Nice Ashes: Cigars and Culture

In this episode, the hosts discuss the complex history of U.S. involvement in Somalia, focusing on how American foreign policy has contributed to longstanding instability in the country. They explore the Cold War era alignment shifts, support for military dictatorships, and the consequences of U.S. military withdrawal that coincided with severe droughts and famine. The discussion highlights the rise of extremist groups like al-Shabaab, the mixed effectiveness of counterterrorism efforts, and the heavy financial and humanitarian costs incurred over decades. The hosts also consider Somalia’s internal clan dynamics, colonial-era borders, climate vulnerabilities, and the challenges Somali refugees face in integrating into Western societies such as Minnesota and Sweden. Throughout, they emphasize the human toll of political and military decisions, cautioning against simplistic views and acknowledging the limits of their own and AI-generated knowledge due to language and cultural barriers. The episode opens and closes with the hosts enjoying and reviewing a CAO Country Series Columbia Robusto cigar, sharing their preferences and impressions, while providing a casual, conversational backdrop to the serious subject matter.

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In this episode, the hosts Nate and Mike dive into a unique blend of cigar tasting and intriguing storytelling. They begin by sampling a flavored Robusto cigar, Isla del Sol, noting its sweet and cinnamon flavors, and pairing it with seasonal beers like Oktoberfest and Guinness. The cigar starts strong but loses appeal towards the end, leading to mixed reviews on its overall quality.

The main discussion centers on a mysterious, thought-provoking internet post (a creepypasta) titled "A Parallel Life," describing an alternate decade-long life experienced by a man after a traumatic assault, only to awaken to the harsh reality that none of it was real. Nate reads the post aloud and, with Mike, analyzes multiple possible explanations including lucid dreaming, brain chemistry (like endogenous DMT release during near-death experiences), simulation theory, multiverse crossover, false memory, trauma-induced dissociation, and spiritual interpretations.

The conversation explores how the brain copes with trauma, the nature of memory, and the blurred line between reality and perception. They discuss scientific studies, philosophical ideas, and personal experiences with dreams and memory techniques. Throughout, the hosts reflect on the unreliability of human perception and the fascinating mysteries of consciousness.

The episode ends with a lighter chat about technology upgrades, AI-assisted coding, and nostalgic reflections on old-school graphing calculators, alongside final thoughts on cigars and seasonal candy favorites.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike dive into the fascinating world of Anglo-Saxon medical leech books, with a focus on the 9th-century Bald’s Leech Book. Between smokes of the Quorum Classic cigar (which they agree tastes terrible), the hosts explore historical remedies and medical knowledge from medieval England. They discuss the origins and meaning of “leech book” (where “leech” means doctor), the blend of herbal, magical, and practical treatments recorded, and how some ancient cures surprisingly showed real effectiveness.

Nate and Mike share a range of bizarre and intriguing remedies from the texts, such as treatments involving burnt animal parts, plant-based concoctions, animal guts, and ritualistic incantations aimed at ailments from headaches to snake bites, madness, and more. The hosts highlight how some remedies may have worked due to their ingredients, while others border on superstition or downright strange.

They also touch on medical advancements of the era like early plastic surgery, suturing wounds with silk, and even brain surgery evidence from skulls. A modern twist reveals that a recipe from Bald’s Leech Book was recreated and tested by University of Nottingham researchers, showing a 90% effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant MRSA bacteria—an exciting reminder that ancient knowledge can still surprise us today.

Throughout the episode, Nate and Mike balance humor, skepticism, and curiosity, reflecting on how far medical science has come while appreciating the mix of science, folklore, and trial-and-error that shaped early medicine. They close with candid impressions of the cigars smoked during the recording and encourage listeners to enjoy the curious history of leech books—even if some of the cures sound like Dungeons & Dragons quests gone wild.

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In this episode, hosts Mike and Nate kick off with a humorous and candid review of the Quorum Shade cigar by JC Newman Cigar Company, describing it as unpleasant with strong notes of acetone and battery acid. Amid technical difficulties with their new podcasting gear, they manage to enjoy the moment pairing the cigar with seasonal beers.

