Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries

Mar 04 2025 63 ep. 29 mins 14

Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries Podcast artwork

Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons are a bit of a mystery. Countless books and movies only fuel the mystery behind this "ancient craft." But to many people in need, the Masons are no mystery. Whether it's cancer research, children's healthcare, elder services, scholarships, or numerous other philanthropic ventures, Minnesota Freemasons have become synonymous with giving back to the greater good. Join Minnesota Masonic Charities CEO John Schwietz and Grand Lodge of Minnesota's Reed Endersbe as they explore the many unique things about Masonry in Minnesota.

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Episode 63. Chuck Brust

Mar 04 2025 43 mins

Now there’s a Mason’s Mason; it’s Chuck Brust. We talk technology and beyond: what it means to be an Enterprise IT Architect at Mayo Clinic, the all-new Lodge Historical Digitization Project (aka “scanning project”), and the Conference of Grand Masters coming to Minneapolis/St. Paul in 2028. When he’s not revolutionizing healthcare technology at Mayo Clinic or serving t

Episode 62. KSTP's Joe Schmit

Feb 24 2025 39 mins

This week we sit down with Channel 5’s Joe Schmit who shares that through “silent impact,” we make our biggest impressions when we are not trying to be impressive. Success and happiness are not related to titles or how many awards one has received, but to the impact we have on others. Joe covers a variety of topics, from the long sports drought for championships in Minnesota,

Episode 61. Fulfilling our Masonic Obligations (18:53 Working Tools Series)

Feb 14 2025 5 mins

This week we revisit the 18:53 Working Tools Series, and confront the challenge of how to truly “be there” for each other in the crucible of life. Is it possible to make the tenets of our profession verbs (actions) as opposed to nouns (abstract words) in our daily lives? “The hardest lesson I’ve had to learn as an adult is the relentless need to keep going, no matter how br

Episode 60. Greg Vokovan

Feb 06 2025 33 mins

Sisters and Brothers across the Masonic family, it’s our pal Greg Vokovan. Genealogy connections to the Split Rock Lighthouse, Navy adventures landing on an aircraft carrier, and the statewide outreach of the Fire Suppression program. Pop on your flight suit and join us, it’s an all-new Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries. “We're all on the same level. It doesn't matter

Episode 59. Seeking Balance in a Changing World

Jan 27 2025 22 mins

This week we welcome Brad Phelps back to the studio, who shares highlights from his recent article “Seeking Balance in a Changing World.” Collaboration, engagement, and connection: how do we maintain balance in a world that’s oversaturated with technology? Brad also shares sage perspective on reengaging your lodge in 2025. "As Masons, we are taught the importance of dividing

Episode 58. 18:53 Working Tools Series - Ritual: why do we memorize?

Jan 10 2025 17 mins

18:53 Working Tools Series – Ritual With the One Day to Masonry approaching (1/18/25), we sit down with Al Golder and Arun Natarajan. Learn about the evolution of our work, from the early pioneer days in Minnesota to the 21st century. Consistency, uniformity, and accuracy: why is it so crucial that we communicate our ritual correctly in every lodge? ”It is through our ritual th

Episode 57. Face It Foundation

Dec 31 2024 38 mins

Reed sits down with Mark Meier and Bill Dehkes from the Face It Foundation. Leveraging the power of peer support, Face It works with men to normalize life’s challenges and recover from anxiety, depression, and prevent suicide. “How do I deal with this stuff in my life?” It’s okay if you struggle because so many people do. The first step can be the most difficult, but after

Episode 56. 18:53 Working Tools Series - 10k Families Study

Dec 18 2024 15 mins

In this episode, Dr. Jen Poynter and Dr. Heather Nelson, leading experts in medical research at the Masonic Cancer Center, join us to discuss the "10,000 Families Study." We cover why it’s so important for you and your family to participate in this study, and how members of the Masonic family (and outside friends) from across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Wisco

Episode 55. Prince Hall Freemasonry

Dec 12 2024 34 mins

No strangers to authentic brotherhood: Kymphus Muhammad and Tibyus Hill from Anchor Hilyard Lodge No. 2 join us for a discussion of history, social capital, and collaboration in both lodge & community. “As people’s appetite for goodness grows, then they will begin to see and notice what we do as Freemasons.”

Episode 54. 18:53 Working Tools Series - Robert E. Denfeld

Nov 25 2024 11 mins

This week, our friend and Brother Kevin Hendrickson shares some of his insightful research into Robert Denfeld, Past Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota (1914). Well-known for his tireless commitment to public education, civic engagement, and Freemasonry, Denfeld’s legacy is a true inspiration. Kevin recaps the foundation of Denfeld’s pioneering efforts: from establishing the s