Tim Swanson from Cigars Daily at the Light ‘em Up Lounge

2 hour video

Aug 12

Tim Swanson, founder of Cigars Daily, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to talk about how he turned a local cigar shop into a thriving online community. Known for his energetic video reviews and educational approach, Swanson shared insights on connecting with new smokers, running a retail business, and staying authentic in the digital space.

How did you get started in the cigar world?

I started working in a cigar shop years ago and fell in love with the culture—the people, the conversations, the relaxation it brings. That led me to open Cigars Daily in Phoenix, combining a brick-and-mortar store with an online presence to reach a wider audience.

What inspired you to start making online cigar content?

I wanted to make cigars approachable for people who might feel intimidated by the industry. Many reviews at the time were very technical, and I wanted to create content that was educational but also fun and easy to understand.

How has YouTube shaped Cigars Daily’s growth?

YouTube has been a game-changer. It allows us to connect directly with cigar smokers all over the world, share our passion, and build a real sense of community. The comments, live streams, and ongoing interactions keep people engaged beyond just buying cigars.

What makes your approach to reviews different?

We focus on the experience as a whole—construction, flavor, and how the cigar makes you feel—not just a list of tasting notes. I want viewers to feel like they’re smoking along with me.

How do you decide which cigars to feature?

We feature a mix of well-known brands and hidden gems. I try to include cigars that tell a story—whether it’s a new release from a trusted brand or something from a smaller producer that deserves attention.

What’s the biggest challenge in running Cigars Daily?

Balancing content creation with running the retail side. It’s easy to get caught up in filming videos, but at the end of the day, we still have to operate a store, manage inventory, and deliver great customer service.

How has the cigar industry changed in recent years?

The rise of online retail and social media has changed how people discover and buy cigars. There’s also a new generation of smokers who are curious, open-minded, and eager to learn—which is exciting for the future of the industry.

What role does community play in your business?

Community is everything. Cigars bring people together, and we try to foster that online and in-store. The goal is to create a place where everyone—from seasoned smokers to beginners—feels welcome and valued.

What’s next for Cigars Daily?

We’re working on expanding our private label offerings, producing more educational content, and continuing to grow our online community. The mission is to keep cigars fun, approachable, and something people want to share with others.

It was with great pleasure and honor that we welcomed Tim Swanson on the show as our special guest.

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The values discussed—balance, tradition, and intention—are reflected in the collection available at Light ’em Up Humidor. For those seeking more than just a smoke, this is where craftsmanship lives.

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Light em up,

Reinhard