Square Talk Fri, 09 Oct 2026 12:11:13 +0100 https://squaretalk.buzzsprout.com en-gb © 2026 Square Talk Podcast yes d70a9772-b606-55b1-9fbf-82a7c5674d9d jasonclothier@icloud.com Jason Clothier episodic false Welcome to Square Talk, a podcast exploring the people, principles and purpose of Freemasonry.

Through open and thoughtful conversations, we look at modern Masonic life: friendship, charity, service, leadership, personal growth and the values that continue to shape the Craft today.

Each episode offers listeners a glimpse into the wider Masonic journey, from the work carried out in our communities to the traditions, symbolism and ideas that inspire members to become better people. We will hear from a range of voices, reflect on different experiences, and explore Freemasonry in a way that is accessible to members and non-members alike.

Square Talk is produced with respect for Masonic values, UGLE guidance and the privacy of Masonic ceremonies. We do not disclose confidential ritual, private proceedings or matters unsuitable for public discussion.

Subscribe and join us for thoughtful conversations from the heart of Freemasonry.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Masonic, Masonry, Esoteric, philosophy, craft, Royal Arch, Rosicrucianism, SRIA Jason Clothier jasonclothier@icloud.com https://storage.buzzsprout.com/gd09npquxrb1432cmdbbkktvmllr?.jpg Square Talk https://squaretalk.buzzsprout.com Jason Clothier Bamboozle Theatre, inclusion, and giving children a voice Bamboozle Theatre, inclusion, and giving children a voice This episode explores how Bamboozle Theatre creates accessible, immersive experiences for learning disabled and autistic children and their families. Host Jason Clothier speaks with Christopher Davis, Artistic Director at Bamboozle, about building safety, belonging, and agency through theatre—and how a £5,000 donation from Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons supports that work.

Christopher shares how Bamboozle’s approach helps young people communicate in ways that suit them, why time and space matter, and how the company’s work spans local family sessions and international touring.

Key topics

How Bamboozle creates “enabled spaces” where young people can find their voice and have it heard.

Making theatre accessible for autistic and learning disabled children who may not be able to access traditional performance settings.

Designing performances for dynamic audiences, with actors adapting to movement, sound, and individual responses.

The difference between praise and value—and why space to explore and succeed independently matters.

Amy’s story, which shows how Bamboozle noticed and supported communication that others had overlooked.

The Backyard, Bamboozle’s outdoor provision, created during COVID and now in high demand from families.

How donations support family sessions, workshops, and new work such as Traces, an outdoor show for autistic audiences.

How Bamboozle’s approach has influenced schools, including one school that adopted a “no praise” approach.

The company’s international work, including touring in Shanghai and collaborating with theatre companies in Italy.

Bamboozle’s mission to help every learning disabled and autistic child in England find their voice and have it heard.

Timestamps

00:00 — Opening and mission of Square Talk

 

01:52 — Introducing Christopher Davis and Bamboozle Theatre

 

03:30 — What Bamboozle does and who it serves

 

04:25 — Family and teacher reflections on feeling accepted

 

06:53 — How Bamboozle got its name

 

08:53 — What immersive, accessible theatre looks like in practice

 

10:20 — Small audiences, movement, and flexible performance design

 

11:46 — Creating ease for non-verbal and sensory-sensitive children

 

14:26 — The Bamboozle approach and its core principles

 

15:24 — Amy’s story and discovering hidden communication

 

18:13 — Safety, trust, respect, and belonging

 

19:51 — Why Bamboozle questions praise-based motivation

 

22:16 — High artistic standards and adapting to dynamic audiences

 

23:42 — Inviting participation without pressure or reward

 

24:41 — The impact of the £5,000 donation

 

25:40 — Making Traces with Italian theatre partners

 

28:48 — How international touring supports local family work

 

30:15 — Bamboozle at Home and in-family sessions

 

31:11 — Abby’s story and making music together

 

33:08 — What children and families have taught Bamboozle about communication

 

35:03 — The need for more support and provision

 

36:02 — The Backyard outdoor space and why it was created

 

37:23 — Why families value spaces where they do not have to apologize

 

39:32 — Slowing down to give young people time to respond

 

40:01 — What’s next for Bamboozle

 

41:29 — How to support disability arts and accessible theatre

 

43:14 — Challenges in grant funding and the value of regular giving

 

44:43 — Communication strategies across settings and countries

 

46:37 — A school transformed by the Bamboozle approach

 

48:06 — Thanking donors and describing the value of support

 

49:34 — The Backyard image and Bamboozle’s mission

]]> This episode explores how Bamboozle Theatre creates accessible, immersive experiences for learning disabled and autistic children and their families. Host Jason Clothier speaks with Christopher Davis, Artistic Director at Bamboozle, about building safety, belonging, and agency through theatre—and how a £5,000 donation from Leicestershire and Rutland Freemasons supports that work.

