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What happens when you love wine and cigars? If you're Valda Stojanov, you take those two passions and create an exciting new premium cigar brand from it. In this all-new Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Vlada Stojanov, founder and owner of Somm Cigars, talks about his background in the wine industry and how it eventually led him to world of premium cigars. Learn how Vlad's work with other premium cigar brands prepared him for his own brand and the challenges he had to overcome to create Somm's first blends. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

Silicon Valley is known for being the tech Mecca of the U.S. but did you know it's the home base for a premium cigar brand as well? In this all-new Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, special guests Chris Olivares, Kerry Knight, Patrick Diaz, and Ozhen Arsenous from Casa de Sueños shares how a love of cigars brought them together to form their own brand. Learn how they got started in creating their brands, why they chose De Los Reyes as a manufacturing partner and how a shift in focus helped them identify and connect with their audience. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live -- 

Are you a premium cigar lover looking for a new, exclusive brand to try? Look no further than Howard G Cigars. Founded by Howard Gumbs Jr., this boutique cigar brand is inspired by his love of cigar culture and respect for the artisanship behind the craft. With a collection that offers a variety of intensities of premium aged Nicaraguan tobacco, Howard G Cigars are handcrafted with the finest attention to detail, ensuring a consistent, full, and flavorful smoke every time. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or a first-timer, this exclusive Deep Cuts Live interview with Howard G Cigars' founder Howard Gumbs Jr. will leave you wanting to run out to your local tobacconist in search of the Howard G-produced Black Moses, Magic Stick, or All Pro Series cigar. But Howard G Cigars is more than just a brand - it's a connection. Howard believes that some of the most impactful connections he's experienced with people have happened while enjoying a good cigar, and he's committed to fostering those connections through his cigars. Howard G Cigars is dedicated to the satisfaction of its customers and retail partners, and always stays focused on quality and consistency. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this latest episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Indiana Ortez, the youngest member of the Ortez tobacco family, talks about the launch of her new company, Casa De Ortez. Casa De Ortez celebrates the quality and experience of Nicaragua's oldest tobacco family, providing a vertically integrated approach to cigar production. Indiana's experience in blending and marketing, coupled with the Ortez family's seven decades of experience in tobacco production, delivers a unique and unforgettable experience for cigar enthusiasts worldwide. With the first brand, Primavera, set to launch in Spring 2023, Casa De Ortez aims to bring the rich heritage of Nicaraguan tobacco to the forefront. Hear Indiana's story about how she's built her business, growing up in Nicaragua and what makes her country's cigars so special. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this all-new episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, guest Michael Dounoulis details his journey from working in the hospitality industry in New York City to learning about the cigar making process in the tobacco fields of Nicaragua. After growing up in Jersey, Michael knew he loved working with people and found his place as a host and general manager in establishments in New Jersey and New York City. When the pandemic shut down his place of employment, he decided to make a big change–he and his wife moved to Nicaragua where he learned how cigars was made. Learn more about his company Astoria Cigar Co. and also why he decided to represent Luciano Cigars. -- Thanks for watching! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live -- 

In this latest episode Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Oliver Nivaud, director of operations at United Cigar Group, shares how he made the move from hospitality to working with premium cigars. Oliver gives some insight into what some of his retail customers are dealing with right now and why United Cigar Group puts so much focus on brick-and-mortar retailers in a digital age. Also learn more about United Group Group's portfolio and how Oliver and his team approaches pricing. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In part 2 of this conversation with Dr. Gaby Kafie we're given a science lesson in what makes nicotine addictive and what many people get wrong about cigars. Dr. Kafie also reveals why he moved the production of Kafie 1901 cigars from Honduras to La Aurora in the Dominican Republic. In the end, he also shares what his ultimate philosophy is and what keeps him motivated.  -- Thanks for listening! Visit my website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live  -- Please leave a review! Reviews help to improve the show   

When Dr. Gaby Kafie learned he could no longer practice medicine due to an ailment, he turned to his other passion for a profession–cigars. How exactly does a doctor get into cigars? Listen to part 1 of this intimate interview with Dr. Kafie where he shares stories of his childhood and what led his family to leave Honduras and relocate in Miami. Learn about the impact his father had on his work ethic and the circumstances that launched his career into the cigar world.  -- Thanks for listening! Visit my website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live  -- Please leave a review! Reviews help to improve the show   

From the vault! Check out this "lost" 2015 interview with Jonathan Drew, founder and president of Drew Estate. Here you'll learn about the origin of one of the cigar industry's most unique and popular brands from one of the men who founded it. Learn about ACID, the cigar brand that started it all and Undercrown, the ultra-premium cigar line created on the factory floor that was totally unplanned for. Jonathan also touches on Barn Smoker, Drew Estate's popular event series and how his company joined forces with the Pappy Van Winkle family. -- Thanks for listening! Visit my website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live  

