Holy Smokes Podcast Holy Smokes®
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Holy Smokes® is the world's largest private cigar club and now we've taken the message of Faith, Friendship, Fine Tobacco & Drink from our 'secret' Facebook group to the world! Listen to host Steve Reiter as he interviews Holy Smokes members, cigar manufacturers, lounge owners, theologians, influencers, and much more.
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Holy Smokes Madison Chapter: Bringing Together Faith, Bourbon, and Cigars for Community
Welcome to Holy Smokes, where we delve into the compelling stories of faith, community, and personal growth. In this episode, we feature Dave Bechtold and Mark Bendorf, who share their experiences in Madison, Wisconsin, organizing events such as Holy Grounds and "Burgers and the Bible" with a mission to spread joy, hospitality, and the message of Jesus. They reflect on the impact of their work, from meaningful conversations to witnessing the transformative power of faith in people's lives. Moreover, they discuss their vision for a community of cigar smokers and bourbon enthusiasts as a platform to share spiritual growth and purpose. Stay tuned as we explore stories of hope, resilience, and the profound impact of faith in everyday lives.
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A Conversation with Tobin Arthur: From Baseball to Business, Cigars, and Healthcare Innovations
Welcome to a sizzling new episode of Holy Smokes! In this electrifying installment, we're joined by the illustrious Tobin Arthur, who regales us with riveting tales from his high school baseball triumphs to his dynamic career in business and healthcare. Grab your favorite Crossfire cigar and a piping hot cup of coffee as we delve into Tobin's journey from USC to co-founding Innovation for Alpha, blazing a trail through the realms of entrepreneurship, healthcare, and community building. Get ready to be captivated by Tobin's fascinating anecdotes, insights on the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, and his passion for creating meaningful connections. So sit back, relax, and prepare for a Holy Smokes experience like no other!
Outline:
(00:00) Grind consistency varies for different brewing methods.
(20:03) Pitching speed expectations create strain on arms.
(28:08) Started window washing business with friends, struggled.
(32:24) Starbucks adapted to long lines with innovations.
(43:39) Legacy technology caused problems storing outdated data.
(53:53) Health insurance companies reject claims to avoid payment.
(01:07:17) Venture capital challenges and youth in Bay.
(01:21:42) Consumers using ER as primary care is costly.
(01:31:08) The Healthcare system struggles to shift towards value-based care.
(01:37:30) Educational tools and online community for business.
(01:45:21) Met cool people through cigars, and Norris is a favorite.
(01:58:23) Family's faith and worldwide prayers for brother. Complex, unique surgery watched by global medical professionals.
(02:07:12) Legacy as a coach helping others succeed.
About the Guest: Tobin Arthur is a coffee connoisseur with a deep knowledge of coffee making. He is well-versed in different coffee types, particularly espresso-based and drip coffee. Tobin understands the intricacies of making espresso, emphasizing the need for high pressure and a fine grind to extract the true flavor of the coffee. While he appreciates the option to add flavors and milk, Tobin believes that a true coffee aficionado should be able to enjoy the pure flavor of espresso. His expertise in the world of coffee has made him a respected figure in the industry -
Mitch Smith's Journey to Personal and Professional Blessings
Welcome to another exciting episode of Holy Smokes with Steve Reiter and Mitch Smith! Mitch shares his journey from resigning from his job to starting his own business and finding success in the learning management platform industry. He discusses his experiences, including meeting influential individuals, building strong client relationships, and the impact of faith in his life. Mitch also dives into his current projects, including creating innovative assessments for children and his involvement in a men's group. Stay tuned for an inspiring and insightful episode of Holy Smokes with Mitch Smith.
Outline:
(04:23) Mom stayed home, played sports, had fun.
(10:23) Rebellion, excessive drinking, college disappointments, dissatisfaction.
(13:18) The fortunate guy finds a new trustworthy friend group.
(19:22) The Agency said it could take 5 years. Resigned, played golf, and met Dean Witter's manager.
(22:04) Moved to Columbia for business, found wife.
(30:45) Great bible study, mentorship, and discipleship journey.
(32:59) CD ROM video, tracking software, Herx Selenis. Safety training online. $660,000 contract in 1994.
(37:40) Successful learning platform, landed big clients. Experienced in a young industry.
(46:35) Writing a diary to share faith and family importance. Meeting Chalmers Culbreth, battling cancer.
(49:43) The book uncovers junk in life and friendship.
(54:56) Designed an iPad learning platform for a pharma company. The youngest daughter asks for a digital curriculum. Homeschool companies refuse due to IP concerns.
