The Masonic Roundtable - Freemasonry Today for Today's Freemasons

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.

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. 

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, the hosts dive into the challenge of balancing passion for Masonry with life's responsibilities. They share personal stories and strategies for maintaining meaningful engagement, advocating for active involvement even when life gets busy. The conversation also explores how to contribute to lodge activities from afar and enhance meeting engagement with dynamic content. The importance of authentic communication within the Masonic community is emphasized, alongside upcoming opportunities to learn and connect.

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.