Nice Ashes: Cigars and Culture

Mike & Nate
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Join Mike and Nate, your friendly aficionados of budget-friendly cigars, as they ignite conversations that go beyond the smoke. Whether you're a seasoned cigar enthusiast or simply curious about the world of affordable smokes, Mike and Nate invite you to kick back, light up, and join the conversation. "Nice Ashes" is where camaraderie meets culture, where the pleasure of puffing enhances the exploration of diverse topics. Tune in for a laid-back and flavorful journey through the realms of literature, media, and society, one budget-friendly cigar at a time. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram Opening music: Coma-Media from Pixabay

  1. Joya Red Robusto: 9/11

    12/31/2025

    Joya Red Robusto: 9/11

    Season 4 finale of Nice Ashes takes a deep, candid dive into the culture-shaking events of September 11, 2001. Hosts Mike and Nate share their personal memories of that day and examine the official 9/11 Commission Report alongside popular conspiracy theories, balancing skepticism with heartfelt reflection. Over cigars (The Joya Red) and fine Glenlivet 12 whiskey, they explore timelines, government responses, and controversial questions surrounding the attacks, all while honoring the lives lost. This unfiltered episode blends history, politics, and personal narrative with humor and raw honesty, ending the season on a sober yet thoughtful note. Join them as they confront a pivotal moment in American history—and what it means for the country’s future. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    1h 23m
  2. Hesitant Pirate: EDC 2.0

    12/24/2025

    Hesitant Pirate: EDC 2.0

    In this episode of Nice Ashes, hosts Mike and Nate dive deep into the world of everyday carry (EDC) gear while enjoying cigars (including the notoriously bad Hesitant Pirate) and Oktoberfest beer from a local street festival. They share stories about their personal EDC setups—from minimalist daily essentials to extended gear for travel and outdoor work—highlighting tools, knives, tech gadgets, first aid kits, and even dog care essentials. The conversation also touches on dog training ethics, with a passionate critique of public figures mistreating their pets. Toward the end, they geek out on watches, contrasting practical affordability with high-end precision and style. Expect candid banter, practical tips, and plenty of humor as they explore the gear that keeps them ready for anything. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    1h 27m
  3. Ave Maria Reconquista: NPL & FLP

    12/17/2025

    Ave Maria Reconquista: NPL & FLP

    In this episode of Nice Ashes, hosts Mike and Nate light up the Ave Maria Reconquista cigar and dive deep into a fascinating piece of Midwest history: the rise and impact of the Nonpartisan League and the Farmer Labor Party. They explore how two farmers’ secret winter meeting in 1915 sparked a progressive political movement that transformed North Dakota and Minnesota with groundbreaking reforms like the state-owned Bank of North Dakota, progressive income tax, labor rights, and environmental conservation—many of which still benefit the region today. Along the way, they reflect on the power of community, perseverance, and inter-generational change, offering thoughtful insights into how rural values and collective action can shape society. Plus, enjoy candid conversation, cigar reviews, and a fresh perspective on history, politics, and culture. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    1h 31m
  4. La Diferencia Cubana: John Titor

    12/10/2025

    La Diferencia Cubana: John Titor

    In this episode of Nice Ashes, hosts Mike and Nate dive into the fascinating and mysterious story of John Titor, the alleged time traveler from the year 2036 who posted on internet forums in the early 2000s. They explore the origins of the legend, the technical claims about his time machine, his predictions, and the follow-up narrative of John Titor II. Along the way, they discuss pop culture references, the plausibility of the story, and touch on broader topics like AI and societal changes — all while enjoying cigars and whiskey in person. Join them for an engaging blend of history, conspiracy, tech talk, and good humor, as they separate fact from fiction and ponder what the future might hold. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    1h 13m
  5. CAO Nicaragua Toro: Somalians & MN Integration (Somalia & MN Part 6)

    12/03/2025

    CAO Nicaragua Toro: Somalians & MN Integration (Somalia & MN Part 6)

    In this episode, Mike and Nate dive into the complexities of Minnesota culture—especially the infamous "Minnesota Nice"—and how it impacts Somali immigrant integration. They explore the polite yet passive-aggressive communication style, cultural clashes around social expectations, and the invisible barriers that create challenges for newcomers. The discussion also covers historical immigrant groups, cultural differences, and the tension between preserving Somali traditions and adapting to local norms. Alongside thoughtful insights, they pair their conversation with a detailed cigar review of the CAO Nicaragua Toro, and wrap up emphasizing tolerance while firmly rejecting practices like female genital mutilation. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    1h 19m
  6. Tatiana Honey: Be The Club (w/Jordan)

    11/26/2025

    Tatiana Honey: Be The Club (w/Jordan)

    In this episode, Nate and Mike dive into their experience smoking the Tatiana Honey cigar—sharing honest and unfiltered reviews, which aren’t exactly glowing. They’re joined by returning guest Jordan, who introduces his new lifestyle brand “Be The Club,” inspired by golf culture but designed to be universal and fun. Jordan talks about his upcoming product launch, creative apparel ideas, and engaging with the community. Plus, enjoy some laughs and stories about regional beer blends, sports debates, and Thanksgiving food favorites. Tune in for authentic conversations on cigars, entrepreneurship, and good times with friends! Be The Club: Website | Facebook | Instagram Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    45 min
  7. War Fighter Dumpster Fire Toro: Somalians & US Integration (Somalia & MN Part 5)

    11/19/2025

    War Fighter Dumpster Fire Toro: Somalians & US Integration (Somalia & MN Part 5)

    In this episode, Nate and Mike light up the "Warfighter Dumpster Fire" cigar and dive into an in-depth, data-driven discussion about the cultural integration of Somali refugees in Minnesota. They explore the complexities of Somali clan systems, family structures, religious practices, and challenges—like female genital mutilation and social discrimination—while also highlighting signs of successful adaptation, particularly among Somali women. With candid reflections and thoughtful analysis, they unpack the nuances of cultural compatibility and long-term integration, emphasizing the human stories behind the statistics. Plus, they share their honest cigar reviews and some lighthearted banter. Join them for a nuanced conversation blending culture, history, and just the right amount of smoke. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    56 min
  8. Tatiana Groovy Blue: Somali Literature (Somalia & MN Part 4)

    11/12/2025

    Tatiana Groovy Blue: Somali Literature (Somalia & MN Part 4)

    In this episode, Nate and Mike dive into Somali literature as part of their ongoing Somali in Minnesota series. They explore the rich oral tradition, historic and modern poetry, theater, and novels, highlighting themes like nationalism, resistance, love, and cultural identity. They also discuss the compelling memoir Call Me American by Abdi Iftin, which offers a firsthand look at the Somali refugee experience. Alongside literary insights, they share thoughts on smoking the unique blue raspberry–flavored Tatiana Classic Groovy Blue cigar. Tune in for a fascinating blend of culture, history, and personal stories! Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram

    38 min
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About

Join Mike and Nate, your friendly aficionados of budget-friendly cigars, as they ignite conversations that go beyond the smoke. Whether you're a seasoned cigar enthusiast or simply curious about the world of affordable smokes, Mike and Nate invite you to kick back, light up, and join the conversation. "Nice Ashes" is where camaraderie meets culture, where the pleasure of puffing enhances the exploration of diverse topics. Tune in for a laid-back and flavorful journey through the realms of literature, media, and society, one budget-friendly cigar at a time. Web | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram Opening music: Coma-Media from Pixabay

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