Cigar Hacks: Recent Episodes
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It’s a trip to the land of Miserable Nick to visit with Paul Joyal of Mr. J’s Havana Cigar Lounge. Should kids go to college or not. If you already didn’t know, Pat just came back from Ireland. The Hidden Herf is identified early on and turns out to be a well aged and highly rated selection – credit to Miserable Nick.
Local Spotlight – Mr. J’s Havana Cigar Lounge; Coventry, RI
Controversy Corner – The Fed and Other Interesting Connections
The Tobacco Shack celebrates its first five years under the current management. Our first Tobacco Shack episode was number 104, it seems like yesterday. The Anniversary party included a Rocky Patel Cigar Event so, for the Hidden Herf we get to try another yet to be released cigar from Rocky Patel.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – UOCAVA – Vote Early and Often
The Madre Tierra team is in town for Grumpy’s First Anniversary weekend. We stretch this one out long enough to smoke and rate two Hidden Herf cigars from Madre Tierra. The results are a bit surprising.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson, NH
Controversy Corner – It’s Debatable
The Founding Fathers Executives Networking Group is based out of a speakeasy style lounge and meeting facility in Danvers, MA. We are joined by the principals of the Founding Fathers for an explanation of “Come as a guest, leave as a friend, and return as a brother”. We have a cast of many so get your score cards out to keep track of the laughs. The Hidden Herf is eventually guessed by a couple of conspiring Hacks. McGroin gives us the Ireland Cigar report and a new Hack is initiated.
Local Spotlight – Founding Fathers Executives Networking Group
Controversy Corner – It’s the definition of a conspiracy.
It’s Labor Day weekend and the summer is winding down so we head back to home-base for a relatively quiet evening with many of the OGs. The Hidden Herf did not stay hidden for very long, it’s one of those kind of obvious and unique cigars.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH & Fuego By Sosa; Kissimmee, FL
Controversy Corner – Are we being set up?
We head for the sidewalk on Elm St. but the weather is so good that it’s already jammed, so we go inside the front window. The Hidden Herf is identified immediately, the panel is getting too good at this. The podcast Juice is very colorful. We are joined by special guests “Killer” of Castro’s and Theo who we just pulled in from the lounge.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH, The Owl Shop Cigar Lounge & Tobacconist; New Haven, CT, Mickey Blake’s Cigars; Southington, CT, and Cigars International; Bethlehem, PA
Controversy Corner – Grand Canyon Ancients
It’s another small-group recording from McGroin Manor where we prepare for this year’s New England Cigar Expo and recount four interviews from the 2023 Expo; Perdomo, Kristoff, Micallef, and Montecristo.
Local Spotlight – New England Cigar Expo
Controversy Corner – Grounding
Back to our regular Friday recording schedule the crew heads over to the Shack where we have a surprise visit from the Choir Boy who has been out of the podcast loop for a while. The Hidden Herf is kind of picked out despite the deceptive practice of the supplier.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – Naturalized; what does it mean?
This week we have a last minute scheduling issue that cause us to do an impromptu small crew episode on a Wednesday. We could do a spin-off podcast called “Bad Joke Wednesday”. The Hidden Herf is picked off almost immediately.
Local Spotlight – The Original Bar and Cigar; North Conway, NH
Controversy Corner – The Woke Olympics
It’s our third summer vacation special from the north country of New Hampshire. See episodes 91 and 297 for the others in this series. The same family members from the 2023 episode join in again this year as we smoke a special set of Hidden Herfs.
Local Spotlight – On the lake; New Hampshire
Controversy Corner – Skinwalker Ranch and other topics
It’s the 7th annual summer trip on the barge and we are at the lake house for the fifth year. The weather is perfect, and many cigars are smoked. The catch phrase this year is Boot & Rally! The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and mistakes were made.
Summa-Episode numbers by year and location
2018 – 34 Saco River
2019 – 89 Saco River
2020 – 139 Lake House
2021 – 191/192 Lake House / North Conway
2022 – 245 Lake House
2023 – 297 Lake House with the family
2024 – 349 Lake House
Local Spotlight – On the lake; New Hampshire
Controversy Corner – Shots were fired!
Direct from the Route One Business Networking Group (BNG) event for our fourth year, we talk with the BNG members while enjoying cigars under the tent on the back patio at the Rosaria Restaurant. We have the band turn it down before we start but by the time we wrap up the volume is way up again.
Local Spotlight – Route One BNG at Rosaria; Saugus, MA
Controversy Corner – The Money Shuffle
Continuing the Garage Series we find ourselves at Chucks’s Palace this week with a cast that was mostly absent from the Domicile. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and has mixed favorability due to its spice and strength. Somehow, the discussion turns to golf a few times, the podcast juice is a factor.
Local Spotlight – Chuck’s Palace
Controversy Corner – Harvey’s favorite topic
The original Domicile was our staple location for many episodes during the era of shutdowns. This is the second episode from the new Domicile 2.0, but the first with the regular Hacks crew. It’s an overnight event so the podcast juice is flowing and the panel is well lubricated, which makes for a raucous episode. The Hidden Herf is recognized by about half the panel with it’s distinctive traits.
Local Spotlight – The Diplomat Cigar Lounge; Keene, NH
Controversy Corner – A basketball debate
The Tobacco Shack rescues the episode by having us after hours on short notice. It’s brownie sundaes all around. The Hidden Herf is a bit obvious and is pegged right away.
Local Spotlights
– The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
– Leaf & Bean; Pittsburgh, PA
– The Royal Cigar Bar & Bistro; Fort Mill, SC
– The Vintage Whiskey & Cigar Bar; Charlotte, NC
Controversy Corner – UFO Physics
Direct from McGroin Manor we do a mid-week episode with a special call-in from JoJo Mo and Luscious Laura, who are on vacation in Ocean City, MD. The Hidden Herf is given enough clues to narrow down the guesses. The New England Cigar Expo is almost sold out, we look back at the interviews from last year.
Local Spotlight – McGroin Manor
Controversy Corner – Interesting Connections
The Hacks drop in to Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge for the Rocky Patel Cigars Event. We are joined by Mike the Cop and Walter from Grumpy’s. A new hack is sworn in and with enough clues the Hidden Herf is figured out,
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson, NH
Controversy Corner – Late Night AM Radio
We are back at the firepit with a cast of what seems like a dozen. Comedy Chris and a mystery guest drop by and then phones start ringing. The Hidden Herf is almost pegged.
Local Spotlight – Cigar Raffles
Controversy Corner – Smurfs and next steps.
It’s the Memorial Day episode so we do a little extra for those who made the sacrifice. It’s a full house of Hacks with a couple of participants in the peanut gallery. The Hidden Herf is an interesting selection, but it still stumps the panel.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Who really controls social media?
After watching the Bruins get eliminated on the big screen by the firepit we load in a few more logs to keep the panel warm. We have a guest who was an impromptu call-in a few weeks back. The hidden herf is a follow up from last week.
Local Spotlight – The First Firepit of 2024
Controversy Corner – Candidate Roulette.
It is playoff season so we are at The Tobacco Shack for the Celtics game. The Hidden Herf is another Florida find from Nurse Rick, it gets a decent rating.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – Lunar Months.
Bar tenders from three of our favorite cigar bars get together with us this week as we talk cocktail trivia and cigar pairings. This is one of our more creative episodes as we demonstrate how the New Hampshire cigar bars are diverse, yet able to come together for one fun episode with The Hacks.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, and Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson, NH
Controversy Corner – Controversial Cocktails.
For two weeks in a row we record on an off day. This week we head to the upstairs at Castro’s in Nashua for a conference room style sit-down. We have a call in from Brady of La Rosa Negra Cigars. The podcast juice is flowing and the Hidden Herf knocks it out of the park.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Nashua, NH
Controversy Corner – Housing options.
We find ourselves at Grumpy’s this week to find out what’s new and why things are more grumpy than before. It’s more than just the cigars. The Hidden Herf is a good one, but someone was paying attention and figures it out at the 11th hour.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson NH
Controversy Corner – The nudge.
It’s the annual Masters Weekend at Plaistow Cigar, but this year it’s with the new brand: 3Leaf Cigars. The Charcuterie pairing is a hit and enhances the Hidden Herf rating. We learn about the 3Leaf Cigars brand, the cigars, and Erik’s journey, over the past year or so, starting a new cigar company. The new Cigar Announcers Test seems to be working as expected.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Did-e or Didn’t-e.
This episode starts out like any other, but just as we we get the Hidden Herf going we are thrown a curve-ball and have to switch cigars. Two Hidden Herfs perhaps? We drag a few people in from the lounge as we work our way through the regular segments. If you follow boxing, be sure to check out lounge guest #4 near the end of the episode.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH
Controversy Corner – How did we get to where we are in 2024.
Mike the Cop, our local Rocky Patel rep, is just back from The PCA 2024 Trade Show in Las Vegas. We are at the Tobacco Shack’s “Party for the Hell of it 3.0” and it’s a full house. The Hidden Herf is a “yet to be available” PCA release. Ricky calls in from Florida for the last time this season. He is in Ybor City with our friend Anthony from The Cigar Quarters in Haines City FL. Miserable Nick writes in, he just might need his own segment.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – A bridge too far.
The Reverend Harvey is back, but with a few restrictions. The Third Unit Production Manager organized this week’s location at The Ash Lounge and proceeds to nails the Hidden Herf within the first few minutes. Who knew we had a couple of cross-fit trainers in the group. Nurse Rick calls in with the Florida report.
Local Spotlight – Ash Cigar Lounge; Kingston, NH
Controversy Corner – Pat McGroin redeems himself.
It’s back to Twins for the St. Paddy weekend episode. Our special guest is actually a Hack but, he has his Twins Manager hat on so he gets special billing. We have a quick call from Ricky in Florida to start things off. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and receives a decent overall rating.
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – Quality Control and Scanning your ID.
We are back at the private smoking lounge this week with a full crew for a high energy episode. Ricky is back in Florida, he calls in from King Corona and puts a couple guys on the line with us. Something goes wrong with the Hidden Herf. We add a new segment to discuss generational tobacco sales.
Local Spotlight – King Corona Cigars and Cafe; Tampa, FL
Controversy Corner – Long term side effects of the jab.
It’s a short crew recording early in the week as kind of an impromptu pop-up podcast. The Hidden Herf is a bit obvious after too many specific clues out of the gate. We dive into to a couple of New England Cigar Expo interviews. Pat the Law student drops in for a few F-Bombs. Pat McGroin and Nurse Rick tell us about a couple shops in Florida. Just to correct the record; Flourine is the element, Flourite is the crystal, and Flouride is the mineral.
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – It’s in the water.
We find ourselves at Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge for the third time in five weeks! The principals from Big Sky Cigars are in the area, how could we not go there again. We sit down with Jess Coleman (CEO) and Brandon March (VP) to learn about Big Sky Cigars. It turns out to be more of a story telling and comedy session while smoking cigars – sorry McGroin! The story of El Professor can be found here.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson NH
Controversy Corner – The Carrington Event
It seems like a small group episode but we eventually manage to have eight people on after we sit down with the shop owner and customer representatives. The Second Unit Production Manager arranged the Cigar & Lounge location and the Hidden Herf that stumps the panel. Pat is back from his Tampa trip and Ricky calls in to fill in the details of their 10 day cigar lounge crawl and the Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa Florida.
Local Spotlight – Cigar and Lounge; Watertown, MA
Controversy Corner – How old do you need to be to buy cigars in that town?
Direct from Castro’s in Bedford, NH it’s the 2023 Hackie Awards Show and the Hackapalooza 6.0 recap. With ten on the panel this is one for the books. The Hidden Herf is a special awards show selection.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Backroom; Bedford, NH
Controversy Corner – How are the award categories and nominees selected?
We are two days in to Hackapalooza 6.0 and find ourselves at Grumpy’s to record for the second week in a row. We are joined by the team from Madre Tierra Cigars who made the trip from Florida for the full Hackapalooza 6.0 experience. We are also joined by the Pocono and Nashville Hacks live and in person. The Hidden Herf is a little different as we do a sampling.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson NH
Controversy Corner – Nudity and local customs.
Nick Goss is one of our local brokers that we have been trying to connect with since the beginning, it finally happens this week. The event included offerings from BuyItSigned.com in addition to the Goss Man’s selections. The Hidden Herf is an obscure selection but one of the panel happens to recognize it. The White Chocolate returns for a segment.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson NH
Controversy Corner – Electric Vehicles.
It’s back to Twins 7-20-4 Lounge for kind of a pre-palooza visit. We take two call-ins this week, Ricky is at Grand Cathedral Cigars in Tampa, plus the GC and Sparky are at a surprise party. We have a few drop-in guests including one of the original Hacks. The Hidden Herf requires a giant clue to come up with the correct answer.
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – The College Scam.
Direct from Plaistow Cigar it’s kind of a laid back episode. Nurse Rick calls in from Mi Casa Cigar Shop & Lounge in Valrico, Florida.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Fake news document drops.
It’s New Year’s Eve at the (undisclosed location) Lancero Lounge, with the Hacks extended cigar family. The wives join the panel for another special episode where we get the scoop on how we met our wives. Plenty of laughs as the truth comes out. The Hidden Herf is a special selection for 2024. For the numerologists, this is episode 3-2-1 recorded on 1-2-3-1-2-3 (12/31/23).
Local Spotlight – The Lancero Lounge
Controversy Corner – You can’t say that!
For the 2024 New Year episode we head over to Eli’s Smoking Lounge with some of the new Hacks. The Hidden Herf is a different size of a cigar we have smoked recently and the consensus is that it is very different.
Local Spotlight – Eli’s Smoking Lounge; Nashua, NH
Controversy Corner – Predictions for 2024
We return to the Two Guys Christmas Party at the Seabrook location for another year. This time we are joined by Jarrid Trudeau EVP of Kristoff Cigars. Jarrid is an old friend of the OG Hacks, so it’s catching up on some history and getting the newer Hacks up to speed on the Kristoff story. The Hidden Herf is a new release from Kristoff that has a special message associated and it lives up to it’s legacy. Mr. Bojimbles stops by for some commentary.
Local Spotlight – Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, NH
Controversy Corner – They all become true over time.
There was a launch party for a new line of cigars at The Ash in Kingston, NH on the same night as the local football team playing Thursday Night Football at The Tobacco Shack in Rowley, MA. We had already arranged a giant turkey frying event at the Shack for Thursday Night Football so we go to The Ash on Friday to check out the new release and talk about both nights. The panel changes a few times as members and guests come and go.
Local Spotlight – Deep Fried Turkey
Controversy Corner – Habano or Habanos? That is the question.
The Undisclosed location is a private smoking lounge where one of the Hacks happens to know a guy. The hidden Herf is pegged straight out of the gate by the pro. The Mail bag is full and the podcast juice is flowing, it’s one of those!
Local Spotlight – Toast Across America Charity Event
Controversy Corner – We’re just a bunch of Ding-Dongs and Who’s in the Painting?
For the second week in a row, a large contingent of Hacks invade a cigar lounge. With almost as many Hacks joining as last week, it’s becoming a regular thing. The Hidden Herf is a controversy in itself. We try a new segment and initiate a new Hack.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – Controversy Potpourri
A large contingent of Hacks invade the Ash Cigar Lounge to do an episode with Darren Hill, our local New England Sales Manager for My Father Cigars. At one point we count 20 participants, so pull out your score card for this one. The Hidden Herf receives a very good rating overall. The Reverend Harvey returns from Georgia, The Gringo is in town, and we have a couple of first timers.
Local Spotlight – Ash Cigar Lounge; Kingston, NH
Controversy Corner – Ho Ho Ho-Flation
Let’s get grumpy! This week we visit the new Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge, formerly El Toro, and sit down with two of the new owners to discuss what’s involved in running a cigar bar. A pair of new Hacks are minted and the Hidden Herf stumps the panel again.
Local Spotlight – Grumpy’s Cigars & Lounge; Hudson NH
Controversy Corner – Feral Hog Insurrection
We drop in to the Diplomat Cigar Lounge in Keene, NH to surprise Josh, the owner, and Mike, the Rocky Patel Rep, for the first Rocky Patel event at this shop. A small contingent of Hacks make the trek on a Thursday, so we pull in a couple of regulars the round out the panel. The Hidden Herf is Pick Your Rocky, Pot-Luck style.
Local Spotlight – The Diplomat Cigar Lounge; Keene, NH
Controversy Corner – Ignorance
A couple of new Hack recruits join the crew at Ricky’s firepit. It’s a chilly night, so we load up the wood, have a good cigar, and sample some fine spirits to keep us warm. We recap the Pocono Palooza trip. The Hidden Herf is a new release from a well known brand, but it still stumps the panel.
