On The Level Podcast

A Grand Master drops two documents and suddenly everyone is asking the same question: what actually changes today, and what becomes lasting law tomorrow? We sit down with Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master Rick Wendling to unpack the real difference between a Grand Master’s ruling and decision versus a directive, why those tools matter inside the Grand Lodge of Florida, and how recent actions ai...

A lodge can survive bad years, but only if brothers are willing to tell the truth about what happened and do the work to rebuild. We sit down for a long overdue catch-up and unpack what the last year has looked like across Florida Freemasonry: the fallout that made some brothers go quiet, the efforts to restore peace and harmony, and the real-world questions lodges face when attendance drops and l...

In this episode we continue to follow up with our very own Host of the Podcast Matt Stone. Matt was intimately involved with many of the events last year in Masonry that helped shape Florida Masonry and he sits down to tell us where he's going next, what he thinks of the future of Masonry, and as per usual, Chris just continues to derail all the good conversations! Buckle up and join us for a...

Journey into the leather-clad world of Masonic motorcycle culture as attorney and rider Chris Wadsworth shares the fascinating tale of the Widow's Sons' evolution in Florida. As president of the newly recognized Widow's Sons Masonic Riding Association, Wadsworth pulls back the curtain on a brotherhood at a crossroads, revealing how seemingly simple things like patches and paperwork...

We examine Edmund Ronayne's anti-Masonic book "The Master's Carpet," exploring how a dispute over Grand Lodge fund allocation after the 1871 Chicago Fire led to one of history's most influential attacks on Freemasonry. • Born in Ireland in 1832, Ronayne moved through multiple religious organizations before joining Freemasonry • Rose to Senior Warden and eventually Worshipf...

Masonry isn't just about bringing in new members but creating and sustaining true Masons who actively implement the teachings and improve themselves. The quality of your lodge experience directly impacts how new members perceive and engage with the fraternity. • Fix your lodge politics first by addressing cliques and communication issues • Improve your lodge building, even small improvements...

Unlock the secrets of Freemasonry and its legendary connection to the Knights Templar. Explore the history, struggles, and symbolism that shape our understanding of these fascinating organizations. • The historical legacy of the Knights Templar • Analyzing Jacques de Molay's impact on Freemasonry • The mythos surrounding Templar wealth and banking origins • Debating the connections between Te...

This episode delves into the concept of the Fourth Turning, exploring how generational cycles significantly impact Freemasonry. Through engaging conversations, we uncover the key generational archetypes and their relevance to the Masonic experience today. • Definition and exploration of the Fourth Turning theory  • Breakdown of the four generational archetypes  • Historical context surrounding eac...

We delve into the top conspiracy theories surrounding Freemasonry, debunking myths that often mischaracterize the organization. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding the values, ethics, and community bonds inherent in Freemasonry while highlighting the role of open dialogue in dispelling misconceptions. • Discussing common misconceptions about Freemasonry  • Clarifying beliefs sur...

The most recent episode explores the journey of navigating life as a Mason, emphasizing personal growth, the importance of mentorship, and the intricacies of lodge life. From personal struggles in starting a family to the impact of a charter's pull and revitalizing experiences in a new lodge, the discussion reveals valuable insights into maintaining balance in Masonry. • Personal growth and c...

What happens when spirits refuse to stay confined to haunted locations and start following you home? This episode of "On the Level" promises a spine-chilling exploration of paranormal attachments. We kick off with Mikey from Beyond the Boundaries Paranormal, sharing his harrowing encounters with Frank, a persistent spirit from the late 1800s. Listeners will get a glimpse into the risks p...

Ever wondered what happens when Freemasonry meets paranormal investigations? Join Chris and Matt as we welcome the ever-curious Mikey Juan Acevedo from Sarasota Lodge No. 147. Mikey, host of the popular "Beyond the Boundaries" podcast, shares his journey through the world of cryptids, UFOs, and the unknown. We'll also share some laughs as Matt recounts a renovation project that didn...

Ever wondered how Freemasonry can shape a person's public speaking prowess? Brother Juan Sepulveda joins us to share his inspiring journey of overcoming public speaking anxiety through the opportunities provided by the Masonic fraternity. Host Chris also opens up about his own battles with public speaking and how the support system within Freemasonry has fostered his growth. Together, they re...

