South Carolina, and the modern tale of the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone (CHAZ), they explore colorful attempts at independence, revolutions, and political experiments that lasted anywhere from hours to a few months. Along the way, they share lively banter, historical anecdotes, and personal stories, wrapping up with their...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike enjoy the Schizo Toro Maduro cigar while diving into the fascinating topic of minced oaths—phrases that replace swear words or blasphemies to soften their impact. The discussion starts with the hosts sharing their cigar pairings and expressing their enjoyment of the Schizo Toro. As they move through the episode, they explain the history of minced oaths, highlighting examples from literature and historical figures that have influenced modern language.

From euphemisms like "gosh" for God and "fudge" for a more profane expletive, to the playful banter about th...

In this episode of the podcast, hosts Nate and Mike dive into the controversial death of Johnny Ringo, a notorious figure from the Wild West. As they enjoy cigars and drinks, they explore various theories about how Ringo met his end in 1882. Beginning with their thoughts on a mediocre Don Rafael cigar paired with local brews, the discussion quickly shifts to historical details about Ringo's violent past as a member of the Cochise County Cowboys and his infamous confrontations with lawmen like Wyatt Earp.

The hosts dissect the widely accepted narrative of Ringo's death, which suggests he...

In this podcast episode, Mike and Nate discuss their latest cigar, the Schizo Toro, admiring its impressive packaging and label design while also exploring its flavor profile. They delve into a quirky conversation about the art and design of cigar labels, hinting at their past experiences with lower-quality cigars. Transitioning from cigars to conspiracy theories, Mike introduces the topic of Mussolini's death, which serves as the main theme for the episode. He details the official account of Mussolini's execution by Italian partisans as he attempted to flee to Switzerland after his government fell, before touching upon various conspiracy theories...

In this episode, hosts Nate and Mike dive into the world of underground bunkers, inspired by a controversial claim that the U.S. government has spent $21 trillion to construct an extensive network of doomsday shelters for the elite. As they smoke a troubled cigar, they discuss the assertion made by former housing official Catherine Austin Fitz, who alleges that these bunkers were created between 1998 and 2015. The duo shares insights on various known underground facilities, including the Greenbrier bunker, Cheyenne Mountain Complex, and other private luxury shelters built for the wealthy. Along the way, they reflect on the feasibility of...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike revisit the Chillin' Moose cigar, trying its Maduro version despite previously swearing off it after a disappointing experience. The duo discusses the cigar's design and hopes for a better flavor profile, comparing it to coffee and discussing their drink pairings. The episode includes a fun guessing game where Mike attempts to identify various sins based on clues related to different religions, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Jainism. As they navigate through tricky questions and humorous banter, they share insights about the overlap in religious beliefs and moral teachings. Despite...

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...

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 stru...

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...

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...

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...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike taste the Tatiana Nightcap cigar, discussing its aroma and flavor profile, which they liken to hot chocolate with marshmallows and nostalgic campfire memories. They reflect on their previous experience with the Tatiana Waking Dream and talk about the value and quality of these cigars, particularly for price-sensitive consumers.

As they smoke, they dive into a lively discussion about changing beauty standards throughout history, beginning with ancient times and moving chronologically to contemporary ideals. They touch on various cultural expectations related to beauty for both women and men...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Mike and Nate continue their "punishment series," discussing the cigar "Raji's Untimely Demise." They share their initial thoughts on the cigar's appearance, composition, and draw, with both expressing concerns about its quality from the outset. As they light up, the hosts dive into a broader conversation about the UN's 2030 Agenda, a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing global challenges such as poverty and climate change, which they argue is a troubling manifestation of modern fascism.

Mike highlights the potential implications of the agenda, critiquing its underlying philosophy and the involvement of...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike dive into their latest smoke, the Tatiana Waking Dream, a sweet and aromatic cigar that surprises them in flavor. As they light up, their conversation flows from the joys (and challenges) of parenting to the complexities of workplace dynamics, including the curious notion of "verbal assault."

Join Nate and Mike as they humorously explore what verbal assault really means, discuss personal anecdotes from their work experiences, and share thoughts on the generational differences in handling conflicts—everything from name-calling in school to navigating today’s politically correct offi...

Join Mike and Nate in this fiery episode as they dive deep into the second book of Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson's Dune prequel trilogy, Machine Crusade. With a cigar in hand—the Alec Bradley Project 40—they spark a heated discussion about the book's plot, character arcs, and a myriad of inconsistencies that leave them shaking their heads. Mike shares his hopes for a great cigar experience, while Nate critiques the overly verbose storytelling and ridiculous plot holes, including why machines wait to attack and the odd decisions of key characters.