Local Spotlight – Pocono Palooza Lounge Tour
Controversy Corner – MK Underground
We head down to the Poconos for the 5th year, including Pocono Wedding Palooza. The Rabbi Cut Above joins us at Best Cigar Pub for this episode along with The JoJo Mo clan and a new recruit, Mike the Runaway. We interview the front of the house manager at Best Cigar Pub to get some details on the new lawn area. The Hidden Herf is not in the running for best cigar of the year.
Local Spotlight – Best Cigar Pub; Drums, PA
Controversy Corner – Feminization
Kurt Kendall of Twins Smoke Shop and 7-20-4 Cigars has his 60th birthday bash with Rocky Patel. A few lucky raffle winners are invited the the lake house for the weekend with Kurt and Rocky for cigars, food and spirits. Our own Hunter Rick and Nurse Rick are among the weekend winners. We get a call in from the lake house and speak with Rocky, Rick, Mike and Pat. The Hidden Herf is a potpourri of selections from the New England Cigar Expo 1st day and we include the interview with the Nish Patel and Team Rocky from the Expo.
Local Spotlight – Kurt’s 60th Birthday Bash w/Rock Patel
Controversy Corner – Jetting Swiftly and the IDF
We recount four interviews from the New England Cigar Expo; Serino, Forged, JC Newman, and West Tampa Cigars. We have a special guest and the Hidden Herf ties in nicely.
Joe Gonzalez, our new Aston, La Aroma de Cuba, and San Cristobal rep, joins us at Plaistow Cigar this week. The Mail Bag is full of great messages. The hidden herf does not disappoint. We recap the New England Cigar Expo and have a few laughs along the way.
Local Spotlight – New England Cigar Expo 2023
Controversy Corner – Let’s not get canceled
Dommie the Dominator and the Blue Ash tied the knot this past weekend. The rest of the family go on a mountain top vacation for the balance of the week. We initiate a new cigar smoker and make some new friends. Between the wedding, vacation, and the New England Cigar Expo far too many cigars were consumed this week – as if that’s even possible.
Local Spotlight – Wedding Cigar Bar
Joey, AKA The Godfather, AKA, Joey The Gent, has been on the show before but we have not told the story of his cigar journey until now. The Hidden Herf was an easy target for identification and receives a worthy rating. It’s a cast of Castro’s regulars with a few Hacks, so expect some fun.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH
Controversy Corner – There is no controversy.
For at least five years we have been after Roy Kirby to do an episode with us. We finally converge at the Perdomo event at Plaistow Cigar for an episode with a few surprises, including the Hidden Herf.
Local Spotlight – Perdomo Cigars at Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Just sit back and relax!
Direct from the Route One Business Networking Group (BNG) event for our third year, we talk with various BNG members while enjoying cigars on the back patio at the Rosaria Restaurant. It’s the usual laughs with some new and old friends.
Local Spotlight – Route One BNG at Rosaria; Saugus, MA
There’s a Blue Moon on Enema Lake for our first episode on the boat this summer where the S.S. Low Voltage lives up to it’s name. The Hidden Herf is one of Nurse Rick’s finds from his Florida trip. No fish were harmed (or caught) during the making of this episode.
Local Spotlight – Five Lounge Rhode Island Recap
Mr. J’s Havana Cigar Lounge
Cedar Spill Cigar Lounge
White Ash Cigar Lounge
Boulevard Grille & Cigar Lounge
Mr. Cigar
Controversy Corner – The Color Blue
We return to Mr. J’s in RI with Miserable Nick to sit down with Paul Joyal of J. Grotto Cigars and Mr. J’s Havana Cigar Lounge. When we arrive we find that Mike Rosales, the “Ro” in RoMa Craft Tobac, is there on an unscheduled visit. As true Hacks we have Mike join us and … Continue reading "Episode 302: J. Grotto, RoMa Craft, and Miserable Nick
– Local Spotlight: Mr. J’s Havana Cigar Lounge; Coventry, RI"
We sit down with Netal of El Toro in Hudson NH for a small group session. Nurse Rick is in Haines City Florida and calls in with Anthony of The Cigar Quarters and John Deans of Madre Tierra Cigars. We will see you at The New England Cigar Expo on September 29th & 30th. Local … Continue reading "Episode 301: Live From Florida
– Local Spotlight: El Toro Cigar & Lounge; Hudson, NH"
For our 300th episode milestone we descend on the Tobacco Shack unannounced and set up outside in the patio area on a fine summer evening. It’s a small group recording as many Hacks are on vacation or in disrepair. Nurse Rick calls in from Florida to give us the hotel check-in report. The Hidden Herf … Continue reading "Episode 300: The 300
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack Side Patio; Rowley, MA"
Back with our regular rotation of panelists it’s a full house for the Big Sky Cigars event at Plaistow Cigar. We are joined by their new rep, and long time Hack regular, Brian Sonia. Some of us have had a few of the new line from Big Sky, but the Hidden Herf turns out to … Continue reading "Episode 298: Big Sky Cigars w/Brian Sonia
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH"
For the second week in a row we are on the road for a family event. There’s a party for the ladies going on in the house and the men are exiled to the garage for cigars, podcast juice, and to record this week’s episode. The Hidden Herf turns out to be decent after we … Continue reading "Episode 298: Ladyfest
– Local Spotlight: The Domicile 2.0"
It’s our second summer vacation special from the north country of New Hampshire. See episode 91 for the first in this series. More family members join in this year as we smoke an unusual Hidden Herf. Local Spotlight – On the lake; New Hampshire Controversy Corner – Skinwalker Ranch
We head over to El Toro in Hudson, NH this week for a chat with Netal to discuss the various unique cigars he carries. Podcast Juice is what’s on tap and the Hidden Herf is another good one. Local Spotlight – El Toro Cigar & Lounge; Hudson, NH Controversy Corner – Missing Aviators
The crew heads over to McGroin Manor this week where Mama and Papa McGroin join us for this episode. Mama is an aspiring stand-up comedian and keeps us in stitches for most of the episode. The Hidden Herf is a cousin to a recent one, and it gets a wide range of ratings. Local Spotlight … Continue reading "Episode 295: Stand-Up with Mama McGroin
– Local Spotlight: McGroin Manor and Fox Cigar; Scottsdale, AZ"
Mike the Cop from Rocky Patel Cigars is back and redeems himself after Episode 292 from two weeks ago. We present a special award. The Hidden Herf is a complete surprise and gets a top rating. This one is a lot of fun as the podcast juice is flowing. Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; … Continue reading "Episode 294: Redemption with Mike The Cop
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH and The Adventures of Pat & Chuck"
We slow things down a bit after a double header the previous Friday that produced the last two episodes. It’s over to The Tobacco Shack for one of the first nights of the summer with the extended hours. With a relatively small group of eight we have a few laughs and try a real nice … Continue reading "Episode 293: Shack Late Night
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Nimish Desai, of Rocky Patel Cigars, Kurt Kendall of 7-20-4 Cigars and Twins Smoke Shops, plus our host for the evening, Eric “Killer” Kilbane of Castro’s Back Room join the Hacks for a wild ride out on the Elm Street sidewalk in front of Castro’s in Manchester, NH. The rest of the Rocky crew has … Continue reading "Episode 292: Please Turn Mike’s Mic Off with Nimish Desai
– Local Spotlight: Twins and Castro’s; New Hampshire"
Direct from Plaistow Cigar, where it all began, we sit down with the Micallef team for a special interview episode. We are joined by Amanda Micallef, Michael Granito, Andy Yaffee, and Jeff, The Micallef Ambassador of the Year. This was a unique opportunity to get four perspectives on the Micallef brand in a single interview. … Continue reading "Episode 291: Micallef Cigars Interview Special
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH"
With a cast of thousands at the fire pit we review the meet up with Miserable Nick out of Providence. He jumps into the Oscuro III and we head around the mid-state RI area on a cigar bar adventure. Nashville Dave finds a new lounge in downtown Nashville. The Hidden Herf is something we should have know from the clues.
Local Spotlight – Rhode Island Cigar Lounge Tour
Controversy Corner – Oath.
We have a small panel for a low keyed Memorial Day episode. Cellophane; on or off? The Hidden Herf was sent in from a regular listener and is a very surprising cigar. We hear about Cigar World East in Warren, RI while we prepare to tour RI shops on the other side of the state.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – No indictments?
The Gringo is in town and joins the panel this week. The Hidden Herf brand is guessed but the particular cigar is elusive. Kostas the Olive Man’s brother, Rembrandt the Painter, joins us for the first time while The Gringo breaks up the place. This is a fun one!
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – It’s all true.
It’s taco & margarita day and the panel doesn’t miss the opportunity the sample the various margaritas at Elie’s. Elie give us an update on what’s in the works for the lounge. We drag Phil from the peanut gallery and put him in the hot seat. The Hidden Herf is discovered early on, but there’s no shortages of laughs in this episode.
Local Spotlight – Elie’s Smoking lounge; Nashua, NH
Controversy Corner – Nuclear Mars and bank rescue.
The Rabbi Cutabove swings into town and we roll out the Oscuro III. The day starts at The Cigar Authority live podcast where the guest for the week is Jose Dominguez Jr. of Jose Dominguez Cigars. We load the crew into the Oscuro III stretch limo and head over to El Toro in Hudson to record this episode. The Rabbi Cutabove brought the Hidden Herf up from New Jersey, it virtually stumps the panel but gets great reviews.
Local Spotlight – El Toro Cigar & Lounge; Hudson, NH
Controversy Corner – Fake News
We get the Ash Lounge Grand Opening report. Instead of the usual local spotlight we have a trivia game for prizes. The Hidden Herf becomes somewhat obvious after a few clues. Dog talk. The Brooklyn Chick drops in for a quick appearance.
Local Spotlight – Lounge Trivia at Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Becoming the hunted.
It’s the first outdoor episode of 2023. We gather around the fire pit in Nurse Ricks back yard where the Hidden Herf is pegged right out of the gate. We review the olive oil drops and have lot of fun with some one-liners.
Local Spotlight – La Farona Cigars, Ebor City, FL
Controversy Corner – It’s Classified.
It’s the soft opening of the new Ash Cigar Lounge in Kingston, NH. We sit down with the owner and get the skinny on the whole story. Nurse Rick is in Orlando on vacation and calls in from Corona Cigar’s downtown location for the Florida Report. The Hidden Herf is recognized by one of the panelists and it gets a very good rating.
Local Spotlight – Ash Cigar Lounge; Kingston, NH
Controversy Corner – Get Woke Go Broke!
It’s that time again for The Tobacco Shack’s “Party For The Hell Of It”. The band is on, we’re having a blast, and it’s standing room only. This episode was recorded directly after the party. We do a recap on the Route One Business Network Group event. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel but it does well in the rating.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – OMG, it’s not what you think.
We’re back at the Twins 7-20-4 lounge and Michael Granito of Micallef Cigars is downstairs for a Micallef Cigar event so we rope him into joining us again. Keeping with that theme we also grab “Schweddy Balls” from the lounge. The Hidden Herf is a fantastic five dollar stick. Mustang Mike is back and launches us into some great controversies. Lot’s of laughs, plenty of fun and cigar talk.
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – It’s a Financial Mess Part II and the Trad trend.
Another first, we haven’t done an episode from the Nashua location of Castro’s before this week. Direct from the second floor lounge we have a full compliment of Hacks for the St. Patrick’s Day episode. The Hidden Herf was picked right out by one of our astute panelists. The Podcast Juice is flowing and the panel is having a good time.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Nashua, NH
Controversy Corner – It’s a Financial Mess.
Our first episode from the Boston Cigar Club is good time for the panel. We land an interview with the owner. There’s an interesting story behind this lounge. The Hidden Herf is guessed by way of a coincidence. A possible future Hack joins the festivities. Oh yeah – it’s Pat McGroin’s birthday
Local Spotlight – Boston cigar Club, Charlestown, MA
Controversy Corner – The Twenty Seven club.
It was five years ago this month when we did a Local Spotlight on Cigar and Lounge in Watertown, MA. It about time we got back there to record an episode. We interview the owners and they tell us about the decade’s long, and no so easy, journey to running a successful cigar lounge in the Boston metro area. The Hidden Herf is well received, although it’s not much of a secret for those who recognize the markings.
Local Spotlight – Cigar and Lounge; Watertown, MA
Controversy Corner – Taxes, Debt, and other fun topics.
“Tony Montana” becomes a Hack. The Hidden Herf proves that size matters! How many times can we get pulled over? And other stories from the road.
Local Spotlight – Touring in the Oscuro III
Controversy Corner – Dinosaur Reality
It’s a Friday night in the 7-20-4 Lounge at Twins. We have a birthday with a special cigar and a hidden herf that stumps the panel. Pat The Law Student files a brief on a California proposal.
Local Spotlight – Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH
Controversy Corner – Trains w/Pat McGroin
Hackapalooza 5.0 is in the books, we do a brief recap of the 36 hours that followed last week’s recording. Nurse Rick is on the remote because he’s under the weather again. The Hidden Herf gives a couple of the panelists some issues. We dissect one of the Hidden Herfs to see what it’s issue was.
Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Multiple topics; Pipeline, Balloons, Chickens and more.
Hackapalooza 5.0 is in full swing, we report on the first 30 hours. With twelve panelists the Hidden Herf is “smokers choice” to save on time. The Current Events segment should be called “Fun with the Reverend”. The episode goes in multiple directions and we get into a bit of a laughing fit towards the end.
Local Spotlight – New Tobacco Village; Whitehall, PA
Controversy Corner – Relaxed health regulations for pilots.
We take the Oscuro III limo south to Chuck’s for another episode with a full compliment of Hacks. There’s an initiation of our third new member in as many weeks. The Hidden Herf is hit or miss with the panel but still does not get any outstanding ratings. The banter is all over the map for this one, everything from electric cars to Big Papi.
Local Spotlight – Chuck’s Commune
Controversy Corner – It’s eggstremely difficult to find good chicken feed.
Hanging out at Plaistow Cigar on a Saturday Afternoon with a full compliment of Hacks we initiate a new Hack. The Mailbag is full and the Hidden Herf is hit or miss with the panel. The Reverend gets himself into hot water a couple times. Controversy Corner goes in a different direction, four or five topics are submitted by the panelists and we pick one as the winner.
Local Spotlight – The Cigar Den; New Brunswick, NJ
Controversy Corner – Multiple Choice
We sit down with Eric “Killer” Kilbane of Castro’s Back Room Cigar Shops. Eric pulls out a few cigar selections from the vault for us to sample, most have been aging for approximately 20 years. It’s a cast of eleven with non-stop laughs. We have been anticipating this episode for over a month and the shop is packed on a Sunday evening for the show. We initiate another new Hack. Gringo Stah is in town with the Florida Report.
Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH
Controversy Corner – Will the real President please stand up?
Another year passes and we find ourselves handing out another set of awards for some of the best things of the past year. We pull in a couple of lounge regulars (Mike & Steve) to add color commentary. If this wasn’t the awards show we could have call it the medical episode or the boobies episode. The Hidden Herf is an accidental repeat and oddly enough receives a similar rating to the previous.
Local Spotlight – El Toro; Hudson, NH
Controversy Corner – A Magnificent Controversy after 5 years
It’s New Year’s Eve at the (undisclosed location) Lancero Lounge, with the Hacks extended cigar family. Four (or five) of the wives join the panel for a special episode where we get the ladies’ perspective on the Cigar Family concept. Plenty of laughs, cigars, and even some reflection points as we start 2023. The Hidden Herf is another winner setting the bar for the rest of the year.
Local Spotlight – The Lancero Lounge
Controversy Corner – Beating them at their own cheating game
It’s the Tobacco Shack Holiday Party 2022. The lounge is jammed and the band is playing when we arrive, but we are recording after hours so it’s quieted down. We have a laid-back episode with a few gifts and a decent Hidden Herf. It’s just what the doctor ordered with the kind of day we were all having.
Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA
Controversy Corner – Random “Magnificent” Selections
We’re at Two Guys Smoke Shop in Seabrook NH for the annual Christmas Party where we run into former NFL Player and radio / TV commentator Steve DeOssie. If you like football and cigars this is the episode for you! Mr. Bojimbles in back and he pegs the Hidden Herf right out of the gate.
Local Spotlight – Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, NH
Controversy Corner – Jones vs. Zappe
It’s like three episodes in one. We attend the Molon Labe Cigars, Spirits and Coffee event at Plaistow Cigar. André from Live Free Distillery joins us for the first segment. Steve from Molon Labe Cigars takes the second segment and tells us about the Cigars and the Coffee from New Hampshire Coffee Roasters. The ladies, Ann and Megan, take over for the third segment.
