18:53 Working Tools Series – Ritual 

With the One Day to Masonry approaching (1/18/25), we sit down with Al Golder and Arun Natarajan. Learn about the evolution of our work, from the early pioneer days in Minnesota to the 21st century. Consistency, uniformity, and accuracy: why is it so crucial that we communicate our ritual correctly in every lodge?

”It is through our ritual that Freemasonry has a deeper purpose, which we often overlook in the rush of the modern world.”

Reed sits down with Mark Meier and Bill Dehkes from the Face It Foundation. Leveraging the power of peer support, Face It works with men to normalize life’s challenges and recover from anxiety, depression, and prevent suicide. 

“How do I deal with this stuff in my life?” It’s okay if you struggle because so many people do. The first step can be the most difficult, but after that you will see that you are not alone, and life can be dramatically better. 

“We have to be creating atmospheres and leaders and people who will speak openly and say, ‘I really do care.’ Regardless of what your issue is, please share with me.”

For more information, please visit www.FaceItFoundation.org or email [email protected] 

(this episode was recorded on 12/30/24) 

In this episode, Dr. Jen Poynter and Dr. Heather Nelson, leading experts in medical research at the Masonic Cancer Center, join us to discuss the "10,000 Families Study." We cover why it’s so important for you and your family to participate in this study, and how members of the Masonic family (and outside friends) from across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, and Wisconsin can help shape medical research and health, now and into the future. 

“It was really with the generosity of the Masons and the gift to the Masonic Cancer Center that helped jumpstart us and put us in a great position.” -Dr. Nelson 

Check out www.10kfs.umn.edu for more information and how to sign up.  

No strangers to authentic brotherhood: Kymphus Muhammad and Tibyus Hill from Anchor Hilyard Lodge No. 2 join us for a discussion of history, social capital, and collaboration in both lodge & community. 

 “As people’s appetite for goodness grows, then they will begin to see and notice what we do as Freemasons.” 

This week, our friend and Brother Kevin Hendrickson shares some of his insightful research into Robert Denfeld, Past Grand Master of Masons in Minnesota (1914). 

Well-known for his tireless commitment to public education, civic engagement, and Freemasonry, Denfeld’s legacy is a true inspiration. Kevin recaps the foundation of Denfeld’s pioneering efforts: from establishing the state’s first free textbook system, to the academic training programs which eventually became the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and more. 

Robert E. Denfeld, servant leader, educator, and devoted Freemason, said in his final days “…I only wish I could do more.”

Past Grand Master Tony Krall joins us in studio. We deep-dive on a bevy of topics, from collaboration & charity to authentic friendship, brotherhood, and of course, the quality Masonic experience of the 21st century. “I detest titles, just call me Tony…” on an all-new Minnesota Masonic Histories & Mysteries.  

Reed sits down with Jeff Huth, Executive Director of the JP4 Foundation. They discuss the power of mentoring, community engagement, and the amazing work being done through JP4 to enrich the lives of underserved youth by providing access to healthy meals, healthy activity, and building authentic relationships over an infinite timeline. 

“Everyone needs a mentor” 

For information on JP4, email: [email protected] or text 763-242-2125. 

This week: the inimitable Tom Barnard, Minnesota radio legend. 
Reed runs the gamut with Tom: from their time together at KQRS, to the importance of community engagement, the value of authentic human connection…and Tom’s forthcoming return to the airwaves. 

This week we sit down with our friend and Brother, Dr. Oscar Alleyne, who hails from the Grand Lodge of New York. Oscar shares fascinating insights, not only from his professional career in the national public health sector, but also on his extensive global Masonic travels and copious research. 

This week we launch the "18:53 Working Tools Series," which will delve into a variety of subjects: education (Masonic & non-Masonic), history, and revisiting compelling anecdotes about Freemasonry in Minnesota. These shorter episodes won't exceed 18 minutes and 53 seconds, and will alternate between weeks that feature longer discussions with in-studio guests.