Christopher shares how Bamboozle’s approach helps young people communicate in ways that suit them, why time and space matter, and how the company’s work spans local family sessions and international touring.

Key topics

How Bamboozle creates “enabled spaces” where young people can find their voice and have it heard.

Making theatre accessible for autistic and learning disabled children who may not be able to access traditional performance settings.

Designing performances for dynamic audiences, with actors adapting to movement, sound, and individual responses.

The difference between praise and value—and why space to explore and succeed independently matters.

Amy’s story, which shows how Bamboozle noticed and supported communication that others had overlooked.

The Backyard, Bamboozle’s outdoor provision, created during COVID and now in high demand from families.

How donations support family sessions, workshops, and new work such as Traces, an outdoor show for autistic audiences.

How Bamboozle’s approach has influenced schools, including one school that adopted a “no praise” approach.

The company’s international work, including touring in Shanghai and collaborating with theatre companies in Italy.

Bamboozle’s mission to help every learning disabled and autistic child in England find their voice and have it heard.

Timestamps

00:00 — Opening and mission of Square Talk

 

01:52 — Introducing Christopher Davis and Bamboozle Theatre

 

03:30 — What Bamboozle does and who it serves

 

04:25 — Family and teacher reflections on feeling accepted

 

06:53 — How Bamboozle got its name

 

08:53 — What immersive, accessible theatre looks like in practice

 

10:20 — Small audiences, movement, and flexible performance design

 

11:46 — Creating ease for non-verbal and sensory-sensitive children

 

14:26 — The Bamboozle approach and its core principles

 

15:24 — Amy’s story and discovering hidden communication

 

18:13 — Safety, trust, respect, and belonging

 

19:51 — Why Bamboozle questions praise-based motivation

 

22:16 — High artistic standards and adapting to dynamic audiences

 

23:42 — Inviting participation without pressure or reward

 

24:41 — The impact of the £5,000 donation

 

25:40 — Making Traces with Italian theatre partners

 

28:48 — How international touring supports local family work

 

30:15 — Bamboozle at Home and in-family sessions

 

31:11 — Abby’s story and making music together

 

33:08 — What children and families have taught Bamboozle about communication

 

35:03 — The need for more support and provision

 

36:02 — The Backyard outdoor space and why it was created

 

37:23 — Why families value spaces where they do not have to apologize

 

39:32 — Slowing down to give young people time to respond

 

40:01 — What’s next for Bamboozle

 

41:29 — How to support disability arts and accessible theatre

 

43:14 — Challenges in grant funding and the value of regular giving

 

44:43 — Communication strategies across settings and countries

 

46:37 — A school transformed by the Bamboozle approach

 

48:06 — Thanking donors and describing the value of support

 

49:34 — The Backyard image and Bamboozle’s mission

]]> Jason Clothier Buzzsprout-19929743 Fri, 09 Oct 2026 00:00:00 +0100 3097 full false Episode 3: Bridging the Craft: Understanding Archway Episode 3: Bridging the Craft: Understanding Archway In this episode of Square Talk, host Jason Clothier sits down with Peter Kinder, Provincial Grand Master, and Noel Manby, Grand Superintendent for Leicestershire and Rutland, to discuss Archway — the new national initiative designed to strengthen the connection between Craft Freemasonry and the Royal Arch.

Together, they explore how Archway supports brethren in understanding the deeper links between the two, why it matters to the Masonic journey, and how it’s being implemented here in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Whether you’re a Freemason curious about taking your next step, or simply interested in learning more about the Craft and its traditions, this conversation offers an open and insightful look into how Freemasonry continues to evolve and connect.


https://b.ugle.org.uk/membership/archway  

https://www.leicestershire-rutlandfreemasons.org.uk/ 

https://www.leicestershire-rutlandfreemasons.org.uk/royal-arch 

]]> In this episode of Square Talk, host Jason Clothier sits down with Peter Kinder, Provincial Grand Master, and Noel Manby, Grand Superintendent for Leicestershire and Rutland, to discuss Archway — the new national initiative designed to strengthen the connection between Craft Freemasonry and the Royal Arch.

Together, they explore how Archway supports brethren in understanding the deeper links between the two, why it matters to the Masonic journey, and how it’s being implemented here in Leicestershire and Rutland.

