Minnesota Masonic Histories and Mysteries

Michael Sanford is a product development specialist, next-generation data center expert, Freemason, and family man.  Today we get to go through some of his professional background, life & lodge perspective, and the opportunity ahead of us within the overall Masonic experience.  “I think that if more of us were to explore that next level down…it furthers the bond that we have as Brothers. If we...

Entering middle age isn’t just another milestone — it’s an opportunity to take a closer look at your health and make intentional choices that shape the years ahead. For many men, the 40s bring significant changes as the risk of silent, chronic conditions increases and shifts in hormones, metabolism, and overall wellness begin to take hold. The good news? Paying attention early and taking action ca...

Throughout history, Masonic publications and early newspaper accounts have reflected a lasting public curiosity about the relationship between Freemasonry and government. In this episode, we explore the research of Masonic historian Chris Ruli, whose work invites us to reconsider the stories, assumptions, and myths that surround the Craft’s role in American history. As we approach the semiquincent...

In this episode, we welcome Justin Ortega, a proud Marine Corps veteran and Director of Programs and Events for Grand Lodge and Minnesota Masonic Charities. Known for his discipline, dedication, and commitment to service, he brings unique insight on leadership, building community, and the future of Freemasonry. Justin also shares perspective on the importance of strengthening lodge culture, creati...

“I feel I owe it all to the Masons, and I'm not overstating it. If I didn't have the startup or pilot funds, I wouldn't have been able to do anything.” Our Masonic Cancer Center’s very own, Dr. Zohar Sachs, joins us this week to discuss how she and her team are using science to make people's lives palpably better. “What a precious gift science has given this person…when you sup...

“Are you ready? The work’s about to start.” This week in the Masonic Lounge, we welcome David Graham back for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, service, and the enduring role of Masonic poetry in shaping who we are and what we aspire to become. David reflects on the joy of watching others succeed, the fragility of honor, and the delicate balance of remaining an active and supportive Past Ma...

How did Minneapolis secure its crown as one of America’s greatest park cities? It started with two men.  This week, we profile Charles M. Loring—the "Father of Minneapolis Parks"—and Theodore Wirth, the legendary superintendent who designed them. From saving the Chain of Lakes to inventing modern urban recreation, we track the timeline, brilliant engineering, and legacy of the duo who tu...

This week we’re honored to welcome MWGM Shawn Carrick to the studio for a meaningful conversation on the heart of Masonry. Together, we explore everything from the importance of Masonic travel and the lasting relationships it builds, to strengthening community visibility and embracing our shared sense of purpose. “We need to get back to the basics of Masonry, and be there for each other, in word a...

“The folks at the Masonic Cancer Center were so incredible. I knew I had the best team, the best care, and the best treatment at my disposal.”  Emma Dimery shares her remarkable story of a colon cancer diagnosis at age 23 and how a decade of uncertainty was aided by the power of human connection.  “There’s no reward for suffering in silence or not wanting to burden friends or family.”  The Dimerys...

After World War II, Freemasonry in the U.S. exploded in size—membership climbed to over four million by the late 1950s. But that wasn’t unique. Similar booms had happened before, and each time, the same issue followed. The organization wasn’t built to handle rapid growth, and the system couldn’t keep up. And when the surge ended, membership didn’t stabilize—it declined for years. The real question...

Open mic: unscheduled guests.  We took the show on the road to Waite Park for our Annual Communication April 17-18. Give this a listen, and thanks to all the brothers, guests, and members of the Masonic family who stopped by to chat. 

From the KARE 11 news desk to HGTV, Joan Steffend has spent her career sitting down with thousands of people and hearing their stories. That curiosity runs deep—she’s not just interested in understanding others, but in helping people better understand themselves and recognize their own worth. Looking back on the harder moments in her life, Joan reflects on how even the toughest experiences can shi...

We’re on the road this week at our Annual Communication in Waite Park, and who better to chat with than the esteemed Mark Campbell? We discuss the importance of staying curious, embracing new opportunities, and keeping your perspective fresh in every season of life.

