Cigar World Feature: The Leaf Cutters Podcast

Andy—known online as CigarAndy—has been part of the cigar world since the late 1990s. What began at a party in 1997 quickly turned into a lifelong passion for the culture, craft, and camaraderie surrounding cigars. With a preference for smooth, medium-to-full-bodied sticks, Andy often reaches for brands like RoMa Craft, Illusione, Punch, Romeo y Julieta, and West Tampa Tobacco. A true all-day smoker, he enjoys pairing his cigars with Dr. Pepper or sweet tea during the workday, and bourbon, whiskey, or even small-batch moonshine on the weekends. Music and mood play their part too—his humidor sessions might be soundtracked by classical symphonies, swing, jazz, 90s alternative, or even a good audiobook.

 As a founding member of The Leaf Cutters Podcast, Andy was there from “Day 0,” when a casual conversation with his friend Gibs sparked the idea of building a show around cigars. Today, he serves as the group’s resident “Cigar Expert,” drawing on decades of experience and a keen eye for industry news, press releases, and trends from organizations like PCA and CRA. Beyond lending his voice to the show, he also supports Gibs with the podcast’s social media presence.

For Andy, the best part of the Leaf Cutters journey is simple: spending time with friends, sharing cigars, good drinks, and great conversations. Whether the guest is a brand leader like Mo Maali of Patina Cigars, Mike Rosales of RoMa Craft, or even Dr. Desiree Sylver talking about her chickens, Andy brings knowledge, curiosity, and a laid-back love of the leaf to every episode—keeping the vibe true to its roots on the back porch.

Grimm has been enjoying fine smokes for over 16 years, and while his palate shifts from time to time, he always finds himself circling back to his reliable favorite—the Diesel Whiskey Row. His best smoking moments usually come after dinner, on the mic during podcast recordings, or while jotting down ideas with a cigar in hand.

 When it comes to pairings, Grimm keeps it versatile: Dr Pepper Zero Sugar for a refreshing balance, or a pour of Bulleit bourbon when it’s time to lean into the flavor experience. Music is always part of the ritual, with a rotation that ranges from Codeseven’s Dancing Echoes/Dead Sounds, He Is Legend’s Heavy Fruit, and Deftones’ White Pony, to the raw energy of Wu-Tang Clan and the off-beat spirit of AJJ.

 On the podcast, Grimm insists he’s “the best part” (and don’t bother arguing with him). Officially, he’s billed as the talent—though he admits the joke’s on everyone else, since he claims he’s “not talented.” His involvement? Let’s just say when Gibs pitched the idea, Grimm didn’t have a better plan, so he agreed—but only if he got to be the star.

Zack has been enjoying cigars for around a decade, and over that time he’s developed a real appreciation for both the leaf and the company that comes with it. His go-to brands include RoMa Craft, Patina, Silent Hero, Gran Habano, West Tampa Tobacco, Crowned Heads, Goss, and Diesel. While he’ll smoke just about any time, his favorite moments are after a good meal—especially when shared with good company or during a Leaf Cutters get-together.

 For pairings, Zack leans toward bourbon, scotch, or a cold Coors Light in the evening, but nothing beats a great cup of coffee alongside a great cigar. He’ll tell you that combination is pure magic. His soundtrack of choice varies—sometimes it’s Tool, The White Stripes, or The Black Keys, but more often it’s the simple sound of birds and frogs when he’s outside enjoying a stick.

 On The Leaf Cutters Podcast, Zack has earned the nickname “The Cigar Profiler,” a nod to his attempts to pull tasting notes from cigars using some of the skills he picked up from wine and whiskey. He admits he doesn’t always nail the flavors, but it’s all part of the fun. For him, the best part of the podcast will always be getting together with the crew—something he’d still do regularly even if the mics weren’t on.