Beyond the Burl

After weeks away on a family trip, filled with meaningful time and adventures, Josh finally makes his long-awaited return to Beyond the Burl. The reunion is as lively as ever, with Seb and Josh easing back into their familiar rhythm, catching up on everything from recent pipe and tobacco acquisitions to the stories that unfolded during Josh’s time away.In this week’s Tobacco Talk, the tables turn as Josh challenges Seb with a round of “Two Truths and a Lie.” Ten questions, plenty of surprises, and more than a few laughs reveal just how much pipe-smoking trivia Seb can handle under pressure.But the episode doesn’t stop at banter and games. Seb and Josh take a moment to pause and reflect, giving thanks to the many listeners who reached out during Josh’s absence. Their appreciation is heartfelt, and they share a touching listener submission that underscores the community spirit at the heart of pipe smoking.Of course, Beyond the Burl wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of poetic mischief. ChatGPT delivers a custom poem for the occasion, weaving humor, rhythm, and reflection into the fabric of the episode.For this week’s Deep Dive, Seb and Josh step back to look at the bigger picture: the journey of the podcast so far, the lessons they’ve learned, and their vision for the future. It’s equal parts reflection and excitement, offering a behind-the-scenes look at where Beyond the Burl is headed.And finally, the episode closes with a fitting choice of tobacco: Rattray’s Hal o’ the Wynd. Bold, flavorful, and full of character, this blend sets the stage for both reunion and renewal, echoing the themes of the episode itself.So settle in, light your favorite pipe, and join us for an episode filled with laughter, gratitude, and the promise of what’s still to come.

This week on Beyond the Burl Seb and Josh dive into the ritual of the first blend of the day—that sacred moment where the pipe sets the tone for everything that follows. Our ChatGPT story takes us beyond the stars, spinning a strange and wondrous tale of extraterrestrial visitors and their curious relationship with pipe smoking.For our deep dive, we explore The Alchemy of Curing, breaking down the mysterious and time-honored techniques that transform raw leaf into the tobaccos we love. From flue-curing to fire-curing, we look at how these methods shape flavor, strength, and tradition.We round out the episode with a review of Cornell & Diehl’s seasonal blend We Three Kings—a festive mixture that’s perfect for the season.And finally, exciting news: Beyond the Burl now has a merch store! As a thank-you to our listeners, the first 10 orders will receive 10% off with the code “BTB”.https://beyondtheburl.myshopify.com/

This week on Episode 23 of Beyond the Burl, Josh and Seb dive into the age-old question of “everyday” vs. “special occasion” blends—what makes a tobacco a daily companion versus one worthy of saving for rare milestones? From practical considerations to emotional rituals, they unpack the subtle differences that shape our smoking rotations.Thanks to ChatGPT, we journey back in time with a playful story that imagines a medieval England where pipe tobacco already existed.For our deep dive, Seb and Josh share their hard-won advice for beginners, offering guidance on how to navigate the overwhelming world of pipes and tobaccos with confidence.

Josh is still soaking up the sun in Cuba, but the show must go on! This week, Seb is joined by none other than pipe maker Nate Rose for a wide-ranging conversation that touches on just about everything under the pipe-smoking sun. The episode kicks off with a community Q&A, where Seb and Nate dig into listener-submitted questions about favorite blends, dream pipes, and the quirks of pipe smoking culture. From there, thanks to ChatGPT, the guys check in on Josh, who hasn’t been idle on the beaches of Cuba—let’s just say his pipe-smoking antics abroad are becoming the stuff of legend. With Josh accounted for, Seb and Nate shift gears to something close to both of their hearts: the art and craft of pipe making. They talk shop about the challenges, the joys, the long hours of sanding, shaping, and drilling, and how much of themselves goes into every finished piece. Nate shares insights from his own bench, including what inspires his designs and why pipe making remains such a rewarding pursuit. And of course, it wouldn’t be Beyond the Burl without a blend on the table. To round things out, Seb and Nate light up Cornell & Diehl’s Old Joe Krantz—a bold, unapologetic burley-forward blend with plenty of strength and character. They give their thoughts on its flavor, its place in the C&D lineup, and why this blend has such a loyal following among seasoned smokers. It’s an episode full of laughter, stories, and passion for the hobby we all love. Whether you’re here for the tobacco talk, the inside scoop on pipe making, or just to hear Josh roasted for his Cuban misadventures, this one’s got something for you.