As they navigate through the chao...

Welcome back to Nice Ashes! In today's episode, Mike and Nate light up the Erin Go Bragh, an Irish whiskey-flavored cigar that's gained a mixed reputation in the online community. As they share their candid first impressions of this cheap stogie—complete with gas station cigar vibes—they dive into a broader discussion about the implications of AI and deep fakes in our society.

With topics ranging from the uncanny valley effect to the nuanced legal status of deep fakes, the duo examines critical issues including copyright concerns, political ramifications, and even the dangers of deep fake scam...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Mike and Nate participate in the 3rd annual Podcast-a-Thon, where over 1,500 podcasts highlight charities. This week, they smoke a Deadwood Crazy Alice with special guest Zach Johnson, CEO of Roger Up, a nonprofit focused on providing outdoor adventures for veterans, first responders, and their families, emphasizing mental health support. The episode features an engaging discussion on Zach's journey, the importance of mental health in the military community, and diverse therapies offered by Roger Up. The trio also enjoys a unique cigar, the Deadwood Cigar Crazy Alice, sharing their thoughts about flavor and...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Mike and Nate dive deep into the sci-fi classic, "The Fifth Element." They share their thoughts on the film's unique world-building, humor, and unforgettable visuals, as well as its standout performances from Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Mila Jovovich. The duo discusses their personal experiences watching the film in theaters, the cultural significance of its characters, and the impact of its eccentric style. They also enjoy a flavorful cigar, the Partagas Cifuente Maduro Toro, reflecting on how it complements their cinematic experience. Expect a blend of humor, film analysis, and casual banter...

Join Mike and Nate for the premiere of Season 4 of Nice Ashes! In this episode, they light up the Rocky Patel Edge A-10, a stunning barber pole cigar that combines a Connecticut wrapper with a Maduro leaf. With rich flavors and engaging conversation, they discuss the complexities of the stick while pairing it with Guinness and coffee.

The duo also dives into a spirited debate about Gladiator 2, sharing thoughts on its historical accuracy and character development compared to the original Gladiator. With various tangents through film history, they explore lost films and their rediscoveries, highlighting...

Join Mike and Nate in this special Christmas Day episode of Nice Ashes as they light up a unique Asylum 13 Ogre cigar in the Gordo size—a rare choice for the show. Not only is this episode a holiday celebration, but it also serves as the Season Three finale, with the duo set to return in March.

In a festive discussion, they delve into the rich history of the so-called "War on Christmas," tracing its origins from the Puritans of the 1640s to modern-day controversies over holiday greetings. Expect humorous banter and insightful commentary as they uncover hi...

Welcome to this week's episode of Nice Ashes! In this installment, Mike and Nate dive into the CAO L'Anniversaire Cameroon Robusto, hoping for a better experience than its disappointing Toro counterpart. While their initial expectations aren't high, the cigar surprises them with a flavor profile that's nutty and spicy, leading to an in-depth discussion on cigars and pairings.

As they smoke, the duo shifts gears to explore the dynamics of the modern job market, particularly how companies are prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in hiring practices. They tackle controversial topics like "reverse discrimination" and the implications...

Join hosts Nate and Mike as they welcome Mike's longtime friend Jordan for a candid conversation about life, mental health, and, of course, cigars! They light up the CAO Anniversary Cameroon Toro cigar while reminiscing about college days filled with laughter and embarrassing stories.

In this episode, Jordan shares his recent mental health journey, discussing his experiences with anxiety and depression, along with the stigma surrounding mental health treatment. He opens up about the importance of understanding mental health, the challenges of coping mechanisms, and the need for support in rural areas where access to care can...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike dive into their ongoing four-cigar tour featuring the highly touted Rico Borado line. Today, they tackle the Maduro Robusto, which leads to plenty of laughter and strong opinions, as the duo recount their previous experiences with the brand, expressing just how much they loathe the previous cigars they've tried, including the Connecticut series. Expectations are high, but soon they're confronted with a cacophony of burnt plastic and rubber tire notes, setting the stage for what turns out to be a hilariously rough episode.

As the...

Welcome to this week's episode of Nice Ashes! Join Mike and Nate as they tackle the much-anticipated Rico Barato Robusto Connecticut cigar, which may just take the crown for the worst they’ve ever smoked. Listen in as they express their distaste for the flavor and reminisce about past traumatic smoking experiences. They dive into a lively discussion about recent ballot measures, including the nuances of voting laws, abortion rights, and minimum wage discussions across various states. Their banter navigates through political opinions, personal anecdotes, and the importance of local elections versus national contests. Will this cigar become their ne...

