Shows
Minnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 100. Building Connection & Trust: It Starts with YouTo celebrate 100 episodes, we break down one of the biggest insights we’ve learned so far: the foundation of Blue Lodge is built on authentic relationships, everything else sits on top. Lodges today are facing the same challenges seen across society: men are struggling, often silently. These struggles affect the emotional and relational health of Lodges. We say the word “brotherhood,” but men want deeper connection than many currently experience. Ritual and fellowship are strong, but authentic connection is often missing. In 2026, Grand Lodge and Masonic Charities will be partnering with the Face It Foundation in a mea...
2025-11-2840 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 98. 18:53 Working Tools Series “Carriers of the Flame”Our incredibly insightful Grand Lodge Education Officer Brad Phelps asks the tough questions and shares several thoughts worth pondering. Transformation takes time, along with a willingness to do the important work. “How do you know yourself to be one?” It’s an all new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries. Check out www.bythecompass.org for more from Brad.
2025-11-1406 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 97. Veterans Day (ft. Lloyd Cheney)“What am I going to do today to make myself a better Mason?” Retired U.S. Army combat Veteran, recipient of the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and dedicated servant leader Lloyd Cheney joins us in studio. From a lengthy deployment to acclimating back to civilian life, Lloyd takes us on his journey. “You’re never going to be the same, and you have to accept that.” Do we underestimate the impact of the mentor / mentee relationship? Put on your Kevlar, soldier…we’re talking civic causes, Masonic missions, and serving the Craft. Lloyd is a Past Ma...
2025-11-0748 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 96. Charity = Love (ft. Brian Beermann)“The heart of charity is the love we extend to each other.” Get your Cipher out: it’s Brian Beermann. Applying the lessons, collaboration, training your successor, and knowing that consistency is essential to lodge success. “The important piece of Masonic ritual is the application of the ideals of Masonic ritual and how we apply them to our daily lives.” Brian Beermann is a Past Master of Mizpah No. 191 (St. Paul Park) and Past Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota (2012-2013).
2025-10-3156 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 95. 18:53 Working Tools Series: The Badge of a MasonAs important as the square and compass are to us as Masons, they are not our primary symbols. This week we take a closer look at what is an outward and visible symbol of an inward and spiritual grace.Back by popular demand, we delve into the writings of John L. Cooper III and examine the symbolic work it takes for each of us to contribute to a stable and useful society…on an all-new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.
2025-10-2408 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 94. What Care Looks Like (Minnesota Masonic Home)This week it’s some of the greats: Jonathan Ruiz, Anna McCleary, Stacey Brown, and Alex Lee from our Masonic Home. Compassionate, quality care is our mission, but what does it take to maintain such a highly rated care facility? Hear more about authentic relationships with residents, genuine passion for excellence, and expanded volunteer opportunities at your Masonic Home. More info: mnmasonichomes.org or call 952-948-7000
2025-10-1738 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 93. Resilience (ft. Justin Ortega)How do you show up every day? Marine Corps Veteran and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enthusiast Justin Ortega digs into the challenges of integrity, purpose, and doing the right thing.“Personal improvement is hard, and it takes a lot of discipline and dedication. True happiness comes from the hard work.”With a modern take on our 24-inch gauge, we take a step back and examine “happiness” in today’s world, and what really brings us meaning, balance, and lasting satisfaction. Justin was raised in 2022 at Surfside Lodge No. 112 under the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of California...
2025-10-1051 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 92. 18:53 Working Tools Series: “Do Good Unto All”This week we break down the vital importance of authentic friendship, re-thinking lodge education, and identifying our “cause” or purpose as Freemasons. How do all these things impact the overall “member experience” in your lodge? Also, we have an underused passage that serves as a reminder that our obligations extend beyond the walls of the lodge to our communities and the world at large. Grab your Manual…it’s an all new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.
2025-10-0319 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 91. Momentum (ft. Zeb Dudek)Zeb Dudek brings his diverse set of skills (and his ruck sack) to the show this week. Hot topics across the board on this one, like the perils of “tradition prevailing,” rethinking internal lodge infrastructure, and the necessity of partnering with community groups.“Whatever your lodge is working on, you have to keep that momentum going.” Planning way ahead + effective communication = breaking out of that holding pattern…it’s Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.
