Not A Cigar Show*

Tim Ozgener grew up in the cigar industry, helped build CAO, walked away, then came back to start Oz Family Cigars. In this episode we talk about legacy, starting over, blending philosophy, and what cigar smokers never see behind the scenes. We also get into how the industry has changed, why today’s consumers are more educated, and what Tim focuses on when building a modern cigar brand. If you want insight from someone who has seen the cigar business from the inside for decades, this is a conversation worth watching. Topics include: • Growing up in the CAO family business • What brought him back • Building Oz Family Cigars • The story behind Karatoba Subscribe for more episodes of Not A Cigar Show. #Cigars #CigarPodcast #TimOzgener #CigarIndustry #NotACigarShow

More Than Litto’s Son: Litto Gomez Jr. on Pressure, Growth, and the Future of LFD. Legacy gets thrown around a lot in this business. Usually, it comes with soft lighting and a rehearsed answer. This one does not. Litto Gomez Jr. jumps in and talks about pressure, proving yourself when your last name is already on the wall, and why protecting quality at La Flor Dominicana matters more than chasing growth. We cover farm dirt, factory chaos, retail reality, and a few cigars you probably forgot you love.

Jason Wood from Miami Cigar and Outcast Cigars joins Fred Rewey for a conversation that goes well beyond a product pitch. They dig into the real origin of Tatiana, what it was like coming into a legacy cigar family without even being a smoker, and the lesson Jason learned the hard way about staying out of a master blender’s kitchen. They also break down Outcast Cigars, a pipe-tobacco-forward blend that confuses some smokers and wins over others, and why education matters when you put something different on the shelf. Add in legislation worries, industry shifts, family travel stories, and a few honest mistakes, and you get an episode that feels less like an interview and more like a behind-the-scenes look at how a modern cigar company survives and evolves.

Law Ream of Camacho joins Not A Cigar Show for a conversation that moves fast and pulls no punches. We talk cigars, the industry, and the stuff most people only complain about after the cameras are off. Expect strong opinions, honest answers, and more than a few moments that drift into dangerous territory. This episode does not chase headlines or talking points. It chases reality. Some of it is uncomfortable. Most of it is accurate. You will learn something. You might disagree with something. That is kind of the point. If you like cigars, blunt conversations, and watching a show flirt with chaos, light one up and hit play.

Daniel Lance co-founded Domain Cigars, and he did it the hard way. No family legacy. No shortcut factory tour that turns into a brand launch. He put in nearly two decades of retail work, then moved to Nicaragua, then went all-in on building a vertically integrated operation from farms to factory to finished cigars. We get into what retail teaches you, why Domain tracks the details most brands ignore, and how “consistency” stops being a buzzword when you own the entire process. We also talk about the science-heavy cigar names, the philosophy behind them, and why Daniel would rather give you an English word you still can’t pronounce. If you like behind-the-scenes cigar talk, factory reality, and a guest who can explain ammonia metering without putting you to sleep, you’re in the right place.

Meet the Cigar Press 30. This is your guide to building the perfect humidor. We picked 30 cigars that earn a permanent spot. Ten mild. Ten medium. Ten full. No trends. No hype. No limited editions. Only proven blends that deliver every time. What you get in this episode: • A full breakdown of the Cigar Press 30 • Ten mild cigars with clean flavor and consistent performance • Ten medium cigars with balanced profiles and repeatable results • Ten full cigars with power, structure, and depth • Straight commentary with no marketing gloss • A list you can trust for long-term humidor planning If you want to upgrade your humidor with confidence, this is where you start. Subscribe for more interviews, reviews, and live shows from Cigar Press.

Hostos Fernandez isn’t just rolling cigars—he’s rolling out a new era of Dominican craftsmanship. As the man behind Tabacalera LA iSLA, Hostos has become one of the most respected names in boutique cigar making. From blending magic to mentoring the next wave of cigar talent, he’s redefining what it means to build a factory and a legacy. In this episode of Not A Cigar Show, Hostos sits down with Fred Rewey to talk about: The chaos (and beauty) of running your own cigar factory Building trust with blenders and brand owners What really makes a blend “click” The secret sauce behind LA iSLA's fast rise And yes… a few stories that didn’t make the press releases It’s equal parts cigar talk, laughter, and behind-the-scenes wisdom from one of the industry’s most down-to-earth innovators. 🎧 Watch. Laugh. Light up. It’s Not A Cigar Show. 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0eShzWhbPSzL7RavkMKb5J 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-a-cigar-show/id1840202683 #NotACigarShow #CigarPress #HostosFernandez #TabacaleraLaIsla #Cigars #CigarLife #CigarTalk

