PODCAST · society
The Burn Down Podcast
by The Burn Down
The Burn Down Podcast brings people together over a cigar. No matter where you’re from, what you believe or how you look, cigars is what connects us! It’s designed to show the world the good that comes out of cigar conversations.Founded by Eric Josefson and Justin Heisig, The Burn Down is a podcast with conversations with people from all walks of life. From interviews with professional athletes like Ed Reed and John Starks, to singers and comedians like Ruben Studdard and Rocky Dale Davis, to mobsters and entrepreneurs like Chris Colombo and Armando Montelongo, cigar makers like Robert Caldwell and Tony Gomez even military veterans like Ray “Cash” Care. Eric and Justin are passionate about cigars, but they’re also passionate about people.We created a podcast where guests can feel comfortable opening up and sharing their stories over a cigar. We’re here to inspire, uplift and to provide value.Check out our website: https://www.burndownpodcast.com/
Episodes
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The Sopranos’ Real-Life Mobster? | Jimmy “Easy” Saracco | Ep. 325
Jimmy “Easy” Saracco sits with us on The Burn Down Podcast to discuss the insides of the DeCavalcante crime family, the New Jersey Mafia family widely cited as an inspiration for The Sopranos—the money, the violence, the rules, and the people behind it. He opens up about his life in the New York...
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Shaping NYC Since 1954 | Frank Narciso - Contractors Sheet Metal
Contractors Sheet Metal has been building New York City since 1954, growing from a mom-and-pop shop into a powerhouse in the city’s construction industry. Frank Narciso became a partner in the 1990s, and when Tommy D’Angelo joined him in 2000, the two continued building the company through…
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Cigars & Sales: Bridging the Gap Between People & Business | Walter Crosby | Episode 323
40+ years in sales, 13 years building his own sales development company, and a serious love for connections and cigars. Walter Crosby knows a thing or two about bringing people together! On this episode of The Burn Down Podcast, we sit down with sales veteran, Walter Crosby, an award-winning…
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Anthony Raimo - Finding Success After Failure | Episode 322
At just 25, Anthony Raimo has already lived through three failed businesses, personal battles with trauma and depression, and the grind of starting over. Today, he’s the owner of Trident Corporate Housing and Raimo Renovations, building real estate solutions for traveling professionals and...
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Hustle Hard With Dominick DiFilippo | Episode 321
This week we sit down with serial entrepreneur Dominick DiFilippo — Leader of the Empire Team with Keller Williams, Founder of AccountaBuddy, and Owner of Empire Sound. From real estate success in Hudson Valley, NY and Fairfield County, CT to building multiple businesses and Dominick shares the...
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The VIP Experience w/ The VIP Country Club | Episode 320
On this episode of The Burn Down Podcast, we sit down with General Manager Thomas Esposito and Assistant General Manager Vinston Joy of VIP Country Club — one of Westchester’s award-winning venues recognized for its luxury atmosphere, top-tier service, and unforgettable events. We dive into the...
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Two Brothers, One City (NYC) - Silverback Contracting | Episode 319
This week on The Burn Down Podcast, we’re joined by brother duo Elias and Brandon Lebron of Silverback Contracting. They break down their journey from the ground up and what it truly takes to build, grow, and succeed as a general contractor in New York City. From hard-earned lessons in the field…
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Union Trained, Self‑Made | Mike Lelia - Lelia Electric Corp
After 15 years in NYC's Local 3 Electricians Union, Mike Lelia made the kind of move most people only talk about. In this episode, he breaks down how he walked away from union stability and a guaranteed paycheck to bet on himself and build Lelia Electric Corp. from the ground up. Six years later,...
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Custom Suits & Cigars - Seth Stahlmann | Tweeds| Episode 317
In the BDP studio we’ve got the one‑of‑a‑kind Seth Stahlmann, a 23‑year‑old style consultant who somehow manages to be both wildly talented and mature for his age. He dives into his backstory, how he grew up, the wins that pushed him forward, the setbacks that tried to slow him down, and the…
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Mega Churches, Bad Calls, Good Luck & Dad Life| Episode 316
We cover it all in this weeks episode! Comedian Druski mocking the mega church pastors, Eric's lucky day, the Buffalo Bills questionable call and Eric & Justin even discuss some dad life topics! We hope you enjoy!! Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here!...
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Body Slams & Cigars! Pro Wrestler - Vinny Pacifico | Episode 315
Hailing from Staten Island, NY, in the studio we have professional wrestler Vinny Pacifico—wrestling since age 14 and debuting at just 16—now a standout independent star known as “The Energy Drink King.” He’s competed in over 15+ countries, appeared across top indie promotions, and stepped onto...