Local Spotlight – Molon Labe at Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – Pearl Harbor
After recording #246 a few Hacks head up to the Federal Cigar 100th Anniversary event with Rocky Patel, where he is releasing the DBS and Edge 20th Anniversary. A few cocktails and a couple cigars latter it last call and Rocky says “Let’s do a podcast right now!” So we find ourselves literally in “The After Hours Lounge in the back room of the best cigar shop east of just west of this very location” doing an impromptu interview with Rocky Patel. This is over an hour of Rocky telling us his personal story of how it all happened and what ultimately led up to these two great cigar releases.
Local Spotlight – Federal Cigar‘s Slow Burn Lounge; Portsmouth, NH
Returning to the scene of the Flat Earth episode, we’re back in Plaistow for the Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Event. Joined by the local Dunbarton rep Brian, we have a lot of laughs and smoke a fine Hidden Herf. The Duster makes an appearance and the Reverend explains Double-D Marie.
Local Spotlight – Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust at Plaistow Cigar Co; Plaistow, NH
Controversy Corner – NFL Magnetism
The Hacks make the long drive out to Keene, NH on Black Friday to check out a new cigar bar called The Diplomat. We are joined by special guests “AKA Fred”, The Cigar Queen, and Josh for a run-down of the cigar scene in the southwestern corner of New Hampshire. The Hidden Herf turns out … Continue reading "Episode 263: Olivia!
– Local Spotlight: The Diplomat Cigar Lounge; Keene, NH"
It’s been five years of the Cigar Hacks and we celebrate by inviting representatives from the six other local cigar podcasts to join us for this special occasion. We discuss cigar podcasting, some of our collective history, how the shows are all different but oddly connected, and as usual we go in a few unexpected … Continue reading "Episode 262: 5th Anniversary Special – Local Cigar Podcasts
– Local Spotlight: Studio 21 at Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, NH"
Direct from the Veterans Day event at The Tobacco Shack sponsored by Rocky Patel Cigars, we improvise and set up on the side patio because it’s standing room only inside! Mike The Cop, our local Rocky Patel rep, talks with us about the brand. This week’s Panel of Hacks are lucky to have the first … Continue reading "Episode 261: Veterans Day w/Rocky Patel Cigars
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Direct from another live lounge recording we are joined by Bugsy of Pura Soul Cigars and Elie of Elie’s Smoking Lounge. The news section covers some interesting topics including the current international listener statistics and NH cigar bar licensing. The Hidden Herf is another surprise for the panel. Local Spotlight – Elie’s Smoking lounge; Nashua, … Continue reading "Episode 260: International Hits w/Bugsy and Elie
– Local Spotlight: Elie’s Smoking lounge; Nashua, NH"
We dive into one of the latest releases from Forged Cigars with our local rep and special guest Jim Price. The Hidden Herf receives a good rating from the panel. Then in the second half we have a spirited debate on the merits of the shape of the earth. There’s no shortage of bad jokes … Continue reading "Episode 259: Is the Earth Flat? With Jim Price of Forged Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
Back from the Poconos and Wedding Palooza we find ourselves at El Toro in Hudson, NH with the newlyweds, who just happened to be in the area. Early in the week Nurse Rick ran into Michael Granito, the Micallef Cigar North East Rep, and Michael joins us before heading back to Long Island. We learn … Continue reading "Episode 258: Pocono Wedding Palooza Recap w/Micallef Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Regency Cigar Emporium; East Greenwich, RI"
As we prepare to head to The Poconos for the wedding weekend, we record this episode earlier in the week than usual. The man of the hour calls in, but we also have a surprise caller with great timing. Two hack couples prepare to tie their knots. It’s the kind of event you smoke a … Continue reading "Episode 257: Pocono Wedding Palooza Pre-Game
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH"
Direct from the Lions Club cigar event at the Saddle Up Saloon in Kingston, NH we help raise funds for a resident in need. We have some extra guests and new panelists that join in the fun. The Hidden Herf gets widely mixed reviews and stumps the panel. Event sponsors included Molon Labe Cigars and … Continue reading "Episode 256: Fundraising with the Lions Club
– Local Spotlight: The Saddle Up Saloon; Kingston, NH"
Just like a good cigar, the profile of this episode ramps up as the time goes on. The Dominator comes down from the north country and we have a special guest, Long Haul Mark, who schools us on the car carrier business. The laugh-O-Meter climbs in the second half with Matty the Magnificent leading the … Continue reading "Episode 255: Return of the Dominator
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
Robert Wright of Pura Soul Cigars drops in to The Tobacco Shack where we have him on the podcast. Our local Pura Soul rep, Bugsy, is also in the house. We learn all about Robert and his journey to Pura Soul cigars. The Hidden Herf is a surprise because of the vitola. Local Spotlight – … Continue reading "Episode 254: Pura Soul w/Robert and Bugsy
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
We have a sit-down with Justo and Andrea Eiroa of JRE Tobacco and Aladino Cigars during the Aladino Cigar event at Two Guys in Seabrook. Mr. Bojimbles jumps in for the interview with Justo and Andrea. We learn a few things and have a few laughs. The Hidden Herf, a lancero, surprises the panel and … Continue reading "Episode 253: Aladino Cigars w/Justo and Andrea Eiroa
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, NH"
We are joined by Steve and Blake from Molon Labe Cigar this week. Molon Labe Cigar is a local New Hampshire company, we learn all about their cigars and the journey. We record this episode out back by the pond at The Saddle Up Saloon in Kingston, NH. The Hidden Herf receives a top rating. … Continue reading "Episode 252: Molon Labe Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Victory and Michael’s Cigar Bars; Worcester, MA"
No rowing was required as we do another episode out on the boat. No fish were harmed (or caught) in the production of this episode. We swear in, or at, a new Hack and have him read some cringe-worthy urban dictionary entries. The Hidden Herf is picked out by Nurse Rick at the 11th hour. … Continue reading "Episode 251: Trumpets of Success
– Local Spotlight: The Cigar Station; Spring Hill, TN"
Direct from Ricky’s Recluse, AKA the screen house, we have a new guy and an old guy join us. We do a call-in interview with the owners of The Cigar Quarters. Ricky brings us a great Hidden Herf from his trip and fills us in on his cigar lounge travels. Local Spotlight – The Cigar … Continue reading "Episode 250: The Florida Report
– Local Spotlight: The Cigar Quarters; Haines City, FL"
We’re at the Mustang Ranch with stories from the past few weeks. The Hidden Herf is a new blend with an old name and really surprises the panel. Local Spotlight – Molon Labe Cigars at Seacoast Harley; North Hampton, NH Controversy Corner – Burke Mountain Curse
Direct from El Toro, with all nations represented, we’re back at one of our favorite lounges and are joined by a few of the regulars. We have a follow up on a couple of topics from last week. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel, but is well received. Smoke along while we tell stories and … Continue reading "Episode 248: The United Nations
– Local Spotlight: El Toro; Hudson, NH"
We are on the S.S. Low Voltage, where the weights are made up, and the fish don’t matter! It’s our first time this summer doing the show from the boat. We have a couple of Comedy Chris’ out-of-town relatives who join in on the fun. The Hidden Herf gets a decent rating but no close … Continue reading "Episode 247: Who’s Line Is It?
– Local Spotlight: Night Fishing on the Lake"
This week we find ourselves invited to the Amici Club in Medford, MA. for a BBQ and Cigars. We are joined on the show by Angelo, Gus, Andrew, and Paul with dozens of fellow cigar enthusiasts in the background. The members tell us about the Amici Club while smoking the hidden Herf. Lots of guesses … Continue reading "Episode 246: Associazione Amici BBQ
– Local Spotlight: Associazione Amici Smoking Patio"
It’s our fifth summer special from the north country of New Hampshire. Join the crew for more fish stories as we continue the tradition of smoking a lot of cigars on the water over the weekend. See Episodes 34 and 89 from the Saco River and episodes 139 and 191/192 for the Summa-Palooza series from … Continue reading "Episode 245: Summa-Palooza 2022
– Local Spotlight: On the lake; New Hampshire"
Direct from the Route One Business Networking Group (BNG) event for our second year, we talk with various BNG members while enjoying cigars on the back patio. We are then joined by a pair of Marine Vets who tell us about their new podcast on YouTube called Hard to Kill. It’s the usual laughs with … Continue reading "Episode 244: Back for More on the Back Patio
– Local Spotlight: Route One BNG at The Breakaway; Danvers, MA"
Continuing our Farewell Tour, we do our last episode at Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge before they cease operations on July 31st 2022. It’s a bittersweet transition for the proprietors as they move on to the next chapter. We smoke a brand new release, which is a bit of a metaphor for … Continue reading "Episode 243: The End of an Era
– Local Spotlight: Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge; Rochester, NH"
We assemble a large panel of thirteen hacks for what we’re calling the farewell tour to the Domicile, the sale should be final in a couple weeks. It’s Saturday night of the Fourth of July weekend at the lake so there are a few fireworks in the background. Half of us are in the garage … Continue reading "Episode 242: Domicile Farewell Tour
– Local Spotlight: Domicile Stories from the Past"
Joining the crew is Brian Sonia from United Cigar at the Plaistow Cigar Event. We pick up Bill, a lounge patron, to round out the panel and it’s bedlam from the start. Mustang Mike is not with us this week but he sends in a story, or two, or three… The mail bag is full … Continue reading "Episode 241: Wheelbarrow Mania, with United Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
We attempt to do this week’s show from the boat but the weather does not cooperate, so we retire to Jake’s Place (AKA, Comedy Chris’s smoke shack). The Hidden Herf is a complete surprise and was selected because it was a box of 10 that we have not tried before, so basically we got lucky. … Continue reading "Episode 240: Cocoa Puffs
– Local Spotlight: Podcasting Locations, NH"
Direct from the Mustang Ranch, we are joined by a couple of special guests, including Irving, our sales rep for PDR Cigars, and for the first time; the lady of the ranch. Again we’re recording before the basket ball game. The Hidden Herf coincidentally rates the same as the last PDR Hidden Herf, now there’s … Continue reading "Episode 239: The Haddock Dinner, with PDR Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
It’s game 1 of The Celtics vs. The Warriors at The Tobacco Shack. Folks are filtering in as we do the show before the first game of the NBA finals. We talk a little basketball and other random topics while smoking the Hidden Herf. Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA Controversy Corner – … Continue reading "Episode 238: The Pre-Game Show
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Jim “The Price is Right” joins us for a special Forged Cigar episode. We learn about the Forged lines from General Cigar. The Hidden Herf is a great new cigar that all the panel enjoys. “The Duster” coat is explained and we get an AMA (ask-me-anyhing) challenge from Matty the Magnificent on the flat earth … Continue reading "Episode 237: Forged with Jim Price
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
Direct from Boom Boom and Kimmie’s basement Mama and Papa join us for another fun packed episode. There are plenty of bar stories and laughs as we smoke another legend for the Hidden Herf. Local Spotlight – The Dirty Basement Pub and Cigar Lounge Controversy Corner – UFO Distractions
It’s a short staff this week direct from the front porch, Nurse Rick calls in. The Hidden Herf is an assortment pack. Hang out with us and smoke a cigar while we just talk about vacations, trucks, and cigar stories. Comedy Chris fights off the bugs while reading the current events. Local Spotlight – Burn … Continue reading "Episode 235: Full Moon Friday the 13th
– Local Spotlight: Burn the Band at Two Guys"
We have perfect weather on Cinco De Mayo for a firepit episode. After a bit of a hiatus The Scarlet returns with tales from the road about the ponies and cigars after a visit to FatAsh Cigar in Kentucky. The Hidden Herf is an easy guess if you’ve been paying attention. Hunter Rick returns for … Continue reading "Episode 234: Scarlet Fever at the Firepit
– Local Spotlight: FatAsh Cigar Lounge; Ashland, KY"
It’s our first visit to Radloff’s since we got snowed out at Hackapalooza. Boom Boom and Kimmy just happen to be there too, there must be a psychic connection. We get caught up with Jamie on the shop, outdoor seating, and the cigar business. Jamie sets us up with a Hidden Herf from the vault … Continue reading "Episode 233: Not in the Gutter, On the Rox
– Local Spotlight: Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge; Rochester, NH"
With what could be our last episode from The Domicile we are joined by The Brooklyn Chick and The Blue Ash. We have official Podcast Juice which has also been canceled. Nurse Rick and Taco Steve find us a nice Hidden Herf that has a surprise twist. The current events list is extra long this … Continue reading "Episode 232: Homeless Hacks
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room, Nashua NH"
Featuring the Rabbi Cut Above during the holiday season, we bid farewell to a brand that is close to the Hacks in multiple ways. The Hidden Herf is an honorary smoke that we all know well. The Reverend Harvey has a few incidents during the Current Events. The Rabbi Cut Above and the Pocono Palooza … Continue reading "Episode 231: Farewell to an Icon
– Local Spotlight: The Eastern PA Circuit"
Everyone gets into the guessing game as we randomly plow through brand names to pin down the Hidden Herf. The future of Podcast Juice, golf tournaments, and more in the news section. We tweak The Hidden Herf Reveal once again. A recap of last week’s Hamlet event segues into a Jury Duty discussion. Local Spotlight … Continue reading "Episode 230: The Guessing Game
– Local Spotlight: Elie’s Smoking Lounge; Nashua, NH"
Hamlet of Rocky Patel Cigars is back in town, we meet up at The Tobacco Shack for a rolling demonstration event. Afterwards he joins us for this week’s episode. The event was a great success and the Hidden Herf was a winner too. Lots of news items and a couple of e-mail letters landed in … Continue reading "Episode 229: Free Cuba w/Hamlet Parades
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
It’s been a while but we’re finally on the road again and visiting the Culebra Club to do a fun episode with a few members at the club. The Hidden Herf is a secret and gets mixed reviews. We go full circle with the Frog Juice and get a first hand report on Cigars for … Continue reading "Episode 228: Back on the road
– Local Spotlight: The Culebra Club; Epping NH"
Comedy Chris is back and we get resolution on the Hotdog Pancake question, of course he throws in another questionable question later in the show for next week. The Hidden Herf is a barber pole lancero. It’s surprising, considering the details on the makeup of this cigar. The Reverend Harvey breaks into a monologue on … Continue reading "Episode 227: Hotdog Pancake II
– Local Spotlight: Cloud Lounge; Salem NH"
A member of the crew that has been on hiatus returns this week and brings us a really interesting Hidden Herf. It rates well but it’s the back story that’s even more than we expected. Comedy Chris is out this week so we hold over the Hotdog Pancake reveal until his return. Nurse Rick calls … Continue reading "Episode 226: Hotdog Pancake
– Local Spotlight: Corona Cigar Downtown; Orlando, FL"
It’s a small group this week, a bunch of Hacks are out of town, but Nurse Rick calls in from sunny Florida. We have some local lounge news, a report from March Madness, updates, and more. The Hidden Herf is interesting and does well with the panel. Local Spotlight – Eli’s Smoking Room and The … Continue reading "Episode 225: Table for Four
– Local Spotlight: Eli’s Smoking Room and The Shriners Event"
There are plenty of cigar related topics this week along with the usual hijinks. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel, but gets a good rating. We take the Oscuro III out on Presidents Day for a cruise around the countryside and visit four lounges. Local Spotlight – Touring in the Oscuro III Controversy Corner – … Continue reading "Episode 224: Presidents Day Palooza
– Local Spotlight: Touring in the Oscuro III"
The Hidden Herf is an 8×38 Lancero and the panel is intrigued by this one. It turns out to be an 8 year old Dominican that after a few clues Taco Steve figures out. There are the usual news and events updates, a few laughs, and plenty of cigar talk. We went to the Tobacco … Continue reading "Episode 223: That’s a big Lance You Have There
– Local Spotlight: El Toro; Hudson, NH"
Hackapalooza 1.0 gave us the infamous saying: “Are you trying to break my freakin’ leg bro?”. Well, this week Nurse Rick does it to himself on some black ice and then calls in while on the loopy meds. It’s pretty funny as he zones in and out of the conversation. We also have a visit … Continue reading "Episode 222: I Broke My Freakin’ Leg Bro