Matt Booth isn’t your typical cigar maker — he’s a storyteller, a troublemaker, and the kind of guy who can make chaos sound poetic. In this episode of Not A Cigar Show, Fred Rewey sits down with the man behind Room101 Cigars for an unfiltered talk about creativity, authenticity, and why the cigar industry needs a little more rebellion and a little less pretending. Expect sarcasm, honesty, and a few moments that make you question whether this is still a cigar show (spoiler: it barely is). 👇 Watch now and subscribe for more conversations that actually say something. https://cigarpress.com  

Michael Herklots isn’t just a cigar guy—he’s a walking masterclass in how to mix passion, performance, and perfectly tailored suits. From Nat Sherman to Ferio Tego, he’s built a reputation on doing things his way—elevating the cigar experience without taking himself too seriously (well… maybe just seriously enough). In this episode of Not A Cigar Show, Fred Rewey sits down with Michael to talk business, blending, and the balancing act of keeping legacy alive while forging a new path. Expect insight, sarcasm, and a few perfectly timed interruptions. Tune in now and hear how Herklots turns every challenge into a standing-room-only performance..

Jon Huber, co-founder of Crowned Heads Cigars, joins Not a Cigar Show for a conversation as bold as the blends he creates. Building one of the most recognizable boutique brands in the cigar world, Jon shares his unfiltered take on the state of the industry, why Crowned Heads has always zigged when others zagged, and what keeps him inspired after more than a decade of defying expectations. Equal parts candid, funny, and insightful—this is Jon Huber like you haven’t heard him before!

On this episode of Not A Cigar Show, we sit down with Josh Habursky, Deputy Executive Director of the PCA and the guy fighting the political battles to keep premium cigars in your humidor. From ridiculous regulations to behind-the-scenes lobbying wins, Josh shares what’s really going on in Washington—and why it matters to every cigar smoker. If you’re into premium cigars, care about protecting cigar rights, or just want to hear the unfiltered side of cigar politics, this episode will light you up. 👉 Subscribe for more Not A Cigar Show episodes featuring candid talks with the people shaping the cigar world—and check out more at cigarpress.com.

In this episode of Not A Cigar Show, we sit down with Laurel Tilley, one of the most recognizable and outspoken voices in the cigar world. Laurel shares behind-the-scenes stories from the industry, her journey into cigars, and the realities of life on the road representing major brands. Expect plenty of laughs, a little cigar geekery, and some brutally honest takes. This is part interview, part storytelling, and 100% entertaining. If you’re into premium cigars, cigar culture, and hearing the real stories that don’t always make it to the press releases, this one’s for you. 🔥 Don’t miss more interviews and features at cigarpress.com #cigarlife #cigaraficionado #botl #cigaroftheday

On this episode of Not A Cigar Show, we sit down with Jack Heyer, Product Manager at Camacho Cigars. From bold blends to behind-the-scenes stories, Jack brings a fresh perspective and plenty of laughs. If you’re into Camacho, premium cigars, or just love hearing the unfiltered side of the industry, you’ll want to light up and enjoy this conversation. 👉 Subscribe for more Not A Cigar Show episodes featuring candid talks with the people shaping the cigar world and head to cigarpress.com

In this episode of Not a Cigar Show (from CigarPress.com), we sit down with Skip Martin, the outspoken and unfiltered co-founder of RoMa Craft Tobac. Known for his bold takes and no-BS attitude, Skip dives into everything from boutique cigar culture to international tariffs, manufacturing challenges, and what really grinds his gears in the cigar world. If you like your cigar talk honest, raw, and with a healthy dose of entertainment—this one’s for you.

In this episode straight from www.cigarpress.com, we hang out with Lauren Koper, National Sales Executive and Community Manager at Micallef Cigars. Known for her vibrant energy, genuine love of cigars, and strong connection with the cigar community, Lauren shares her journey into the industry and the passion that drives her work. From building meaningful relationships with cigar lovers to helping grow the Micallef brand, Lauren’s insights show just how much heart and personality go into this business. And, as always, expect plenty of fun, laughter, and behind-the-scenes stories along the way. What you’ll discover in this episode: Lauren’s path to becoming a rising star in the cigar world. What makes Micallef Cigars stand out in a competitive industry. Social media, storytelling, and building authentic cigar connections. [Includes a Social Media Throwdown: Lauren Koper vs. Fred Rewey] Lifestyle topics and why cigars are all about shared experiences. About the show: “Not a Cigar Show” (…ok, maybe a little bit) brings you unfiltered conversations with the most interesting personalities in the cigar world – with plenty of lifestyle banter to keep it real. Presented by: Cigar Press Magazine – celebrating cigar culture since 2007.