Whether you’re a Freemason curious about taking your next step, or simply interested in learning more about the Craft and its traditions, this conversation offers an open and insightful look into how Freemasonry continues to evolve and connect.


https://b.ugle.org.uk/membership/archway  

https://www.leicestershire-rutlandfreemasons.org.uk/ 

https://www.leicestershire-rutlandfreemasons.org.uk/royal-arch 

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-18051569 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 18:00:00 +0100 2109 2 3 full false Episode 2: What "service" looks like for Freemasons in Leicestershire and Rutland. Episode 2: What "service" looks like for Freemasons in Leicestershire and Rutland. In this episode of Square Talk, we dive into the heart of Masonic charity in Leicestershire and Rutland. Far from being just about writing cheques, charity within Freemasonry often begins as a spark — a simple idea, a heartfelt conversation, or a small gesture that can grow into something life-changing.

Host Jason Clothier is joined by Mark Pierpoint and Steve Skidmore, who share their experiences of nurturing those sparks into meaningful projects. Together, they reveal the stories behind Masonic charity: the inspiration, the challenges, and the lives touched along the way.

Whether you’re curious about Freemasonry, passionate about community work, or simply love hearing stories of people making a difference, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of how charity becomes more than just giving — it becomes living.

Links from this episode:

]]> In this episode of Square Talk, we dive into the heart of Masonic charity in Leicestershire and Rutland. Far from being just about writing cheques, charity within Freemasonry often begins as a spark — a simple idea, a heartfelt conversation, or a small gesture that can grow into something life-changing.

Host Jason Clothier is joined by Mark Pierpoint and Steve Skidmore, who share their experiences of nurturing those sparks into meaningful projects. Together, they reveal the stories behind Masonic charity: the inspiration, the challenges, and the lives touched along the way.

Whether you’re curious about Freemasonry, passionate about community work, or simply love hearing stories of people making a difference, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of how charity becomes more than just giving — it becomes living.

Links from this episode:

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-17698275 Tue, 19 Aug 2025 19:00:00 +0100 2707 2 2 full false Episode 1: Leicestershire and Rutland Freemason Open Day May 2025 Episode 1: Leicestershire and Rutland Freemason Open Day May 2025 We take a look back at the successful Open Day held this May at Freemasons’ Hall in Leicester — where we opened our doors to the public for a rare glimpse inside. I had the pleasure of speaking with a wide range of visitors and participants, including curious members of the public, brethren from the Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association, and members of Women’s Freemasonry. It was a fantastic day of conversation, openness, and shared curiosity about who we are and what we do.

Before we dive in, a quick note — you may notice that the sound quality in this episode isn’t quite perfect. As this is our very first podcast, I’m still learning the ropes when it comes to production and editing. But stick with me — the quality will only improve from here, and I appreciate your patience and support as we grow.

]]> We take a look back at the successful Open Day held this May at Freemasons’ Hall in Leicester — where we opened our doors to the public for a rare glimpse inside. I had the pleasure of speaking with a wide range of visitors and participants, including curious members of the public, brethren from the Widows Sons Masonic Bikers Association, and members of Women’s Freemasonry. It was a fantastic day of conversation, openness, and shared curiosity about who we are and what we do.

Before we dive in, a quick note — you may notice that the sound quality in this episode isn’t quite perfect. As this is our very first podcast, I’m still learning the ropes when it comes to production and editing. But stick with me — the quality will only improve from here, and I appreciate your patience and support as we grow.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-17636813 Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:00:00 +0100 2157 2 1 full false Episode 21. Why join Freemasonry? Episode 21. Why join Freemasonry? In episode 21 we look back at an interview i conducted last week in front of an audience of people who are thinking about joining the Freemasons.

]]> In episode 21 we look back at an interview i conducted last week in front of an audience of people who are thinking about joining the Freemasons.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-8583559 Tue, 25 May 2021 08:00:00 +0100 2982 1 21 full false Episode 20. Development of Freemasonry in Leicestershire & Rutland in the 18th & 19th Centuries Episode 20. Development of Freemasonry in Leicestershire & Rutland in the 18th & 19th Centuries In this episode we look through a paper written in 1968 by W.H.Russell for the Lodge of Research No.2429 in Leicester. www.research2429.org.uk

]]> In this episode we look through a paper written in 1968 by W.H.Russell for the Lodge of Research No.2429 in Leicester. www.research2429.org.uk

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-7498081 Tue, 26 Jan 2021 17:00:00 +0000 1029 1 20 full false Episode 19. Freemasonry during Lockdown 2 in England Episode 19. Freemasonry during Lockdown 2 in England In this episode, we talk to Peter Kinder and Paul Wallace to check on the plans for Freemasonry in the current lockdown in England, and their plans for Christmas and the New Year.