(1:02:15) Consulted after unsuccessful company venture, kept RootLoud.
(1:08:57) "Guarantee change, reduce fees, create engagement in business."
(1:14:34) Loved cutting grass on a tractor.
(1:17:02) Country football nights, catfishing, cigars at Citadel.
(1:22:02) Facebook post leads to a thriving men's community.
(1:28:15) Tired of news, watches YouTube, enjoys history.
(1:34:38) DNA test reveals dad is not a real dad.
(1:37:34) Thriving community fosters connections, enabling ministry.
About the Guest: Mitch Smith is the son of a hardworking paper mill mechanic who taught him the values of generosity and a strong work ethic. Growing up, Mitch's father worked at Springs Mills before seizing the opportunity to work at new paper mills near Rock Hill. This decision turned out to be the greatest thing that ever happened to him. Despite being in a seemingly ordinary role, Mitch's father was known for his godly character and his willingness to give generously, challenging the perception that only the wealthy can be generous givers. Inspired by his father's example, Mitch learned valuable lessons about investing in the kingdom and considers himself incredibly blessed to have been raised by such a remarkable man. -
Unfiltered: Caleb Allen Long's Journey Through Faith and Ministry
Welcome to Holy Smokes, a gathering place where faith, friendship, excellent tobacco, and good drink collide to spark meaningful conversations. Caleb Allen, a preacher from Denison, Kansas, joins host Steve Reiter on this episode. They delve deeply into Caleb's personal path, from being a conscientious youngster to his atypical career goals and spiritual change, culminating in his impactful community engagement. Caleb offers a unique peek into the interface of faith and life by sharing insights on theology, personal growth, and managing diversity in faith beliefs. Explore Caleb's journey to learn about the heartwarming and thought-provoking incidents that molded his faith. Only on Holy Smokes will you find an enlightening debate on faith, community, and the power of conversation.
Outline:
(00:05) Create a community for faith-based individuals through fellowship.
(05:06) Podcast mix-up leads to confusion and humor.
(14:32) Questioning morality and conscience amid childhood disobedience.
(19:33) The Family moved to Hawkinsville, Georgia in 2005.
(23:47) Changed degree from youth ministry to theology.
(25:55) New understanding of Corinthians 11's message.
(33:50) Disagreements can arise due to sin's influence.
(38:15) Attracted to serious Christianity, influenced by reformation.
(43:13) The Reformed Presbyterian Church follows regulative principle worship.
(48:36) Offer unblemished animals, sell if blemished, temple.
(57:21) Jesus called out legalistic behavior, especially Pharisees.
(1:03:09) Moved to Pittsburgh, prolonged study, but successful.
(1:04:04) Five years brought significant maturing and growth.
(1:10:47) The new pastor engages parking lot workers conversationally.
(1:19:21) Introduced to Lagavulin, I love its peaty taste. Memorable cigar experience: chatting with elders.
(1:24:32) Encountered strange figures in the yard and rushed inside.
(1:28:37) Encouraging books on church antagonists and intentions.
(1:33:04) Inspiring testimonies about Paul's character and impact.
(1:37:18) High-quality apparel and accessories are available for purchase.
About the Guest: Caleb Allen is a member of a small congregation who enjoys fine tobacco and drink as a way to connect with others. He recently recommended a Christian podcast to his fellow group members, which features interviews with people from various backgrounds and includes discussions about fine tobacco and drink. Caleb is passionate about using these interests as a means for fellowship and connection within his community. -
From Ministry to Mattresses: Steve Van Diest's Journey of Faith and Redemption
Welcome to another episode of Holy Smokes. In this episode, our host, Steve Reiter, sits down with a very special guest, Steve Van Diest. Steve opens up about his journey from ministry to joining a missional order called Project Revive. He shares the challenges he faced when 60% of his donors left him after making the shift. He tells us how he infused kingdom principles into the mattress retail industry and transformed it by focusing on loving and caring for employees, as well as hiring refugees and felons. We also dive into the sleazy reputation of the mattress retail industry and how Steve Van Diest is changing the game.
Steve Van Diest recounts his personal struggles, including a breakdown in his business partnership. He opens up about his experience with COVID-19 and the impact it had on his family, as well as the challenging topic of divorce that surfaced during a dinner conversation. But amidst the hardships, Steve and his wife share how the gospel transformed their lives and their perspective on marriage.
We also have an exciting discussion about Acumen, a community for business owners looking to grow their businesses without sacrificing their family life. Steve Van Diest and his wife coach couples through a marriage course and emphasize the importance of women having dreams and achieving them.