The discussion then shifts to a detailed exploration of U.S. involvement in Somalia, tracing the historical context from limited post-WWII engagement, through Cold War alliances with shifting Somali governments, to interventions in the 1990s and ongoing counterterrorism efforts. They cover the complex clan-based nature of Somali society and how it intertwines with political instability and terrorism, especially involving groups like al-Shabab, supported at times by foreign powers including the U.S. The hosts highlight the costly, often ineffective nature of U.S. military aid and airstrikes, and remark on the tragic human toll and lasting trauma for Somali people.

The episode concludes with reflections on the challenges of understanding Somalia’s history and current situation, teasing upcoming episodes that will delve into Somali literature and further analysis. Throughout, the tone balances critical insight with humor and self-aware banter.

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In this episode, hosts Mike and Nate are joined by guest Chris, broadcasting from a remote underground location in North Dakota. They discuss the unique culture of small-town North Dakota, focusing on the concept of "true sons" of North Dakota versus "townies"—locals born and raised who often hold significant social influence but can also exhibit exclusionary and sometimes problematic behaviors. They share colorful personal stories highlighting the tight-knit, sometimes insular nature of rural communities, including anecdotes about local town dynamics, racism, and community resilience.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of being an outsider in these towns, as experienced by Mike and Chris, and the complexities around belonging, identity, and community acceptance. Interspersed throughout the episode are candid reflections on hunting culture and humorous mishaps.

Additionally, the group smokes the La Gloria Cubana Serie R Maduro cigar, providing detailed impressions. While the cigar offers quality Maduro flavors, they critique its difficult draw and overall less impressive performance compared to other cigars in the Serie R line, ultimately giving it an average rating of about 3 out of 5.

Technical difficulties with audio interruptions add a humorous undertone and some challenges to the flow of the recording, underscoring the informal and spontaneous nature of the episode. The hosts close by encouraging listeners to stay safe and enjoy their hobbies, teasing future content including possible video episodes.

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In this episode, hosts Nate and Mike smoke and review the Level Maduro cigar, following up on their previous episode with the Level Connecticut. While the Maduro shows some improvement, both agree it requires a slow, measured pace to avoid unpleasant flavors, and overall, it’s an average cigar for its low price point.

The episode then shifts to a deep, data-driven discussion on Somali culture and their integration into Minnesota society—highlighting the complexities faced by the Somali diaspora. Mike provides a historical overview of Somalia, from ancient civilizations through Islamic influence, colonialism, civil war, and ongoing diaspora challenges. They explore cultural practices such as the clan system, the use of qat (a mild stimulant leaf), oral traditions, and poetry. Sensitive subjects like female genital mutilation are addressed frankly, emphasizing its harmful effects and the necessity for cultural change.

The hosts discuss the difficulties Somali immigrants face balancing traditional Somali values—such as clan identity, patriarchal structures, and oral culture—with adapting to American social norms, languages, and institutional systems. Comparisons are drawn to other immigrant populations and historical cross-cultural integrations in Minnesota.

Throughout, Nate and Mike underscore the importance of respectful, honest conversation without judgment, inviting Somali cigar smokers and cultural representatives to join future discussions. The episode closes by reflecting on cultural preservation, identity crises among Somali youth, and the potential for integration while acknowledging the challenges ahead.

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In this episode, hosts Mike and Nate discuss smoking the Level Connecticut Robusto cigar, sharing its flavors and value while pairing it with different drinks. The conversation then shifts to the 2016 incident involving Harambe, the Cincinnati Zoo gorilla who was tragically shot after a child fell into his enclosure. The hosts explore various Harambe-related conspiracy theories, including distraction/psyop claims, Illuminati symbolism, Mandela effect misremembering, claims Harambe is still alive, meme culture’s role in his legacy, and the "dark timeline" theory that links Harambe’s death to increased cultural chaos since 2016. They also reflect on parenting responsibility, animal management, and public reactions including memes, vigils, and controversies involving Harambe. The episode wraps up with thoughts on the cigar’s quality and plans to try other cigars in the Level line.

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In this episode, Nate and Mike kick off by enjoying and reviewing the Powstanie San Andreas Robusto Maduro cigar, generously provided by guest Mike Palmer from the previous episode. The cigar impresses them with its rich, spicy, and full-bodied flavor, earning high praise and a solid rating as a serious cigar lover’s choice.