In this episode from CigarPress.com, we sit down with the one and only Erik Espinosa, the mastermind behind Espinosa Cigars. Known for his bold blends, no-nonsense personality, and infectious energy, Erik dives into everything from the early days of Espinosa Cigars to what makes his brand stand out in today’s competitive cigar world. Whether you’re a cigar enthusiast, a fan of Erik’s work, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes of the premium cigar industry, this conversation is packed with stories, insights, and laughs you won’t want to miss. What you’ll discover in this episode: How Erik Espinosa built his empire and brand identity. Behind-the-scenes stories about blending, factories, and the cigar world. The unapologetic Espinosa approach to making cigars memorable. Lifestyle, culture, and why cigars are about much more than smoke. About the show: “Not a Cigar Show” (…ok, maybe a little bit) brings you authentic, unfiltered conversations with some of the biggest names in the cigar industry – with plenty of lifestyle banter thrown in. Presented by: Cigar Press Magazine – the voice of cigar culture since 2007.

Join Fred Rewey (www.CigarPress.com) as he sits down for a casual chat with Rafael Nodal. Cigars, travel, and...wait for it...pizza are all on the table! In this episode, we sit down with Rafael Nodal, the creative force behind Aging Room Cigars and an industry icon known for his artistry in blending. Rafael shares his incredible journey from Cuba to becoming one of the most respected names in the cigar world, blending tradition, passion, and innovation every step of the way. Whether you’re a long-time cigar aficionado or just starting your journey, Rafael’s stories about craftsmanship, the evolution of Aging Room, and his unique approach to cigar making will leave you inspired (and maybe craving a good smoke). What you’ll discover in this episode: Rafael’s journey from music to cigars – and how the two worlds connect. The philosophy behind Aging Room’s award-winning blends. Stories from inside the cigar industry you won’t hear anywhere else. A deep dive into craftsmanship, culture, and the artistry behind premium cigars. About the show: “Not a Cigar Show” (…ok, maybe a little bit) brings you unfiltered, engaging conversations with some of the most fascinating personalities in the cigar industry – plus lifestyle topics that keep things fresh. Presented by: Cigar Press Magazine – celebrating cigar culture since 2007.

In this episode, we (www.CigarPress.com) sit down with Mike Szczepankiewicz, the owner of Cigar Hustler and the creative mind behind Powstanie Cigars. Known for his straight-shooting style, sharp humor, and passion for the craft, Mike dives into the realities of running a successful cigar business – from retail to blending – and building a loyal cigar community along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stand out in the cigar world while keeping it authentic, Mike’s story is a masterclass in balancing hustle, personality, and quality. Expect plenty of laughs, unfiltered insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at the cigar culture he lives and breathes. What you’ll discover in this episode: The journey of Cigar Hustler and Powstanie Cigars. Mike’s unfiltered take on the state of the cigar industry. How to build a brand that truly connects with cigar enthusiasts. Lifestyle, culture, and why cigars are as much about people as they are about smoke. About the show: “Not a Cigar Show” (…ok, maybe a little bit) features raw, real, and entertaining conversations with some of the cigar industry’s most fascinating personalities – with a healthy dose of lifestyle talk. Presented by: Cigar Press Magazine – celebrating the culture of cigars since 2007.

In this episode, Fred Rewey (CigarPress.com) is joined by Eddy Guerra, a dynamic voice in the cigar industry, formerly with Davidoff Cigars and now with La Flor Dominicana (LFD). Eddy’s journey is full of bold moves, creative marketing, and a deep passion for crafting unforgettable cigar experiences. From his time shaping Davidoff’s branding to his new chapter with LFD, Eddy shares unique insights on what it takes to stand out in a world where tradition meets innovation. And yes, there are plenty of stories (and laughs) along the way. What you’ll discover in this episode: Eddy’s evolution from Davidoff to La Flor Dominicana. Behind-the-scenes stories of branding, blending, and bold cigar strategies. How LFD continues to push boundaries with their unique approach. Lifestyle conversations and candid takes on the state of the cigar world. About the show: “Not a Cigar Show” (…ok, maybe a little bit) delivers unfiltered, lively conversations with some of the most interesting personalities in the cigar world – plus lifestyle stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Presented by: Cigar Press Magazine – the voice of cigar culture since 2007.

Steve Saka joins Not A Cigar Show for an episode that refuses to stay on the rails. You get real talk, sharp opinions, and the kind of cigar knowledge only Saka can drop. We cover blending, bad ideas, and a few things we probably wish we had not said out loud. You will walk away smarter and maybe a little tired. If you enjoy cigars, sarcasm, or watching grown adults lose control of their own show, you are in the right place. Grab a cigar and jump in.