Shows
Minnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 71. 18:53 Working Tools Series – Why Blue?“One of the mysteries of Masonry is the term we have for our lodges. They are called ‘blue’ lodges – but why?” On this episode, we revisit the incomparable writings of John L. Cooper, III.“The source of the symbolism has been forgotten, but not the continuing meaning behind it. Our blue lodges are still places where we learn the importance of constraining our passions, and practicing a respect for the religious and political opinions of others.” Suggested reading: "The Questing Mind is a Salient Characteristic of a Freemason," a collection of writings by John L. Cooper...2025-05-0706 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 70. Masonry is a Way of Life (ft. John L. Cook, Jr.)In this episode, Reed sits down with John L. Cook, Jr., Past Grand Master (2010). John recounts several life-changing experiences: growing up in Georgia, serving in Vietnam, graduating from Cornell University, and finding true purpose in life through the power of brotherhood. Together, they explore John’s many talents: competitive bass fishing, the MLK Tennis Club, passion for gun & coin collecting, and more. ”The one thing I see in young Masons today is the fact that they love it. They want to be Masons. But their shortcoming is coming into the lodge, doing the work, and when t...2025-04-2640 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 66. Slow Sustainable Progress (ft. Clinton Christensen)Every once in a while, we sit down with a true Renaissance man: our very own Clinton Christensen. The youngest of 14 kids, an accomplished French Horn player, show choir singer, and certified EMT. Can you say well-rounded? Reed and Clint discuss the “rumination trap,” paralysis of analysis, and establishing authentic friendships as the bedrock of the lodge experience. Cue up the John Philip Sousa, it’s an all-new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.2025-03-2737 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 65. 18:53 Working Tools Series - The Wardens’ Columns“There are two peculiar pieces of equipment in a Masonic lodge that have no explanation in our ritual. Masonic scholars have reached no conclusions as to the origin, function or purpose of the wardens’ columns.” This week we dive into the writings of John L. Cooper III, author of “The Questing Mind is a Salient Characteristic of a Freemason.” Before being elected the 10th Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of California in 1991, John was a leader in public education. In 2013, he became the first Past Grand Secretary to be elected as Grand Master in California. “John know...2025-03-2106 min
The Kindness ChroniclesA Show about NOTHING or EVERYTHINGNothing? Or a little bit of everything. Wooden Sticks meets Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (Donut Edition) meets Chicago Law to Entertainment Tonight and back to Donuts. Of course,a dose of Kindness along the way. NOTE: Be sure to mark your calendars for the first Kindness Chronicles LIVE Podcast celebrating the Selfless Scholars. Wednesday, May 21st at 5:30 at the Masonic Heritage Center's ives Auditorium. Free Event. Please email John at John.Schwietz@mnmasonic.org to reserve your tickets2025-02-2737 minThe Kindness ChroniclesInside "The Room" with Matt BenzMinnesota Wild Asst. Equipment Manager, Matt Benz (And John's cousin) has a unique perspective about the extraordinary kindness of Minnesota Wild players. The Wild has a long tradition and culture of kindness. Matt shares some great stories. We also discuss the important topics like:1. Is it a "Jersey or Sweater?"2. Are they "Breezers or Hockey Pants?"3. Are Rock-n-Roll roadies like NHL Equipment Managers? 2025-01-1644 minThe Kindness ChroniclesGrandpa Gorgie the GoalieBig news in the Gorg family! We try to discuss politics and it goes nowhere. We land on a discussion of legendary Coach Bill Lechner and John's cousin Matt Benz, a great guy who was just recognized for 1500 games as the Minnesota Wild's Equipment Manager. 2024-11-1528 minThe Kindness ChroniclesAnthony LaPantaAnthony LaPanta joins us to talk family, friends and food (and not necessarily in that order) and his personal Mt. Rushmore of local "good guys" he has encountered in the professional sports world.2024-10-2545 minThe Kindness ChroniclesHalloween Spooktacular_BOO! While John's sarcasm gets a bit exhausting in this Halloween preview, the KC Crew discuss KG's Wild travel (packing for 12 days), Steve's favorite scary movies (no one has ever heard of) and John shares a ghost story from his days on the St. Joe's Hospital psych ward...as an employee, not a patient. 