Jeff Borysiewicz, founder of Corona Cigar Company live again at the Light 'em Up Lounge

Topic: Florida Sun Grown tobacco, agriculture, and the legacy of Corona Cigar Company 🔥 Episode Overview Jeff Borysiewicz, founder of Corona Cigar Company, joins the show to discuss the ambitious revival of Florida tobacco farming. From the physical challenges of manual labor to the nuances of sustainable agriculture and the fight against over-regulation, Jeff shares an expert’s look at what it takes to bring a "lost art" back to American soil. 🧭 Key Discussion Highlights 1. The Revival of Florida Tobacco Tobacco farming in Florida collapsed in the 1970s due to high labor costs and competition from Central America. Jeff revived the industry with Florida Sun Grown (FSG) to create a unique "farm-to-table" retail concept. Farming in Florida is high-risk, facing extreme heat, summer rainy seasons, and winter frosts. The goal is sustainability and flavor, providing cigar blenders with a "new ingredient" that hasn't been commercially available for generations. 2. Agriculture: High-Tech vs. The Human Eye While technology like GPS tractors and moisture sensors exists, Jeff relies on experienced observation—the plant "tells" you when it needs water. Soil health is maintained using Sun Hemp from India to restore nitrogen and organic matter. Environmental stewardship is a priority; Jeff uses biodegradable cornstarch mulch to suppress weeds and conserve water. FSG collaborates with University of Florida scientists for soil analysis and environmental technology. 3. The Quest for Wrapper Grade Tobacco Growing wrapper tobacco requires a "wrapper mentality" from day one—meticulous handling to avoid holes or tears. Jeff aims for 100% wrapper yield but nets about 40% due to the fragile nature of the leaf. Florida's climate and altitude are similar to Cuba's, allowing for successful cultivation of Criollo and Corojo 2012 seed varieties. Specialized curing barns are kept closed to maintain humidity, a departure from methods used in Connecticut or Nicaragua. 4. The Retail Landscape and "Corona" Challenges Jeff founded Corona Cigar Co. in 1995, choosing a name that paid homage to Latin culture while being easy to pronounce. The company faced unique hurdles during the pandemic, including social media "fact-check" sensors flagging posts due to the word "Corona." Despite a push toward isolationism and digital reality, the cigar lounge remains a vital social "third place" for human connection. 5. Defending the Industry The industry faces legislative threats, such as potential bans for future generations and excessive FDA manufacturing rules. Jeff emphasizes the importance of lobbying and educating politicians who are often "ignorant" of cigar culture. The "intangible cultural heritage" designation (seen in Honduras) is a potential model for protecting tobacco history in the US. 6. Sharing the Passion The best way to strengthen cigar culture is to introduce newcomers properly. Guide beginners toward milder options and teach correct lighting and puffing techniques so they aren't intimidated. Cigars are a "peace pipe" that builds bonds across diverse backgrounds. 💬 Final Thought Agriculture is the heart of the cigar world. By being stewards of the land and protectors of the craft, we ensure that the "lost art" of the leaf remains a living, breathing tradition. With that — light ’em up.