2025-09-261h 15Minnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 90. Masonic Cancer Center (ft. Dr. David Largaespada)What is the nature of treating cancer? The field is moving tremendously fast: medicine is changing, and new forms of therapy are becoming the norm. “There’ll be ways for us to detect cancer years earlier than we do now, and that's going to allow us to treat many more patients successfully.”Dr. David Largaespada (Deputy Director of the Masonic Cancer Center) joins us this week to share insight on the latest research and collaboration going on. From mouse genetics and gene modification to cell biology, it’s time to put on your lab coat and power...
2025-09-1940 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 89. 18:53 Working Tools Series: The Masonic HomeThis year’s Masonic Charities Gala (9/27) will be showcasing the Minnesota Masonic Home. Since its inception a century ago, our Home’s mission has been to provide quality care and services to aging adults.What were circumstances like in the early 20th century, when the world had yet to establish dedicated eldercare? This week’s episode showcases how it all came together, with collaboration between horse breeder Marion Savage, the Grand Lodge, Order of the Eastern Star, and many others. “The building of this home affords a great solace to the members of our fraternity, who are t...
2025-09-1212 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 88. Relevance (ft. Scott Rich)We’re hanging out with Senior Grand Deacon Scott Rich. The pride of Mizpah No. 191 shares life adventures from the South Pacific with the Marine Corps, woodworking, skydiving, and perspective on how we ensure lodges are relevant to our members. “That’s such a huge thing to be able to accept, especially as a man: here are some guys I can count on and trust, that’ll be there for me no matter what. I don’t have to be all things to everyone on my own.” Fire up the lathe and don your safety goggles; it’s...
2025-09-0443 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 87. “Everything You Do Matters” (ft. Bob Davis)This week we sit down with Robert S. Davis, Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota. Hear about his numerous life adventures: living across the region as a “Pastor’s Kid,” passion for Scouting America, and later serving with the Peace Corps in the Dominican Republic. “What you do today can affect people a hundred years from now. Do you want to leave a positive effect or a negative effect?” Pursuing a pilot’s license, reading about inspirational leaders, and discovering his great-grandparent was a classmate with George Washington Carver in college. Stow your carry-on luggage and pass the p...
2025-08-2246 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 86. 18:53 Working Tools Series: The Apprentice PillarWhat happens when the Master Mason fails to perform his duty of instructing the Entered Apprentice, and instead plots to discredit him and claim glory for himself? “Focused energy is a blessing. Unfocused anger and rage are destructive of all societies, especially of ours.”This week we revisit the incomparable writings of John L. Cooper III and take a trip to Rosslyn Chapel in search of the Apprentice Pillar. “Jealousy has no place in Freemasonry. For as we are taught, a Mason only succeeds in an environment of those who can work together and agre
2025-08-1507 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 85. Building Community (ft. Scott Glendenning & Steve Kaarbo)Where do we begin the pursuit of authentic human connection and giving back to the greater good? “We find commonality…and connection comes out of that commonality.”Scott Glendenning and Steve Kaarbo share how their non-profit is bringing the Duluth community together by giving back to families and supporting various health initiatives. “Some people might say, in the grand scheme of things, maybe a thousand dollars doesn't make a big difference. But it makes a very big difference to the individuals and families receiving it.”What started as a front yard birthday par...
2025-08-0829 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 84. Trust (ft. Reed Houge)Our pal Reed Houge poses the question: how do you put yourself out there?“Every relationship, whether business or personal, starts with one thing: trust.” Born in Jamestown, ND, Reed served in the U.S. Army as an Avionics Technician and Combat Engineer. He later relocated to Minnesota where he joined Nelson Lodge No. 135 in Buffalo (2013). Professionally, he was a Medical Applications Engineer for Medtronic, Boston Scientific, and several start-up medical companies in Minnesota, Colorado, and Arizona.Reed currently serves the Grand Lodge of Arizona as Senior Grand Deacon and is a memb...
2025-08-0139 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 83. Priorities & Impact (ft. Brad Phelps)“The truly impactful people? Their peers trust them, because of who they are…not what they say they are…but WHO they are.” There’s so much depth to our ritual when we reflect beyond just “the words.” This week we sit down with our Grand Lodge Education Officer and discuss a wide range of topics, from slowing down our daily grind to inspiring others. Do you have what it takes to be a positive "spark plug" in your lodge? “Is the length of your cable tow based on what you CAN do or what's convenient to you...
