The Pipes Magazine Radio Show Podcast

Tonight on The Pipes Magazine Radio Show, we welcome Michael Dean, founder and managing editor of Timber & Smoke Magazine. Launched in June 2025, the quarterly publication celebrates pipe culture, craftsmanship, and the slower, more intentional side of life. What began as Michael's passion for sharing the rituals and stories surrounding pipes and tobacco has grown into a beautifully produced print magazine dedicated to the people, traditions, and artistry of the hobby. Known for its outstanding photography, maker profiles, thoughtful essays, and pipe show coverage, Timber & Smoke has quickly found an audience among pipe smokers who appreciate both the heritage and evolving culture of the hobby. Brian and Michael will talk about the magazine, its origins, and where it may be headed in the future. At the top of the show in Pipe Parts Brain will have a pipe bowl packing tip.

Tonight on The Pipes Magazine Radio Show, we welcome Austrian pipe maker Alexander Kroiss of Kroiss Pipes. Alexander has been crafting handmade briar pipes since 2021, producing carefully made, one-of-a-kind pieces that emphasize clean design, quality materials, and an excellent smoking experience. Drawing from both classic and modern influences, Alex favors high-grade Mediterranean briar and German ebonite, often accented with materials like horn, bamboo, and exotic woods. His work reflects a balanced approach that combines traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary aesthetic. At the top of the show in Pipe Parts, we will have a coffee pairing segment with Bo Parker of Methodical Coffee.

Tonight on The Pipes Magazine Radio Show, we welcome back pipe maker Nate King for the third installment of our recurring segment, “The State of Nate.” Nate has been making pipes since 2005 and holds an honorary Master of Pipes degree from the Chicagoland Pipe Collectors Club. He is also a member of the prestigious Confrérie des Maîtres Pipiers de Saint-Claude. In this episode, Brian and Nate will talk about their time at the recent Chicago pipe show.

Tonight on The Pipes Magazine Radio Show, our featured guest is Jon David Cole, Owner and Tobacconist of The Country Squire in Jackson, Mississippi. After 55 years in its longtime home, The Country Squire is moving into a new standalone location featuring expanded shipping and blending operations, along with a full smoking and cocktail lounge. The grand opening festivities begin in two weeks with several days of events celebrating this major milestone. Activities include a ribbon cutting with Mayor John Horn on Tuesday, May 26, a shop blessing service on Thursday, May 28, a Pipe Night with Jeremy Reeves of Cornell & Diehl on Friday, May 29, and the official Grand Opening Day on Saturday, May 30, featuring Caldwell Cigars, live music, food trucks, and special presentations throughout the day. Brian and Jon David will talk about the move, the growth of The Country Squire, and what this exciting new chapter means for one of the most well-known tobacconists in the pipe community. At the top of the show in Pipe Parts, Brian will answer a listener question on the dating and aging of tobacco.

Tonight on The Pipes Magazine Radio Show, we bring you a special episode from the 30th annual Chicago Pipe Show. Brian takes to the floor for a series of "man on the street" interviews, capturing spontaneous conversations with attendees, collectors, and artisans throughout the event. These impromptu interviews offer a candid look at the energy, camaraderie, and shared passion that define one of the premier gatherings in the pipe world, giving listeners a true sense of what makes the Chicago show such a standout experience. At the top of the show in Pipe Parts, Brian will discuss his budget, shopping method, and purchases from the show.