From the Marine Corps to CEO [Episode 35]

From the Marines to Meaningful Moments: How One Veteran Built a Business Around Brotherhood, Culture, and Celebration

There’s something about lighting up a cigar that slows time. It’s not just the aroma or the burn — it’s the intention. It’s ritual. It’s the kind of pause we rarely give ourselves anymore.

In this week’s episode of The Dr. Virga Podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Joey Mac Dizon, a U.S. Marine veteran and founder of The Mobile Cigar Lounge, a business born not just from passion, but from purpose. His story is one of service, sacrifice, and ultimately — community. And if you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to build something bigger than yourself, Joey’s journey will show you.

The Birth of a Business, the Spirit of a Tribe

After years of military service, including deployments to Iraq, Norway, and Mongolia, Joey came home with something many veterans struggle to find again: a sense of mission. He knew he wanted to serve — just in a new way. That drive led to the creation of The Mobile Cigar Lounge, a veteran-owned business that brings curated cigar experiences to weddings, private parties, and corporate events across the country.

What started as a weekend ritual between friends became a mobile movement — one that has been featured on Fox News, and now executes over 1,100 events a year. But what Joey created isn’t just a business — it’s a vessel. A cigar, to him, is less about the smoke and more about the story.

“A cigar is a bridge — to our fathers, our friends, our memories. It’s not about the puff. It’s about the pause.”

Cigars as Culture, Not Commodity

Throughout our conversation, I was struck by Joey’s reverence for the cigar itself. It wasn’t about selling a product — it was about honoring a tradition. A cigar isn’t just tobacco wrapped in a leaf. It’s a gesture of respect, a tool for bonding, a celebration of life’s biggest (and smallest) wins.

For many of his clients, cigars are deeply personal. Joey recounted story after story of guests who were transported by scent and ritual — reminded of their grandfathers, their mentors, their old friends. These aren’t just events. They’re living memories.

And that’s the beauty of what The Mobile Cigar Lounge does. They don’t just show up to light cigars. They show up to create space — for connection, reflection, and celebration.

Veteran Roots, Entrepreneurial Vision

Joey’s path after the Marine Corps wasn’t linear. Like many veterans, he bounced between security work, project management, and nonprofit service before finding his true calling. But what makes his journey so inspiring is his refusal to settle. He used each chapter — each job, each setback — as a stepping stone.

He didn’t just build a business; he built a team. His co-founders are also veterans — men he’s known for nearly two decades. Together, they’ve crafted a brand that honors their values: professionalism, hospitality, grit, and authenticity. From a retrofitted 1973 Airstream to custom-rolled cigars and full-service lounge setups, every detail is thoughtful, intentional, and infused with pride.

And they’ve done it all while staying rooted in community. The Mobile Cigar Lounge gives back to veteran causes, mentors other veteran entrepreneurs, and supports local businesses wherever they go.

Slowing Down to Speed Up

In today’s world, slowing down is radical. We’re constantly chasing — productivity, metrics, deadlines, likes. But what Joey offers is countercultural in the best way possible. A moment to sit. A reason to breathe. A ritual that reminds us that connection matters more than clicks.

“If I had to choose between the best cigar in the world with the worst company — or the worst cigar with the best people — I’d choose the people every time.”

That mindset, that ethos, is exactly why this episode struck such a deep chord with me. As a veteran myself, I understand how important it is to stay connected to something greater. Joey has built a company that does just that — one celebration, one story, one slow burn at a time.

The Legacy of the Lounge

Whether you’re a cigar lover or have never held one in your life, the story behind The Mobile Cigar Lounge is a testament to what happens when you follow your purpose and let your roots guide you. It’s about more than events. It’s about presence. It’s about legacy.

And if you’re hosting a wedding, a retirement ceremony, a promotion party, or even just want to offer your guests something truly unique — this is it.

Book the Experience

To learn more or to book The Mobile Cigar Lounge for your next event, visit their website. And if you mention The Dr. Virga Podcast when booking, Joey and his team will throw in 20 extra cigars — just for our listeners.

This is more than a business. It’s brotherhood on wheels.It’s heritage in your hands.It’s what happens when veterans build not just for profit — but for people.

You can catch my full conversation with Joey Mac Dizon on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere podcasts are streamed. Trust me — this one will light you up.