Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast

Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast

Welcome to Craftcast: The Freemasons Podcast. Craftcast is the official podcast of the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE) - the governing body of Freemasonry in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and Districts overseas. In every episode Shaun Butler, James Dalton and Stephen Whatley are chatting all things Freemasonry. They ask the big questions, talk about their experiences and interview special guests from across UGLE. Craftcast is the podcast for everyone from seasoned Freemasons to those just curious about what we do - so please come along for the ride. Get in touch by emailing us at podcasts@ugle.org.uk or on Twitter @UGLE_GrandLodge by using the hashtag #Craftcast

Episodes

June 10, 2025 50 mins

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 explore the pivotal role of Light Blues ...

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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 rather than Consecrate a new one, how...

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May 15, 2025 31 mins

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 Clarets play in guiding new Companions a...

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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 to explore tales of brotherhood, bra...

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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 the Order's past, present, and futu...

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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's most significant milestones.

Wheth...

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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 service beyond charity.

This episode is f...

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April 10, 2025 26 mins

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 into the stories of those involved, the...

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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 archery despite losing sight. 

Tu...

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March 27, 2025 21 mins

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 like explained? Email the team at&nbs...

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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 Book detailing their time inside a WW...

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March 13, 2025 31 mins

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 distinctive leather jackets: they raise incred...

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March 6, 2025 40 mins

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 Light Blues Communication, an unpreceden...

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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 Inspector and Freemason Mike Neville explor...

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December 25, 2024 32 mins

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 charitable initiatives, such as part...

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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-treatment results, Stuart is now on...

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November 28, 2024 37 mins

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 inclusive environments and foster personal g...

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In the latest episode of Craftcast, James, Shaun, and Stephen are joined by a special guest - Judge Simon Medland KC, the Deputy Provincial Grand Master of Cheshire and the 2025 Prestonian Lecturer. 

Simon shares his journey within Freemasonry with our hosts, tracing his roots as a fourth-generation Freemason and recounting his appointment as the Lecturer for the upcoming year.

Join us for an in-depth exploration of the history ...

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In this final instalment of our Remembrance Weekend series, we welcome Kemsley Whittlesea— Veteran, Freemason, tattoo artist, and mental health advocate—to share his remarkable story. 

From his time serving in the Royal Signals to participating in the upcoming Invictus Games, Kemsley's story is one of resilience, dedication, and service.  

Join us as we wrap up this special series, reflecting on the significance of rem...

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In this third instalment of our four-part Remembrance Special, our hosts travelled to the Province of Warwickshire to visit Fisher House, a respite care centre supporting UK military personnel and their families worldwide. 

Fisher House offers an invaluable "home away from home" for the families of UK armed forces personnel receiving treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. They provide families with accommodati...

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