2025-07-2543 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 82. “So Many Goodbyes” (ft. Karla Hult)KARE 11’s Karla Hult is an Emmy, Edward R. Murrow, and Walter Cronkite award-winning journalist. Her favorite stories are those shared from the heart, including her award-winning documentary of her family’s own Alzheimer’s journey.“We are trying to walk alongside them in a way that is respectful and honors their dignity. That is ultimately what made me pause after our marathon with my dad and say, what more can I do to share and uplift others?” In 2021, Karla launched “So Many Goodbyes,” a mission to support and educate families, caregivers, and the greater community about...
2025-07-1842 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 81. “Charity, Our Guiding Star” (ft. Paul Hodnefield)Minnesota Masonic Charities was formed in 2006, but how did we get here? Author Paul Hodnefield breaks down the timeline of the three distinct stages of “Charity” in Minnesota and how it has guided us since our inception in the 1850s. “The advances that Minnesota Masonry has funded over the years are known not just here locally, they’re known across the world. It's something that has benefitted mankind at large.” Learn about our rich history and the pivotal influence of A.T.C. Pierson, Gideon Ives, Marian Savage, the Order of the Eastern Star, and more.
2025-07-1141 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 80. Leadership (ft. Kathy Quick)Minnesota takes pride in civic participation, but there’s a leadership deficit in our state. Leadership, as well as volunteering and charity, is crucial for addressing community needs and opportunities. How do we confront generational changes of social affiliations and people leaving rural areas? In this episode, we focus on the challenge of collaborative leadership with Dr. Kathy Quick.“Leadership is about adaptation. It matters that everybody be a good communicator. It matters that everybody have some degree of empathy…not be so overtaken by their own ego and title that they forget about the followe...
2025-07-0451 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 79. Check your Ego (ft. Ben Lacy)The pod gets electric when Ben Lacy shares perspective on respecting the 24-inch gauge, creating a bespoke Masonic experience, and the action necessary for authentic brotherhood. “Support the people that are working for the betterment of the Craft. Figure out a way that you can ask someone how you can help them. And then go follow up on that and do the thing. Figure out a way that you can make a difference.”A felony prosecutor/nonprofit attorney, busy dad/husband, and one-time collaborator with the Duke of Edinburgh ( ! ), Ben is a plural member of Golde...
2025-06-2743 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 78. 18:53 Working Tools Series: The Patron SaintsFreemasonry isn’t and has never been a religious organization. It has always been open to members of all religions and faiths. However, the world into which it was born, in Enlightenment-era Europe, was a largely Christian one. As a result, many of the symbols of Freemasonry reflect Christian iconography—including the connection to the two Saint Johns in Freemasonry. Their feast days are closely associated with the summer and winter solstice – underscoring the symbolic duality of the two figures.
2025-06-2005 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 77. The Effort Required (ft. Nate Smithson)This week we sit down with our pal, Nate Smithson, and unpack the “Masonic experience”: proactive community engagement, the infinite mindset required for long-term success, our obligation, and more. “It’s always easy, isn't it…for us to assign somebody else's priorities without understanding what's going on in their life.”How does one balance being a VP/Risk Manager, family man, and civic leader? Fire up the commodity market ticker, it’s an all new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.
2025-06-1357 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 76. Progress must "pro-gress"(ft. Sujit Varma)”Does Masonry complement you, or does it define you?”This week we sit down with Dr. Sujit Varma and cover a wide variety of topics: the psychology of complaining, AI’s influences in our lives, and how to bridge the gap between embracing technology and retaining authentic human connection. ”Imagine like 500 years ago when Gutenberg invented the printing press, I'm sure there was some parent then who said, ‘…oh my God, books are gonna rot your mind because you spend too much time reading!’”Sujit owns a psychiatry practice and is a Past Master of Lake Ha...
2025-06-0647 minMinnesota Masonic Histories and MysteriesEpisode 75. The Masonic ExperienceWhat is the aim of our Labors? At times we are fixated on the efficient performance of what we’re already doing, and completely uninterested in what we’re missing out on. This week Reed welcomes fellow Regional Directors Markus Mueller and Ethan Seaberg to the studio. They discuss a new model of cooperative labor, purposeful organization, and the new paradigm of Masonry in Minnesota.
2025-05-3040 min