The bulk of the episode centers on an extensive and candid discussion of the new dinosaur film Jurassic World: Rebirth (2025). Nate and Mike share their honest take on the movie, highlighting its weak plot, poor pacing, lack of character development, and overused tropes recycled from earlier films in the franchise. They critique the movie’s uneven tone, forgettable family subplot, questionable scientific logic, and unimpressive CGI—especially noting the absurd "D Rex" creature. While acknowledging the strong cast—particularly Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali—the hosts agree the film ultimately feels like a low-effort cash grab with minimal entertainment value.

Following the review, they reflect on the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World film series as a whole. Both agree the original Jurassic Park (1993) is a ten out of ten classic, with The Lost World and the first Jurassic World as solid follow-ups. They find the rest of the sequels—including Jurassic Park III, Fallen Kingdom, Dominion, and Rebirth—largely forgettable or disappointing, criticizing a lack of originality, poor storytelling, and diminishing returns on the franchise’s potential for thrilling dinosaur action. Despite their frustrations, Nate and Mike appreciate the nostalgia and occasionally fun moments but recommend only the first three movies for serious viewing.

They close with cigar thoughts, reaffirming the San Andreas Robusto as a top-tier choice for aficionados and encouraging listeners to check out Mike Palmer’s cigar ventures. They urge making better movie choices—jokingly suggesting watching cult classics like Sharks of the Corn instead of the newer Jurassic entries.

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In this episode, hosts Nate and Mike are joined by special guest Mike Palmer—the national sales manager for Powstanie Cigars and co-host of the Cigar Hustlers Podcast. The discussion revolves around sampling and reviewing a Powstanie Habano Belicoso torpedo cigar provided by Mike Palmer. The trio shares their tasting notes, highlighting the cigar's woody, creamy, and nuanced flavor profile with a hint of spice and tanginess. They also discuss the challenges and joys of cigar podcasting, including their recording setups, video editing, and audience engagement.

The conversation then playfully shifts to humorous cigar industry stories—like how Mike Palmer earned the nickname "BDP" (Big Dick Palmer) and the hidden Easter eggs on his limited-release cigar band—and friendly banter about smoking preferences, budget cigars versus premium sticks, and the joys of discovering affordable, good-quality cigars.

Adding variety, the episode delves into entertaining conspiracy theories, from the myth that North Dakota doesn’t exist to alien spacecraft and robot pigeons, with lively debates and shared personal anecdotes. They touch on regional culture, drinking laws, and family stories, making it a fun, wide-ranging, and candid chat beyond just cigars.

The episode closes with final cigar ratings—all giving high marks to the Powstanie Habano Belicoso—and plugs for each other’s podcasts and platforms, inviting listeners to explore more cigar content and join future conversations.

A Cigar Hustlers Podcast

Powstanie Cigars Instagram

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In this episode, hosts Mike and Nate begin by enjoying a budget-friendly but flavorful New World Navegante Robusto cigar from AJ Fernandez, paired with Castle Danger beer and Crown Royal whiskey. Their relaxed cigar chat sets the stage for a deep dive into contemporary issues facing men, inspired by their recent read: #MenToo by Bettina Arndt.

They explore the complex dynamics around domestic violence statistics, highlighting the distinction between reported prosecutions (mostly men) versus actual incidents (more evenly split). The hosts discuss controversial topics such as biases in legal systems, societal expectations of men, and the impact of the #MeToo movement on male behavior and workplace interactions. The conversation delves into feminist critiques, men’s rights advocacy, and the nuanced realities of modern dating, family life, and masculine identity.

Throughout, they reflect on Australian cultural specifics as presented in the book, compare stats and social trends to U.S. experiences, and recommend the documentary The Red Pill as a complementary resource. They also touch on the challenges men face in relationships, divorce, and retirement, discussing the economic and social consequences that disproportionately affect men.

The episode wraps up with candid thoughts on navigating today’s social and political climates as men, urging listeners to stay informed, cautious, and open to dialogue. Finally, they give their cigar a strong endorsement for quality and value, recommending it enthusiastically to fellow smokers.

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