Nice Ashes: Cigars and Culture

In this episode, the hosts dive deep into the controversial topic of Flock Safety cameras, an Atlanta-based company specializing in automated license plate readers and surveillance technology. They explore how these cameras work, their widespread deployment across the U.S., and the company’s claims of aiding law enforcement in locating stolen vehicles and missing persons. The discussion critically examines serious privacy concerns, instances of misuse by law enforcement, the dangers of private corporations operating surveillance infrastructure without public oversight, and the broader implications for civil liberties and the Fourth Amendment. Alongside the main topic, the hosts enjoy the Oliva Habano Nub cigar, sharing their tasting notes and reflections from a follow-up review. Listeners are also reminded about the giveaway featuring exclusive Nice Ashes swag.

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In this special 200th episode, the hosts dive deep into a comprehensive discussion of numerous 9/11 conspiracy theories, examining and debating each claim alongside available evidence and official reports. From inside job allegations and controlled demolitions to remote control theories and suspicious foreknowledge, they analyze the most popular and controversial ideas with critical insight and personal commentary, all while enjoying a massive Punch Knuckle Buster Habano cigar. Alongside this in-depth exploration, they announce a giveaway celebrating their milestone, inviting listeners to sign up for their newsletter to win exclusive merch and films. A thought-provoking, candid, and entertaining episode that revisits lost recordings and offers fresh perspectives on a pivotal moment in history.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike dive into a detailed review of Age of Disclosure (2025), a documentary exploring government secrecy surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs) and alleged extraterrestrial technology. They discuss the film’s credible interviews with former military and intelligence officials, its thorough historical context from Roswell to recent congressional hearings, and the challenges posed by limited public evidence. While praising its role as a solid introduction to the topic for newcomers, they critique the documentary for its length, lack of hard proof, and state-influenced production. Complementing their discussion, Nate and Mike share background on notable figures featured, the nuances of declassified UAP reports, and the broader implications of UAP research. Alongside the review, they reflect on their cigar pairings and share candid impressions of the Oliva Cain F Ligero Habano.Nicaragua.

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Mike and Nate dive into the gripping case of Tom Phillips, a New Zealand father who disappeared with his three children for nearly four years amid a contentious custody battle. They explore the complexities of parental abduction, media framing, and societal biases by comparing Phillips’s story with high-profile cases involving mothers, highlighting the gender disparities in public perception and legal outcomes. Alongside thoughtful reflections on family dynamics, mental health, and the justice system, the hosts also share their detailed cigar review of the Oliva Cain Daytona Nicaragua Robusto. This episode blends true crime, cultural commentary, and cigar culture in a candid, thought-provoking discussion.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike delve into the tragic and complex case of Lindsay Clancy, a mother on trial for the deaths of her three children. They explore the details of the case, including Lindsay’s extensive mental health treatment, the disputed diagnosis of postpartum psychosis, and the legal arguments surrounding her criminal responsibility. The hosts also discuss public reactions, gendered perspectives on filicide, and societal attitudes toward mental health in mothers versus fathers. Alongside the heavy topic, they share their impressions of the Oliva Cain Straight Ligero Habano cigar and announce an upcoming giveaway to celebrate their 200th episode.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike smoke and review the Oliva Cain Straight Ligero Maduro Nub cigar, exploring its flavors and smoking experience. Their conversation then delves deep into a serious discussion sparked by a 2026 news event: the tragic stabbing of Ukrainian refugee Irina Zarutska on Charlotte’s Lynx light rail. They examine the incident's circumstances, media coverage disparities, mental health issues, repeat offenders, and public transit safety. Along the way, they also critique systemic failures in the justice system, societal responses to violence, and media narratives around race and crime. The hosts close by reflecting on broader themes of rehabilitation, surveillance, and public awareness amid complex social challenges.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike light up the Oliva Cain Straight Ligero Maduro Nicaragua Robusto and dive deep into the politically charged life and career of Ted Cruz. From Cruz’s early education and legal rise to his deep ties with the Republican machine and controversial political maneuvers, the hosts unpack the influence of Cruz’s family, including his wife Heidi’s connections to deep state circles and Wall Street. They explore key moments like Cruz’s role in the 2000 Bush v. Gore election, his Tea Party Senate campaign, the 2013 government shutdown stunt, and his controversial actions surrounding the 2020 election. Blending sharp political analysis with candid cigar commentary, Nate and Mike provide an unfiltered look at Cruz’s complex legacy and speculate on what the future may hold for him and his family in American politics.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike continue their Monte Cristo cigar series with the Monte Toro, paired with craft beer and Crown Royal cherry cacao bitters. They embark on a deep dive into the life and family background of Ted Cruz, exploring his Cuban-Canadian heritage, CIA connections within his family’s corporate and political ties, and the religious networks that shaped his upbringing. The hosts unravel contradictions in Cruz’s family narrative, shedding light on the intertwining of elite influence, political grooming, and evangelical power in Texas. Blending cigar tasting with investigative commentary, this episode sets the stage for a detailed two-part series on one of America’s most controversial political figures.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike share their thoughts on smoking the Monte Cristo Classic Series Toro and dive into a deep, often humorous discussion of the 1999 live-action film Dudley Do-Right. They explore its origins as a parody of Northern adventure serials and Rocky and Bullwinkle shorts, analyze the film’s mix of slapstick and adult humor, and compare it to the Barbie movie in terms of layered storytelling and cultural commentary. Along the way, they critique character development, nostalgic callbacks, and box office performance, while reflecting on their personal connections to the movie’s northern small-town themes. Plus, they offer candid cigar reviews and celebrate the joys and challenges of thoughtful, unscripted podcast banter.

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Content warning: discussions of rape, mentions of pedophilia, abuse, suicide. Nice Ashes and affiliates do not condone any behavior that injures another party.

This week on Nice Ashes, Nate and Mike light up the Tatiana Sweet Euphoria cigar while welcoming underground filmmaker Bill Zebub as a special guest. The conversation explores Bill's recently re-edited film Age of Lead, the inspiration behind its title, the challenges of adapting classic literature like The Odyssey and Frankenstein for the screen, and the realities of independent filmmaking. Along the way, the discussion covers artistic integrity, censorship, creative freedom, horror cinema, and the evolving landscape of low-budget film production.

Bill's website

Grimoire of Exalted Deeds

Pre-Order Never Make A Movie In Texas

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