Join Mike and Nate on this episode of Nice Ashes as they indulge in the Rico Barato Torpedo Maduro. They dive into their initial impressions of the cigar, discussing its troublesome construction and unexpected flavors, including a few unfortunate construction defects that lead to some humorous moments.

As they light up, the discussion shifts from cigars to the ever-controversial topic of cigar ratings, particularly how Cigar Aficionado evaluates different smokes. Mike and Nate explore the subjective nature of cigar tasting, how the industry’s rating systems might not always serve consumers well, and the peculiarities of...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike light up a Rico Barato Connecticut Torpedo and dive deep into the controversial topic of "transmaxxing." As they explore the nuances of this internet-born phenomenon, they discuss real-life cases, including individuals who have transitioned or identified as transgender for personal gain, such as to win custody battles or improve dating prospects. The duo navigates the complexities surrounding transgender identities and societal perceptions, along the way sharing laughs and their honest opinions. They also take a candid look at the cigar they’re smoking, which doesn’t fare well in thei...

In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Mike and Nate dive into their smokey experience with the Flor de Oliva Original cigar. They explore its unique flavors, contrasting it with previous variations like the Maduro and Gold. The duo then shifts gears to discuss the book “Sparked,” a collection of essays about race and resilience in Minnesota following the George Floyd incident. Their candid critique reveals the elitism present in many of the essays, as they share their frustrations about the lack of genuine voices and action plans in the narratives. With humor and insight, they scrutinize the authors' pers...

In this episode of Nice Ashes, hosts Nate and Mike dive into the complexities of race and the impact of George Floyd’s legacy in their review of the book Sparked: George Floyd, Racism, and the Progressive Illusion. As they light up a Flor de Oliva Gold cigar—distinctly lighter than the Maduro—they engage in a candid conversation about the book's essays written by elites discussing race relations in Minnesota.

With humorous banter and critical analysis, Nate and Mike dissect various essays that tackle topics from police encounters to systemic inequality, with both hosts sharing their contra...

Mike and Nate smoke a Flor de Oliva Madura,a budget-friendly cigar that brings standard Maduro flavors without any surprises. As they enjoy their smokes, the duo dives deep into a lively discussion on the darker, original versions of beloved fairy tales, tracing the rich history behind classics like Pinocchio, Rapunzel, and Snow White. They explore the morbid twists in these stories and debate whether the grim narratives lead to a better understanding of morality compared to the sanitized Disney adaptations we know today. Tune in for a blend of cigar reviews, nostalgic storytelling, and insightful commentary on cultural...

Join Mike and Nate on this special episode of Nice Ashes as they welcome musician Bert Badger to the show. The trio dives into a lighthearted conversation about cigars, music, and memories, all while enjoying a unique Acid Blondie cigar. Bert shares his journey, including the release of his new album, French Toast (All Bangers), highlighting standout tracks and the creative process behind his music.

As they smoke, they discuss everything from the quirks of cigar culture to the challenges of recording, and even reminisce about their shared past in TV and radio. Bert spills some fun...

Mike and Nate smoke an Espinosa The Dude, courtesy of Matt, and discuss The Big Lebowski.

Throughout the conversation, they explore the film's quirky characters, memorable scenes, and its blend of comedy and absurdity, all while sharing personal anecdotes and fun trivia. They also discuss the cigar's impressive flavor profile, which features unexpected spice and fits perfectly with the laid-back vibe of the movie.

Join them for laughs, insightful commentary, and a light-hearted exploration of this cult classic, punctuated by their own friendly competition over the episode's cover art. Whether you're a fan of the...

Mike and Nate are joined by Jordan and they try a Fireball Cinnamon Cigar, with Fireball. The trio explores the cigar's flavor profile—experiencing hints of vanilla and mild sweetness, while wrestling with differing opinions about its cinnamon notes.

As they light up their cigars, Jordan, who hasn't smoked in years, shares his excitement about the Fireball Cigar, especially as a fan of the brand. The conversation takes amusing turns—reflecting on nostalgia for past experiences, the quirks of bowling, and even the ridiculousness of VHS tapes and classic video gaming culture.

Jordan, who also runs...

Mike and Nate smoke a Rocky Patel The Edge Corojo Fuma and continue their History of the shotgun. This episode includes the technical aspects of shotguns, including types of actions, chamber sizes, and choke mechanics.

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