Episode 19 of Beyond the Burl brings a very special guest—Michael Dean from Timber and Smoke. We dive into Michael’s journey of creating his magazine, from its original conception to his exciting plans for the future. He shares insights into what’s next, and listeners will want to stay tuned for a very generous offer revealed during the episode. Our ChatGPT story takes a Halloween twist, adding a bit of seasonal atmosphere, and we close the show with a review of Cornell & Diehl’s Visions of Celephais, a blend as imaginative as its namesake.

In Episode 19 of Beyond the Burl, Seb and Josh put their wits to the test with a round of pipe tobacco trivia—questions ranging from the tricky to the downright obscure with that added bonus that most of the questions are less then well researched. Our ChatGPT story sails into the fantastical world of fairies and pirates, blending whimsy with a touch of smoke. We then take a globe-trotting tour through the diverse pipe smoking cultures of the world, exploring traditions, styles, and rituals from centuries past to the present day. To round things off, we light up and review Two Friends English Chocolate, a comforting blend where rich Latakia meets smooth cocoa.

n this episode of Beyond the Burl, Seb and Josh share their personal top five pipe tobacco blends—favorites from across their rotations that keep them coming back for more. This week’s ChatGPT story takes a strange and smoky turn as we enter the world of Captain Ahab, where the line between obsession, legend, and pipe smoke blurs. We also dive deep into the long, fascinating history of tobacco itself—from sacred ritual to global commodity—and wrap up with a thoughtful review of Blue Note by Dan Tobacco, an aromatic blend with a loyal following.

In Episode 16 of Beyond the Burl, we’re taking a closer look at the many ways tobacco is cut and prepared. From shag cut to plugs, we break down what makes each cut unique and how it affects your smoking experience.

We read a ChatGPT-generated story about none other than Pablo Picasso, blending historical fact and playful fiction in surrealist fashion.

Our deep dive this week turns to the storied histories of Peterson, Chacom, and Savinelli—three iconic pipe manufacturers whose legacies span continents and centuries.

We close the show with a review of Smokingpipes XXV Reserve: Dusk, a bold blend worthy of quiet contemplation.

In this shadowy, fire-cured instalment of Beyond the Burl, we descend into the smoky depths of Dark Fired Kentucky—exploring its bold flavours, rustic roots, and the way it shapes some of our most memorable smokes. We hear from listeners about their latest blends and pipe rituals, then take a left turn into the macabre with a ChatGPT story inspired by classic horror fiction (pipes included, of course). In our deep dive, we honour the legendary blenders we’ve lost and reflect on how their work still burns bright in bowls around the world. Finally, we review Mac Baren’s Old Dark Fired and ask: is this the definitive dark-fired experience? So pack your bowl, light up, and step into the smoke.

In this week’s episode, we lean into the smoke. Sebastien and Josh explore the world of aromatic pipe tobacco—why it charms some and frustrates others. Listener stories make a welcome return, followed by a wild ChatGPT tale that bends the laws of physics and common sense. In our deep dive, we ask the big question: if pipe smoking isn’t really about flavor… what is it about? We close the episode with a thoughtful review of Cornell & Diehl’s Haunted Bookshop, and maybe—just maybe—settle the burley debate once and for all.

In this wide-ranging episode of Beyond the Burl, we explore the unsung heroes of the pipe world: the accessories. From favourite tampers to travel kits, we dig into the tools that enhance the ritual. We also open the floor to our listeners, sharing stories and questions submitted by the community. Then, ChatGPT takes us on a whimsical journey through Middle-earth with a fictional tale of Bilbo’s adventures in pipe tobacco. In our deep dive, we explore how pipes and tobacco have shaped literature and film — from Tolkien and Orwell to Holmes and Gandalf. Finally, we light up and review the dark, smoky elegance of Mac Baren’s HH Vintage Syrian.

In this episode, we sit down with Canadian pipe maker Nate Rose of Rose Pipes for a wide-ranging and heartfelt conversation. From his journey into pipe making to the nuances of crafting his signature shapes, Nate offers insight into the world of modern artisan briar. We explore the landscape of Canadian pipe making, swap thoughts on favorite tobaccos, and dive deep into the touching story behind the “Cardinal” — a pipe shape born from love, memory, and personal meaning. This is a warm, reflective episode about craftsmanship, connection, and the stories our pipes come to hold.

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Burl, we get into the practical pleasures of bulk blends — from affordability to cellaring to the curious romance of unlabeled jars. Our story from The Ember brings Mark Twain to life in a tall tale involving a sentient pipe, timeless satire, and one unforgettable quote: “Truth is a good friend—but a terrible roommate.” But it’s our deep dive in Segment 4 that anchors the show: an exploration of pipe shapes. From the classic billiard to the bent Oom Paul, from cultural influences to the psychology behind your favorite shape — we explore how design defines the ritual. We finish things off with a review of Bayou Morning Flake, and this week’s recommendation. Light up, lean back, and join us for another conversation that lives beyond the smoke.

In this landmark tenth episode of Beyond the Burl, we sit down with legendary American pipe maker Nate King for a relaxed and insightful conversation about design, innovation, and the evolving world of artisan pipe making. Nate brings his signature blend of curiosity and craftsmanship to the mic. Later in the show, we let ChatGPT take the reins for a whimsical science fiction segment imagining the Alien movie franchise. We wrap things up with a review of Veermaster by Dan Tobacco. A flake with smooth, rich Virginia flavour and an old-world charm that may surprise you. Grab your favourite pipe, pour something good, and join us for an episode that blends story, smoke, and great company.