In the world of podcasting, milestones are few and far between. But on Saturday, September 16, 2023, The Cigar Authority accomplished something truly remarkable: they celebrated their 700th episode. In an era when many podcasts come and go like fleeting fads, this achievement is a testament to their unwavering commitment and dedication to their craft.
What makes this accomplishment even more extraordinary is the fact that The Cigar Authority has had just six official members over the course of these 700 episodes. Two of these members, Mr. Jonathan, and David Garofalo, have been a part of the show since Episode #1. This continuity and consistency are a rarity in the ever-evolving landscape of podcasting.
One might wonder what it takes to produce 700 episodes of a podcast. Well, The Cigar Authority is no ordinary show. Each episode is a two-hour live broadcast, which means they have spent a staggering 1,400 hours entertaining and educating their audience, week after week. This kind of dedication is not for the faint of heart.
But it’s not just the quantity of episodes that sets The Cigar Authority apart; it’s the quality and impact of their content. Over the years, they have garnered recognition and accolades from various quarters. The Defense of Liberty Award by Cigar Rights of America attests to their advocacy efforts, driving more people to join CRA and spreading the message of freedom in the cigar world. They’ve also received the Cigar Trophy Award as “The Cigar Ambassador” from Cigar Journal, a testament to their global influence. Additionally, their consistent presence on the Top 10 Educational Podcasts list by Podbean for four consecutive years demonstrates their ability to educate and engage a wide audience beyond the cigar community.
One of the unique aspects of The Cigar Authority is that each episode is broadcast in front of a live studio audience, and, of course, cigar smoking is an integral part of the show. This live element adds an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to their content. It’s this commitment to genuine, unfiltered discussion and enjoyment of cigars that has endeared them to their loyal fan base.
It’s worth noting that The Cigar Authority started on radio, syndicated across seven stations. However, they never did a show in-studio during their radio days. Why? Because they refused to compromise on their love for cigars. They refused to fake it. This unwavering commitment to their passion is a testament to their authenticity and dedication.
So, when is enough, enough? When should one bow out gracefully from the spotlight? In the case of The Cigar Authority, the answer is clear: not anytime soon. After 700 shows spanning 14 years, their passion for cigars and their dedication to their audience remain as strong as ever. They have shown that true dedication knows no bounds, and their journey is far from over.
In a world where consistency and authenticity are often overshadowed by the allure of the next big thing, The Cigar Authority stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and a genuine passion for one’s craft. As they continue their journey into the future, we can only expect more exceptional content, more advocacy for cigar rights, and more memorable moments from this remarkable podcast. Congratulations to The Cigar Authority on their 700th episode, and here’s to many more!