2024-10-1752 minThe Kindness ChroniclesEric Johnson, DINOMIGHTSWe discuss a unique program that brings hockey to children in the heart of Minneapolis and St. Paul , DINOMIGHTS. We visit with Impact Hockey owner and DINOMIGHTS Volunteer, Eric Johnson (Self described Johnny Clueless fan, Kevin Gorg admirer and complete stranger to John Schwietz.)2024-10-0828 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 45. Eagle's Healing NestWith Reed "on assignment," guest hosts Kevin Gorg and Steve Brown from the Kindness Chronicles Podcast join John in a visit with Eagle's Healing Nest Executive Director, Shawn Kor.2024-09-1933 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 43. Health & WellnessThis week we tackle a topic not often discussed in the lodge setting: health and wellness. Arun Natarajan, Hans Neisz, and John Gann share important perspective on why it’s high time we invest in each other’s well-being.2024-09-0935 minThe Kindness ChroniclesRemembering George LatimerIn a world dominated by political divisiveness, St. Paul/Minnesota lost one of the least divisive, most lovable "politicians" to ever hold office. George Latimer was THAT guy. His dear friend, and John's "Uncle Harry" joins us in remembering a St. Paul legend.2024-08-2726 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 41. John Schwietz, MMC CEOReed interviews Minnesota Masonic Charities' CEO, John Schwietz.Mark your calendars for:MMC Gala September: Saturday, September 28Exclusive Pillars Members Brunch: Sunday, October 272024-08-1442 minThe Kindness ChroniclesUS Open and "The Room"We let Steve sit this one out. Kevin and John discuss a Father's Day US Open, the perils of hosting a podcast called "The Kindness Chronicles" and the importance of having the right guys "In the Room," for teams like the Twins and The Wild.2024-06-1827 minThe Kindness ChroniclesFather's Day Special (Featuring Jack Schwietz)John's dad, Jack joins us for a fun chat about fatherhood and favorite TV and Movie Dads.2024-06-1347 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 32. ACT II: New and ImprovedTake 2! We relaunch the MMH&M Podcast with Reed Endersbe serving as Co-Host. A great addition. We discuss plans for future podcasts. Please make topic and guest suggestions to John.Schwietz@mnmasonic.org or Reed.Endersbe@mnfreemasons.org2024-06-1113 minThe Kindness ChroniclesJohn Sweeney, Brave New Outpost/JigglyBoyFor 25 years, John Sweeney has been changing human behavior as a Keynote Speaker within the biggest businesses in the world, including Microsoft, Target, Hilton, United Health Group, General Mills, Facebook, Apple, and Bank First. He has shared the stage with George Bush, Sr., Deepak Chopra, Betty White, Steve Ballmer, and Mark Zuckerberg. Sweeney has written four books. A quote from Sweeney, taken from the book Innovation at the Speed of Laughter: 8 Secrets to World Class Idea Generation, appeared as cup quote #183 in Starbucks "The Way I See It Program.".[1] The quote read: "Improvisers don't look at change a...2024-05-0247 minThe Kindness ChroniclesBurnsville TragedyBurnsville native, KG and John discuss the tragic deaths of the Burnsville Police Officers and Paramedic. Our pal, Steve is on assignment.2024-02-2127 minThe Kindness ChroniclesGalentine's 2024 (Part 1)KG in Vegas, Steve in Mexico, John in North Minneapolis retrieving his stolen car. A big, fun week for 2/3 of the KC Crew. Also, "Galentine's Day!" It is an annual event. Some lovely stories of kindness from which we can all learn and be inspired. Enjoy.2024-02-1449 minThe Kindness ChroniclesBest of KC: Dr. Dave Walsh (2021)World-renowned (YES, world!) psychologist, Dr. Dave Walsh, founder of the National Institute on Media and the Family and the Spark and Stitch Institute, discusses the role of social media and kindness in a world that seems to be dominated by divisiveness.2023-06-2725 minThe Kindness ChroniclesLooking ahead to Senior YearJohn had the opportunity to visit with a few Mahtomedi Baseball junior players in advance of their trip to the State Tournament. The discussion included recognition of mentors, sportsmanship and a "don't be that guy" sportsmanship conversation.2023-06-1224 minThe Kindness ChroniclesOxytocin Inducing Movies/MomentsThe KC Crew review their top oxytocin inducing movies and moments. We also visit with Abigail and Adella from Maple Grove High School, two of 32 recipients of the MMC Selfless Scholarship (Kindness Scholarship)2023-06-0156 minThe Kindness ChroniclesBELIEVET Service Dogs for VetsMEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL EDITION, Jane Rydholm and Sam Daly from Believet join us. Believe is a non-profit organization that provides service dogs for Veterans. Incredible organization2023-05-2926 minThe Kindness ChroniclesBob Kowalski/BuscoThe whole team PLUS Mario,the Intern are crammed in the BUNK BED STUDIO for a fun chat with a sweet guy, (BK Kowalski) who wrote a sweet book about a sweet dog, Busco. The lessons learned are in lock step with our goal to give the world a dose of the Minnesota Nice that it desperately needs.2023-05-2527 minThe Kindness ChroniclesMario Esteb/ Selfless Scholar Kam ZurekAs the school year comes to a close, and young people contemplate their first-year college experience, we asked Syracuse Student and Podcast Host, Mario Esteb, to join us in studio to discuss the rollercoaster experience that most college students experience as a first-year student. Also, we surprise Chanhassen High School Student and Football Player, Kameron Zurek, recipient of a 2023 Minnesota Masonic Charities Selfless Scholarship. He nominated teammate Tyler Smith and shares a bit about his special friendship with team manager, Wesley Parker.2023-05-1651 minThe Kindness ChroniclesRandom Chatter: Jury Duty/Ted LassoJohn deals with a post-Covid, Peter Brady crack in his voice (forgive us) but offers up some solid TV suggestions. KG mourns the end of another tough Wild season, but celebrates the Kentucky Derby and the opening of Canterbury. We reflect on culinary highlights from NHL travel and Steve reflects on his culinary highlights during his active touring days with Johnny Clueless. 2023-05-0340 min