In this episode, Mike and Nate enjoy a budget-friendly Hoya del Jefe cigar while diving into a fascinating history topic: some of the shortest-lived countries in history. From quirky frontier republics like the Great Republic of Rough and Ready to the Republic of Ezo in Japan, the brief Palmetto Republic of South Carolina, and the modern tale of the Capitol Hill Autonomous Zone (CHAZ), they explore colorful attempts at independence, revolutions, and political experiments that lasted anywhere from hours to a few months. Along the way, they share lively banter, historical anecdotes, and personal stories, wrapping up with their honest cigar review and a teaser for next week’s episode featuring a special guest expert on the D.B. Cooper hijacking case.

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In this episode of "Nice Ashes," hosts Nate and Mike enjoy the Schizo Toro Maduro cigar while diving into the fascinating topic of minced oaths—phrases that replace swear words or blasphemies to soften their impact. The discussion starts with the hosts sharing their cigar pairings and expressing their enjoyment of the Schizo Toro. As they move through the episode, they explain the history of minced oaths, highlighting examples from literature and historical figures that have influenced modern language.

From euphemisms like "gosh" for God and "fudge" for a more profane expletive, to the playful banter about the origins of phrases like "by George," the episode mixes humor with insights into how language evolves and the context of swearing. Nate and Mike argue about the effectiveness of using minced oaths versus straightforward swearing, with Mike emphasizing the importance of genuine expression. Listeners can expect a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and engaging discussions about the colorful ways society navigates cursing and expression.

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In this episode of the podcast, hosts Nate and Mike dive into the controversial death of Johnny Ringo, a notorious figure from the Wild West. As they enjoy cigars and drinks, they explore various theories about how Ringo met his end in 1882. Beginning with their thoughts on a mediocre Don Rafael cigar paired with local brews, the discussion quickly shifts to historical details about Ringo's violent past as a member of the Cochise County Cowboys and his infamous confrontations with lawmen like Wyatt Earp.

The hosts dissect the widely accepted narrative of Ringo's death, which suggests he may have taken his own life, alongside multiple conspiracy theories that propose different scenarios, including potential involvement by Earp or Doc Holliday, retaliatory violence from a fellow gang member, or even a random passerby seeking revenge. Throughout the conversation, Nate mixes humor and critical analysis, while Mike provides historical context, leading to an engaging exploration of the complexities surrounding Ringo's story.

As they wrap up, Mike leans toward the theory that Ringo was most likely killed by an unknown assailant, while Nate humorously posits that Big Nose Kate, Doc Holliday's lover, might be involved. The episode highlights the uncertainty of historical narratives and the allure of the Wild West. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more thought-provoking discussions and insights into history.

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