Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast

Welcome to the Series 5 Finale of Craftcast! We are ending with something truly special. Shaun, Stephen, and James are joined by Nando Caicedo, Master-Elect of Lodge No.10,000, for a rare conversation about what Freemasonry really feels like from the inside. What really happens inside a Freemason's Lodge? What do Freemasons actually gain from these meetings? And in a world where making genuine fri...

For the first time ever, Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast goes on the road!  This episode takes you from Freemasons' Hall to the Provincial Grand Lodge of Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire, where we explore the remarkable work of the  Three Pillars Charity . Our hosts sit down with  Ged Dempsey , the Freemason who launched the Three Pillars, to uncover how a grassroots idea gr...

This week we return to one of your absolute favourites — the  Word Explainer Episode .  Whether you're a Freemason, thinking about joining, or simply curious about what we do, this episode is packed with clear breakdowns of some of the most frequently used Masonic terms. We are joined once again by  Tom Golds , who helps us unravel the meaning, history, and symbolism behind five key...

In this episode, Shaun, Stephen, and James welcome Gaz Taylor, a brand-new Freemason who joined the Craft in a very modern way - through an online application. Gaz shares how a visit to Rosslyn Chapel sparked his curiosity, how he went down the Freemasonry rabbit hole online, and why he decided to take the plunge and join Ashlar Lodge in Lincoln. From his military background to his passion for ser...

This week, we explore the challenging subject of men's mental health. The episode explores how simple actions, such as actively listening to one another, can create an environment where people feel comfortable talking and may seek help before reaching a breaking point. It also reflects on how remembrance can serve as a catalyst for change, transforming grief into something constructive and hopeful...

Craftcast welcomes special guest Dan O’Connell for a thought-provoking exploration of the symbolism and allegory at the heart of Freemasonry.  From the famous phrase “a peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols” to the layers of meaning within our Ceremonies and furniture, Dan takes us on a journey beyond the surface to discover the personal insights that Free...

The Craftcast team welcomes back Mark Dennis to explore newly acquired treasures from the Museum of Freemasonry. From Consecration Vessels to a striking Aztec warrior in Masonic regalia and so much more, Mark reveals how each artefact tells its own story about history and symbolism. This captivating conversation offers a rare look at some of Freemasonry’s treasures, including a few surprising roya...

Shaun, James, and Stephen return for a brand-new season of Craftcast, bringing you more insight into the intriguing world of modern Freemasonry! In this episode, James takes to the streets to ask the public what they really think about Freemasonry. From curious questions to long-held misconceptions, the responses might surprise you! Back in the studio, the hosts discuss what they’ve heard and expl...

In this landmark special episode of Craftcast, we take you inside the Grand Temple at Freemasons’ Hall for the very first-ever live recording of the podcast - held before an audience following the inaugural Light Blues Communication. This unique episode features insightful interviews with key figures in Freemasonry, including John Thompson, Tom Milner, and Tom Golds.   Together, they exp...

In the Series 4 finale of Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast, our hosts sit down with Stanley Liu and Adam Camp from Horus Lodge - a Special Interest Lodge passionate about craft beer and community.  Hear how a social media group formed during the COVID lockdown evolved into a thriving Lodge that welcomes members from around the world.  We explore their decision to repurpose an old Lodge...

In the second episode of  Archcast , our journey into the Royal Arch continues as our hosts sit down with members of the Cambridgeshire Clarets – a vibrant and growing Club designed to support new Royal Arch Masons in Cambridgeshire.  Together, they explore the rich symbolism that defines the Royal Arch, its profound and unique connection to Craft Freemasonry, and the pivotal role the Cl...

On this VE Day, we remember not just victory but valour. In this special episode of Craftcast, our hosts delve into the incredible stories of Freemasons who endured, resisted, and rebuilt in the darkest days of the Second World War. From the makeshift lodges of a Changi POW camp to the quiet heroism of those who met in secret and served in silence, Mark Dennis of the Museum of Freemasonry joins us...

In this fascinating instalment of Craftcast, Shaun, James, and Stephen are joined by John Boyington, the Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council for England and Wales.  Together, they delve into the rich history and evolving landscape of the Rose Croix – one of Freemasonry's most distinctive Companion Orders. From profound ritual and inclusive reform, this episode offers insight into...

