The Masonic Roundtable - Freemasonry Today for Today's Freemasons

Jon Ruark, Jason Richards, Nick Johnson, Juan Sepulveda & Robert Johnson

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!

  1. The Masonic Roundtable - 0534 - Monsters and Masonry Pt. 2

    6D AGO

    The Masonic Roundtable - 0534 - Monsters and Masonry Pt. 2

    In Part II of our deep dive into the Masonic roots of classic horror, we turn our attention to Frankenstein and Zombies—two icons that raise profound questions about creation, consciousness, and the corruption of knowledge. Was Dr. Frankenstein's pursuit of the "spark of life" a reflection of Masonic enlightenment gone awry? Do the walking dead symbolize the spiritually uninitiated—those who have yet to awaken to light? Join us as we dissect the alchemical, moral, and esoteric layers of these tales, tracing how the themes of reanimation, resurrection, and responsibility echo through both the Lodge and the laboratory.

    1h 9m
  2. Monsters and Masonry Pt. 1

    OCT 31

    Monsters and Masonry Pt. 1

    What if Dracula were based on a Freemason? No big deal, right? But what if Dr. Frankenstein was, too? And the Mummy films? And zombies—a strange blend of Freemasonry and other esoteric traditions? This week, we dive deep into the shadows of literature and film to uncover the hidden Masonic influences behind some of the world's most iconic horror figures. From vampiric immortality to Frankenstein's quest for forbidden knowledge, from the Mummy's resurrection to the zombie's moral symbolism, we'll explore how Masonic ideals of transformation, enlightenment, and the mysteries of life and death may have inspired the monsters that still haunt our imagination. Tune in… if you dare.

    56 min
  3. Masonic Values in the Workplace

    OCT 24

    Masonic Values in the Workplace

    Are Freemasons better employees? Do our obligations and moral teachings make us more dependable, ethical, or effective at work, or are we just as human as everyone else, complete with our own share of "rough ashlars"? This week, the hosts have a candid, humorous, and thought-provoking discussion on how Masonic principles show up (or fail to show up) in our professional lives. From leadership and integrity to accountability and humility, we'll explore whether the working world truly benefits from Masonic values, and what happens when it doesn't.

    1h 3m

  4. OCT 17

    The Tyler

    In this episode, the hosts explore one of the most symbolic and essential offices in the Masonic Lodge, the Tyler. Often stationed outside the door, the Tyler serves as the guardian of the lodge, protecting the sanctity of its work and reminding us of the deeper, internal vigilance we must each maintain. Join us as we uncover the historical origins of the Tyler's role, its ritual significance, and the lessons it offers about guarding the gates of our hearts, minds, and spiritual lives. Whether you're newly raised or a seasoned Mason, this conversation will challenge you to reflect on what it truly means to be "on guard" both within and beyond the tiled lodge.

    58 min
  5. Vile and Impious Wretches

    OCT 3

    Vile and Impious Wretches

    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.

    59 min
  6. No Common Fire

    SEP 19

    No Common Fire

    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.

    57 min
  7. Stoicism Pt. 2

    SEP 19

    Stoicism Pt. 2

    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.

    1h 5m

  8. SEP 5

    Logical Discourse

    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.

    1h 16m
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About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Jon Ruark, Jason Richards, Nick Johnson, Juan Sepulveda & Robert Johnson
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 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.
  • Show Website
    The Masonic Roundtable - Freemasonry Today for Today's Freemasons

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