A Book and a Cigar Podcast

A Book and a Cigar is more than a podcast. It’s a vibe where we are LIT in every sense of the word. In this podcast, good books meet smooth smokes. Each week, we dive into captivating reads, share honest reviews, and pair them with the perfect cigar. Whether you’re here for the stories, the cigars, or a little soulful conversation, grab your favorite read and light one up… this is your cozy corner to unwind, laugh, and connect.

A Book and a Cigar Podcast is a arts podcast hosted by Shakia, with 17 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Shakia hosts A Book and a Cigar Podcast, a arts show with 17 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #18

  Episode 118: “Passing the Torch: Lighting Up One Million Black Books”

  Jul 26, 202658 minS1

  In this episode, @melanatedreader joins me in the Lit Lounge to discuss her incredible 1 Million Black Books Summer Campaign, a movement encouraging readers to intentionally pick up books by Black authors and celebrate the richness, diversity, and power of Black storytelling. Together, we explore the inspiration behind the campaign, why representation on our bookshelves matters, and how intentional reading can broaden perspectives, build community, and amplify voices that deserve to be heard. We talk about the impact of supporting Black authors beyond a single month, share recommendations for readers looking to diversify their shelves, and reflect on the joy, connection, and cultural significance that books can create. Whether you're already participating in the challenge or looking for your next great read, this conversation is an invitation to read with purpose and discover the transformative power of Black stories. Join us in the Lit Lounge for an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss.

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  Episode #16

  Episode 116: “Smoke Signals and Lost Souls: Finding Family in the Fire”

  Jul 12, 20261h 13mS1

  In this episode, Mika (@theplanistobebooked) joins me in the Lit Lounge to discuss Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson, a moving novel about family, resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of hope. Together, we explore the journeys of the book's three heroes, the historical events that shape their lives, and the unforgettable moments that left us reflecting long after we turned the final page. We dive into the novel's biggest themes, share our favorite moments and characters, and discuss the emotional impact of a story that reminds us what people are willing to risk for those they love. If you enjoy rich historical fiction and meaningful conversations that go beyond the pages, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Please note: This episode contains full book spoilers.

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  Episode #15

  Episode 115: “Lit Through the Chaos: Motherhood, Books, and Building a Platform”

  Jun 28, 20261h 7mS1

  In this episode, I'm joined by Randi (@randilovesreading) for an honest conversation about balancing motherhood, marriage, and the pursuit of a creative passion. We talk about what it really looks like to build a bookish content creator platform while managing the everyday responsibilities of family life, finding time to read, create, and show up authentically without striving for perfection. From overcoming comparison and creator burnout to embracing community and giving yourself grace, this episode is filled with relatable moments, laughter, and encouragement for anyone trying to make space for the things they love. Whether you're a parent, a content creator, or simply navigating a busy season of life, this conversation is a reminder that your passions still deserve a place in your story.

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  Episode #14

  Episode 114: “From Smoke to Spotlight: Creating While Becoming”

  Jun 21, 20261h 18mS1

  In this episode, Ebone (@theelovee.library) joins me in the Lit Lounge for an honest conversation about what it means to create while you're still becoming. We're talking about content creation in book spaces, showing up authentically online, building community, and navigating the pressure to grow while staying true to yourself. From finding your voice and battling imposter syndrome to balancing creativity with real life responsibilities, we're unpacking the highs, lows, and unexpected lessons that come with sharing your love of books on the internet. We discuss the joy of connecting with fellow readers, the courage it takes to put yourself out there, and how our platforms have evolved alongside us. Expect candid reflections, plenty of laughs, a few hard truths, and encouragement for anyone who has ever wondered if they were "too small" to start creating. Whether you're a Bookstagrammer, BookToker, aspiring content creator, or simply someone learning to embrace the process of growth, this conversation is a reminder that you don't have to have it all figured out to begin. Because sometimes the most meaningful stories aren't the ones we read… they're the ones we're still writing for ourselves.

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  A Book and a Cigar Podcast

  Episode 113: “Velvet Smoke and Soft Curves: Desire that Burns Slow”

  Jun 14, 20261h 1m

  In this episode, Alex (@Alex.Da.Bibliophile) is in the Lit Lounge, and we're diving into the Curve Series by Danielle Allen. We're talking Black love, friendship, chemistry, healing, and all the messy, beautiful moments that make these stories impossible to put down. From unforgettable characters and laugh-out-loud moments to the relationships that had us rooting from the very beginning, we're unpacking what makes the Curve Series such a standout in contemporary romance. We discuss the ways Danielle Allen captures the complexity of Black relationships, the importance of seeing Black people experience joy and vulnerability on the page, and the moments that had us texting our friends because we just had to talk about them. Expect honest conversation, personal reflections, plenty of laughs, and a celebration of Black love in all its forms. Whether you're already a fan of the Curve Series or looking for your next romance read, this episode is filled with the kind of bookish conversation that lingers long after the final chapter.

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