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
On the remote we have Rabbi Cut-Above (aka Mike from New Jersey) as we recap the Hackapalooza weekend including getting snowed in for a day. Not only do we discuss the weather outdoors we tackle the weather inside our humidors – temperature and humidity. The Hidden Herf is an illusive but decent cigar. Local Spotlight … Continue reading "Episode 221: Hackapalooza 4.0 Part 2
– Local Spotlight: El Toro; Hudson, NH"
Hackapalooza 4.0 gets underway at the Tobacco Shack with the Bahama Bob Band and a Rocky Patel Event for the occasion with Mike The Cop. It’s Thursday of our annual four-day weekend bash. Bret calls in and the panel is well primed after the party at The Shack with plenty of laughs. The Hidden Herf … Continue reading "Episode 220: Hackapalooza 4.0 Part 1
– Local Spotlight: Reception at The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Resting up for Hackapalooza we do a relatively relaxing episode at The Domicile, but there are still a few good jokes. The Hidden Herf is a real wildcard this week and we have a backup just in case it’s needed. The number of events is ramping up after all the holiday hoopla has subsided. We … Continue reading "Episode 219: Titanium Balls
– Local Spotlight: The Bus at Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
Three Hacks walk into a cigar lounge… We do a small group show with Eastie Paul of the Tobacco Shack before the Pats/Bills game. It starts out quiet, but as we get closer to game more hecklers arrive. Have some cream pie and a chocolate bourbon with that newly released Hidden Herf. Yankee Bill tags … Continue reading "Episode 218: Pre-Game at The Tobacco Shack
– Local Spotlight: El Toro; Hudson, NH"
It’s the 2021 Hackie Awards direct from parts unknown. We welcome our new Hackie Award Show sponsors. The Hidden Herf is a special award show cigar that has been aging in the Hackador longer than the Cigar Hacks has been in production. Along with the awards we do a whiskey and bourbon tasting throughout the … Continue reading "Episode 217: The 2021 Hackie Awards Special
– Local Spotlight: Whiskey from Down Under"
Closing out 2021 and ringing in 2022 it’s the New Year’s episode. We have a few good jokes from The Domicile with the regulars and a decent Hidden Herf to go with it all. We reflect on a few thing in the past and discus what’s possible in the future. Local Spotlight – The Tobacco … Continue reading "Episode 216: We Hope ’22 is Good for You
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Joining the hacks at the Tobacco Shack Christmas Party in Rowley, MA are Bugsy Segal of Pura Soul Cigars and Jeffrey Amendola of Amendola Family Cigars. Not only do we find out about the Pura Soul Barber Pole Cigar and Amandola Family Cigars, we learn just how small the cigar world is. Local Spotlight – … Continue reading "Episode 215: Tobacco Shack Christmas Special
– Local Spotlight: Boston Cigar Club; Charlestown, MA"
Nashville Dave is on a cigar shop road trip reporting direct from the Florida pan handle at Zack’s Beach Castle Cigars. The hidden Herf is a bit of a dog but, the panel can’t seem to pin it down even with plenty of clues. We give a report on the Two Guys Christmas Party and … Continue reading "Episode 214: Nashville Dave on the Road
– Local Spotlight: Zack’s Beach Castle Cigars; Mary Esther, FL"
We are at the Hammer + Sickle – Plaistow Cigar Christmas Party, which means Erik and Brian of Hammer + Sickle along with Matty the Magnificent join the panel for this annual occasion. We launch the H+S 2021 EPH Limited Edition Cigar and it scores big on the Hack scale. It’s also a birthday, Cowboy … Continue reading "Episode 213: It’s Hammer time
– Local Spotlight: Hammer + Sickle Christmas at Plaistow Cigar Co.; Plaistow, NH"
This week’s Hidden Herf is very good, with just a hint or two, and more than a few guesses, the panel lands it. The Oscuro III is set up as a cigar lounge at the Route One BNG event this week and we have a blast with it. Local Spotlight – Route One Business Networking … Continue reading "Episode 212: A Non-Attorney Spokesman
– Local Spotlight: Route One BNG Extravaganza"
The Reverend Harvey returns after a bit of a hiatus. The panel samples an unusual hard cider made by “Far From the Tree” in Salem, MA. The Hidden Herf is also a bit unusual and quite a surprise. The Hacks will be at the “Route ONE Business Networking Group” Extravaganza on Thursday December 2nd from … Continue reading "Episode 211: Light Italian Dressing
– Local Spotlight: Black Friday at Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, NH"
It’s the 4th Anniversary episode and we deliver. This episode contains almost an hour of one liners and jokes. Sure there’s a cigar but it melts into the background like it should. It’s a winner and we couldn’t have picked a better performing cigar for the occasion. Local Spotlight – Our 4th Anniversary Controversy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 210: Four Years of Laughs
– Local Spotlight: Our 4th Anniversary"
Matty The Magnificent is back with the crew in the original spot for the last episode of the fourth year. It’s tinfoil hats all around and running jokes that keep this one on track. The Hidden Herf is a total guess after many clues and the process of elimination. Local Spotlight – Plaistow Cigar Co.; … Continue reading "Episode 209: Island Boy
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co.; Plaistow, NH"
After Brinner (Breakfast for Dinner) we recruit a special guest, The Closer, to join us this week. There is plenty of cigar talk, but a lot of other ground is covered too. Local Spotlight – Brinner (Breakfast for Dinner), Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, NH Controversy Corner – The Supply Chain
We’re at the Rocky Patel event at The Shack with Mike The Cop and the crew for another fun evening with a cast of thousands. The Hidden Herf is a hit with everyone. It Black Bottle Beard Co time again with MJ on the panel. Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA Controversy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 207: Let the Ashes Hit the Floor
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Find out what happens when a dozen Hacks land at Best Cigar Pub for lunch during Pocono Palooza. We are joined by a surprize guest; Cigar Craig. We interview one of the most knowledgable Best Cigar Pub staff members. ATB sets us up with an interesting Hidden Herf that stumps everyone. Local Spotlight – Best … Continue reading "Episode 206: Pocono Palooza 3.0
– Local Spotlight: Best Cigar Pub; Drums, PA"
It’s PoconoPalooza next week so we call JoJo Mo to get the 411 on what’s coming up. The Blue Ash returns from Alaska with a review of a new cigar lounge called Rat Pack Cigars. The objective for the Hacks this week is to not get eliminated from the squid events game. The Hidden Herf … Continue reading "Episode 205: The Squid Hacks
– Local Spotlight: Rat Pack Cigars; Fairbanks, AK"
We’re direct from the newly renovated and reopened El Toro Cigar & Lounge. We are joined by the shop owners, Bugsy from Pura Soul, a group of regulars, and a few folks who just happened by. The Cigar is a relatively strong one so it gets mixed reviews from the mild smokers in the group, … Continue reading "Episode 204: Let’s Go Brandon
– Local Spotlight: El Toro Cigar & Lounge; Hudson, NH"
Were just back from “Smokey Karaoke” and it’s only a panel of four this week. We score a box of great lanceros while at the event, so we forego the Hidden Herf and just go with these cigars. We also discuss the two first release cigars that we received at the event. Plenty of cigar … Continue reading "Episode 203: It’s a Four Pack
– Local Spotlight: Smokey Karaoke at Two Smoke Shop; Salem, NH"
Nurse Rick is under the weather and calls in on the remote. The mail bag brings us back to last week’s area code discussion and we receive a surprise package. The Hidden Herf is a perfect beginner cigar and after a few clues Comedy Chris nails it. There’s a full compliment of jokes and laughs. … Continue reading "Episode 202: I Don’t Get It
– Local Spotlight: Twins 24th Annual Smokin’ Blues BBQ"
It’s off the rails before we get started. The panel is literally “primed” for this one. If you want plenty of laughs this is the episode, we do eventually light the cigar. The Hidden Herf takes a few guesses, but we get there. Local Spotlight – Two Guys Smoke Shop 36th Anniversary Dinner Controversy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 201: A Pair of Loafers and a Four Lane Highway
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop 36th Anniversary Dinner"
Two Hundred! Time sure flies when you are having fun. We take a look back at all the things we’ve done under the Cigar Hacks umbrella, including the people we’ve met and the places we’ve been. A special thanks to all who have been part of this journey, on the show, behind the scenes, and … Continue reading "Episode 200: A Milestone and a Look Back
– Local Spotlight: Football at The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
It’s a perfect evening on Enema Lake for this week’s episode. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and gets a decent rating. NH Cigar Bar license updates and more in the news segment. We interview Abe Flores of PDR Cigars during the event at Plaistow Cigar. Local Spotlight – Corona Cigar; Orlando, FL Controversy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 199: The Poop Deck; Special Segment with Abe Flores of PDR Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Corona Cigar; Orlando, FL"
Lauren from Ashton joins the Hacks for this episode during the Ashton Cigar Event at Cigars R Us. It’s 90 degrees and 90% humidity at sundown, we’re outside in the “alley” and the only thing keeping us cool is a nice cigar and the Podcast Juice. A few of the Danvers regulars also join in … Continue reading "Episode 198: In the Alley with Special Guest: Lauren from Ashton
– Local Spotlight: Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
We have a couple of letters in the mailbag that drive the episode. CSM George sends us a set of Hidden Herfs that stump the panel and get a very high rating. This is a relaxed episode from The Domicile with plenty of laughs. Local Spotlight – Castaways Seafood & Grille; Seabrook, NH Controversy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 197: Letters to the Editor
– Local Spotlight: Castaways Seafood & Grille; Seabrook, NH"
We are at the Tobacco Shack for 2nd Anniversary of Eastie Paul at the helm. By the end of the evening it’s practically a full house with all the folks that drop in. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and gets just an OK rating. Comedy Chris is in rare form, we do a Podcast … Continue reading "Episode 196: Two Years at the Shack
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
CSM George joins us on the remote where we swear him in as a Cigar Hack. We recount the Vouchers for Veterans event from last week. The Hidden Herf is identified with an initial lucky guess and gets a high rating. The crickets are in the background while we sit around the firepit for the … Continue reading "Episode 195: Crickets at the Firepit
– Local Spotlight: Out in the Limo Last Saturday Night"
This week the Hacks put on the Vouchers for Veterans; Smok’em If You Got’em Event at the Smokey Quartz Distillery in Seabrook NH, a veteran owned operation. The event was a huge success. The Hidden Herf was also a huge success, receiving a high rating from the panel. CSM George made the trip up from … Continue reading "Episode 194: Vouchers for Veterans
– Local Spotlight: Smok’em If You Got’em Event"
It’s a Hacks’ outing with the goats, dogs and a bonfire on a perfect Saturday evening. We’re grillin’ and chillin’ while feeding peanuts to the animals before the show. The neighborhood joins in for the fun and a few join us on the show. The Hidden Herf is interesting and there is a fair amount … Continue reading "Episode 193: Goata-Palooza
– Local Spotlight: Gran Havana; San Diego, CA"
Stories from Summa-Palooza weekend, Who fell in? Who caught the big ones? It’s a small world. The Hidden Herf draws a split decision. The Smoky Quartz Veteran’s event is Friday July 30th – Tickets available here. Local Spotlight – The Lake, The Original Cigar & Bar, Cigar Shenanigans Cigar & Cocktail Lounge; North Conway, NH … Continue reading "Episode 192: Summa-Palooza and Other Fish Stories
– Local Spotlight: The Lake and North Conway Lounges; NH"
It’s Summa-Palooza at the lake house where we sit out on the water to record. We are joined by Dave The Dentist from Nashville, Mark (Ernie) and Bret (Bert) from The Retrohale. We have a so-so Hidden Herf and more fun with the “fart machine” than we should. Local Spotlight – Summa-Palooza Controversy Corner – … Continue reading "Episode 191: Summa-Palooza
– Local Spotlight: On the lake with the S.S. Low Voltage"
Our special guest this week is Edgar, our local rep for Tatuaje, L’Atelier, JRE (Alidino), Regis, and Gran Habano Cigars. We learn a lot about all these lines while having the usual fun with the panel. Local Spotlight – Excalibur Cigar & Scotch Lounge; San Diego, CA Controversy Corner – Vaccines and UFOs Hidden Herf … Continue reading "Episode 190: Edgar
– Local Spotlight: Excalibur Cigar & Scotch Lounge; San Diego, CA"
We take the S.S. Low Voltage out for our first episode on the water this summer. Our special call-in guest is Korb, manager of Crown City Cigars and co-host of “The Cigar Smokers” podcast. The Monte De Leon Mobile Cigar Lounge pops up two doors down and we learn about “The Vibe You’re In” podcast. … Continue reading "Episode 189: Pee-Nuts on Enema Lake
– Local Spotlight: Crown City Cigars; Coronado, CA"
Direct from The Tobacco Shack we have Mr. Black Bottle Beard Oil (a Shack regular) along with the Shack staff for this week’s episode. It’s a fun filled show with a cast of dozens – well, maybe only one. Nurse Rick brings us a boutique brand from his west coast visit as the (not so) … Continue reading "Episode 188: Jeremy Jack at the Shack
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Nurse Rick is on assignment in sunny Southern California visiting future Local Spotlight lounges. Taco Steve, the better brother, joins us this week and we have a few laughs at Nurse Rick’s expense. The mailbag is full and the Hidden Herf is well received. We completely skipped over the Local Spotlight – oh well there’s … Continue reading "Episode 187: The Better Brother
– Local Spotlight: Ooops!"
This week we are at the Route One BNG (Business Networking Group) open event. It is a gathering of local businesses that includes cigars, a bar and pizza. Impromptu, we are joined by Scott Whitley, BNG member and host of the Boston radio and TV show; Wicked Bites. Scott and the Hacks talk with various … Continue reading "Episode 186: Wicked Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Route One BNG at The Breakaway; Danvers, MA"
It’s Memorial Day so we have some special segments and topics. The mail-bag is a classic this week, thanks Nick from RI. Plume research is in the future with a potential mail-in example. The Hidden Herf looks familiar but then it doesn’t because it’s box-pressed. Then there’s the “Storage Juice” story. Local Spotlight – Twins … Continue reading "Episode 185: Memorial Day
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH"
Direct from the Mustang Ranch in New Hampshire on a perfect spring evening, the birds are chirping, the horses are out in the field, and the other wild life is about. It’s a perfect time and place for a cigar and some Tennessee moonshine. Lots of cigar news this week. The Hidden Herf is a … Continue reading "Episode 184: Return to the Ranch
– Local Spotlight: Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
We get into how southern The Rev. Harvey is. The Hidden Herf goes in a different direction, we each choose a prefered vitola and we have panelists smoking three different sizes of the same cigar where it receives high marks. State flowers, birds and wild life are some of the side topics. We have fireworks … Continue reading "Episode 183: You’re Not Southern
– Local Spotlight: Smoke & Flame; Pelham, NH"
On the road again in the Oscuro III up to Radloff’s. It’s not warm enough to do the show outside, but almost! The cast is in rare form this week as the bad jokes are flying. The Hidden Herf takes kind of a left turn. Jamie takes a break from tending bar to sit down … Continue reading "Episode 182: Not Quite in the Street
– Local Spotlight: Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge; Rochester, NH"
This week we are joined by Rabbi Cut-Above (aka Mike from New Jersey). Another fun episode with lots of laughs! We discuss multiple cigar related topics and Rabbi Cut-Above tells about his local NJ shops. The Hidden Herf is a bit of a surprise and no one has a reasonable guess. Local Spotlight – Vintage … Continue reading "Episode 181: Rabbi Cut-Above Takes Exit 199
– Local Spotlight: Vintage Cigar Lounge & Club; Westerly, RI"
Hamlet Paredes, master cigar roller, from Rocky Patel is our special guest this week. We are also joined by Mike the Cop, our local Rocky Patel rep and winner of a “Rep of the Year” Hackie Award in 2020. The weather is perfect for our first outdoor episode of the year, the fire pit is … Continue reading "Episode 180: Hamlet from Rocky Patel Special
– Local Spotlight: Hamlet Cigars"
In-lounge at the new location of El Toro Cigar & Lounge, we get a preview of what’s coming when they reopen. We are joined by the the shop owners; Netal and Vilma, a few regulars, and our local Pura Soul Cigar representative; Bugsy. The Hidden Herf is from Pura Soul and receives high marks. The … Continue reading "Episode 179: Where is White Chocolate?
