The Lounge Life

WE ARE BACK BABAYYYYYYYYY!!!!

After a little Summer break, we are back at it! On this episode of The Lounge Life Podcast, we're joined by Jason Wood, the driving force behind Outcast Cigars and a longtime leader at Miami Cigar & Co. Jason takes us behind the curtain to share the story of how Outcast was born, why he set out to challenge traditional cigar blending, and what it takes to launch a bold new brand in today's premium cigar market.

We dive into the inspiration behind Outcast's unique identity, the creative decision to incorporate Black Cavendish pipe tobacco into the blend, and how Jason balances innovation with the traditions that have made premium cigars a timeless passion. Along the way, we discuss the evolution of the cigar industry, the importance of retailer relationships, and what consumers can expect from the future of Outcast Cigars.

Whether you're a longtime cigar enthusiast, curious about boutique brands, or interested in the business behind the leaf, this conversation is packed with insight, stories, and plenty of laughs.

Pour your favorite drink, light up a great cigar, and join us in the lounge for an engaging conversation with one of the industry's most innovative voices.

AND Remember to ALWAYS live The Lounge Life!

In this episode of The Lounge Life Podcast, we welcome Dave West of Avowed Cigars for a deep, authentic conversation that goes far beyond simply talking about cigars. This episode is about passion, vision, craftsmanship, and what it truly takes to build a premium cigar brand with identity and purpose in today’s ever-changing industry.

Dave joins us to share the story behind Avowed Cigars — how the brand came to life, the philosophy that drives it forward, and the commitment to creating cigars that smokers genuinely connect with. We dive into the creative process behind blending, the pursuit of balance and flavor, and the challenge of developing cigars that stand out while still remaining approachable and memorable. Dave gives incredible insight into what separates a cigar that’s simply good from one that creates an experience worth revisiting.

Throughout the conversation, we discuss the realities of operating in the boutique cigar world, from production hurdles and maintaining consistency to navigating the competitive landscape of premium tobacco. Dave speaks candidly about the sacrifices, learning experiences, and rewarding moments that come with building a brand from the ground up. His passion for the leaf and respect for the craftsmanship behind every cigar is evident from start to finish.

We also explore the importance of community within the cigar industry and how relationships — whether with factories, retailers, media, or consumers — help shape a company’s identity and growth. Dave opens up about the reception Avowed has received from cigar smokers, what feedback means to him personally, and how the brand continues evolving while staying true to its core vision.

As always, the episode is packed with the segments our listeners have come to love:

🔥 The Wrapper Report — where we break down the latest cigar industry news, releases, rumors, and conversations shaping the premium tobacco world.

🔥 What’s In The Ashtray — highlighting standout cigars we’ve been smoking recently, discussing flavor profiles, surprises, favorites, and what deserves attention from fellow cigar enthusiasts.

This episode delivers a great mix of industry insight, storytelling, laughs, honest discussion, and cigar passion that every enthusiast can appreciate. Whether you’re already familiar with Avowed Cigars or discovering the brand for the first time, this conversation gives listeners a real look behind the curtain at the people, philosophy, and dedication that fuel boutique premium cigars.

Pour a drink, grab something worthy of the humidor, and settle in for another great conversation from The Lounge Life Podcast.

🎙️ Now streaming on all major podcast platforms.

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In this episode of The Lounge Life Podcast, we welcome Zack from HDA Cigars for a deep, unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to build a brand in today’s premium cigar landscape. HDA Cigars has been gaining momentum with a reputation rooted in authenticity, bold blending, and a no-compromise approach to quality—and Zack is right at the center of it all.

We kick things off getting to know Zack’s story—how he found his way into the cigar industry, what sparked the creation of HDA Cigars, and the early challenges that shaped the brand. From navigating production to earning shelf space and respect in humidors, Zack shares the realities behind the scenes that most consumers never get to hear. This isn’t just about cigars—it’s about resilience, vision, and carving out your lane in a crowded, competitive space.

As the conversation unfolds, we dig into the DNA of HDA Cigars: the philosophy behind the blends, the attention to construction, and what Zack looks for when developing a cigar that truly resonates with smokers. We also talk about how the culture around cigars continues to evolve, the importance of community, and how boutique brands like HDA are helping shape the future of the industry.

Of course, before we sit down with Zack, we bring you our Wrapper Report—our take on what’s happening across the cigar world right now. From industry shake-ups to new releases and noteworthy headlines, we break down the stories that matter and give you our unfiltered perspective on where things are heading.