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JS Concealed Carry & Y Not You Media - Jerry Sayegh & Francis Volpe | Episode 314
In the studio we have Jerry Sayegh owner of JS Concealed Carry and former BDP guest Francis Volpe from Y Not You Media and Snacktime. JS Concealed Carry provides high-quality concealed carry training and firearms education. He equips everyday people with practical skills and respect for the...
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Your Help = Holiday Happiness for Families! | Episode 313
PLEASE DONATE HERE: https://www.gofundme.com/f/christmas-for-kids-2025 Christmas for Kids is a fundraiser created to provide children in need with Christmas gifts. Whether that's donating toys to children's hospitals and foster homes, or sponsoring struggling families. Our goal is to raise…
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Faith, Fitness, and Fast Lanes - Nick Zakotiria | Episode 312
In this episode, we sit down with Nick Zakotiria a certified health and performance coach, accomplished race car driver, and driving coach. Nick shares his unwavering commitment to fitness and the disciplined routines that keep him at peak performance. We explore the intense focus required behind...
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He Was Michael Jordans Cuban Cigar Connect! - Scott Anthony | Episode 311
In the BDP studio we have Scott Anthony he shares his unbelievable journey from growing up poor in Chicago and leading a street gang at age 14, dealing cocaine in 80's which lead to him being fugitive on the run for five years while the DEA, FBI, and even Interpol were after him. By the 90's he...
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AI Taking Over And Our Jobs!
In this episode, we're discussing how artificial intelligence it taking over and is everywhere!, ChatGPT writing better emails than us, AI thinking for us, and how the reality of iRobot is closer then we think?! Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here!...
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Plume or Mold!? The Age-Old Debate | Episode 309
This episode was inspired by the recent event of Justin finding MOLD on his 2014 Arturo Fuente BBMF, $100+ cigar, you hate to see! We’ve all heard it — “That’s not mold, it’s plume!” But how do you really tell the difference? In this episode, we dive into one of the most debated topics in the…
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Married to the Rides: Gil Monge’s Custom Car Life | Episode 308
In the studio we have Gil Monge, founder of GCD Auto Studio and Gillin Auto Interiors. Growing up in the South Bronx as the youngest of four brothers, Gil’s passion for cars started early. In 2006, he launched Gillin Auto Interiors, turning that passion into a business. By 2019, he expanded with...
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What Is Happening In America? | Episode 307
In this episode, just before we started recording, we heard the news that Charlie Kirk had been assassinated. It makes us ask—what is happening to our society? No matter what side of the political spectrum you’re on, and no matter how much you disagree with someone’s views, it should never…
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Construction, Cigars & Cry Babies | Blaise Ridulfo | Episode 306
Inside the BDP studio, we sit down with carpenter union foreman and owner of Blaise Construction, Blaise Ridulfo! He shares what it’s like balancing life in the union while running his own business, how he still finds time to enjoy cigars, and why he believes men are the biggest cry babies. All...
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Rolling with Luminisa: Brooklyn Roots, Italian Soul
(Audio Technical Difficulties Until 25Mins 18 Sec We Apologize) Meet Lisa Stramiello better known as Luminisa a vibrant force of nature with unmatched authenticity and electric energy! Born and raised in the heart of Brooklyn, NY, Lumi brings a bold blend of tradition and flair to the world of...
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King Of The Bronx! - Joe Cosentino | Episode 304
In the studio this week, we’re joined by Joe Cosentino who brought us delicious food from the famous Bronx G & R Deli! Joe, a Bronx native who built his real estate empire from the ground up. Known as the King of Bronx Realty, Joe shares how two decades of hustle and dedication shaped his journey...
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Bikinis, Cigars & Biker Gangs | Blanca Biede (Humo Latino Magazine)
In this episode, we’re joined by Blanca Biede, who flew all the way from Iowa to be on the podcast! Blanca is a columnist for Humo Latino Magazine, a cigar lover, a bikini division bodybuilder, and a proud member of the women’s motorcycle group The Litas. She shares her story of how she became...
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Adam Vohra | The Journey in Finding Purpose | Episode 302
We sit down with Adam Vohra — founder of ARV Enterprises and Director of Partnerships for Greenwich, Upper Westchester, and Darien/New Canaan Lifestyle Magazines. Adam shares his inspiring journey of sobriety, being 3 years alcohol-free, and how that led him to launch The Finding Purpose Podcast,...
