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The Masonic Roundtable - Freemasonry Today for Today's Freemasons

The Masonic Roundtable - Freemasonry Today for Today's Freemasons
Author: Jon Ruark, Jason Richards, Nick Johnson, Juan Sepulveda, Robert Johnson
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© All content of the Masonic Roundtable is the intellectual property of the hosts, Jon Ruark, Jason Richards, Juan Sepulveda, Mike Hambrecht, and Robert Johnson unless specifically stated.
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The Masonic Roundtable is a weekly panel of Masons from around the United States who discuss the latest and greatest in Masonic news, events, scholarship, and happenings. Join the conversation!
343 Episodes
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Modern science has given us a new psychological trick that can make us better men and Masons. Listen in to learn this one simple trick that can boost your awareness and attentiveness in lodge, at home, and at work.
Join The Masonic Roundtable as they delve into the intriguing role of District Deputy Grand Masters, exploring their impact on Masonic lodges and communities. Special guest Nicholas Laine, an esteemed Masonic leader, shares his valuable insights and experiences, making this episode a must-listen for Freemasons seeking to deepen their understanding of Masonic governance.
What is Platonic thought and philosophy and how did it influence Masonic principles? Let's find out!
What if you could step into the dust, blood, and intrigue of the ancient world during the building of King Solomon’s Temple? Michael A. Czech’s Vile and Impious Wretches takes readers deep into the forgotten lives of those who toiled, schemed, and dreamed beneath the shadow of one of history’s greatest monuments. From slave caravans and family betrayals to unexpected alliances and the harsh politics of the ancient Middle East, this novel re-imagines the human stories behind biblical legend—stories of ambition, suffering, and the eternal search for meaning.
This week, we sit down with Brother Austin Shifrin, author of No Common Fire: Everything You Wanted to Know About Freemasonry (But Were Afraid to Ask). We’ll explore his journey in writing the book, the questions it tackles, and the insights it offers to both Masons and the curious public alike. From common misconceptions to the deeper meanings of the Craft, join us for an engaging conversation that sheds light on what makes Freemasonry unique.
This week, we continue our deep dive into Stoicism—this time focusing on practical examples and how its timeless lessons can help us navigate today’s turbulent world. How can Stoic practices like cosmopolitanism, controlling only what’s within our power, and cultivating virtue align with Masonic teachings? Join us as we explore actionable ways to apply Stoic philosophy in daily life, keeping calm and steady amidst modern chaos.
This week, we’re diving into logical fallacies, critical thinking, and cognitive biases—and asking how Masons can use these tools to improve not just themselves, but also their interactions in an often divided world. How can we separate emotion from daily thought to make better decisions? And how do these practices tie back to the Masonic pursuit of truth, harmony, and self-mastery? Join us for a thoughtful (and fun) conversation on sharpening the mind as well as the trowel.
This week, we’re tackling a challenge every Brother faces—how to balance a deep passion for Masonry with the responsibilities of work, family, and other obligations. Can you fully commit to the Craft without sacrificing harmony in other parts of your life? We’ll share stories, strategies, and lessons on finding that sweet spot where zeal enriches rather than overwhelms. Tune in to learn how to keep your 24 inch gauge—and your calendar—in balance.
This week, the hosts of The Masonic Roundtable explore the place that ritual has in our daily lives.
This week, we’re talking about The Operative Gaming Society, a club where Masons come together to share their love of games of all kinds, from cards and board games to video games, tabletop adventures, and even Dungeons & Dragons. Discover how this group builds fellowship, strengthens bonds, and creates a space for brothers to connect beyond the lodge room. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore strategist, there’s a seat at the table for you.
This week on the show, we're honored to welcome renowned Masonic author Michael R. Poll to discuss his newest work, Spring in a Masonic Winter. In this thoughtful collection, Poll challenges the fraternity to look inward—asking whether we've stayed true to our principles or drifted into complacency. From the forgotten lessons of ritual to the deeper meaning behind the 33rd degree, we explore themes of renewal, authenticity, and the quiet revolution stirring within the Craft. Whether you're a seasoned Mason or a curious seeker, this conversation will leave you thinking long after it's over.
Fresh off another successful South Pasadena Masonic Con, Brothers Joe and Dago share their firsthand experiences from one of the West Coast’s premier Masonic events. From dynamic speakers and enlightening presentations to vibrant fellowship and networking opportunities, hear all the highlights from this year's gathering. Find out how Masonic conferences are shaping the Craft on the West Coast and beyond.
Is your lodge providing a meaningful Masonic experience—or has it become just another routine business meeting? This week, we're discussing how to transform lodge nights into events brothers genuinely look forward to attending. Learn practical tips on creating engaging, purposeful gatherings that focus on fellowship, education, and ritual rather than just administration. Join us to rethink what lodge night could be!
This week, we're bringing organizational methodologies into the lodge room by exploring "retrospectives"—a powerful tool used to improve team operations and facilitate effective succession planning. How can your lodge leverage retrospectives to identify strengths, address weaknesses, and ensure continuity? Tune in to discover practical strategies for fostering open dialogue, enhancing lodge management, and setting the stage for lasting success.
This week, we’re exploring the fascinating connection between Freemasonry and the Pleiades star cluster. Often referenced in Masonic symbolism and ritual, these stars hold both astronomical significance and deep philosophical meaning. Join us as we uncover how the "Seven Sisters" have influenced myth, ritual, and symbolism, enriching the Masonic journey.
Are the Freemasons the true heirs of the Knights Templar—or is it just a compelling myth? In this episode, we dive deep into the origins of Freemasonry and the popular but controversial theory that links it to the medieval Templar Order. Was it scholarly insight or historical fan fiction? Join us as we separate fact from fantasy, decode the legacy of ritual and symbolism, and unpack why these origin stories matter to the Craft today.
In this week's episode, we're breaking down the differences between what's truly secret, what's simply private, and what's openly shareable in Freemasonry. Ever wondered which aspects of Masonic practice you should keep confidential, and what you can freely discuss? Join us as we clarify common misconceptions and discuss how to appropriately balance transparency, discretion, and tradition within your Masonic journey.
In this week's episode, we tackle one of Freemasonry's core tenets—meeting each other "on the level." But can we genuinely achieve equality, openness, and understanding amidst today's polarized society? Join us as we explore the challenges and solutions for practicing true brotherhood, even when personal views diverge sharply. Can Masons rise above divisions and truly meet upon the level? Let's find out together.
This week we explore contemplation and meditation as powerful tools in the practice of Freemasonry. How can quiet reflection deepen our understanding of the Craft, strengthen our bonds of brotherhood, and enhance personal spiritual growth? Join us as we discuss practical ways to integrate meditation into your Masonic journey, guiding you toward greater insight and inner peace.
This week, we discuss "A Dream," a thought-provoking short story by Silas H. Shepherd depicting a future society profoundly shaped by Masonic ideals of unity, peace, and cooperation. Could this vision of a transformed world truly become a reality one day? Join us as we explore how Masonry’s principles might influence humanity's future, and what it would take to realize this inspiring dream. Pharos - www.silasshepherd.org
isn't exalted in the shriners?
dial tone???