Then we roll into What’s in the Ashtray, where we highlight some of the standout cigars we’ve been enjoying lately. Whether it’s a hidden gem or something making serious noise in the community, this segment is all about putting great smokes on your radar and sharing what’s been burning well for us.

By the time we light up with Zack, the conversation feels like what this podcast is all about—real talk, honest insight, and the kind of camaraderie you only get when good cigars and good people come together. Zack gives us a look at what’s next for HDA Cigars, what excites him about the road ahead, and why staying true to the craft matters more now than ever.

So grab a cigar, pour a drink, and settle in—this episode delivers everything from industry insight to laid-back lounge vibes, and it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Remember to ALWAYS live the Lounge Life! CHEERS!

As we bring our Women’s History Month celebration to a close, The Lounge Life Podcast is honored to welcome our final guest—Angie Figueroa, widely known throughout the cigar community as The Polished Puff.

In this special episode, we sit down with Angie for an in-depth conversation about her journey into the world of premium cigars and how she transformed a personal passion into a powerful and respected media presence. Known for her polished aesthetic, genuine personality, and deep appreciation for the culture, Angie has built a loyal following by making cigars more approachable while still honoring the tradition behind them.

We explore how her platform, The Polished Puff, came to life and the intention behind the brand—creating a space that is both inviting and empowering, especially for women who are new to cigars or looking to find their place in the community. Angie opens up about navigating a historically male-dominated industry, breaking down stereotypes, and the importance of visibility and representation in cigar media.

The conversation also dives into her personal cigar journey—how her palate has evolved, some of her favorite cigars and pairings, and the experiences that have shaped her perspective along the way. From lounge culture to social media, Angie shares how she balances staying authentic while continuing to grow her influence in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Beyond cigars, we reflect on the broader meaning of Women’s History Month and what it represents—not just in recognizing the women who paved the way, but also in celebrating those actively shaping the future of the industry. Angie speaks on the importance of community, collaboration, and lifting others up, offering insight and inspiration for the next generation of women entering the cigar world.

This episode is more than just a conversation—it’s a fitting finale to a month dedicated to honoring the voices, stories, and impact of women in cigars. Angie Figueroa embodies the passion, resilience, and authenticity that continue to push the culture forward.

So pour your favorite drink, light up a great cigar, and join us for a meaningful and engaging discussion as we close out Women’s History Month with The Polished Puff.

Remember to ALWAYS live the Lounge Life!

In this special Women’s History Month edition of The Lounge Life Podcast, we’re proud to spotlight two extraordinary women whose passion and craftsmanship have helped shape one of the most respected boutique cigar factories in the country—Giselle Herrera and Sandy Cobas of El Titan de Bronze.

Nestled in the heart of Miami’s historic Little Havana, El Titan de Bronze is more than just a factory—it’s a living tribute to Cuban cigar heritage. In this episode, Giselle and Sandy take us deep inside their world, sharing the story of how the factory was built on tradition, resilience, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. From selecting premium tobacco to the intricate art of hand-rolling, they walk us through the craftsmanship that has earned El Titan de Bronze its loyal following among cigar enthusiasts.

We also explore their personal journeys—how they found their way into the cigar industry, the mentors and moments that shaped them, and what it means to lead and thrive in a space that has historically been male-dominated. Their stories are honest, inspiring, and a powerful reminder of the role women continue to play in preserving and evolving cigar culture.

As part of our ongoing Women’s History Month programming, this conversation goes beyond cigars. It’s about legacy, empowerment, and creating space for the next generation of women in the industry. Giselle and Sandy share their perspectives on how the landscape is changing, the importance of mentorship, and why representation matters now more than ever.

Whether you’re lighting up your favorite cigar or simply love hearing stories of passion and perseverance, this episode delivers a rich, meaningful conversation that honors the past while looking toward the future.

Pour a drink, cut and light, and settle in for a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and the women who continue to shape the leaf.

WELCOME to the Lounge Life Podcast!

Raise a glass and settle into the lounge—this episode of The Lounge Life Podcast welcomes a truly special guest, Mel Heim of Big Nose Kate Western Whiskey.

In this extended conversation, we dive deep into the story behind one of the most distinctive names in American whiskey. Inspired by the legendary Mary Katherine “Big Nose Kate” Horony—a woman known for her independence, resilience, and unapologetic spirit—this brand is more than just a label; it’s a tribute to living boldly and authentically. Mel shares how that legacy translates into every bottle, shaping not only the identity of the whiskey but the culture behind the brand itself.