Have you ever wondered how the principles of Freemasonry can guide us through today's fast-paced, ever-changing world? Join us on this compelling episode of "On the Level Podcast" as we sit down with Barry, a seasoned Mason whose dedication and wisdom illuminate the core values of this historic fraternity. From the essence of unity and camaraderie to the profound influence of mentor...

What if your career path took a sharp detour from archaeology to financial planning? Join us on the latest episode of the On the Level Podcast as Right Worshipful Barry D. Hart returns to share his unique journey and the rich tapestry of his multi-generational family business, Hart Insurance. Barry's story isn't just about business; it's about family. We touch on his semi-retirement...

Discover the untold connections between Freemasonry and personal growth as we weave through the narratives of the Three Ruffians and contrast them with the established Hiram and Solomon label. Our special guests, John Schaefer, Sean Cooney, and the freshly initiated Brother Nick Bailey, bring a treasure trove of experiences, from the vibrant support in our brotherhood to ethical Masonic entreprene...

Embark on an extraordinary journey with Brother Kevin Oatman of Manatee Lodge No. 31, who shares his tale of meshing the worlds of Freemasonry and fitness into one fulfilling life pursuit. His military discipline and nurturing spirit shine through our discussion, presenting an individual who epitomizes service and personal development. Experiencing Brother Oatman's storied past, we uncover th...

Embark with me, W:. Chris Burns, on a captivating journey into the heart of Freemasonry, where the venerable Worshipful David Finkelstein, Worshipful Master of Liberty Lodge number 412, unveils the transformative power of this esteemed fraternity. Witness as we unravel the mysteries of Masonic rituals, revealing their secret influences on personal growth and global democracy. Our exchange not only...

Joining me today is Worshipful Master Mark Tishman, hailing from the sun-soaked 23rd Masonic District of Florida, to shed light on the profound transitions in Masonic leadership. With Mark, we unravel the intricate dance of stepping into the role of Worshipful Master, embracing the mantle of responsibility while etching a meaningful legacy. We navigate the nuances of leadership that transcends the...

Join the camaraderie as Worshipful Timothy Ferdon, a distinguished Freemason, returns to our airwaves, sharing pearls of wisdom from his new position within DeMolay's District 5. As we reminisce about the enduring legacy of Hillsboro Lodge number 25 in Florida, our conversation unravels the profound influence of Masonic principles on the young minds of DeMolay and the timeless virtues of lead...

Embark on a journey to a galaxy far, far away and the final frontier with our latest episode, where we ignite the debate between Star Wars and Star Trek. Feel the rush of nostalgia and inspiration as we reminisce over the heroic fantasies of Star Wars and the societal insights of Star Trek, tying them back to the meticulous craft of masonry. We also savor the art of cigar appreciation, unwrapping...

Ever wondered about the labyrinthine paths of Freemasonry? Well, buckle up! Our latest On The Level podcast episode, with the spirited newly raised Master Mason, Matt Stone, dissects the fraternal tapestry with a sly wink and a firm handshake. We're tossing the keys to the inner sanctum your way as Matt recounts his electrifying leap into Masonic life, juggling the Junior Deacon's trunch...

Have you ever pondered the intricate tapestry of beliefs that unite men in the quest for enlightenment? Right Worshipful Dwayne Marshall, the sage behind " A Past Master's Thoughts " on Facebook, graces us with his wisdom and experience, weaving through his diverse Masonic journey. From being a lodge master to engaging with the Eastern Star and Kansas DeMolay, Dwayne embodies the sp...

When Worshipful Andrew Gluchov stopped by, we didn't anticipate just how much his Masonic insights would intertwine with the hilarity of everyday life. What do lodge repairs and the Wilhelm scream have in common? You might be surprised to find out in our candid chat that dives into how Freemasonry isn't just about solemn rituals but also about the unexpected surprises and life lessons th...

Have you ever held an object that carried a story so rich, it could fill an entire room with history and intrigue? Worshipful Steven Garcia Morales joins us wielding a tale about his Darth Vader gavel, a symbol of his unique journey as Worshipful Master and the broader enigma of Freemasonry. Our heartfelt discussion spans from his familial Masonic roots to the hidden symbols sprinkled throughout p...