The Michael Knowles Show: Michael & Karl Malone – NBA Legend Cigar Conversation

Release Date: November 23, 2024

In this engaging episode of The Michael Knowles Show, host Michael Knowles sits down with NBA Hall of Famer Karl Malone to delve into the world of cigars, personal heritage, and life's philosophies. Stripping away the usual political discourse, the conversation offers listeners an intimate look into Malone's life, his passion for cigars, and the values that have shaped his journey both on and off the basketball court.

1. Introduction to Mayflower Karl Malone Cigar Pack

The episode kicks off with an introduction to the exclusive Mayflower Karl Malone cigar pack, a joint venture between Karl Malone and La Aurora. Karl emphasizes the importance of age restrictions and personal choice regarding cigar smoking:

[00:56] Karl Malone: "We do not encourage anybody to smoke cigars. If you like them, you like them, if you don't, you don't."

2. Cigars as a Symbol of Connection and Heritage

Karl Malone shares his perspective on cigars being a great equalizer, fostering genuine connections regardless of one's background:

[01:28] Karl Malone: "A cigar to me is an icebreaker. It really doesn't matter what your bank account says. No matter what car you're driving, what house you live in."

He recounts his first experience with cigars at 25 years old, striving to embody the "cool captain" persona:

[05:07] Karl Malone: "My first cigar ever. I was 25 years old and I wanted to be the coolest captain on the team... I lit this cigar up, and I acted like I had done it forever."

3. Deep Dive into Cigar Craftsmanship

The conversation transitions to the intricacies of cigar making. Karl highlights the meticulous process and the collaboration between various craftsmen:

[16:13] Karl Malone: "There are 300 hands that touch a cigar. You've got the guy who's growing and watering it, the harvester, the fermenter, the cutter, the roller... all contributing to this handmade luxury."

Karl also introduces the Mayflower line, detailing the unique blends and flavors:

[18:59] Karl Malone: "The Mayflower Dusk is an Ecuador Habano wrapper with a Sumatra binder and Nicaraguan filler. For the dawn, it's an Ecuador Connecticut wrapper, Cameroon binder, and Nicaraguan filler. It's got a hint of pepper and more strength."

4. Land Development and Personal Philosophy

Shifting gears, Karl discusses his passion for land development and hunting, tying it back to his family heritage and personal values:

[07:03] Karl Malone: "When we moved back home, the family had a truck. We moved back home 20, almost 21, 22 years ago. Legends started off about that size, and I was just going to do it for the boys, but then my wife and daughter got in it."

He emphasizes stewardship of the land, inspired by his grandfather's teachings:

[13:20] Karl Malone: "When you become successful, be willing to defend and lose your life for it. Become a steward of the land. We have been blessed and fortunate enough."

5. Legacy, Family, and Overcoming Adversity

Karl delves into his personal journey, reflecting on the influence of his mother and grandfather in shaping his resilience and drive:

[25:15] Karl Malone: "My grandfather said, 'When you grow up to be successful, you only do things first class. If you cannot afford it, you save your money.' That's your legacy. That is your DNA."

He shares poignant anecdotes about his upbringing, the challenges he faced, and the unwavering support from his mother:

[25:17] Karl Malone: "I was a loner, a mama's boy. My dad committed suicide when I was five years old. My mom worked hard to support eight kids as a single parent."

6. Philosophies on Success and Self-Preservation

The dialogue touches upon nuanced philosophies of self-preservation and altruism, contrasting natural instincts with the desire to uplift others:

[29:06] Karl Malone: "When a person thinks about everyone else in the room except themselves, that person will always be taken care of."

He intertwines these thoughts with reflections on legacy and the impact one leaves behind:

[42:13] Karl Malone: "The simplicity of life is what we're missing. I've been dying since the day I was born. So, to me, keeping things simple is essential."

7. Artistry in Athletics and Cigars

Both Michael and Karl explore the artistic aspects inherent in both sports and cigar appreciation. Karl likens athletic performance to artistry, highlighting grace and precision:

[50:10] Karl Malone: "When you watch a really incredible athletic show, it's the grace of everything. All the movements going in the right direction, totally meeting the moment... Is that not artistry?"

Similarly, he draws parallels between the craftsmanship of cigars and artistic creation:

[51:30] Karl Malone: "A cigar is a very artistic thing in itself. Even the way you're talking about the land and the creation reminds me of a great quote from Alexander Pope: 'All nature is but art unknown to the trained eye.'"

8. Final Thoughts and Partnership Commitment

As the conversation wraps up, Karl reiterates his commitment to the Mayflower partnership, emphasizing mutual support and shared success:

[54:36] Karl Malone: "Our partnership is going to be amazing. Whatever ride we go on, we'll go on it together."

Michael concludes by promoting the Mayflower cigars, inviting listeners to experience the exclusive blends:

[56:00] Michael Knowles: "Boxes of Mayflower's premium handmade cigars are now back in stock. With limited quantities, now's the time to sample Mayflower signature blends and stock up on your favorites."

Key Takeaways

• Cigars as Connectors: Karl Malone views cigars as a means to foster genuine connections, transcending socioeconomic barriers.

• Heritage and Stewardship: A deep appreciation for family heritage and a commitment to stewarding the land guide Karl's personal and business endeavors.

• Artistry in All Things: Whether in sports or cigar craftsmanship, Karl emphasizes the artistic elements that require precision, grace, and passion.

• Legacy and Resilience: Overcoming personal adversity with the support of loved ones has instilled in Karl a drive to build a meaningful legacy.

• Mutual Success: The partnership between Michael Knowles and Karl Malone is rooted in shared values and a commitment to mutual growth and success.

This episode offers listeners a blend of personal anecdotes, philosophical insights, and an appreciation for the finer things in life, all anchored by Karl Malone's storied career and grounded values.