Crafted in the South: The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Freemasons Podcast

🎙️We sit down with Deputy Provincial Grand Master David Perkis for an engaging interview where he talks about his unique role, the rich traditions of the province, and his personal reflections on Freemasonry.

We also explore the connection between Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, uncovering the history and camaraderie that tie them together. David shares his inspiring 42-year journey as a Freemason, reflecting on the fun, personal growth, and sense of community he's experienced along the way. He discusses the meaningful charitable work of Freemasonry and its positive impact on men’s health and well-being.

Finally, David Perkis gives us a deeper look into his 50+ years as a Freemason. From rituals and symbolism to the progression through the ranks, he shares why Freemasonry remains such a passionate part of his life and how it continues to evolve with the times.

Whether you’re a Freemason or simply curious about this remarkable organization, this episode is filled with warmth, inspiration, and insights you won’t want to miss!

🎙️ In this episode of Crafted in the South, we shine a spotlight on the fantastic ‘Circular’ initiative—a program designed to bring Freemasons together, boost attendance at lodge meetings, and create fun social opportunities for Light Blues!

Join us as we chat with two wonderful guests: Brothers Morgan Tye and Andy Blatch who spearhead the Circular and Light Blues initiatives in their area.

Together, they share stories, insights, and plenty of laughs while explaining how the North Circular fosters camaraderie and strengthens the bonds of Freemasonry across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Whether you’re new to Freemasonry, a lifelong member, or simply curious, this episode is packed with inspiration and a celebration of what makes our fraternity so special.

🌟 Tune in, and let’s keep building those connections—one meeting and event at a time!

To join any of the Circulars, click here: https://forms.gle/YKPQaWa4ybtH2yC69

In this episode, we present the second half of the compelling interview between the Provincial Grand Master (PGM), Johnathan "Jon" Whitaker, and Roddy. Together, they delve into the evolution of Freemasonry, examining the strides made toward greater openness and inclusivity, the vital role of female Freemasonry, and strategies for tackling membership retention.

The PGM shares his insights on the state of Freemasonry in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, emphasizing the importance of engaging new members in meaningful roles and activities to ensure a thriving and vibrant fraternity. He also addresses how Freemasonry can adapt to modern challenges, such as embracing digital communication and fostering a sense of continuity in the organization.

Adding a personal touch, the PGM reflects on his approach to supporting brethren who may feel isolated, underscoring the value of involving family and friends in Masonic life. He offers thoughtful commentary on the responsibilities of a Provincial Grand Master, the enduring purpose of Freemasonry, and its rich contributions to charity and community building.

Jon Whitaker’s reflections, drawn from his own experiences and lessons learned, offer valuable perspectives for Freemasons and the wider community, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the fraternity's evolving role in today’s world.

In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Whitaker, the Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Freemasons, for an insightful first half of our two-part interview. Jonathan shares his journey into Freemasonry, his experiences as Provincial Grand Master, and his perspectives on the evolving role of the fraternity in HIOW and the modern world. Tune in to learn more about his leadership, the values that drive him, and his vision for Freemasonry in our local communities.

In this introductory episode of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Freemasons Podcast, we welcome listeners to the world of Freemasonry in H&IOW. We provide an overview of the podcast's purpose, including what listeners can expect in future episodes—insights into the history, values, and community work of Freemasons in our province. Whether you're a Mason or simply curious about the fraternity, this episode sets the stage for engaging conversations, interviews, and stories that showcase Freemasonry’s positive impact on local communities.