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Kings of New York | JD Summa - Kings Capital Construction
In the BDP studio, we’re joined by JD Summa, the founder of Kings Capital Construction, one of New York’s prominent construction firms. JD takes us through his incredible journey of building a $60M business defying the odds and proving doubters wrong when he launched during the 2008 real estate...
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300 Episodes!? Can you believe it?! | Episode 300
Since our very first episode back in July 2019, The Burn Down Podcast has been on an incredible journey—bringing people together one cigar at a time. In this special 300th episode, we take a reflective walk down memory lane, celebrating six unforgettable years filled with meaningful…
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Spicy Rigatoni & Spicy Cigars! - Chef Matt Wasson and Adrian NY Cigar Club | Episode 299
This week at the BDP studio a Burn Down FIRST, we had the pleasure of hosting the amazing Chef Matt Wasson, known from Food Network’s Chopped and Ciao House! He cooked live, dazzling us with rosemary focaccia, his signature spicy rigatoni, and bone marrow polpette. The creamy vodka sauce was...
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ChatGPT A Cigar Conspiracy Theorist?! | Episode 298
This week we ask ChatGPT to put its tinfoil hat on and start asking questions. Why did the government turn against tobacco after centuries of widespread acceptance? The tangled web of politics, profit, and public health narratives in real-time. Could it be a battle between Big Tobacco and the...
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7 Figures in 5 Years | Neel Anand - Westchester Technology Group | Episode 297
Besides Eric being 22 mins late to the podcast! We have Neel Anand in the studio, not only does Neel enjoy cigars, bourbon and having a good time with the boys! He is also the 30 year-old entrepreneur behind Westchester Technology Group. The leading IT force in Westchester County. In just over…
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Authentic Angela! | Episode 296
This week in the studio, we’re joined by Angela—a former banking professional who made the switch to driving buses to prioritize family time. Angela is also a passionate cigar enthusiast, and we explore her journey, the life-changing decisions she’s made, and how her Italian heritage inspired her...
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The "Jac" of All Trades | Jacob Restituto | Episode 295
In the studio this week we have Jacob Restituto. Jacob is a musician by trade, in 2014 he started going full time becoming songwriter, singer and producer. During his journey he also became a YouTuber with over 150K subscribers and making close to nearly 6 figures from YouTube! Recently, he has a...
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Yonkers Rising Hip Hop Star | Tony Moxberg | Episode 294
Hailing from the 6th borough Yonkers, NY, Tony Moxberg has spent 20 years turning his life struggles into powerful music. Starting in his bedroom, he evolved to collaborate with icons like Styles P, Jadakiss, Rick Ross, Fabulous, Fat Joe, Benny the Butcher, Joell Ortiz, and Jim Jones, to name a...
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Maduro Melanie | 20+ Years of Cigar Passion | Ep. 293
In the studio this week we have Melanie aka Maduro Meli. A mom of 3 and who been enjoying cigars for 20 years. We discuss Melanie's Puerto Rican heritage, her love for food as a form of expression, and how her passion for cigars have shaped her journey into the cigar industry. We discuss the...
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Chef Admir Alibasic | One Rare Italian Steakhouse | Episode 292
In the studio we have Executive Chef Admir Alibasic, owner of One Rare Italian Steakhouse. Admir is Brooklyn-born chef with Albanian roots who discovered his passion for cooking at the age of 17. Starting as a prep cook at his uncle’s iconic Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse in Manhattan. With a background...
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From Lockdown to Director’s Cut | Wilfred La Salle | Episode 291
Will La Salle grew up in the Bronx projects and was a correctional officer and a NYPD School Safety Agent for 17 years. Will had no intentions of being an actor, director, and producer but he started making films in 2019 with a goal of making 9 films in 9 years, currently he is on his 6th movie...
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Jesse Ortiz - TOC Media | Episode 290
Jesse Ortiz, a seasoned IT professional and owner of TOC Media, an upstate NY-based media and marketing company, manages over 80 Instagram accounts, including one for the NY Cigar Association. Jesse shares his expertise on social media algorithms, offering valuable insights into understanding…
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Cigar Mythbusters! | Episode 289
The world of cigars is full of myths! What's fact, what's fiction, and what’s just plain absurd? In this episode, we tackle the most common cigar myths we've heard and set the record straight once and for all! Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here!...
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Cigar 2025 Current Events! | Episode 288
As the new year kicks off, there’s already plenty happening in the cigar industry. We’re here to give you a quick rundown and the highlights. Enjoy! Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here! https://www.flyingcigars.com/brands/the-burn-down-podcast/...
