In this episode 15 of Between Two Humidors, Jonathan Ruggles welcomes Perrie Morgan, a Denver-based cigar roller who honed her craft under master cigar maker Clay Carlton. Introduced to the show by her college friend Laura, Perrie shared her journey from earning degrees in criminology and philosophy to working as a home detention officer, where she began frequenting cigar shops with colleagues. A bartending job at a cigar lounge became the gateway to learning the art of cigar making, a process that took her a year to master—focusing on filler leaf selection, mold use, construction, and wrapper techniques.

Perrie’s blends are constantly evolving as she experiments with different leaves and incorporates feedback from fellow smokers. She recounted a trip to the Dominican Republic where she demonstrated her skills in a local shop, highlighting the importance of precision in construction and the unique qualities of each leaf. Throughout the conversation, Perrie emphasized the craftsmanship, patience, and continual learning that fuel her passion for cigars.

Topics:

* Introduction of Ms. Perrie Morgan: The conversation introduces Perrie Morgan, a cigar roller based in Denver, Colorado, highlighting her unique position as a female in a male-dominated industry and her interesting background in criminology and philosophy.

* Perrie’s Cigar Rolling Origin Story: Perrie shares how she entered the world of cigar making through an apprenticeship with a master cigar maker and details the intense process and dedication required to learn the craft.

* Challenges and Passion: The discussion covers challenges Perrie faces, including regulations, finding reliable suppliers, and deciding whether to expand her business while maintaining her passion and quality.

* Perrie's Plans and Brand: Perrie is still developing her blends and lines of cigars, but has already established her brand with her logo. She is in the process of finding a printing company to create bands for the cigars.

* Cigar Culture: The conversation touches on the inclusive and unique nature of cigar culture, the appreciation for the art of cigar making, and the misconceptions surrounding the industry, as well as the restrictive local laws of Denver in relation to Marijuana use.

Guest Links

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CigarQueen3

Instagram: http://instagram.com/CigarQueen3

Thank you to our Sponsors

The Cigar Chapel -Bend, Oregon

Disclaimer

https://www.betweentwohumidors.com/legal/

In episode 14 of "Between Two Humidors," Host Jonathan Ruggles interviews Jon Jones, aka The Bend Foodie, Founder of the food & beverage “Bend Foodies” community on Facebook, which has over 22,000 members. The live conversation starts with greetings and a discussion about cigars: Jones enjoys a Double CT Tabernacle, while Ruggles savors a 20th-anniversary JJ by Don Pepin. The discussion Jones’ journey as the Bend Foodie, beginning in Tacoma, Washington, and moving to Bend for boarding school. He transitioned from firefighting and paramedicine to writing and marketing, fueled by a desire for creativity and service. His passion for scotch and cigars evolved into a love for food, leading to the creation of the Bend Foodie brand in 2019, focused on showcasing Central Oregon's culinary scene. Ruggles’ and Jones discussed a wide range of topics, below are some key markers.

* Career Transition: Jones transitioned from a career in firefighting/paramedicine due to a lack of creative outlets to professional writing and eventually marketing, finding a niche as a food influencer.

* Bend Foodie Origin: His interest in food began with a curiosity about Scotch and cigars, which evolved into a passion for food reviews and marketing local food and beverage businesses.

* Bend Food Scene Insights: Jones offers insights into the Bend food scene, highlighting the importance of being approachable, balancing fusion with regional authenticity, and understanding the evolving "food IQ" of the local community.

* Community Focus: The conversation emphasizes Jones' desire to serve the community, evident in his background in emergency services and his current role as a food influencer promoting local businesses and supporting non-profits.

* Marketing and Influencing: Jones discusses his approach to marketing, including audience identification, messaging, and the importance of networking within the Central Oregon community. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of being a food influencer in a growing culinary scene.

Guest Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebendfoodie

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebendfoodie

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebendfoodie

Thank you to our Sponsors

The Cigar Chapel -Bend, Oregon

Disclaimer

https://www.betweentwohumidors.com/legal/

In episode 13 of "Between Two Humidors," Jonathan Ruggles interviews Mel, owner of Fame Wine and Cigars in Palm Springs and founder of MBombay Tobac. They discussed Palm Springs' unique vibe, flavor profiles in cigars, and stories from Mel's lounge. Mel shared how Fame evolved, emphasizing its international clientele and relaxed atmosphere where cigar enthusiasts feel welcome. He transitioned from the dot-com industry to cigars, opening Fame in 2001 and adding a curated selection of Belgian beers and wine. They explored Mel's journey into creating his cigar brand, MBombay Tobac, underscoring the importance of flavor and customer interaction. They also spoke about PCA and the overall cigar industry and its future.

YouTube Video Episode

https://youtu.be/_LUEmhUhDzU

Guest Links

https://www.famelounge-ps.com/

https://www.bombaytobak.com/

https://www.instagram.com/famewinelounge/

https://www.instagram.com/mbombay_cigars/

Thank you to our Sponsors

The Cigar Chapel -Bend, Oregon

Disclaimer

https://www.betweentwohumidors.com/legal/