Welcome back to another lively episode of the Ash Chat Podcast, featuring an inspiring conversation with Elisa Bowens Mercado, the dynamic owner of Rhythm Brewing Company in New Haven, Connecticut. Join us as we dive into Elisa's world of craft beer, dance, and cigars, exploring her journey from salsa dance studio owner to pioneering brewer in a male-dominated industry.

Discover the story behind Rhythm Brewing's flagship Unfiltered Lager and its unique three-sip rule, as Elisa shares her passion for creating a lager that pays homage to her grandmothers while breaking barriers in the craft beer world. With a unique pairing of cigars, Elisa's enthusiasm for all things flavorful shines through.

Elisa also takes us behind the scenes of her flourishing salsa dance studio, where she has been a transformative force in the community for 25 years. From choreographing weddings to teaching countless students, her dedication to dance is as infectious as her love for brewing.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on entrepreneurship, perseverance, and the power of saying "yes" to opportunities. Whether you're a beer enthusiast, dance lover, or cigar aficionado, this episode offers a captivating look into the life of a true trailblazer.

Welcome to another episode of Ash Chat, where hosts Dave, Cappy, and Fulch are joined by Bill and special guest, John Cigar, a prominent cigar broker in the Northeast. Despite John's modesty about his status, he offers a wealth of knowledge on cigars, especially the Illusione brand, which he proudly represents.

Recorded at Mickey Blake's, the conversation dives into the world of cigars. John shares his journey from smoking cigars in college to becoming a broker, detailing his experiences with various brands, including Drew Estate and EPC.

The episode also features insights from Ryan Shepard, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Illusione, who discusses his transition from STG to Illusione and his first experiences in Nicaragua. Together, they explore the intricacies of cigar blending, the importance of choosing quality brands, and the unique culture of the cigar industry.

Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the cigar lifestyle, complete with stories, humor, and expert advice on enjoying the perfect smoke.

Welcome back to the Ash Chat Podcast! In this episode, our hosts Dave, Richie "Blaze One", Cappy, and Dave sit down with a longtime friend and esteemed guest, Ricky Rodz. Ricky shares his journey from his early days on the beat as a police officer to becoming a passionate advocate for Cigars for Warriors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing cigars to deployed troops.

We dive into the origins and mission of Cigars for Warriors, the challenges faced due to FDA regulations, and the incredible support from the cigar community, including major contributions from Drew Estate and other cigar companies. Ricky also gives insights into his favorite cigars, including the Liga T52 and the H99, and shares his experiences blending cigars with renowned figures in the industry.

As always, the episode is filled with camaraderie, laughter, and a deep appreciation for cigars and the community that surrounds them. Tune in for an engaging conversation about giving back, the art of cigar blending, and the joy of a good smoke paired with a fine bourbon. Don't miss this heartwarming and informative episode!