We explore Mel’s personal journey into the whiskey world, the challenges and triumphs of building a brand in a competitive industry, and what it takes to stand out while staying true to your roots. From concept to creation, we get an inside look at the craftsmanship behind Big Nose Kate Western Whiskey—breaking down the blending philosophy, flavor profiles, and the unique character that sets it apart from traditional offerings.

Of course, this is The Lounge Life, so we also take things a step further—talking cigar pairings that complement the whiskey’s bold, smooth profile, and how to elevate your overall tasting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast, a cigar aficionado, or just someone who appreciates a good story poured into a glass, this episode delivers something for everyone.

Beyond the whiskey, this conversation touches on passion, perseverance, and the importance of carving your own path. Mel offers insight into what it means to build something meaningful, honor a powerful legacy, and create a brand that resonates with people who value authenticity and character.

So pour yourself a dram, light up your favorite cigar, and settle in for a rich, flavorful episode filled with stories, insight, and a true taste of the untamed West. This is one you won’t want to miss. 🥃

In this special second episode during Women’s History Month of The Lounge Life Podcast, we sit down with trailblazer Marlene Holmes, Master Distiller for Milam & Greene Whiskey and a true pioneer in the world of American whiskey.

Marlene recently made history by becoming the first woman inducted into the Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame, a recognition reserved for the most influential figures shaping the global whiskey industry. With decades of experience and a passion for craftsmanship, Marlene has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the finest whiskeys being produced today.

During this conversation, we explore Marlene’s remarkable career journey, the artistry and science behind distillation, and the philosophy that guides her work at Milam & Greene. We also discuss the evolving role of women in the whiskey industry and celebrate the contributions of women who continue to redefine the spirits world.

We've also got an amazing tasting TOO!

Pour yourself a glass, light a cigar, and join us as we honor an industry legend whose work continues to inspire the next generation of whiskey makers.

In this special Women’s History Month episode of The Lounge Life Podcast, we sit down with Lissette Perez-Carrillo of Casa Carrillo Cigars for a powerful and inspiring conversation about legacy, leadership, and carving your own path in the premium cigar industry.

As part of the renowned Perez-Carrillo family, Lissette represents the next generation of passion behind Casa Carrillo Cigars, blending heritage with modern vision. We talk about what it means to lead in a traditionally male-dominated space, the importance of authenticity in business, and how women are shaping the future of cigars.

From family roots to industry innovation, this episode dives into:

-Carrying forward the Perez-Carrillo legacy

-Women redefining influence in premium cigars

-Balancing tradition with forward-thinking creativity

-Advice for the next generation of women in the industry

SO Pour your favorite dram, light up something special, and join us for an episode that honors strength, resilience, and the evolving face of the cigar world.

This is more than a conversation — it’s a celebration of women who are changing the game and REMEMBER to ALWAYS live the Lounge Life!

Step into the lounge for a bold and unfiltered conversation with Matt Booth, the visionary behind Room 101 Cigars. Known for his larger-than-life personality and boundary-pushing approach to branding, Matt joins us to talk about the origins of Room 101, the evolution of boutique cigars, and what it really takes to stand out in a crowded humidor.

We dive into the stories behind the blends, the culture that fuels the brand, and Matt’s philosophy on creativity, risk-taking, and staying authentic in an industry built on tradition. Expect plenty of laughs, insider insights, and a few unexpected tangents along the way.

Pour a drink, cut and light your favorite stick, and settle in — this is a conversation that captures the spirit of the modern cigar world through the eyes of one of its most distinctive voices.

Pour a drink, cut the cap, and settle into the lounge for one of our favorite episodes of the year. In this special edition of The Lounge Life Podcast, the hosts break down their Top 10 Cigars of 2025, celebrating the blends that truly stood out in an incredibly competitive year for premium cigars. PLUS, we also have a couple of BIG announcements as it pertains to our NEWEST show partners. From limited releases and new discoveries to trusted classics that continued to deliver, the guys take a deep dive into what made each cigar earn its spot on the list. They discuss flavor profiles, strength, balance, construction, consistency, and overall smoking experience—along with the moments, settings, and conversations that made these cigars unforgettable. Expect plenty of insight into how these cigars performed across multiple smokes, not just one lucky draw.Of course, no Top 10 episode would be complete without some friendly debate. The hosts compare notes, challenge each other’s rankings, and explain why certain cigars just missed the cut. Along the way, they touch on trends they noticed throughout 2025, how their palates evolved over the year, and what these picks say about the current state of the cigar industry.Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or someone looking to elevate your humidor for the year ahead, this episode is packed with recommendations, honest opinions, and laid-back lounge conversation. Light up alongside us and find out which cigars defined 2025—and which ones might become your next favorite.