Josh may be off sipping piña coladas on the beaches of Cuba, but the show must go on! In this special episode, Seb is joined by Jay and Bo from the Pipe and Tamper podcast for a relaxed, free-flowing conversation about all things pipes and tobacco. Together, they unpack some popular opinions in the hobby they simply don’t share, offering a fresh take from years of experience and a deep love for the craft.Even in his absence, Josh makes his presence felt by leaving us with a ChatGPT story—brought to life with flair by Bo’s excellent narration. Jay and Bo also share personal stories and insights from their decades in the pipe-smoking world, offering listeners a wealth of perspective and camaraderie.To round things out, the trio sits down to review Cornell & Diehl’s Comfort, a blend that truly lives up to its name. With thoughtful discussion, laughter, and a good dose of storytelling, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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.

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.

This week on Beyond the Burl, we trace the dusty trail back through pipe history with a deep dive into codger blends—the old faithfuls that built generations of pipe smoking. We explore what defines a codger blend, why they’ve endured, and how they compare to today’s boutique and small-batch offerings. Along the way, we take a closer look at Burley, the humble leaf that serves as the foundation of many of these classic mixtures. From its American roots to its role in everyday smoking, Burley is both familiar and full of surprises.We also take a trip to the wizarding world of Harry Potter in this weeks ChatGPT story and review a blend with deep roots. Whether you’re lighting up Granger, Carter Hall, or something new, this episode is for anyone who finds comfort in the wonder of the well-worn.

In this episode, we pack our bowls and light up across time. From a conversation on the fermentation magic behind Perique to an imaginative journey through history for our deep dive segment, we explore how the past, present, and pipe all intersect. We share listener stories, review GL Pease’s JackKnife Plug, and invite a bit of silliness with a pipe-themed Mad Lib.

In this special episode, we sit down with Jay and Bo from the Pipe and Tamper podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about the past, present, and future of pipe smoking. We talk about what brought each of us to the pipe, the stories we try to tell, and why community—whether online or over the counter—keeps this hobby alive. Along the way, we share laughs, favourite smokes, and a few unexpected opinions. We round out this weeks episode with a special ChatGPT story featuring the Pipe and Tamper duo themselves.

In this episode of Beyond the Burl, Seb and Josh explore the craft of building a custom pipe tobacco blend from the ground up, share a listener-suggested ChatGPT tale of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s contemplative pipe habits, and reflect on the nature of small-batch tobaccos. Plus, a review of Star of the East Flake, and your weekly recommendations. Pull up a chair—this one’s layered.

In this fifth episode of Beyond the Burl, Josh and Seb explore how where and what you smoke changes everything. They dig into the culture of house blends and local tobacconists, sharing stories of iconic shops, forgotten mixtures, and what we gain when we shop local.In the deeper dive, they reflect on place — cars, forest trails, chicken coops — and how the right setting can elevate even a humble blend. Along the way, they share stories, including a hidden gem from a listener and a ChatGPT story about beloved author C.S. Lewis.

This week on Beyond the Burl, Josh and Seb explore the materials that shape a pipe — from briar and meerschaum to cobs and clay — and how each one changes the experience in the bowl. They share tips and stories about hunting for estate pipes and antique market treasures, and review a rare 2003 sample of Dunhill’s My Mixture 965. Plus, a listener story from the Shire, and reflections on memory, ritual, and the ghosts that live in old grain.