Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries
Relatable discussions about Freemasonry and taking agency over your life. Unafraid of vulnerability in the pursuit of authentic friendship and personal growth.
Episodes
145 episodes
Episode 145: Truth & Allegory (ft. Montie Hadraba)
Discover the stories of Czech Freemasonry, where history, legend, and the pursuit of freedom intersect.In this episode, Montie Hadraba of Sherburne Lodge No. 95 explores the Czech Templars, a newly discovered cache of preserved documents...
Episode 144: 18:53 Working Tools Series – The Buck Stops Here
In 1953, Harry S. Truman left the White House deeply unpopular, with a 32% approval rating and little financial support as a former President. Yet over time, history would view many of his most controversial decisions very differently.Fr...
Episode 143: Be Kind to Yourself (ft. Mark Wick)
Mental health doesn’t necessarily mean mental “illness.” That said, it’s crucial to remember that our overall mental health affects everything we do. “I was in the perfect profession to hide my illness. Doing nothing is an option, a...
Episode 142: Intergenerational Kinship (ft. Evan Schroeder)
We welcome in our dear friend and Brother Evan Schroeder. We do it up with deep thoughts about: introspection, meaning making, the gift of mentors, and of course, the much-needed structure in life that Masonry can provide. “Stepping...
Episode 141: 18:53 Working Tools Series – “Sapere Aude!”
This episode title translates to “have the courage to use your understanding.” This week we examine highlights of an article by Robert Burtt, who argues that while the Enlightenment preached pure reason, Freemasonry quietly built on...
Episode 140: The Beehive Initiative (ft. Bill Dehkes & Mark Meier)
What binds us together? At the heart of Freemasonry is the pursuit of personal growth—but that journey isn’t meant to be taken alone. It asks us to look inward, support our Brothers, and recognize when someone may need a helping hand.Acr...
Episode 139: Know Thyself (ft. Ben Engel & Ben Youngdahl)
This week, we welcome two newer members to the Masonic Lounge to hear what their Lodge experience has been like so far.Ben Youngdahl of Accacia No. 51 and Ben Engel of St. John’s No. 1 share fresh perspectives on finding a sense of belon...
Episode 138: Charity Isn’t Loud (ft. Todd Mayer)
Why is charitable giving so important to us? Giving back and serving those in need is an essential part of putting the principles of Freemasonry into action.This week, we sit down with Todd Mayer to explore the pursuit of something great...
Episode 137: 18:53 Working Tools Series - Empty Seats
Each empty seat in a lodge room tells a story, if we are willing to see it. “Freemasonry has always been about caring for each other, and an absent Brother still can be living our Masonic values at home, at work, and in his communit...
Episode 136: Dig Deeper (ft. Drew Evenson)
"Nothing's ever as hard as you think, it's just what you're willing to do to get there."This week, we're joined by cancer warrior Drew Evenson for an inspiring conversation about resilience, gratitude, and the power of community.D...
Episode 135: Distilling Wisdom (ft. Dr. Jim Rice)
Artificial intelligence is reshaping nearly every aspect of our lives—but what if it could help detect dementia before symptoms appear?This week, we're honored to welcome Dr. Jim Rice to the Masonic Lounge for a fascinating conversation ...
Episode 134: “The Change” (ft. Dr. Laura Mayer)
This week, we’re taking on a challenging topic—one that many men haven’t been given much guidance on how to navigate.As we pursue the Masonic goal of becoming better versions of ourselves, how can we better support our wives, partners, a...
Episode 133: 18:53 Working Tools Series – Order of DeMolay
Who was Frank S. Land and how exactly did DeMolay International come to be? This week we welcome DGM Chuck Brust and Bro. Kaidyn Troy to the Masonic Lounge. This is an informative discussion that highlights how DeMolay has helped boys become me...
Episode 132: What Happens Next? (ft. Mike Sanford)
Michael Sanford is a product development specialist, next-generation data center expert, Freemason, and family man. Today we get to go through some of his professional background, life & lodge perspective, and the opportunity ah...
Episode 131: Health = Wealth (ft. Aaron Brendel & Paul Smith)
Entering middle age isn’t just another milestone — it’s an opportunity to take a closer look at your health and make intentional choices that shape the years ahead.For many men, the 40s bring significant changes as the risk of silent, ch...
Episode 130: 18:53 Working Tools Series - American Civic Life
Throughout history, Masonic publications and early newspaper accounts have reflected a lasting public curiosity about the relationship between Freemasonry and government.In this episode, we explore the research of Masonic historian Chris...
Episode 129: Time Well Spent (ft. Justin Ortega)
In this episode, we welcome Justin Ortega, a proud Marine Corps veteran and Director of Programs and Events for Grand Lodge and Minnesota Masonic Charities. Known for his discipline, dedication, and commitment to service, he brings unique insig...
Episode 128: “Because of the Masons” (ft. Dr. Zohar Sachs)
“I feel I owe it all to the Masons, and I'm not overstating it. If I didn't have the startup or pilot funds, I wouldn't have been able to do anything.”Our Masonic Cancer Center’s very own, Dr. Zohar Sachs, joins us this week to discuss h...
Episode 127: Connection & Direction (ft. David Graham)
“Are you ready? The work’s about to start.”This week in the Masonic Lounge, we welcome David Graham back for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, service, and the enduring role of Masonic poetry in shaping who we are and what we aspi...
Episode 126: 18:53 Working Tools Series - Masonic Visionaries
How did Minneapolis secure its crown as one of America’s greatest park cities? It started with two men. This week, we profile Charles M. Loring—the "Father of Minneapolis Parks"—and Theodore Wirth, the legendary superintendent who d...
Episode 125: The Road Ahead (ft. Shawn Carrick)
This week we’re honored to welcome MWGM Shawn Carrick to the studio for a meaningful conversation on the heart of Masonry. Together, we explore everything from the importance of Masonic travel and the lasting relationships it builds, to strengt...
Episode 124: One Step at a Time (ft. Emma and Andrew Dimery)
“The folks at the Masonic Cancer Center were so incredible. I knew I had the best team, the best care, and the best treatment at my disposal.” Emma Dimery shares her remarkable story of a colon cancer diagnosis at age 23 and how a d...
Episode 123: 18:53 Working Tools Series - More Members!
After World War II, Freemasonry in the U.S. exploded in size—membership climbed to over four million by the late 1950s. But that wasn’t unique. Similar booms had happened before, and each time, the same issue followed.The organization wa...