The Derbyshire Freemasons' Podcast

Some Freemasons are drawn to the fellowship. Some to the philosophy. Marcus Shufflebottom was drawn to the ritual - and Derbyshire Freemasonry is better for it.In this episode, Chris sits down with Marcus to explore a genuine passion for the working of Masonic ritual: what it demands, what it gives back, and why it matters more than many of us pause to consider. It’s a conversation about passion in the truest sense - the hours of preparation, the pursuit of precision, and the quiet satisfaction of a ceremony delivered well.Marcus has been a driving force behind Derbyshire’s lecture festivals in recent years, events that have brought Brothers together not simply to observe, but to engage with the deeper substance of what Freemasonry teaches. And this year, that vision extended into the Royal Arch - with the first ever Derbyshire Royal Arch Lecture Festival marking a landmark moment for the Province.They talk about how that came together, and why investing time in ritual is ultimately an investment in all the people who experience it.Thoughtful, warm, and quietly inspiring - this one is for every Mason who has ever wondered whether the words really matter.They do.

In this episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, Chris sits down with Peter Haymes, who is preparing to take on one of the most extreme endurance challenges on the planet - the World’s Toughest Row - crossing the Atlantic Ocean with a team of four friends, all in support of Motor Neurone Disease (MND) charities.This is a fascinating and often eye-opening conversation, as Chris dives into the realities of life at sea for around 40 days. From how you sleep in short shifts, to what you eat to stay fuelled, and even the practicalities of day-to-day life in the middle of the ocean, Peter shares the honest and sometimes surprising details of what it really takes to undertake such a challenge.But beyond the logistics, the episode explores something deeper - the mindset required to succeed. Resilience, teamwork, trust, discipline, and mutual support are all essential not only for crossing an ocean, but also for thriving within Freemasonry. Peter reflects on how these shared values underpin both the challenge ahead and the journey we all take within the Craft and Royal Arch.An inspiring, insightful, and at times humbling conversation about pushing limits, supporting others, and striving toward a greater purpose.

In this episode, Chris is joined by three remarkable guests who between them represent the very best of Derbyshire's sporting community - and whose values of discipline, perseverance, and fellowship resonate far beyond the arena.James and Anthony Wyatt bring the story of Derbyshire Allstars Badminton Club - a club built not just on competitive ambition but on the kind of inclusive, community-centred ethos that Freemasons will recognise instinctively. They talk about what it takes to build something that lasts, and why sport, at its finest, is about much more than winning.Emily McClean, Para Ice Hockey player, shares her journey into one of sport's most demanding and exhilarating disciplines. Her story is one of resilience, camaraderie, and the discovery of strength in unexpected places - themes that sit at the heart of Masonic philosophy as much as they do at the heart of elite sport.And Joshua Johns, competing at the highest levels of Wheelchair Tennis, reflects on what it means to pursue excellence with purpose - the mental fortitude, the community of support, and the way sport can reframe how we see ourselves and one another.Together, these conversations ask a question Freemasons have long pondered: what do we owe to one another, and what can we build when we build together?

In this episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, Chris is joined by Doug McConnachie and Chris Nicholas to explore how Derbyshire is opening its doors to the next generation of Freemasons.The conversation focuses on attraction events for both Craft and Royal Arch Chapters, explaining how these welcoming, informative gatherings give prospective members - and Master Masons considering the conclusive step in their craft journey - a clear and relaxed introduction to what Freemasonry is really about.Doug and Chris discuss the different pathways into Freemasonry, from initial enquiry and informal conversations, through Lodge membership in the Craft, and onward to the Royal Arch. They explain how attraction events help demystify the process, showcase the values of the organisation, and ensure that anyone interested feels informed, supported, and confident about taking their next step.A thoughtful and forward-looking discussion about growth, openness, and the many ways someone can begin - or continue - their Masonic story.

In this episode of The Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast, Chris is joined by Harry Paterson to talk about the vision and purpose behind the Cornucopia Chapter of Service; an exciting new addition to Derbyshire Royal Arch Freemasonry.The conversation explores how the Chapter has been created to serve all Royal Arch Chapters across the Province, providing practical support, ceremonial assistance, and a flexible, service-led approach where it is most needed. Harry explains how Cornucopia will operate, the inspiration behind its formation, and why it represents such a positive step forward for the Royal Arch in Derbyshire.This episode highlights a Chapter built on collaboration, inclusion, and service which is designed to strengthen Chapters, support Companions, and enhance the overall Royal Arch experience throughout the Province.Whether you are deeply involved in the Royal Arch or simply curious about how Derbyshire continues to innovate and grow, this episode offers a fascinating insight into a Chapter dedicated entirely to service.

In this episode, Chris and his Proposer, Matthew Wainwright, share their experiences of taking the fourth regular ceremony in Freemasonry; exaltation into the Royal Arch. They talk about what it means to complete the Masonic journey begun in the Craft, the surprises and insights they found as new Companions, and how the Royal Arch has brought new depth and meaning to their friendship.If you are a current Entered Apprentice, or Fellowcraft Freemason, you may wish to save this podcast until you are a Master Mason - because Matt & Chris discuss some aspects and scenarios of the Third Degree & Royal Arch Ceremony.Join us for an open conversation on fellowship and the sense of fulfilment that comes with completing the initial part of your masonic journey into the Royal Arch.

It’s our annual Christmas Special, and hosts Andy and Chris take a moment to pause, reflect, and look back on an incredible year of podcasting across Derbyshire Freemasonry.In this festive episode, Andy and Chris revisit some of the standout moments from the past year, the inspiring conversations they’ve had, and the remarkable people who have given their time, insight, and passion to the podcast.From personal journeys in Freemasonry to community impact, leadership, learning, and laughter, this episode is a heartfelt retrospective celebrating the breadth, depth, and humanity of Freemasonry in the Province.Whether you’ve been with us since the first episode or are joining us for the first time, this Christmas Special is our way of saying thank you; to our guests, our listeners, and everyone who continues to support and share the Derbyshire Freemasons Podcast.Sit back, enjoy, and join us as we toast another year of conversation, connection, and community.

Chris sits down with Steven Varley, Assistant Grand Master of UGLE, for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation recorded inside the beautiful Derby Masonic Hall temple.From his initiation in 1983 to his current role guiding Freemasonry at a national level, Steven reflects on his personal journey; the challenges, successes, and the importance of supporting one another along the way.It’s an episode full of insight, humour, and humanity; a true reflection of what Freemasonry is all about.

In this moving episode, Chris is joined by Joe Royle to explore the deep symbolism of the Vacant Chair ceremony, and how Freemasonry honours those who made the ultimate sacrifice.Together, they discuss the story of the Hall Stone Lodges, founded in the aftermath of the First World War to commemorate brethren who never returned, and the lasting legacy these lodges represent within our Craft.Joe reflects on how remembrance continues to shape Freemasonry today—through ceremony, charity, and community—and why pausing to remember is as vital now as it was a century ago.Join us for a poignant conversation on duty, memory, and brotherhood, as we tell the stories of the fallen and honour those whose light still shines among us.