Join us as we delve into the inspiring and transformative journey of Steve Van Diest. He shares his experiences, his faith, and how Holy Smokes played a significant role in his spiritual growth. Don't forget to check out Holy Smokes gear on our website, and stay tuned for an episode filled with laughter, introspection, and a whole lot of holy smoke!
Outline
04:19 Convenient drive-through grocery with teenagers.
07:28 Unexpected encounter at Billy Graham event.
15:26 Feeling called to Mexico City, leaving successful job.
16:10 Canceled meeting, flipped ministry, left in 2006. Pregnant. Fight. She left. Collapsed. Called friend.
24:20 Raised funds, moved to Mexico City, no prayers.
30:56 Bakke Graduate University: Impacting cities through education.
32:22 Freedom to love, hire and succeed in business.
39:12 Letting go after counseling, finding inner strength.
46:36 Former GM starts nonprofit to employ marginalized.
50:44 He made changes, documented, and had a vision for transformation.
55:43 Parenting with brokenness; children need grace.
01:00:32 Front range, business owners with $2M+ revenue, 10+ employees, seeking a supportive community for growth without sacrificing personal life.
01:08:00 Four years sober, selling store, growing company.
01:12:08 Memorable cigar experience: Brazilian party with Sama girls.
01:17:53 Grief getaway leads to unforgettable street tacos.
01:23:13 Lion, leadership, tattooed woman, tenderness in eyes.
01:25:52 Son's concern over dad's smoking habits. -
Jimmy Graham: From SEALs to Shephard - Finding Purpose and Making a Difference.
Welcome back to another episode of Holy Smokes! In today's episode, a very special guest is joining us - the incredible Jimmy Graham. Jimmy opens up about his admiration for George Washington's leadership, thoughts on Jordan Peterson's impact, and the importance of setting boundaries for his children. He shares his vision of creating a safe space that empowers both men and women and discusses his plans to publish a book and launch a podcast and TV show. Jimmy also talks about the significance of learning and growing from the media we consume. Plus, we have exciting news about Holy Smokes merchandise! So, stay tuned as we dive deep into Jimmy Graham's extraordinary life and inspiring journey. Let's get started with the Holy Smokes episode.
Outline:
(04:49) Pleaded deal, scared straight, restitution, graduated late.
(08:55) Recruiter quotas, lifeguard, intrigued by SEAL teams.
(16:03) Summary: Grit is essential, but I can trigger it.
(20:34) Praying for family's support, lack of trust.
(21:50) Turned down a promotion, became a sniper, and left the company.
(31:29) Limited control; faith fuels; time is now; battle for kids.
(34:58) Attack on Benghazi: Ambassador lost, CIA saves Americans.
(41:51) Marriage issues, reunions, and pondering life's purpose.
(43:41) Preaching experience felt surreal, like an invasion of privacy.
(49:20) Working, living, commitment, recovery, pursuing security.
(57:38) 4-day dirt bike adventure with family.
(01:02:20) Controversial drag shows for children near the community.
(01:04:28) "Don't fumble the football, stand with me."
(01:10:05) DC stuff is hard to watch, especially Aquaman. Kids love, and Wolverineine is relatable.
(01:18:01) Family, baggage, communication, kids - an amazing journey
(01:22:26) Unfortunate past, but valuable teaching ability prevails.
(01:27:33) Reflecting on life's purpose, posing existential questions.
(01:33:37) Celebrating book, community, protection, modeling, and creativity.
Customer Reviews
Always Encouraging to My Soul
I’ve never listened to a story that I have not enjoyed or been encouraged by. I think Steve, and the setting of fine tobacco and drink just allow for men to stop and be genuine. I’m encouraged mainly too because these men have different stories than me. Many have different backgrounds of how faith started and has continued throughout their life. It’s so encouraging to hear their story and see how God works differently in people’s lives.
I appreciate that the majority of these men have decades of experience and faith to share. Too many times in our American culture we listen to the young guys and look up to them. I’m in my mid-30s and I want to listen to the guy who is 20-50 years my senior. I feel like I learn well that way.
I always look forward to a new episode.
Not sound doctrine
It seems that this individual is preaching himself and Jesus isn’t the main person. I don’t like the fact that you’re smoking an drinking while spreading the word because the scriptures tell us to be sober minded . Also , it seems like these conversations are very worldly and the spirit of God is far from the people participating in this conversation
Excellent listen
Great podcast from and for a group of authentic folks. Keep up the good work.