In this episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Mo Maali discusses a problem many new businesses face–how do you make your brand or product legitimate in the eyes of the retailer or consumer? In 2014, Mo decided to launch his own premium cigar brand, Patina Cigars. From the start, Mo's biggest challenge has been convincing retailers that his brand is legit and worth carrying. Learn how Mo built his brand and created his cigar blends. Mo also explains why patience is key to every entrepreneurs' pursuit of success. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Brandon Oveson shares how he and his business partner turned a challenging life situation into a unique brand. Brandon and his business partner, Kendrick, were once Mormons but left the religion and were branded apostates, which is someone who renounces a religion, political belief or principle. In search of a community to be a part of, both found cigars to provide them both comfort and a group of people they could relate to. Learn how Brandon and Kendrick founded Apostate Cigars and brought it to life during the pandemic with the help of Jochy Blanco and Tabaclaera Palma. Brandon discusses the different Apostate Cigars lines including the Initiatory, Deseret, and the Liahona. Brandon also shares why figuring out your "why" is necessary for success in any business. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Chris Doyle and Ben Rotem share the story behind their popular monthly cigar subscription service, Luxury Cigar Club. Learn how they select the cigars for each month's box, why they think it's good for you to smoke cigars you may not be guaranteed to like, and two cigars they've smoked that totally took them by surprise. Watch until the end when they offer advice to any entrepreneur who's just getting started in launching a new product or starting a new business. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this latest episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Alexander Berezowski discusses his company, My Cigar Pack. In the past, the only way a person could buy and learn about cigars was to go into a physical store. Now, Alexander's company is delivering cigars directly to people's mailboxes through an innovative monthly cigar subscription service. Learn how Alexander chooses the cigars for his subscription service and some of the things he's learned about people's preferences for cigars today. Alexander also shares some exciting news about My Cigar Pack including new subscription options, websites and collaborations with Jonas Santana (Blackbird Cigar Co.) and Enrique Seijas (Matilde Cigars). -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live  

In this all-new episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Brandon Hayes talks about the 12th anniversary of Richardson, Texas-based cigar lounge and store Renegade Cigars. Learn how Brandon and his staff has built an engaged community within its store, how he chooses the cigars to stock, and why education is the driving force behind much of what makes Renegade Cigars a unique cigar store. Brandon also shares an update on Henderson Ventura and the fire that recently burned down Dominican Republic cigar factory Tabacalera William Ventura. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live -- Renegade Cigars: https://renegadecigars.com   

In this all-new Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, James Agopian shares his unexpected entry into the cigar world. At the request of a family friend, James started working at a cigar store even though he himself knew very little about cigars. Learn how his experiences as a retailer eventually inspired him to start his own brand, Sinistro Cigars. James talks about his experiences as a new boutique brand and some of his company's latest releases. -- Thanks for listening! Visit my website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live -- 

In this all-new Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, father and son duo Dave and Brandon Frakes from Industrial Cigar Co. give you the information you need to make your next trip to a cigar lounge even better. We oftentimes see cigars described by their wrapper, binder and filler but that's not going to help you find a cigar that fits your palate. Hear their advice for choosing cigars and finding something new to smoke. The Frakes also give advice to other retailers who are struggling to build a loyal customer base and tips for making your store into a second home for consumers seeking a community. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Ian and Rebecca Harvey share what it's like to be a tobacconist in 2022. Learn why ventilation is a major concern for them and why they feel more retailers need to be worried about it, too. The Harveys share their experiences with choosing product for their store, managing customer expectations, and dealing with manufacturers. Plus, learn how they've made Smokers Abbey Austin a destination for many cigar enthusiasts. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In this all-new episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, John Laurendi shares how he turned his cigar hobby into a lifestyle brand, Peter James Co. Learn how John approached building his company and expanding it from its original product category of luxury leather cigar cases to include other cigar accessories and adjacent products such as organic coffee, parfums, sofas and more. John also gives insight into how his company approached launching its very own premium cigar brand, Los Estoico, which made its official debut in the summer of 2022. Watch until the end when he shares his motivations and what success means and is to him. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --

In Episode 106 of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Alec Cuevas shares the story behind Sangre Nueva, the first cigar he's blended for Casa Cuevas Cigars. Learn how Alec worked with his grandfather to create this special cigar that earned him a lot of buzz and attention at this year's Premium Cigar Association (PCA) trade show. Also, Alec gives his take on cigar marketing today: what factors are keeping new adult smokers from getting into cigars? What role is social media playing in marketing efforts? Towards the end, Alec offers advice to other young professionals getting into an already established business or industry. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live  

In this episode of Deep Cuts Live with host Antoine Reid, Jesus Martinez shares the story of his family's cigar factory located in New York City's Manhattan borough. Learn how Jesus is carrying on a business that's over 50 years old and how he uses New York City's diversity to inspire his cigar blends for Martinez Cigars. David Rivera also shares how he approaches product development when helping Jesus build Martinez's presence in markets and stores well beyond the Big Apple. Jesus and David both share tips for others interested in started their own cigar brands as well as what they believe is necessary to build a business that lasts. -- Thanks for listening! Website: https://deepcutslive.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DEEPCUTSLIVE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deep_cuts_live --