– Local Spotlight: El Toro Cigar & Lounge; Hudson, NH"
With a cast of eight in rare form, the Podcast Juice is flowing and it shows. The Hidden Herf is a great choice and is well received, but it’s guessed instantly by a couple of the panel members. We reinstate the Current Events error “bar” because the list is so long. Local Spotlight – March … Continue reading "Episode 178: Try Not To Laugh
– Local Spotlight: March Madness at the Domicile"
We swear in (or at) our newest Hack, but not before he goes through a gaultlet of questions. The Hidden Herf is a split desision, but still overall it’s a decent smoke. Comedy Chris returns to lighten up the show. Local Spotlight – Cloud Lounge; Salem, NH Controversy Corner – Prepare to have your questions … Continue reading "Episode 177: I Swear
– Local Spotlight: Cloud Lounge; Salem, NH"
A regular listener wants to see how we do the show, so we drag him right into the episode. Taco Steve and Dommie the Dominator are back. The mail bag is full. The Taco does it again; using the clues, he nails the Hidden Herf. A few new words are coined during the current events. … Continue reading "Episode 176: The Scarlet Knight
– Local Spotlight: Greek Night, The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
It’s just like hanging out in the local lounge for this episode. The Baroness is reunited with the impact driver. Paige sets us up with an interesting Hidden Herf that takes a while to figure out. The Reverend steps out for a few moments. Local Spotlight – The smoking bus, Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA … Continue reading "Episode 175: Cigars, Bars, and Cars
– Local Spotlight: The smoking bus, Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
We are joined by Steve Saka, Cindy Saka and Casey of the Dunbarton Tobacco and Trust team at the Twins Hookset lounge. Steve gives us some interesting insight into DT&T world. Pastor Padron (Dan) is our lounge host and tells us about the shop and his first year managing this location. We have the usual … Continue reading "Episode 174: Steve Saka of DT&T
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Hooksett, NH"
Nurse Rick and The Reverend Harvey team up to peg the Hidden Herf right out of the gate. Harvey receives a challenge coin. Ludwig writes in from across the pond. We talk about drifting cars on slippery roads. Paige asks why she has such a lousy nickname, so we give her an even worse nickname. … Continue reading "Episode 173: Pathogina
– Local Spotlight: March Madness at Two Guys, Salem, NH"
We are joined by The “Salty” Stephanie (Mrs. Bastard) for some fun and “MotherLovinCoffee”. The Mail bag is full of items and The Reverend Harvey is in rare form with “The Dew” podcast juice recipe. Some of the panel think they know the Hidden Herf just by looking at it but everyone is stumped. Local … Continue reading "Episode 172: Salty Dew
– Local Spotlight: World Famous Cigar Bar; Ft. Meyers, FL"
Direct from a hot tub at the Holiday Inn in Jacksonville, FL, it’s Nurse Rick on the remote. He gives us a view into the Florida cigar scene while traveling around the state on college tours. This week we hear about his visit to Cigar Life in Lakeland. We answer a question e-mailed in by … Continue reading "Episode 171: In Hot Water
– Local Spotlight: Cigar Life; Lakeland, FL"
It’s been a couple months since we’ve done an in-lounge episode and years since we’ve recorded in a cigar and hookah lounge. Jocelyn gives us a refresher course on hookahs. Nurse Rick brings in a Hidden Herf that, after a few hints, we get close to guessing the brand. Elie and Jocelyn tell us their story … Continue reading "Episode 170: The Hookah Queen
– Local Spotlight: Elie’s Smoking lounge; Nashua, NH"
Hackapalooza weekend is now just a memory, we recap all the activities since the last episode. The Hidden Herf turns out to be a mixed bag because it’s a bit strong for most of the panel. Of course, no one comes close to guessing what it is. We “swear” in the newest member of the … Continue reading "Episode 169: Hackapalooza 3.0 Part 2
– Local Spotlight: Cloud Lounge; Salem, NH"
It’s night one of The Third Annual Hackapalooza (A.K.A. The RetroHack Spectacular), we’ve taken the out-of-town visitors to their first stop of the weekend. There are four additional lounges on the schedule over the next two days. We cover the day’s events and preview what’s planned. The Hidden Herf is an aged gem that garners … Continue reading "Episode 168: Hackapalooza 3.0 Part 1
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Getting spun up for Hackapalooza we smoke a great Hidden Herf that moves right to the top of the ratings list. We have a mystery guest in the audience who comes bearing gifts for the upcoming festivities. Local Spotlight – Smoke & Flame; Pelham, NH Controversy Corner – Planet X Hidden Herf 167 / Smoke … Continue reading "Episode 167: Riff-Raff and Ballers
– Local Spotlight: Smoke & Flame; Pelham, NH"
Hop Tarts in Scranton! Lots of news and items from the mail bag. The Reverend Harvey and Nurse Rick try out the double recliner. The Caballero is on a roll and goes for two in a row out of the gate with the Hidden Herf, this time the shape and appearance of the cigar was … Continue reading "Episode 166: Two in a Row
– Local Spotlight: Cuban Crafters; Miami, FL"
We have the Kracken Spiced Podcast Juice this week. Voice mail etiquette. The Caballero pegs the Hidden Herf after just a couple clues. We interview Gil and he tells us about his travels to some cigar related video shoots. See FB and GilVideosVisual.com for samples of Gil’s work. We go into more detail on the … Continue reading "Episode 165: Hey Ernie, Welcome to Venezuela
– Local Spotlight: Eli’s Smoking Lounge; Nashua, NH"
It’s the 2020 Hackie Awards direct from Can’t Connect Conneticut. The Hidden Herf is picked off early by The reverend Harvey and Nurse Rick with a couple of lucky guesses. We learn about six new or restarting cigar lounges in the area and cover the NH regulations related to Cigar Bars. Local Spotlight – Utopia … Continue reading "Episode 164: The Hackie Awards Special 2020
– Local Spotlight: Utopia Lounge; Plaistow NH"
It’s the Christmas episode so we do something different with the Hidden Herf and have a head-to-head blind cigar review with holiday gifts from a couple of our fans. There’s a mailbag segment with messages from some of the listeners. Local Spotlight – A Shack Christmas; Rowley MA Controversy Corner – The original Ponzi Scheme … Continue reading "Episode 163: Christmas Eve Eve
– Local Spotlight: A Shack Christmas; Rowley MA"
The Hacks take the Oscuro III out for it’s maiden podcast voyage to the Christmas Party at Two Guys in Seabrook, NH. We run into Jim “The Price is Right” from CLE Cigars and Santa himself! We pull in Mr. Bojimbles and few folks from the lounge throughout the show. Local Spotlight – Two Guys … Continue reading "Episode 162: A Visit with Santa
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, NH"
Due to a screw-up on behalf of the production staff we have a Hidden Herf Pot Luck where each panelist smokes a different blind cigar. Comedy Chris calls in on the remote from Jake’s Place. It’s someone’s birthday on Hanukkah, guess who. We talk a little history of gas prices. The Reverend Harvey coins a … Continue reading "Episode 161: Pasto Resisto w/Hidden Herf Pot-Luck
– Local Spotlight: Football at the Tobacco Shack; Rowley MA"
Gringo Stah is on the remote direct from The Don Kiki Cigar Lounge in Daytona, FL. The Hidden Herf is a bit of a dud, but we have a good time chatting with The Gringo while Harvey butchers a few words during Current Events. Local Spotlight – Don Kiki Cigar Superstore; Daytona Beach, FL Conspiracy … Continue reading "Episode 160: The Yule Log, Maybe
– Local Spotlight: Don Kiki; Daytona Beach, FL"
We meet a couple of unexpected guests in the lounge and they join us for a surprise episode, sometimes these surprises make for the best episodes. JoJo Mo drops in from afar. The Hidden Herf is a recent release and it gets high marks from the panel. We learn a lot about Etiquette Cigars in … Continue reading "Episode 159: Mike T. is Bringing the Heat
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Bedford, NH"
It’s back to The Shack for the postponed Rocky Patel event w/Mike the Cop. We are just about at “Shack Capacity” with a the group spread out across the lounge this week. Nurse Rick is in quarantine because of a “close contact” and calls in on the remote. We smoke a special Rocky Patel cigar … Continue reading "Episode 158: Tasers with Mike the Cop
– Local Spotlight: Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
It’s our 3rd anniversary and we are at the Masters Event in Plaistow with Erik Wentworth of Hammer & Sickle Cigars. Back at home-base and recording on a Saturday afternoon, we had quite a turn out. I don’t know how we manage to have a dozen people on, but somehow it works. We do our … Continue reading "Episode 157: 3rd Anniversary – Hammer & Sickle and the Masters
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co.; Plaistow, NH"
We have a group of Shack regulars join us for a fun episode. The Hidden Herf receives mixed reviews but is picked out after a couple clues by the crack panel. Local Spotlight – The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA Conspiracy Corner – The Sting Hidden Herf 156 / The Tobacco Shack
The Gringo is heading south to Florida so we have a ton of laughs on his last in-person show for a while. Why Baby Shark and who is Ludwig? We received an Instagram tag from enjoying_a_cigar in the Netherlands and the discussion around it turns to mayhem. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and receives … Continue reading "Episode 155: Goodbye Gringo Stah
– Local Spotlight: Crawford’s Cigar Shoppe; Vernon, CT"
Hacks from all over meet in the Poconos for the fall classic – Pocono Palooza. We visit three lounges and smoke up a storm over the weekend. This episode is carried by a couple of the ladies who jump right in and dominate their segment. Olivia from the Big House does the Local spotlight and … Continue reading "Episode 154: Pocono Palooza 2.0
– Local Spotlight: Big House Tobacco Outlet; Scranton, PA"
It’s a nice evening for a fire pit, but a random rain cloud drops by for a couple minutes just as we get started. A cool evening and a crackling fire are the back drop for the episode. The Hidden Herf is deja vu, but still stumps the panel. Local Spotlight – Toscano at Two … Continue reading "Episode 153: Raindrops at the Fire Pit
– Local Spotlight: Toscano at Two Guys; Salem, NH"
Nick from Rhode Island (that’s where Mary was from) writes in to clear up a few points related to our salvo of The Cigar Authority mail bag entries. Nurse Rick is uncharacteristically quiet during the opening. The Hidden Herf is a bit off the beaten path and gets marks in the same vein. Comedy Chris … Continue reading "Episode 152: There’s Something About Nick
– Local Spotlight: The Oscuro III Limousine Search"
What happens when nine Hacks land on a great cigar? It’s true; the better the cigar, the better the show! It’s not often we have a universally enjoyed Hidden Herf that’s a hit with the the mild, medium, and full smokers on the panel. The Podcast juice may have also been a factor. This episode … Continue reading "Episode 151: I’d Like To Reclaim My Time
– Local Spotlight: Smoke on the Water; Enema Lake, NH"
Brian from United Cigar is with us this week and we learn about United Cigar’s offerings. We cover Strategic moves and marketing by some small to mid-sized manufactures. It seems that every turn requires another explanation that leads into other explanations. We talk about a number of different cigars and brands; United, Micallef, DT&T and … Continue reading "Episode 150: Non-Ferrous Fistbook
– Local Spotlight: United Cigar at Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow, NH"
It’s another story from the boat with Captain Rick and First Mate; Reverend “Gilligan”. The Hidden Herf is far too strong for half the panel and no one is even close on a guess. We stop in on a Rocky Patel event at Plaistow Cigar on our way to the spotlight event. Gilligan must have … Continue reading "Episode 149: Anchors Away
– Local Spotlight: Eiroa Brothers at Two Guys; Salem, NH"
Eight Hacks enter a domicile… It’s the usual mayhem and frivolity with plenty of cigar talk after we do a little 9-11 segment. The Hidden Herf is figured out at the last minute. We find that The Barroness likes power tools. Video Reference: The Boys of Smokin Tabacco Cause Havoc at The 2020 New Hampshire … Continue reading "Episode 148: The Impact Driver
– Local Spotlight: Watch City Cigar & Pipe; Framingham, MA"
Direct from the sidewalk, we kick off Labor Day weekend and have a great event at Cigars R Us in Danvers. We are joined by Bugs from Hiram & Solomon Cigars and Sweets from the local Mason Shrine. We smoke the Hiram & Solomon Traveling Man Lanceros while we learn about the brand and what … Continue reading "Episode 147: Hiram, Solomon and The Shriners
– Local Spotlight: Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
Half of The Cigar Authority joins the Hacks for another fun-filled show. This is Ed Sullivan’s’ first appearance with us and he fits right in. Mr. Jonathan gives us the history of his dance career, plus lots of insight into cigars and each Two Guys location. The Hidden Herf is nailed by one of the … Continue reading "Episode 146: Ed Sullivan and Mr. Jonathan
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, NH"
The Barroness returns for a relaxing episode around the fire-pit. The Hidden Herf is bit of a mess with the clues, but we get there eventually with a three-way effort. The Reverend makes the mistake of asking us to not mention unmentionables. Comedy Chris calls in unexpectedly and gives us an update from the Midwest. … Continue reading "Episode 145: Swearing In
– Local Spotlight: Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
Two years ago this week we did episode #40 in the same location, Two Guys in Seabrook NH, with Mr. Bojimbles and it happened to be one of the regulars’ birthday, Dave was 78. Well, it’s two years later, he’s 80 and still smoking up a storm so we return to help celebrate. It’s another … Continue reading "Episode 144: It’s Your Birthday Again
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, New Hampshire"
It’s a return to the Mustang Ranch for a sunset episode. The timing and weather is just about perfect for an evening cigar. Listen in as we transport you to a New Hampshire horse farm for a mid-summer sunset. The Hidden Herf is a follow up from a previous one, but still no one is … Continue reading "Episode 143: Sunset at The Ranch
– Local Spotlight: The Mustang Ranch; New Hampshire"
Local representatives from three cigar companies and three shops meet up at The Shack for this week’s episode, it’s like a mini-convention. Rocky, Dunbarton, United, and Hammer plus The Tobacco Shack, Cigars R Us and Plaistow Cigar are represented. Add to that a cast of many and it makes for a unique episode. We take … Continue reading "Episode 142: North Shore Cigar Convention
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Out on Enema Lake under an almost completely clear sky and a dead calm, the setting is serene for this weeks episode. We have loons and train whistles in the background, a perfect backdrop for another “aged” Hidden Herf beauty that stumps the panel. Our special guest “Tim-Berr” joins us this week for lots of … Continue reading "Episode 141: Cigars, Comets, and Conspiracies
– Local Spotlight: NE Regional Tradeshow"
Mike the Cop, our local Rocky Patel rep, and The Shadow join the Hacks for an introduction to the 2020 Rocky Patel release line-up. We smoke the new Quarter Century then learn about the Hamlet 2020, the return of The Winter Collection, ALR 2nd edition limited re-release, and more. With the PCA (formerly IPCPR) canceled the … Continue reading "Episode 140: Rocky Patel 25th Anniversary Releases
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Co.; Plaistow, New Hampshire"
Jo-Jo Mo joins the Hacks live for the third “Palooza” in under a year. For the last couple years have been on the river for the summer trip, but this year we switch it up a bit and stay at the cabin on the lake. We are also joined by Carson Nightly and K-K-K-Katie. Katie … Continue reading "Episode 139: Sum-A-Palloza Special
– Local Spotlight: On the lake; New Hampshire"
It’s another outdoor episode, but this time a storm rolls by just west of us and we have a front row seat. We did have to wait out the wind and brief sprinkle but the show must go on. The hidden Herf turns out to be a chain smoke because of the delay. We tell … Continue reading "Episode 138: Riding Out the Storm
– Local Spotlight: The Mustang Ranch; New Hampshire"
Half of the “Not Just Blowing Smoke” (NJBS) podcast and Dave “Bugsy” Segal of Pura Soul Cigars join the Hacks for another in-lounge episode. We smoke the Pura Soul Maduro which garners rave reviews from all participants. Bugsy tells us about the Pura Soul founder Robert Wright. Pastor Padron (Dan) and the other Dave (yes, … Continue reading "Episode 137: Not Just Blowing Smoke with Bugsy Segal of Pura Soul Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Hooksett, NH"
Outdoors for the fifth, and in the gutter for the second week in a row. The “sidewalk lounge” at Cigars R Us is along side the building on Cherry Street and we are literally sitting in the street again. We are joined by a large cast of characters and a big audience. It’s like a … Continue reading "Episode 136: In the Gutter Again
– Local Spotlight: Cigars R Us; Danvers, MA"
Continuing with our outdoor theme (#4) we are literally in the street this week. Radloff’s is in a unique position where they have been allowed to have an outdoor lounge in the on-street parking area in front of the shop during this unprecedented time. Once we saw the pictures of what they set up we … Continue reading "Episode 135: Taking it to the Streets
– Local Spotlight: Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge; Rochester, NH"
The weather is so good that we go out on Enema Lake for a second week in a row. It’s the Strawberry Moon and the sky is crystal clear. We start in the middle of the lake to avoid the bugs but the wind kicks up and we start moving. This might be the first … Continue reading "Episode 134: Strawberry Moon
– Local Spotlight: Happy Jack’s Cigars, Pipe and Tobacco Shop; Laconia, NH"
It’s the 2020 edition of our return to recording on the boat while fishing and smoking cigars. Comedy Chris is back at the helm and it seems we have overcome the power issues with the S. S. Low Voltage (A.K.A Smoke on the Water). After a number of clues and a multitude of guesses the … Continue reading "Episode 133: Return to Enema Lake 2020
– Local Spotlight: Smoke On The Water; Enema Lake, NH"
NH has allowed outdoor lounges and we jumped at the opportunity to do our first live lounge recording in the ten weeks since the “lock-down” began. Erik Wentworth of Hammer + Sickle joins us for the return to a bit of “the old normal” . It’s time to catch up with Erik talk about the … Continue reading "Episode 132: It’s Hammer Time w/Erik Wentworth of Hammer + Sickle Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop – Under the Tent; Londonderry, NH"
The front rolls through as we start the show, under a tornado watch we forge ahead. Fishing stories, Covid 19 update, ADA, HIPPA and masks. Nurse Rick picks out the Hidden Herf cigar brand after one clue with his first guess. Boober Eats at The Lucky Devil Lounge. Somehow we start talking about Route 66. … Continue reading "Episode 131: Weathering the Storm
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Hooksett, NH"
The Hidden Herf is a winner, it stumps the panel and gets a great rating! We get into a few guitars, Nurse Rick takes a drive down memory lane and Comedy Chris joins us on the remote. Current Events are starting to come back to life. Nurse Rick and Mustang Mike face-off for Conspiracy Corner … Continue reading "Episode 130: Friends in the pool
– Local Spotlight: Who is actually open?"