In this episode of Craftcast, Shaun, James, and Stephen dive deep into the experience of becoming a Worshipful Master, or Ruler, of a Lodge.  From the anticipation and preparation leading up to the Chair to the challenges and responsibilities of the role, and finally the momentous "what now?" that follows, this episode offers personal insights, anecdotes, and reflections on one of Freemasonry...

In this inspiring episode of Craftcast, our hosts sit down with David Barton, Press Officer for the Province of Essex, to explore the Third Pillar of UGLE’s Strategy: Community Engagement. From organising Easter egg donations and VE Day flag distributions to spearheading Essex’s award-winning initiatives and founding the impactful ‘Get Started Art’ charity, David shares the powerful impact of serv...

In this episode, our hosts meet with Patrick and Alan to shine a light on Bristol Freemasonry and their inspiring community-driven response to the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.  Far from working behind closed doors, these local Freemasons have come together to raise funds, deliver aid, and rally support - demonstrating how grassroots action can make a meaningful global impact. They delve in...

In this episode of Craftcast, our hosts sit down with Clive Jones – a dedicated Freemason, Chairman of Blind Veterans UK Archery Club, and the world’s No. 4 ranked blind archer.  Clive shares his remarkable journey, from military service to life-changing challenges and his path into Freemasonry. They discuss the values that guide him, the support of his Masonic Brethren, and how he mastered a...

The fan-favourite Word Explainer episode is back! In this edition, Shaun, James, and Stephen are joined by returning guest Tom Golds to break down some of the most intriguing words in Freemasonry. They discuss a myriad of Masonic terms, including Operative and Speculative Masons, the Working Tools, Processions, and the central figure of Freemasonry: King Solomon the Wise. Got a Masonic term you’d...

In this episode of Craftcast, step into the past as our hosts explore the fascinating world of Masonic history with special guest Martin Cherry, Librarian at the Museum of Freemasonry.  Shaun, Stephen, and James discover four extraordinary artefacts—ranging from a book published by Benjamin Franklin older than the USA to a hidden painting inside a book’s pages and even a Freemasons’ Minutes B...

In this special episode of Craftcast, our hosts sat down with Peter Younger, Development Executive of the Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association.  The Widows Sons bring together two great passions—Freemasonry and motorcycling—forming one of the most recognisable Masonic Associations in the world.  With Chapters across the world, their mission goes beyond just riding and wearing distincti...

In our latest episode, Shaun, James, and Stephen are joined by Tom Golds, the Membership Manager for the United Grand Lodge of England and Supreme Grand Chapter. They discuss everything from mentoring and membership development to the significance of finding the right Lodge and how Freemasonry continues to evolve while maintaining its history and traditions. They also discuss the upcoming  Li...

Craftcast is back for Season 4, and our hosts are kicking things off with a deep dive into one of the most infamous murder cases in history—Jack the Ripper.  Did the Freemasons try to orchestrate a cover-up? Were Freemasons helping or hindering the investigation? And does modern forensic science finally reveal the identity of the killer? Tune in as retired Scotland Yard Detective Chief Inspec...

In this festive edition of Craftcast, Shaun, Stephen and James are joined by their most important guests - you! Today's episode is dedicated to all our listeners, especially those who are alone during the holidays. Blending light-hearted jokes with meaningful reflections, our hosts navigate the often-overlooked topic of loneliness during the Christmas season.  Discover how Freemasonry and its...

In this deeply moving episode of Craftcast, our hosts sit down with Herefordshire Freemason Stuart Jones. Stuart recounts his life-changing journey, which began while listening to our Season 2 episode featuring Frank Tiller. Inspired to take action, Stuart scheduled a PSa test, which led to the early detection of his aggressive prostate cancer. Thanks to a successful operation and encouraging post...

In this thought-provoking episode, our hosts are joined by Graham Chisnell, Provincial Grand Mentor for East Kent. Together, they explore how shifting perspectives and greater awareness are paving the way for neurodiverse Freemasons to enjoy their Masonic journey fully. Discover how adapting mentoring and applying innovative approaches to learning our ritual can break down barriers, create inclusi...