Klaas Kelner, CEO and founder of Kelner Tabak, brings a lifetime of experience in premium cigar craftsmanship to his own company. As the son of legendary master blender Henke Kelner, he grew up surrounded by tobacco fields, curing barns, and factory floors.

Heiko Pörz, founder of HENK, has built a brand that merges refined design, functional innovation, and deeply personal storytelling. Drawing from decades of travel and an appreciation for craftsmanship across cultures, he has created luxury accessories that stand out for their individuality and enduring quality.

Heinrich Villiger has been in the cigar business for more than seven decades, steering Villiger through the post-war years, industry consolidation, and the rise of both machine-made and premium hand-rolled cigars.

Jorge Padrón, President of Padrón Cigars, shares insights into his upbringing in the tobacco world, the legacy of his father José Orlando Padrón, and the guiding philosophy that has kept the brand among the most respected in the cigar industry

John Oliva Jr. and Trey Angel Oliva of Oliva Tobacco Company joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to share the story of one of the most influential leaf suppliers in the premium cigar world.

In this Light ’em Up Lounge conversation, Laurel Tilley shared insights on the roots, the philosophy, and where the industry is heading.

Pete Johnson, founder of Tatuaje Cigars, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to talk about building a brand that’s become a modern classic in the premium cigar world.

In this Light ’em Up Lounge conversation, Jaime and Manolo from Casa 1910 shared how their brand is redefining perceptions of Mexican premium cigars.

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.

Charlie Minato, co-founder and editor of Halfwheel joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to discuss his journey in cigar media, the challenges of independent reporting, and his views on where the industry is heading.

Nestor Plasencia, CEO of Plasencia Cigars, joined the Light ’em Up Lounge to share the remarkable story of a family that has shaped the premium cigar industry for more than 150 years.

Nick Perdomo shares the philosophy and discipline behind one of the most successful family-owned cigar companies in the world. He reflects on Perdomo’s legacy, the values inherited from his father, and the standards that guide every cigar they produce. The interview explores factory operations, the importance of vertical integration, and the Perdomo approach to consistency, quality control, and market trust. With honesty and clarity, Nick offers insights into leadership, customer loyalty, and what it means to uphold a tradition of excellence in every detail.

The founder of Les Fines Lames shares the story behind one of the most iconic accessories in the cigar world. From the fusion of French craftsmanship and cigar culture to the growth of a lifestyle brand rooted in design and passion, this exchange offers a fresh perspective on how authenticity and function can elevate everyday rituals into something extraordinary.

Our co-host Sarah Saunders from WICC teamed up with sister of the leaf Pandora from Pandora’s Cigar box and created an exclusive pairing for the holiday season.

In this insightful conversation, Steve Saka shares hard-earned wisdom from decades in the cigar industry. He discusses the difference between making good cigars and building a successful cigar company, his philosophy around blending and product development, and the importance of authenticity in today’s market. Saka reflects on the industry’s challenges, the influence of cigar media, and his deeply personal approach to quality and consumer connection. The interview offers an honest, unapologetic look into what it takes to stay true to one’s vision in the premium cigar world.

We talked about orchestrating finest tobaccos, even though often in small quantity and limited batches, where Rafael Nodal strives for perfection in his creations, which are consistently earning the highest accolades.

Sebastian Decoppet shares the origin, philosophy, and vision behind Cavalier Genève. He discusses the bold decision to enter the cigar world without industry ties, the emotional and artistic purpose behind his brand, and the challenges of building something unique in a traditional space. This interview reveals how passion, creative expression, and uncompromising values can forge a distinct path — one that speaks to cigar lovers seeking more than just flavor, but story and soul.

RoMa Craft Tobac is a thriving cigar powerhouse with a laser-sharp focus, purpose and vision. Founded in 2012 by Skip Martin & Mike Rosales (hence the name Ro + Ma), the company has become a benchmark for outstanding cigar experiences.

In this exclusive conversation, Manuel Quesada shares insights from over 50 years in the cigar industry. The discussion touches on the roots of his family legacy, the significance of the Dominican Republic in premium cigar production, the philosophy of blending, and the importance of tradition in an evolving craft.

We discussed Ernesto's journey with premium cigars, the Padilla 88th Anniverario, made at AJ Fernandez's factory in Nicaragua, as well as the new Padilla Finest Hour blends, the new Padillacigars.com website, and the opening of several new markets in Europe.