JoJo Mo joins the panel on the remote and pegs the Hidden Herf from the descriptions and the clues. Curbside cigar service, actual cigar events, drive through restaurants. CV19 testing, tracing and inflated figures, re-opening of states, getting the boats ready for the summer, Sum-A-Palooza, now heard in all 50 states. Video Reference – Squirrel … Continue reading "Episode 129: The Scarf Lady
– Local Spotlight: Curbside Pickup"
The Retrohale Roast continues – for at least the first 90 seconds. Nancy’s ice cream, ballot harvesting, paper or plastic, the convalescent crew, tobacco and the corona virus, Tampa Tom and much more. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel and gets a wide range of ratings. Local Spotlight – Tailgate Lounges Conspiracy Corner – JFK … Continue reading "Episode 128: Socialist Distancing
– Local Spotlight: Tailgate Lounges"
Nurse Rick’s 1st day of retirement, roller coasters, distance learning high school vs. college. The Hidden Herf stumps the panel, but is well received. Local Spotlight – Curbside Service Conspiracy Corner – World Trade building 7, JFK Sr. and Jr. Hidden Herf 127
A little follow-up to the the April Fools episode. The Reverend is back. Nurse Rick is now Retired Rick and recognizes the Hidden Herf immediately. Local Spotlight – Social distancing at the Culebra Club. Conspiracy Corner – Corona Theories Hidden Herf 126 / Billy Bleach
This is our April Fools’ episode – enjoy! Video references – Rodney Carrington Local Spotlight – Beehive Cigars; Salt Lake City, UT Conspiracy Corner – April Fools’ assortment and food for thought Hidden Herf 125 / Beehive Cigar / Bill Folding
Just about every cigar lounge is in an area affected by some form of shutdown due to the Covid-19 response. Most shops have resorted to curb-side pickup only. Call ahead to your favorite shop and support them in this time of uncertainty. It’s a challenge doing a podcast that focuses on cigar lounges when they … Continue reading "Episode 124: It’s Just Depressing
– Local Spotlight: Smoking at the Firepits"
It’s all “Corona” this episode; we’re smoking one, drinking one, singing a few, and talking about yet another one. We have the return of a regular personality and Nurse Rick picks out the Hidden Herf. Many current events have been canceled or postponed but cigar retail operation are generally still available, we detail the specifics … Continue reading "Episode 123: The Corona Special
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Concord, NH"
With our special guests, Christian Eiroa and Jim Price of C.L.E Cigars, we come to you direct from Federal Cigar and the Slow Burn Lounge in Dover NH. Christian tells us stories about his company, C.L.E Cigars, as well as his family’s history and a little about their brand; JRE Tobacco. It’s another unique discussion … Continue reading "Episode 122: C.L.E. Cigars with Christian & Jim
– Local Spotlight: Slow Burn lounge; Dover, NH"
Direct from Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge in Rochester, NH we have a few of the Radloff Regulars on to talk about cigars, the Nashville tornado, Coronavirus, and more. Family Jules pegs the Hidden Herf. The Cigar world is smaller than you think. We checked in with Nashville Dave early in the … Continue reading "Episode 121: The Nashville Special from Radloff’s
– Local Spotlight: Casa De Montecristo; Nashville, TN"
The stars are finally in alignment and we do an episode with Mike the Cop from Rocky Patel. He’s doing his first event at the Tobacco Shack and Hacks are in the Shack. Gringo Stah nails the Hidden Herf early on. We have a large audience on hand and many participate in the Hidden Herf. … Continue reading "Episode 120: Shack Attack with Mike the Cop
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
We bring on a group of newly minted Cigar Hacks for a live lounge recording out of The 7-20-4 Lounge upstairs at Twins Smoke Shop in Londonderry, NH. The Caballero, Gringo Stah, White Chocolate, The Silver Fox, and Uber/Creepy Dave jump right in with a couple of the regulars and the fun begins. The Hidden … Continue reading "Episode 119: New Hack City
– Local Spotlight: Smokers Abbey, East Nashville, TN"
We have recovered from Hackapalooza 2020 and get some well deserved small group therapy. It’s just four on the panel this week and it’s just what we needed to slow things down and get deeper into some topics. We still have a bit of fun with the “mash-up” and a few good jokes along with … Continue reading "Episode 118: Eighty Eight
– Local Spotlight: Rocky Patel Event at Plaistow Cigar; Plaistow NH"
It’s the 2nd annual Hackapalooza (AKA RetroHack Spectacular) weekend. On the last evening after the Superbowl we hit record and recap all the zany things from the past two and a half days. This episode could be titled “The 100 Minute Laugh Track”. After two plus days of non-stop cigars and booze the panel is … Continue reading "Episode 117: Hackapalooza 2020
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack, Radloff’s, Etc."
The Dunbarton Girls, Cindy Saka and Yvonne Ramée, are joined by The Brooklyn Chick for a raucous time. Eric Kilbane, the owner of Castro’s Back Room, drops in to see us and, of course, we suck him right in to the episode. Local Spotlight – Castro’s Back Room; Bedford, NH Conspiracy Corner – Substantial Equivalence … Continue reading "Episode 116: Ladies Night with the Dunbarton Girls
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Bedford, NH"
We make a surprise call to Nashville Dave just before the show and he joins us on the panel for a chat through rural Kentucky. The Hidden Herf is another surprise and is a bit strong for the mild cigar smokers. We talk about cigars, the upcomming annual gatrhering of The Retro-Hacks and a little … Continue reading "Episode 115: Direct from I-24 with Nashville Dave
– Local Spotlight: Hack-a-Palooza Preview"
He’s back… The Hidden Herf is a very well aged cigar. We have a discussion about short-fill cigars made from premium trimmings and the new age restrictions on tobacco purchases. The Current events include the Hack-a-palooza stops. Watch out for the fake Enemaology news. We get back to “What did Cory Booker Say?” Local Spotlight … Continue reading "Episode 114: Crawdad Jim Returns
– Local Spotlight: The Meat Ball"
This episode is direct from the Culebra Club in Epping, NH. The club is a 7X24 members cigar lounge. We are joined in the club by Dave and Jeremy for some great conversation about cigars the venue and other topics. The Hidden Herf is picked out by Jeremy based on the smoking and flavor profile. … Continue reading "Episode 113: The Culebra Club
– Local Spotlight: Federal Cigar; Epping ,NH"
Join us for the grand opening of “Jake’s Place”. Jake is the dog, and the place is an old bunkhouse converted to a backyard smoking lounge and man-cave. Vern, our guest, was a big help with the conversion and renovation of Jake’s Place. The Hidden Herf was pegged on the second guess. The Local Spotlight … Continue reading "Episode 112: I’m Here for the Food
– Local Spotlight: The Smokey Cigar; Hendersonville, TN"
It’s the New Year Special. Jake’s Place is almost ready. In the news section we get into the new national 21 year age requirement to purchase Tobacco. The panel is stumped by the Hidden Herf where we have a split rating. Harvey tells us more stories from the old days. “420” pops up a few … Continue reading "Episode 111: New Year 420 Special
– Local Spotlight: Local Cigar Lounge Christmas Parties"
In lieu of the Local Spotlight segment we present The Hackie Awards where we award the “Oliver” to the winner of each category. See episode 96 for why we are presenting “Olivers” for the Hack-adamy Awards, it’s not too subtle. The Hidden Herf is one that has a split on the rating because of it’s … Continue reading "Episode 110: The Hackie Awards Special Edition"
The Hidden Herf is a real wildcard and the panel is totally stumped. Tobacco Business Awards, Hackapalooza, and a lot of cigar discussions are included. We finally get the Watertown NY story out of Reverend Harvey. Support Cigars for Warriors. Hidden Herf 109
Cigar shop Christmas parties and events start things off. Plowing and other snow related topics are discussed. We do a rundown of the Black Friday activities at a couple of cigar shops. The Hidden Herf should have been and easy one but it requires a huge clue to get a good guess. Support Cigars for … Continue reading "Episode 108: Christmas Parties and Getting Plowed
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH"
For the Thanksgiving holiday we record a week ahead to let everyone enjoy the break, but that doesn’t stop us from doing most of the regular segments and the usual antics. The Hidden Herf is guessed right out of the gate and The Reverend Harvey recounts being away in the service during the holidays. Support … Continue reading "Episode 107: It’s Cheaper to Keep’er
– Local Spotlight: Open Lounge Discussion"
Whenever we get together to plan anything Cigar Hacks related it’s called a Board Meeting. We were having a discussion on plans for this year’s Retro-Hack-A-Palooza with Brett from The Retrohale and we decide to segue into an episode. Cigar news and related topics are included. The Hidden Herf may have been an easy one … Continue reading "Episode 106: The Board Meeting
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, NH"
Another year is in the books! A large percentage of the Hacks drop in to Plaistow Cigar Co. for the occasion and we are joined by a cigar lover with the right name – Matthew Tabacco. Yes, it’s the Italian spelling. He is behind Smokin’ Tabacco [FB] [IG] on social media. We each pick a … Continue reading "Episode 105: 2nd Anniversary with Special Guest Matthew Tabacco
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Manchester, NH"
We have a “Shack full of Hacks” for this episode, with eleven voices it might be hard to keep score but it’s still a lot of laughs. The Hacks are introduced to the Tobacco Shack under new management. Even with plenty of clues the Hidden Herf stumps the entire panel, but again, a late entry … Continue reading "Episode 104: A Fixer, Resuscitator, Wanderer, and Cat walk into a lounge…
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack; Rowley, MA"
Special guest Crawdad Jim sits in for the Reverend Harvey. The Hidden Herf get by the panel again. Local Spotlight – Southern Draw at The Smoke Shop; Middleton, MA Conspiracy Corner – It never ends Hidden Herf 103 / The Smoke Shop
Just back from the Pocono-Palooza cigar lounge tour in Northeast Pennsylvania we have our accommodations host for the weekend, The Happy Hooker, as our call-in guest. We recap some of the highlights of the weekend including our visit to Cigars International, Famous Smoke Shop, JR Cigars and Big House Tobacco Outlet. This episode could have … Continue reading "Episode 102: Pocono-Palooza
– Local Spotlight: Big House Tobacco Outlet; Scranton, PA"
We’ve been talking about the Boutique AF Cigar Jubilee for months so we rolled the Oscuro up to Cigar Shenanigans in North Conway for the day to do this episode with Erik Wentworth of Hammer & Sickle, our first guest way back on Episode 5. Along with Erik we have Nick Goss, Penny Piva and … Continue reading "Episode 101: Boutique AF Cigar Jubilee
– Local Spotlight: Cigar Shenanigans, Cigar & Cocktail Lounge; North Conway, NH"
For our 100th we join forces with our friends at the “Not Just Blowing Smoke” podcast (Dan, Nick, and Dave) and hang out with KC Johnson of Tatuaje Cigars in the “Twins 7-20-4 Lounge”. We talk with the infamous Mame of “Smoke Cigar Shop & Lounge” in Bridgeville, PA plus a “mystery guest”. We smoke two … Continue reading "Episode 100: Crossover Special Edition
– Local Spotlight: Tatuaje Cigars at Twins Smoke Shop in Londonderry, NH"
Jim Price from C.L.E Cigars joins us at the event in Plaistow for another great cigar. We have a full house of Hacks and cover the following: The CLE Corjo and C.L.E news, 2 Guys annual dinner, B-17 crash, the H&S lamp, Cloud Palace renovation, Cigar Ash Barbecue sauce from the BBQ Pit Boys, current … Continue reading "Episode 99: 88 MPH
– Local Spotlight: C.L.E Cigars at Plaistow Cigar Co. in Plaistow, NH"
Eight friends meet at the cigar lounge and smoke a new show release cigar. It’s like the pre-podcast days when we would all just hang out on a Friday night. Sit back and imagine you are in the lounge with us, hopefully you will be transported to Plaistow, NH for an hour. That’s New Hampshire … Continue reading "Episode 98: Eight Guys and a Cigar
– Local Spotlight: My Father Cigars at Plaistow Cigar Co. in Plaistow, NH"
The weather is cooperating so we head out on the boat for one last time this season. The battery configuration is finally sorted out so we don’t get stranded on the S.S. Low Voltage. The Hidden Herf is well received and Nurse Rick almost backs into what it is but, no one hits it. We … Continue reading "Episode 97: Catfish on Enema Lake
– Local Spotlight: Twins 22nd Annual Smokin’ Blues BBQ!"
This week we sit down with Jose Dominguez from Jose Dominguez Cigars and Oliver Nivaud of United Cigars, their US distributor. We planned to do a recording after an event at our home base of Plaistow Cigar on Friday but had not planned on meeting Jose, his sister Ylse, her husband “DJ”, or Oliver (AKA … Continue reading "Episode 96: Jose, Oliver and the Hightower
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys 34th Anniversary Cigar Dinner"
A large percentage of the panel has a birthday within a few weeks of Labor Day so we have a bit of party before and during recording. We go off the rails early and this makes for a lot of laughs and some editing challenges. The Hidden Herf is a wild card with not one … Continue reading "Episode 95: Hacky Birthday
– Local Spotlight: The Domicile’s Staircase?"
