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.
n this episode of Beyond the Burl, Seb and Josh share their personal top five pipe tobacco blends—favorites from across their rotations that keep them coming back for more. This week’s ChatGPT story takes a strange and smoky turn as we enter the world of Captain Ahab, where the line between obsession, legend, and pipe smoke blurs. We also dive deep into the long, fascinating history of tobacco itself—from sacred ritual to global commodity—and wrap up with a thoughtful review of Blue Note by Dan Tobacco, an aromatic blend with a loyal following.
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.
In this third installment of Beyond the Burl, Josh and Seb discuss a new release from GL Pease—Ellipsis Flake. They tackle the bold legacy of Latakia in a segment that asks: is it the heart of English blends or just a smoky bully? Then, it’s off to the wild west with a "listener" tale about selling a pipe to none other than Lee Van Cleef—and spotting it later on the silver screen. The conversation moves into the digital realm with a thoughtful look at how the online pipe community is shaping the modern hobby—for better and worse. And finally, they crack a tin of C&D’s “The Beast” and see if it lives up to the legend.
This week on Beyond the Burl, Seb and Josh spark up something special with a review of a new blend, dive into the mystique and madness of tobacco cellaring, and ask whether the pipe community is becoming more niche—or more welcoming than ever. Plus, a "listener" shares a moment from the ember, and the hosts offer reflections, recs, and rituals for the week ahead.