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Where are our tax dollars going!? | Episode 287
This week we discuss the uncovering of how USAID is using our hard-earned tax dollars on projects/causes that seemingly offer no direct benefit to us or our nation. We’ll dive into why our funds appear to be spent recklessly without clear accountability, and why tracking these expenditures…
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Wine Sommelier & NYC Restaurant Manager - Brian Hudson | Episode 286
This week, we have in the studio Brian Hudson—who is a certified wine sommelier, NYC restaurant manager who managed LAVO Italian Restaurant for almost 10 years and now manages HaSalon in Hells Kitchen, not to mention Justin’s lifelong best friend! Together, we reminisce about their adventurous...
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We are so BACK! | Episode 285
We're back and it feels good to be back in the BDP studio! After 2 weeks away from podcasting, Justin is officially a father! Does that make us a Dad podcast now? We discuss Justin's new Dad life, how we are FED up with the Chiefs , and super bowl our predictions! Are you really that excited for...
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Why the NBA SUCKS! | Episode 284
The dominance of super teams and lack of team loyalty has drained the league of unpredictability, and the camaraderie among players has overshadowed the fierce rivalries that once defined the sport. The focus has shifted to an analytics-driven style of play, where three-point shooting reigns...
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A Victory For The Cigar Industry? : Meta’s (Facebook/Instagram) New Rules.
In today’s episode, we discuss CEO of Meta, Mark Zuckerberg’s move to end third-party fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram in the U.S. replacing it with a Community Notes model. The change promises less censorship by loosening restrictions on mainstream topics while prioritizing enforcement on...
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"Funny How?!" | Cigar Clowns - Ray | Episode 282
This week we got fellow Brooklyn boy Ray from Cigar Clowns! Cigar Clowns was born from a group of Brooklyn childhood friends united by their love for cigars and the art of smoking. Inspired by iconic NYC humor and the legendary "Tilly" clown, the group began crafting their own cigars in 2018,...
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Merry Christmas & Thank You! | Episode 281
This episode is quick and simple we just wanted to say thank you for all the support and engagement during this year it’s means a lot to us. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and better new year! 2025 will be a prosperous year! Order The Blueprint & The Diligent Cigars Here!...
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Amanda Herdman | Boundless American Badass | Episode 280
Amanda Herdman is the owner of Boundless Nutrition, a thriving vitamin and supplement business in Pleasantville, NY. Her company offers high-quality supplements, meal prep services, and an exclusive protein shake bar, all designed to help individuals achieve their fitness goals. A proud,...
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Ed Stulak - “Mr. Exposure Yourself” | Episode 279
In this episode, we sit down with our friend Ed Stulak who met last summer at a golf outing as a part of our foursome! Ed is top New Jersey realtor, international speaker, and author of Expose Yourself. Known as a Instagram star for real estate. Ed has built a social media presence that reaches...
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There's a RAT in the building | Episode 278
This episode Eric's has a HORRIFIC story about an encounter with a GIANT rat in an upscale Italian Restaurant and how they plan to fight the fight when it comes to getting shadow banned on social media! Tribe Goods Link: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TribegoodsCo Become a member on our website!...
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Grammy Winning Music Producer Tony Black & DJ Nino Brown | Episode 277
In the studio, we’re joined by Grammy-winning music producer Tony Black and returning BDP guest, NYC’s premier cigar DJ, DJ Nino Brown—two longtime friends who first met over a decade ago at a cigar lounge! Tony has contributed to over 80 million sold/downloaded recordings. A former staff…
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Navy Veteran & FDNY Fire Marshal | Jose Prosper | Episode 276
This week, we sit down with Navy Veteran and FDNY Fire Marshal Jose Prosper. An unforgettable conversation working as a jet mechanic on ships and submarines for the U.S. Naval Forces during the Gulf War. To joining the FDNY in 1998, Jose shares captivating stories from his time in the Navy and…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Burn Down Podcast brings people together over a cigar. No matter where you’re from, what you believe or how you look, cigars is what connects us! It’s designed to show the world the good that comes out of cigar conversations.Founded by Eric Josefson and Justin Heisig, The Burn Down is a podcast with conversations with people from all walks of life. From interviews with professional athletes like Ed Reed and John Starks, to singers and comedians like Ruben Studdard and Rocky Dale Davis, to mobsters and entrepreneurs like Chris Colombo and Armando Montelongo, cigar makers like Robert Caldwell and Tony Gomez even military veterans like Ray “Cash” Care. Eric and Justin are passionate about cigars, but they’re also passionate about people.We created a podcast where guests can feel comfortable opening up and sharing their stories over a cigar. We’re here to inspire, uplift and to provide value.Check out our website: https://www.burndownpodcast.com/
HOSTED BY
The Burn Down
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