Another typical Hack episode, a plethora of random topics with plenty of cigar talk including vanity plates to hurricane naming conventions and oysters. The Hidden Herf is well received but no good guesses are made by the panel. We had a small issue with the limo but it’s back on the road again. The Cigar … Continue reading "Episode 94: Haddock Parmesan
– Local Spotlight: Dinner with Nick Perdomo at Castaways in Seabrook, NH"
Kelly from Ashton joins the Cigar Hacks for a special episode. Besides learning a lot about all the Ashton lines, including La Aroma De Cuba and San Cristobal, we record one fun show. We cover everything from birthing to fake Spanish and Italian. The Hidden Herf has a twist and there’s a segment on “your … Continue reading "Episode 93: Kelly from Ashton
– Local Spotlight: La Aroma De Cuba at Plaistow Cigar Co. in Plaistow, NH"
In the spirit of “2000 Flushes” we have this week’s Hidden Herf where about the same number of guesses are made before someone uses the internet to look up possible matches. We are all over the map with topics, even more than usual. We run into Kelly from Ashton at The Original and have some … Continue reading "Episode 92: Two Thousand Guesses
– Local Spotlight: The Original Cigar & Bar; North Conway, NH"
Cigar Hack Dave’s extended family heads up to the White Mountains and while in North Conway, NH we stop in and record with the Cigar Shenanigans family. It’s a different kind of a “family” show as the new Shenanigans Woodford Reserve House Blend arrives mid-show. Of course, we have to sample it. Spoiler alert: it’s … Continue reading "Episode 91: Cigar Hacks’ Family Vacation
– Local Spotlight: Cigar Shenanigans, Cigar & Cocktail Lounge; North Conway, NH"
Richard Carleton Hacker, the author of “The Ultimate Cigar Book”, joins us on the remote while the in-studio guests are Mr. Johnathan and David Garofalo of “The Cigar Authority”. We talk about history, cigars, pipes, and spirits. With a couple of professional interviewers and a great subject to interview this quickly becomes the most informative … Continue reading "Episode 90: The Ultimate Cigar Authority
– Local Spotlight: Studio 21 Podcast Cafe; Salem, NH"
The Cigar Hacks again take the pedal-powered paddle-wheeler barge for a two night camping adventure. We are on the Saco River in Fryeburg Maine, this year it’s with a crew of 15. Using a new portable recording configuration we are able to do the episode around the campfire on a sandy beach with the entire … Continue reading "Episode 89: River Redux
– Local Spotlight: The Saco River; Fryeburg, ME"
The Engineering team solves the power problem on the S.S. Low Voltage which allows us to record out on Enema Lake. There’s a little competition from the campers on the island. The Saco River Trip is previewed, we are planning to record an episode on the river again this year. The Hidden Herf is a … Continue reading "Episode 88: Return to Enema Lake
– Local Spotlight: Toscano at Two Guys; Seabrook, NH"
Recorded on the Sixth of July we have a Fourth of July themed show. We tried to record out on Enema Lake but ran into technical issues with the S.S. Low Voltage, it was quick retreat to dry land for this one – thanks to the back-up battery! The Leprechaun King takes another try with … Continue reading "Episode 87: Fourth of July Special
– Local Spotlight: Fireworks on the Fourth"
It’s Pipe Club 101, the hacks learn how to smoke pipes. Pastor Padron (Dan) has us over to the haunted mansion to learn the basics of pipe smoking. Nick sets us up with the essential hardware and the tobacco packing begins. Join us for a “never smoked a pipe before” lesson on how to get … Continue reading "Episode 86: Pipe Club with Pastor Padron
– Local Spotlight: A Day at Fenway Park with Rocky Patel"
We sit down with Ted, one of the owners of Castaways Seafood & Grille, to talk about the Perdomo Cigar Dinner they are hosting with Two Guys Smoke Shop on Tuesday August 27th. We learn that you can smoke cigars anytime by the fire pits, beside the deck toward the beach. This qualifies Castaways as … Continue reading "Episode 85: Seafood, Cigars and Cars
– Local Spotlight: Castaways Seafood & Grille; Seabrook, NH"
The Current Events segment is a special treat this week – it’s not as easy as it looks. Things start off with ten minutes of Hidden Herf incorrect guessing and general cigar discussion. We go for ice cream in the Oscuro limo, it got washed, an oil change and then it talks back to us … Continue reading "Episode 84: Not as Easy as it Looks
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Father’s Day Event; Salem, NH"
The crew heads out on to Enema Lake with the newly updated boat for the first fishing episode of the season. It’s a bit windy in spots until the sun goes down. The Hidden Herf is disguised, but not well enough as it’s an easy 2nd guess for the team. The Leprechaun King (Correspondent Mike) … Continue reading "Episode 83: Any Port in a Storm
– Local Spotlight: Smoke on the Water"
Extending the tour of Hack Fire Pits we are watching the Bruins and Blues in game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals on the side of the house while burning pallets. The panel needs a Hidden-Herf clue to just get in the ball park. Our recording coincides with the 75th anniversary of D-Day. We invent … Continue reading "Episode 82: Game Five on the House
– Local Spotlight: The Bush Trimmer’s Emporium"
We are at the fire pit of “Chappy”, the Cigar Hacks’ Chaplin, for an episode to reflect on the possible virtues and immorality of smoking and especially cigars. The panel exposes the Hidden-Herf early by just guessing. The range of topics include: Graduation Cigars, Landscape Rocks, Bible talk on smoking, Smores, and our favorite sports … Continue reading "Episode 81: Good for the Soul
– Local Spotlight: The Eternal Flame Fire Pit"
We are joined by a new Hack for this one. The Hidden Herf is well received by the panel. Topics include; online vs. B&M [David vs Goliath], first time smokers, and more. Local Spotlight: Boulevard Grille & Cigar Lounge; Pawtucket, RI Boulevard Grille & Cigar Lounge; Pawtucket, RI Hidden Herf 80 / “Poker in the … Continue reading "Episode 80: Liquor in the Front & Poker in the Back
– Local Spotlight: Boulevard Grille & Cigar Lounge; Pawtucket, RI"
Jim Price from C.L.E. Cigars joins us again. Episode #69 was so much fun with Jim that we just couldn’t pass up an opportunity at the C.L.E. event from our home base to do another. There is a lot of cigar content but, our first animal guest, “Gunner”, the pit bull rescue dog along with … Continue reading "Episode 79: Gone to the Dogs
– Local Spotlight: C.L.E Cigars at Plaistow Cigar Co.; Plaistow, NH"
The Hidden Herf is a bit of a surprise, it’s well received and no one has a clue what it is. We have a good old-fashioned cigar group discussion on the topics of the day. Local Spotlight: Smoke on the Water; Enema Lake Conspiracy Corner: Social Media Access Restrictions; The Derby; and More Smoke on … Continue reading "Episode 78: Whales and Mouse Holes
– Local Spotlight: Smoke on the Water; Enema Lake"
This week’s cigar turns out to be a winner. We are treated to a classic Latin American meal at half-time of empanadas with rice and beans prepared by the Cuban Vixen. The Podcast Juice and other libations are flowing. It sounds like a perfect combination of cigars, food and drink but we have to add … Continue reading "Episode 77: Send Nurses, Guns and Funny, We’re Eating Empanadas
– Local Spotlight: The Oscuro; Parts Unknown"
Special guest “Pastor Padron” joins the Hacks in-lounge and teaches us about pipes, pipe smoking and how it crosses over to cigars. The Hidden Herf is a mail-in from “Alex the Bastard” and it’s everything we could expect from Alex. The “Reverend Harvey” coins a few new terms. “Bike Rider Mike” and “Bruce the Boss … Continue reading "Episode 76: Pipe Club with Pastor Padron
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH"
Nurse Rick joins us on the remote from his vacation in Florida. The Hidden Herf is circling around in front of everyone but still no one lands it. It’s spring time and cigar events are happening at almost every shop. It takes us a full ten minutes to cover current events. We talk about a … Continue reading "Episode 75: The Hysterical Hacks Direct from Florida
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook, NH"
The Oscuro takes us back to O’Shea’s in Nashua where we are joined by Ron and Mike, a couple of regulars who were just sitting at the bar when we walked in. Ron and Mike tell us all about O’Shea’s and other topics ranging from the Cigar Association of NH Golf Tournament to the finer … Continue reading "Episode 74: The Ron & Mike Show
– Local Spotlight: O’Shea’s Tavern & Cigar Bar; Nashua, NH"
This week we do an impromptu in-lounge episode from Radloff’s in Rochester NH. Jamie Radloff joins us for an informative episode about cigars and lounges from the the perspective of a lounge owner. While doing a lounge recon to a shop we had not been to, but have been planning to visit for quite some … Continue reading "Episode 73: Family Fued Night
– Local Spotlight: Radloff’s Cigar Shop and On the Rox Lounge; Rochester, NH"
One take doesn’t mean there was no editing. We have a lot of Cigar talk during the first half and a lot of political and sports topics for the second half. The Hidden Herf is another crowd favorite, many on the panel had smoked it recently but no one was even close on a guess. … Continue reading "Episode 72: One Take
– Local Spotlight: Churchill’s Smoke Shop & Lounge; East Providence, RI"
Most episodes are good on a single take. It takes multiple tries to get this one off the ground. It was so much fun for us to do all the takes that we needed to share the antics. We talk about RoMa Craft Tobac and meeting the owners. Also the Cigar Hacks Board Meeting, and … Continue reading "Episode 71: Third Time’s the Charm
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Nashua, NH"
The Oscuro limo returns us to Castro’s in Bedford, NH for a second time in just 10 weeks. This lounge is great for recording late in the evening on a Friday. The Hidden Herf receives mixed reviews and isn’t too hard guess. We have fish stories. Phil, our host at Castro’s, joins us for the … Continue reading "Episode 70: Lego My Fuego
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Bedford, NH"
C.L.E. Cigars regional sales manager Jim Price joins us for this episode. Jim introduces us to the Wynwood Hills Mayhem, a Honduran Corojo. The wrapper binder and filler are all Corojo making this a puro. We forego the Hidden Herf to make way for this special guest and our new favorite C.L.E cigar. This is … Continue reading "Episode 69: Wine’em Dine’em
– Local Spotlight: C.L.E. Cigars at Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH"
Joined by a new recruit who hails from the DR the laugh-o-meter is set on high. The Hidden Herf starts out strong but mellows mid-stream; it looks like the Habano, not the Maduro. We cover Podcast Juice, El Oscuro, The Oscars, and a few personnel changes in the local area. The Reverend handles the Current … Continue reading "Episode 68: Princes and Kings
– Local Spotlight: Drew Estate, March Madness, and The Shriners"
Nurse Rick, Dommie the Dominator and Cigar Hack Dave hold down the fort for this episode. We talk about some rare cigars, the Oscuro limo and March Madness. The Hidden Herf is an economy type also know as a golf or yard-gar. Nurse Rick takes his first swing at reading the current events. Comedy Chris … Continue reading "Episode 67: Three Hack-migos
– Local Spotlight: Podcasting Locations Past and Future"
Not only are we drinking Patron XO Cafe Dark Cocoa and Incindia (chile choclate) tequila but Cuestion Tequila trips up The Reverend Harvey during Current Events. The Hidden Herf is a great cigar that we should have known but Nurse Rick throws us off the scent and gives us clues at the same time. We … Continue reading "Episode 66: Tequila at Dave’s Depot
– Local Spotlight: Kelly of Aston at Twins and Roy of Perdomo at Plaistow Cigar"
This episode is a recap of the entire RetroHack Spectacular with stories from the road trip. We do a Hidden Herf and again it’s a surprise for the panel. A few of the RetroHacks call in during the show and we talk about the unexpected things that happened along the way, all the swag that … Continue reading "Episode 65: 2019 RetroHack Spectacular Recap
– Local Spotlight: New Hampshire Cigar Lounge Tour Part 2"
We record a special edition show on Friday evening from the Plaistow Cigar shop with the entire RetroHack group after a day of touring cigar lounges in New Hampshire. This is our eighth stop on the tour with one more to go until tomorrow. Saturday we hit five more locations making a total of 13 … Continue reading "Episode 64: 2019 RetroHack Spectacular Special Edition
– Local Spotlight: New Hampshire Cigar Lounge Tour"
This week we get ready for the final football game of the season and make last-minute preparations for all the guests who will be arriving later in the week for the Retro-Hack Spectacular. It’s about time we have a Hidden Herf that no one nailed out of the gate, and it’s a good one! Plenty … Continue reading "Episode 63: Gettin’ Some Cold-Cuts for the Big Game
– Local Spotlight: Smoke On The Water, New Hampshire"
We are joined by many of the folks that will be coming to New Hampshire for the Retro-Hack Spectacular at the end of the month. We talk lots of Cigars and other things related to what to expect in two weeks at the Spectacular. Nurse Rick picks out the Hidden Herf by just looking at … Continue reading "Episode 62: The Retro-Hack Spectacular Pre-Game Show
– Local Spotlight: Open Mic with the Goat at O’Shea’s Nashua, NH"
Join us for this episode to find out how Root Beer and Moose Poop relate to a Cigar podcast. Nick schools us on how to pick out the Hidden Herf. He is really getting good at this cigar thing. We take out the Oscuro (Hack’s limo) this week and go for a smoke at Twins … Continue reading "Episode 61: Root Beer & Moose Poop
– Local Spotlight: Limo to Twins Smoke Shop; Londonderry, NH"
An in-lounge episode direct from Federal Cigar in Epping, New Hampshire, as we sit around the card table in the back of the lounge with a full-house of eight Hacks. The Hidden Herf is revealed under questionable circumstances – again. The upcoming Cigar Convention with The Retrohale is discussed. The Reverend Harvey gets uncharacteristically steamed … Continue reading "Episode 60: Full-House at the Poker Table
– Local Spotlight: Federal Cigar; Epping, NH"
This is an in-lounge episode recorded at Castro’s Back Room in Bedford, New Hampshire. The Stunning Christie, Reverend Harvey, Big Man Tate and Cigar Hack Dave are in the lounge with Skippy (Bret, from The Retrohale) and “sick” Nurse Rick on the remote call-in. We cover a lot of ground in this one so break … Continue reading "Episode 59: Sick Nurse Rick
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room; Bedford, NH"
Our Christmas special has most of the usual segments and banter, we do a little gift swap instead of the regular local spotlight. The Secret Santa Hidden Herf is a real wild-card and receives mixed reviews. We are joined by Big Man Tate on the remote where we recount the Federal Cigar Christmas Party and … Continue reading "Episode 58: Christmas Special 2018"
Whenever we throw a last minute recording session together it always turns out great. We drop in to the Cloud Palace mid week and have an opportunity to be joined by some of the Cloud Palace family members and their friends. The quests are on the hookahs and also join us for the Hidden Herf. … Continue reading "Episode 57: Hookah Hacks
– Local Spotlight: Cloud Palace’s New VIP Room; Salem, NH"
We put together another classic “Hack” episode from the Nut-Nook. The Hidden Herf is pegged by Nick the Nasty right out of the gate. The Reverend Harvey runs down a long list of current events. Nurse Rick and Dommie the Dominator have new sound effects and throw them in all through the show. The Cuban … Continue reading "Episode 56: Sound Effects and E-mail
– Local Spotlight: Casa Fuente; Las Vegas, NV"
After last week we calm down a little with a mellow smoke and episode. We still have a lot of fun with Podcast Juice and a bunch of Hack updates. Nurse Rick brings us a Hidden Herf suggested by our friend Erik Wentworth of Hammer and Sickle. The Reverend Harvey rolls through the current events … Continue reading "Episode 55: Magazine
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s at The Station Bar; Keene, NH"
Starting season 2 we have the largest panel so far, nine plus two call-ins. With this many voices things go off the rails early which makes for another interesting episode where we completely miss the local spotlight. Nick the Nasty brings us a nice surprise for the Hidden Herf, the Reverend Harvey runs through the … Continue reading "Episode 54: Off the Rails
– Local Spotlight: ???"
Recorded in the original location [Plaistow Cigar Co.] with the original Cigar Hacks [Matty, Nick, Dave plus Rick &Harvey] we review the first year of The Cigar Hacks. We saved extra Hidden Herfs from almost every episode and each pick out a few favorites to smoke during this episode. There’s a segment covering all the … Continue reading "Episode 53: 1st Anniversary Special"
Cigar Craig joins the Hacks for an hour and a quarter of cigar talk and banter about many of other topics; Cigar Craig’s Podcast, how the Cigar Craig Blog started, dogs, chickens, other animals, regional accents, growing tobacco, Carlito’s auctions, stopping at JR Cigars, “Presidential” cigars, Plymouth Pebble (Rock), Cigar Hacks back story, Saco River … Continue reading "Episode 52: Cigar Craig Special / Veterans Day Edition
– Local Spotlight: Sosa Family Cigar; Orlando, FL"
Recorded north of Twins, Twins, Twins from The Stunning Christy’s garage, garage, garage. We are joined by JoJo Mo and The Happy Hooker on the remote. Nurse Rick pulls out a Hidden Herf that no one has smoked before. Cigar Planner site is down & Limo talk. Current Events reported by the Reverend Harvey. Local … Continue reading "Episode 51: Nerds of the North
– Local Spotlight: Michael’s Tobacco; Euless, TX"
It’s the Halloween edition, we are at a costume party while smoking and recording. A standard format episode except that Larry the dog is having too much fun with all the party activity. The Hidden Herf is an easy guess for most of the panel because of it’s distinctive characteristics. Bob the Painter (Ross) joins … Continue reading "Episode 50: Larry the Dog and Happy Clouds
– Local Spotlight: Corona Cigar Co.; Orlando, FL"
It’s a Patriots night game so we are at our regular spot to watch the game projected on the side of the house. Fire, Football, Cigars and Podcast Juice – a winning combination. The Red Sox are also on so it’s a double header at the fire-pit while we smoke lots of sticks and burn … Continue reading "Episode 49: Football on the House
– Local Spotlight: Kevin’s Flaming Fire-pit; Somewhere in NH"
This week we do another in-lounge episode direct from the The Cloud Palace in Salem, New Hampshire. We are joined by Simon (Simon Says) and Joe (JoJo Notmo) the owners of The Cloud Palace. They tell us about cigars, hookahs, and belly dancing. The Hidden Herf is a giant log that turns out to be … Continue reading "Episode 48: Simon Says: Smoke Cigars
– Local Spotlight: The Cloud Palace; Salem, NH"
From the fire pit comes a special multi-call-in episode with our Retrohale friends; “JoJo Mo”, “Drew the Hooker”, “The Skip” and “The Mate”. The regular format is sidelined for a week while sit around the fire, smoke cigars and talk about whatever comes up, including a preview of the January trip to New Hampshire.
We do a quick follow-up of the “JoJo Mo” and “Drew the Hooker” visit adding the Late Friday and Saturday stops bringing the lounge tally to 8 in under 48 hours. Somehow we get on a couple of religion topics before current events. Conspiracy corner gets into a couple of political topics. The Hidden Herf … Continue reading "Episode 46: Religion and Politics
– Local Spotlight: Gold Leaf Tobacconist; Seabrook, NH"
We are visited by “JoJo Mo” and “Drew the Hooker” for a few days and have them with us in person. Joe and Drew came up to New Hampshire from the New Jersey / Pennsylvania area to attend a cigar event and go on a lounge tour. With special guests on hand and recording back … Continue reading "Episode 45: JoJo Mo and Son
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Company; Plaistow, NH"
Looking to extend the summer we get out on the lake but then run into problems forcing us to head back to the dock and record on dry land. Skippy and the Mate of The Retrohale join us from Colorado for the full experience with a Hidden Herf as they go end-to-end on this episode. … Continue reading "Episode 44: Dead in the Water with Skippy & The Mate
– Local Spotlight: Stanza Dei Sigari; Boston, MA"
We head out on the boat again after 6 weeks of getting rained out for some fishing, podcast juice, and cigars. The range of topics include; Smokey and the Bandit/Burt Reynolds. World Championship Cigar smoking. Nurse Rick wears boxer shorts for the first time. Anchors away! Deadliest Catch. Industry Night. The Snack Authority and the … Continue reading "Episode 43: Back on the Lake; No Rain!