The real power move in life is restraint. Just because you’re provoked or have the chance to react doesn’t mean you should. Real discipline is choosing not to act on impulse. Jackie Robinson is the ultimate example—someone who faced constant abuse but refused to retaliate, channeling that restraint into strength and purpose. The message is simple: restraint isn’t weakness, it’s control. And in mos...

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Gwen Fischer, a leading expert in Pediatric Critical Care at Masonic Children’s Hospital. She shares how she and her team are navigating the intersection of compassionate, human-centered care and the growing role of AI in medicine. “The amount of research and incredible breakthrough discoveries happening among my colleagues… I just don’t think we would’ve achieved an...

Initiated in 1886 at Hope and Perseverance Lodge No. 782, Bro. Rudyard Kipling never formally called “If” a Masonic poem—yet it endures as a powerful guide for any young man seeking who he ought to become. In this episode, Tyler Ecklund-Kouba returns to explore confidence, authenticity, and the lifelong work of becoming your true self. Because in the end, character—not achievement—is the real rewa...

How does one maintain work/life balance in an age of Smartphones and digital communication? Even when you’re “off the clock,” bosses and colleagues message you at any time.  General George Marshall found a way to adhere to the 24-inch gauge, which was no small feat, considering he held the most complex administrative role of the twentieth century. Hear how he went from being “worked to tatters on...

“We all make up expectations of what things are supposed to be like and what they’re supposed to look like when you accomplish it.”  This week we’re off to the playoffs with Minnesota-born Jamie Langenbrunner. Wooden hockey sticks, the joy of simple conversations, and the power of living in the moment.  “Focus where your feet are right now…be a part of the life you're living…and not searching...

This week we’re on the road at the “Rite Works” Conference in Las Vegas, and what a treat to sit down with the one-and-only Maynard Edwards.  “Just because the fraternity has contracted in size doesn't mean that its influence needs to be less in our communities.”  Hear about a day in the life of a Masonic influencer: frequent travel, authentic connections, and the relentless pursuit of impact...

Thurgood Marshall embodied the highest ideals of justice, equality, and brotherhood. Best known as the first African American U.S. Supreme Court Justice, his impact reached far beyond the bench.  After graduating first in his class from law school, Marshall became a leading legal force in the fight against segregation. He argued landmark cases, including Brown v. Board of Education, that transform...

A supporter of the Masonic Children’s Hospital and founder of the Shine a Ligh7 Foundation, Gopher alum, Olympian, and NHL veteran Paul Martin shares his life journey.  We discuss the transition from player to coach, the joy of learning new things, gratitude, and the purpose that drives him today.  Put on your Jofa helmet and pass the Sour Patch Kids, it’s Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteri...

Ahead of this weekend’s Leadership Academy, we welcome Jeff Wiser and discuss a wide range of topics: the power of saying “yes,” navigating advanced cancer, and seizing opportunities in life.  From the early stages of development to building trust, we break down the lifelong process of pursuing leadership.  A published author, holder of two patents, and proud alum of Medtronic and 3M, Jeff is a me...

How do you "get" by giving something up? Everyone has something in life with which they struggle or need help. Why do we insist on going it alone? This week we sit down with our pal, Sol Ryan, and dig deep into the healing power of sharing our pain, burdens, and challenges with each other.  “Vulnerability is where the true relationships and true connections happen.”  Sol Ryan is the Pres...

Join us for a legend’s journey with the great Doug Campbell. We chat sequential decades of Annual Communications, proficiency of the MN Masonic Code, and the positive power of encouragement to fellow Brothers.  “The monitor exam…that was the door that opened to all my involvement with Grand Lodge activities. It became a huge part of my life.”  Long-haul Harley riding, lasting friendships, the secr...

The initiatory process within Freemasonry is a journey of self-discovery. Each degree dispenses a new teaching that can help create a worthy Brother who will positively impact his family, lodge, and community. However, this doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Our true potential can only be reached with significant time, patience, and deliberate application.  (This article is from the August 2024 Fraternal...