Kay Hiramine chats with Steve Reiter. Welcome to Holy Smokes, the podcast where we explore the intersections of faith, friendship, fine tobacco, and drinks. In this episode, we are thrilled to have a candid and inspiring conversation with Kay Hiramine, the founder of Holy Smokes, as he joins host Steve Reiter for a rapid-fire discussion. Broadcasting from Papa P's Smoke Shop and Lounge in Franklin, Tennessee, Kay shares his experiences with cigars, recounting unforgettable memories and the profound impact of his faith and community. Kay's journey is filled with wisdom, humor, and heart, from his first taste of a La Flor Dominicana to the power of prayer and the importance of finishing well. As we dive deep into his life and passions, we also discuss his favorite cigars, the spiritual significance of Holy Smokes, and the people who've shaped his path. Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado or someone seeking inspiration in a faith-driven lifestyle, this episode promises a rich blend of stories, laughs, and insights. So grab your favorite smoke and drink, settle in, and join us for another incredible episode of Holy Smokes!

Outline:
(00:00) Dominican Cigar Experience
(03:49) Cigar Nostalgia in Havana
(09:31) Candid Conversations Among Friends
(11:48) Star Wars and Star Trek Nostalgia
(16:08) Nickname Origin: Nana
(19:26) Influential Leadership and Faith Books
(20:14) Life-Changing Impact of Generosity
(26:30) Gratitude Amid Health Challenges
(36:15) Encounter with Jesus Movement
(39:39) Reunion Sparks Emotional Revelation
(44:01) "It's About Jesus, Not Me"
(45:52) "Letting God Lead Through Community"

About the Guest: Kay Hiramine is a connoisseur of fine cigars, particularly fond of the Partagas Series D number two or four. This preference is steeped in a memorable experience from five or six years ago during a Holy Smokes cruise. The journey included a stop in Havana, where Kay indulged in one of these cigars while sitting in the gardens of the Grand Hotel, a place once frequented by Ernest Hemingway. This unique moment, surrounded by history and the aromatic ambiance of Havana, solidified Kay's appreciation for the Partagas Series D cigars.

Kay Hiramine chats with Steve Reiter. Welcome back to another episode of Holy Smokes! Welcome to the Holy Smokes Club podcast, where cigars, spirituality, and community converge. In this episode, we sit down with the founder of Holy Smokes, Kay Hiramine, alongside hosts Steve Reiter and Steve Reiter, for an engaging update from the Nashville-Franklin area. Kay highlights the exciting influx of dynamic individuals and organizations transforming this vibrant region into a new hub for creativity and collaboration. With a focus on private sector leadership and international influences, Kay discusses how Nashville-Franklin is shaping into a community rich with potential. He also teases his upcoming book, "Net Weaving," which reflects his approach to leadership and interconnectedness. With over 5,500 global members, the Holy Smokes community is thriving, and this episode uncovers stories of transformative journeys and initiatives. Join us for this insightful conversation filled with inspiration and fellowship.

Outline:
(00:00) Influx of People in Nashville
(05:06) Private-Sector Leadership Influence
(09:06) "Divine Calling to Franklin"
(13:01) "Supporting Widows, Orphans, and Single Parents"
(15:10) "Building a Community with Conservatories"
(18:17) Prompted to Write a Book
(22:21) "Exclusive Deals on Stylish Apparel"

About the Guest: Kay Hiramine is an observer of the demographic shifts in the Nashville area, especially in Williamson County, where he has noticed a significant influx of talented individuals over the past five to seven years. A resident there for the past four years, Kay is impressed by the quality of newcomers settling in this vibrant region, particularly in the city of Franklin, a suburb of Nashville. Previously, Kay resided in Colorado Springs, the birthplace of the Holy Smokes community, before making the move to Tennessee. Through his experiences, Kay has gained a keen insight into the dynamic and evolving landscape of this Southern locale.

In this episode of the Holy Smokes podcast, host Steve Reiter sits down with Uli Reyes, who shares his life story of faith and transformation. Born to Venezuelan and Cuban parents, Uli's journey spans from being a gang member and circus performer to discovering a deep spiritual connection through Christianity. He discusses his mission work in Nicaragua, where he founded a beauty school to help young girls, and how his passion for cigars began. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, service, and community on Holy Smokes.

00:00 Circus Life: From Africa to Cuba

08:49 "Brief Stints in Vegas"

14:46 Vegas Showbiz Inspiration

16:48 "From Struggles to Stage Success"

24:05 "Balancing Act Adventure"

27:27 Entrepreneurial Lessons from Childhood Haircuts

36:08 "From Doubt to Devotion"

37:20 "Marriage, Faith, and Unconditional Love"

47:17 Healing and Faith Journey

51:51 Drug Deal Intercepted by Agents

58:06 Cuban Cigars: A Costly Intrigue

01:03:32 Forgiveness, Mission Work, and Nicaragua

01:09:29 Cigar Journey and Entrepreneurship Challenges

01:11:30 Divine Inspiration and Fortuitous Investment

01:16:50 Business Partnership with Holy Smoke Group

01:24:12 Conclave Weekend Gathering Highlights

01:30:47 "Nicaraguan Cigar Tasting Expedition"

01:35:27 "Meeting Mr. Burns at State Fair"

01:42:18 Cigar Group: A Lifelong Connection

01:43:42 Joining God's Purpose

01:49:19 "Introducing Holy Smokes Swag"