– Local Spotlight: Red Lion Smoke Shop; Salem, MA"
We do our second live-in-lounge recording where we recap of the Fuente event and much more. This one is loaded with lots of general cigar talk. We recruit a guest right off the bar! Another first is ordering Podcast Juice Cocktails on-mic with the bar tender. Some of our listeners come to the lounge to … Continue reading "Episode 42: Twins, Twins, Twins, Live, Live, Live
– Local Spotlight: 7-20-4 Cigar Lounge; Londonderry, NH"
In typical Hack fashion we throw an episode together in a couple of hours. We put out the call to the troops and with three regular Hacks and one call in guest we pull off another gem, impromptu. JoJo Mo (Joe Morasco) fits right in and coincidentally is calling from New Jersey just a few … Continue reading "Episode 41: Dirty Jersey with JoJo Mo
– Local Spotlight: Hoboken Cigars; Hoboken, NJ"
This episode starts a new chapter for the Hacks, we record our first in-lounge remote at Two Guys in Seabrook NH, we are joined by Big Jim (aka Mr. Bojimbles). Jim is one of the regular staff at this location which gives us an opportunity to learn more about this lounge and Two Guys Smoke … Continue reading "Episode 40: Mr. Bojimbles Live
– Local Spotlight: Direct from Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook"
We record with The Retrohale for almost 5 hours this week – cutting this down to 1:07 was a real challenge, leaving plenty of gems for future episodes. The topics: Don’t get too technical. Email, social media and telephone scams. Can you see Boston from Colorado? Driving distances – NE, East Coast – NJ and … Continue reading "Episode 39: The Common Law Wife; with The Retrohale
– Local Spotlight: Havana Cigar Club, RI"
We record in “Rick’s Recluse Hut” for the first time. In this episode we talk a lot about cigars and related topics including the recent Nat Sherman/FDA news. The Hidden Herf is an unusual one with split reviews from the panel. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for more details, filter by your state or city. Local … Continue reading "Episode 38: Thank-Q From The Recluse Hut
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room, Manchester"
We try to do another episode from the boat but the weather rolls in just as we are about to start and are forced to pack up, head back to the dock and go inside. Nurse Rick sent another Lobster Care Package to The Retrohale so we have the boys from Colorado on as guests … Continue reading "Episode 37: Make a Sandwich; with The Retrohale
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room, Bedford"
Nick opens up with a rant about cigar & scotch posts on social media. We get into various flavor profiles and it takes us in a few directions. The Hidden Herf is enjoyed by all, but still no one had an accurate guess. There’s some heavy breathing, the train whistle and something else in the … Continue reading "Episode 36: Sriracha, Nuts, and Guacamole
– Local Spotlight: The Cigar House"
We are out on the boat again for another sunset recording session. Nurse Rick catches his biggest bass to date. Captain Comedy Chris explains the history behind the island. We do the Saco River trip recap and the usual segments. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for more details, filter by your state or city. Local Spotlight: … Continue reading "Episode 35: The Island
– Local Spotlight: The Cigar Room"
The Cigar Hacks travel down river on a pedal-powered paddle-wheeler barge for a two night camping adventure. We are on the Saco River in Fryeburg Maine with a crew of 13. Using a very small recording configuration we are able to do the episode around the campfire on a sandy beach with the crew. We … Continue reading "Episode 34: River Camping
– Local Spotlight: Saco River"
We are out on the lake one more time for some fishing, cigars and podcast juice. Cigar Journal Cigar Trophy voting closes. The Reverend reels in something unusual. Capn’ Chris goes to the wrong appliance store. Shout out to Pete and Rochelle. Who knew, the dogs eat raw meat too. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for … Continue reading "Episode 33: Raw Meat Two (Too?)
– Local Spotlight: Federal Cigar – Epping"
The third time is the charm on false starts as we are out on the boat for another fishing excursion. This episode was one of the most challenging to edit as “hack” takes on an all new definition, as in “hack up a lung”. The Hidden Herf gets a “lucky guess” right out of the … Continue reading "Episode 32: False Starts on Enema Lake
– Local Spotlight: Towne News & Smoke Shop"
We are again joined by The Brooklyn Chick for an action packed episode, covering the Hammer & Sickle / Eric Hanson news, the limo update, poison ivy eating goats, the Fathers Day Cigar Dinner at Tino’s and other food topics. Gunfire in the background from the locals’ target practice adds to the ambience of this … Continue reading "Episode 31: The Brooklyn Chic Returns
– Local Spotlight: Mark’s Smoke Shop & News Stand"
We take “mobile” to the extreme and do an episode from the pontoon boat while on a fishing excursion. There are three poles in the water and the fish keep coming while we do an otherwise regular show. The Hidden Herf is another top rated smoke by all. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for more details, … Continue reading "Episode 30: Fishing from the Boat
– Local Spotlight: Castaways – Happy Hours with Rocky Patel"
Making up for last week’s rain-out we do an extended episode. As usual we are all over the map with topics including the limo update. We finally make it up to O’Shea’s in Nashua on a Thursday to see the Goat and Friends. The Hidden Herf is a special surprise for all. Current Events: See … Continue reading "Episode 29: The Oscuro Limo
– Local Spotlight: Victory Cigar Bar"
This episode has been put on a rain delay – stay tuned for an update. We traveled to the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Championship Weekend at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro MA with the expectation of recording this week’s episode while there for two nights in the RVs. The weather has not cooperated and it has been … Continue reading "Episode 28: Rained Out
– Local Spotlight: Tailgating at Gillette Stadium"
Podcast Juice Cocktails. The early Father’s/Mother’s Day gift. The Joke Segment. Curling comes up again. The Dark Side of the Leaf & The Bazaar of the Leaf. The shameless plugs, retro-haling & the annual cigar investment. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for more details, filter by your state or city. Local Spotlight: Twins deck update; Cigars … Continue reading "Episode 27: Name the Boat
– Local Spotlight: Twins Deck Update; Cigars R Us; Puro’s Cigar"
We get back on track with our standard format. RI Mike joins the panel on the remote. The Hidden-Herf is another mystery until the reveal. Smokey and the Bandit gets tied in. We report on the limo search. Cigar Craig is starting a new podcast. Current Events: See CigarPlanner.com for more details, filter by your … Continue reading "Episode 26: Back to Basics
– Local Spotlight: Primings Cigar Lounge & Bar"
After fighting with a bad cable and few “blunder-ific” false starts we finally get the episode going. Mark and Bret from The Retrohale join us (via a spotty Skype connection) for another off-the-rails episode. Departing from our usual format we just relax, smoke cigars, and drink plenty of podcast juice as we move from one … Continue reading "Episode 25: Technical Difficulties
– Local Spotlight: The Gatlin-Burlier & Hoggs Upstairs Taverne"
The Hidden Herf is a special treat for the panel, it also demonstrates how individual palates change over time. We take our time with the events and discuss other topics related to each lounge or event. Cow Tongue and Aganorsa tobaccos work their way in to the talk. A few anecdotes from Comedy Chris keep … Continue reading "Episode 24: 10 Years Ago Today
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop; Hookset"
Matty returns after a hiatus from the show and the Hidden-Herf is picked just for the occasion. We cover far too many topics to list them all but the theme seems to be a lot of laughing. There are lots of events coming up and we have commentary on just about every one. We took … Continue reading "Episode 23: He’s Back
– Local Spotlight: Federal Cigar Bar; Dover"
This week we have a slightly different format and an introduction to a new Cigar Hack; The Brooklyn Chic. With just two of us recording live the Hidden Herf is not much of a secret so the regular feature is modified. Instead of Conspiracy corner we adapt a segment recorded after hours with the boys … Continue reading "Episode 22: Raw Meat
– Local Spotlight: En Fuego Tobacco Shop"
This episode’s Hidden Herf is universally liked by the panel, but still no guesses on what it is are in the ball park. The discussion, as usual, is a bit random and includes chasing mice, dogs, Laugh-In, Harleys, etc. Bonus material; Jeep Week – Moab UT and King of the Hammers – Johnson Valley CA … Continue reading "Episode 21: Kennedy Konnections
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Smoke Shop; Seabrook"
More nonsense from Nicks Novelty Hut and Marc from Maryland calls in. This sounds like episode 18 all over again but we have a different panel. There are a lot of events this week and we get into plenty of cigar stuff. CLE and JRE, what’s the relation? J.C. Newman and Fuente, are they the … Continue reading "Episode 20: Déjà Vu 18
– Local Spotlight: Smokey Joe’s Cigar House and Puff & Quill Smokery"
We smoke another great Lancero this episode and somehow that leads to a discussion on starting a Cigar Hacks HR department. We also discuss bloom, or is it plume, vs. mold; Warner Brothers vs. Disney; piggly tails and shaggy feet; there’s an App with ads for that; iHeart, Kiss 108, & XM Radio; river beer … Continue reading "Episode 19: Lancero and the HR Department
– Local Spotlight: Cigar and Lounge"
A new Hack name is coined – “Comedy Chris”. We smoke a Cuban Lonsdale for this episode’s Hidden-Herf – thanks to Larry on the Cape. The general theme is scattered around firearms, the Nürburgring (not the Nuremberg Ring), your brother-in-law’s uncle’s cousin, The Retrohale, “Twins, Twins, Twins”, Candelas for St. Patrick’s Day. “Marc from Maryland” … Continue reading "Episode 18: Nick’s Novelty Hut & Marc from Maryland
– Local Spotlight: Social Cigar Factory & Lounge"
We are joined by Bret and Mark, hosts of the Retrohale Podcast, for a Special Edition of the Cigar Hacks. The script quickly goes out the window as we ad-lib our way through a two hour collaboration with the Fort Collins, Colorado based Retrohale. Arguably our “most fun” episode to date. The Special Edition “remote” … Continue reading "Episode 17: The Retrohale Special Edition
– Local Spotlight: Edward’s, Twins, Shenanigans"
Two firsts for us this episode; a mobile session from Dom’s Asylum and a remote call-in from our first regional corespondent, Rhode Island Mike. With the new capability we will be able to do sessions direct from the lounge we are reviewing while interviewing the owners and staff as well as have remote call-ins from … Continue reading "Episode 16: Dom’s Asylum & Rhode Island Mike
– Local Spotlight: S&A Cigars"
We have another maduro for the Hidden Herf and again it’s not a heavy cigar proving that color is not a reliable indication of strength. Dark cigars being heavy cigars is fake news. A discussion around two unique cigar events: Cigar Explorations Cigar Crawl and Cigars After Hours Business Networking. The cigar crawl gets us … Continue reading "Episode 15: Magic Bus
– Local Spotlight: Puff The Magic"
We start out by renaming “Conspiracy Corner” to “Alternative Theory”. The Hidden-Herf gets off to a questionable start but recovers quickly, especially after the reveal. Just another indication of how a band effects perception and more proof that a dark cigar must be a heavy cigar is fake news. Starman gets another mention – briefly, … Continue reading "Episode 14: Alternative Theory
– Local Spotlight: Plaistow Cigar Company"
For this episode we have almost the entire cast of characters with six panelists and a live audience of about the same. An overflow crowd causes us to use two Hidden Herf cigar sets to accommodate all who wanted to participate. Another pair of surprises on the Hidden Herf reveal. We visit Twins to pickup … Continue reading "Episode 13: Full House
– Local Spotlight: El Toro Lounge & Cigar"
The Memo was released this week and it’s football time in America, our special guest, Mustang Mike, takes us through it. The Hidden-Herf stumps the panel again. How to properly light a cigar. Our website links out to a large number of Perdomo Factory tour videos. If you want to learn about what goes into … Continue reading "Episode 12: The Memo w/Mustang Mike
– Local Spotlight: Castro’s Back Room Nashua"
The panel is all over the map with their Hidden-Herf guesses – again. The Steve Saka cigar temperature test comes up in discussion. Current events: Elvis has really left the building but you can see Fellowship of the King (Elvis tribute), Oscar Valladares, metal bands and go to a steak & cigar dinner. Open discussion … Continue reading "Episode 11: Fake News Nick
– Local Spotlight: O’Shea’s Irish Tavern & Cigar Bar"
How to comment on an episode. The “Mail-Bag”. We are Skype ready. More states have come on-line. Many new events for 2018 are listed for our local spotlight locations. Correspondent Mike has been rehired but almost gets canned again. Nurse Rick jumps the gun after the Gunslinger Shootout. Federal in Dover is moving to a … Continue reading "Episode 10: Elvis Has Left the Building
– Local Spotlight: Carlo Rose Cigar Bar & Lounge"
With Matty recovering from a recent illness we tone it down a bit for a relaxing episode. Food poisoning vs. cigar poisoning. River camping and cigars. Nurse Rick stops in mid-smoke. Last week’s episode almost wasn’t. Facebook links for all our lounge listings. 2018 events are starting to line up at local establishments. Rolling Stogies … Continue reading "Episode 9: A Tap Dance for the Mind
– Local Spotlight: Cloud Palace"
This episode was almost a total disaster but through the magic of editing and redaction we were able to salvage an actual episode. A full third of the recording had to go. Listen for the cuts and use your imagination – it was that bad and why some parts seem a bit scattered. Enjoy what’s … Continue reading "Episode 8: Redacted Enacted
– Local Spotlight: Victory Bar & Cigar; and Michael’s Cigar Bar"
Nurse Rick and the Peanut Gallery join us again and help us create longest episode to date. We cover the recent passing of Jose O. Padrone and Gilberto F. Oliva Sr. The Cigar Hacks Burner Phone is explained and why everyone should have one. Federal Cigar’s online store is up. The Cigar Authority announces their … Continue reading "Episode 7: The Burner Phone
– Local Spotlight: Cigar Shenanigans & The Original Cigar Bar"
Matty and Dave go it alone – it’s a two man effort for #6 which includes the Federal Cigar Portsmouth Lounge experience, Umbagog by Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust is reported in HalfWheel and a local Ladies Smoking Event is in the planning stage. The Hidden Herf is another surprise – Yes – no fake news!. … Continue reading "Episode 6: The Facebook Episode
– Local Spotlight: The Tobacco Shack & The Smoke Shop"
Erik tells us about the new box-pressed Berlin Wall and the release of Dome #2. We have a peanut gallery for this episode. Black Friday just won’t die, Detroit, Cigar Craig and did I mention Black Friday? No last names! The Accidental Correspondent tells us about Winston Churchill’s Orange Peel Old Fashioned. Conspiracy Corner goes … Continue reading "Episode 5 – It’s Black Friday Every Day
– Special Guest: Erik Wentworth of Hammer + Sickle Cigars
– Local Spotlight: Seacoast Cigar Bar"
Nick gets a “Nasty” new name. The Retrohale. We talk about TV shows, movies and cigars sightings. A 13 minute reveal goes all over the map including bespoke suits. The Not-So-Local Spotlight features Habanos Cafe and Cigar Lounge in San Diego. Conspiracy Corner tackles Artificial Intelligence; Ligero, Anthony Ligero? Habanos Cafe and Cigar Lounge; San Diego, … Continue reading "Episode 4 – Podcast Gold [Rush]
– Not-So-Local Spotlight: Habanos"
Normally this episode would be titled something like “What We’ve Been Up To” but in typical Hack fashion the Hidden Herf gets a bit out of control. We cover everything from Avanti Cigars to beef jerky and Serino Cigars to birthday cake. A theme is forming – cigars and food. The “Local Spotlight” shines on … Continue reading "Episode 3 – A Typical Hack
– Local Spotlight: Federal Cigar"
We have our first guest host; Nurse Rick talks about Shipyard Smashed Pumpkin, Tatuaje Cigars, etc. In the “Local Spotlight” we review Twins Smoke Shop, Londonderry and their new smoking deck. An unexpected bonus was running into Thor Neilsen, the publisher of Cigar Press. “Conspiracy Corner” takes an unexpected turn as we talk about what’s … Continue reading "Episode 2 – Nurse Rick
– Local Spotlight: Twins Smoke Shop
– Bonus: Cigar Press"
In this episode we introduce the podcast and what we are all about. The “Hidden Herf” blind cigar review will be a regular feature. “Local Smoke” is for current events at local establishments. The “Local Spotlight” shines on a different shop each episode. “Conspiracy Corner” – always a crowd favorite. Two Guys Smoke Shop; Salem, … Continue reading "Episode 1 – Introducing the Hacks
– Local Spotlight: Two Guys Annual Cigar Dinner"