]]> In this episode, we talk to Peter Kinder and Paul Wallace to check on the plans for Freemasonry in the current lockdown in England, and their plans for Christmas and the New Year.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-6344437 Thu, 12 Nov 2020 17:00:00 +0000 1909 1 19 full false Episode 18. Inside the Masonic Kitchen! Episode 18. Inside the Masonic Kitchen! How do masonic halls operate? and in particular, how do the kitchens work to feed the many members day in day out. In this episode we discuss the operation in Leicester's busy Freemasons' Hall with Nicola Holyoake and chef Greg Prangnell.

]]> How do masonic halls operate? and in particular, how do the kitchens work to feed the many members day in day out. In this episode we discuss the operation in Leicester's busy Freemasons' Hall with Nicola Holyoake and chef Greg Prangnell.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-6126904 Thu, 29 Oct 2020 17:00:00 +0000 1491 1 18 full false Episode 17. Roger Dakin, MC Extraordinaire Episode 17. Roger Dakin, MC Extraordinaire I am joined by Peter Kinder and Dale Page as we listen to the stories and achievements of Roger Dakin, the renowned MC and After Dinner Speaker.

]]> I am joined by Peter Kinder and Dale Page as we listen to the stories and achievements of Roger Dakin, the renowned MC and After Dinner Speaker.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-5781430 Wed, 07 Oct 2020 08:00:00 +0100 2358 1 17 full false Episode 16. Membership & Mentoring Episode 16. Membership & Mentoring In this episode, we look at the role of Membership Officer, at both Lodge and provincial level, and to see the work being undertaken to promote the work Freemasonry plays within the community. We also examine the role of Lodge Mentor's play in ensuring that our new members are looked after.

]]> In this episode, we look at the role of Membership Officer, at both Lodge and provincial level, and to see the work being undertaken to promote the work Freemasonry plays within the community. We also examine the role of Lodge Mentor's play in ensuring that our new members are looked after.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-5184721 Fri, 28 Aug 2020 11:00:00 +0100 1434 1 16 full false Episode 15. Marching Masons Episode 15. Marching Masons A team of fundraisers from Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons have begun to organise a sponsored walk all around the county to raise money for local charities and good causes.

Visit the website for more details: https://www.pglleics.org.uk/marching-masons

]]> A team of fundraisers from Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons have begun to organise a sponsored walk all around the county to raise money for local charities and good causes.

Visit the website for more details: https://www.pglleics.org.uk/marching-masons

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-5100091 Sat, 22 Aug 2020 10:00:00 +0100 1101 1 15 full false Episode 14. The Mark Degree Episode 14. The Mark Degree What is the relationship between the Craft, Royal Arch, and the Mark degree? In this episode, we speak to three of the Provinces leading figures in Mark Masonry.

]]> What is the relationship between the Craft, Royal Arch, and the Mark degree? In this episode, we speak to three of the Provinces leading figures in Mark Masonry.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-4423541 Fri, 03 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0100 1954 1 14 full false Episode 13. Cycling & Freemasonry Episode 13. Cycling & Freemasonry We talk to two of Freemasonry's keenest cyclist about setting up a cycling club within the Lodge.

]]> We talk to two of Freemasonry's keenest cyclist about setting up a cycling club within the Lodge.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-4333424 Fri, 26 Jun 2020 21:00:00 +0100 1612 1 13 full false Episode 12. Freemasonry and the Military Episode 12. Freemasonry and the Military What are the similarities between the Military and Freemasonry? We explore the answers with two of the founding members of a Military Lodge, the Tudor Rose Lodge.

]]> What are the similarities between the Military and Freemasonry? We explore the answers with two of the founding members of a Military Lodge, the Tudor Rose Lodge.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-4248401 Sat, 20 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100 1158 full false Episode 11. The Royal Arch Episode 11. The Royal Arch In this episode, we discuss the Royal Arch, where it fits into the story told in Craft Freemasonry, and how the order is adapting to suit the needs of the modern Freemason.

]]> In this episode, we discuss the Royal Arch, where it fits into the story told in Craft Freemasonry, and how the order is adapting to suit the needs of the modern Freemason.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-4129727 Thu, 11 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100 1246 1 11 full false Episode 10. Communications & Freemasonry Episode 10. Communications & Freemasonry We look at the role of Communications Officer in Freemasonry, as the tables are turned on the usual presenter of Square Talk, to understand his thoughts and opinions of how we communicate.

]]> We look at the role of Communications Officer in Freemasonry, as the tables are turned on the usual presenter of Square Talk, to understand his thoughts and opinions of how we communicate.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-4053242 Fri, 05 Jun 2020 11:00:00 +0100 1721 1 10 full false Episode 9. The Lodge Secretary Episode 9. The Lodge Secretary In this episode, we have a "Masonic Short" all about Freemasons Hall in London, and we dive into the role of Lodge Secretary, as we talk with Paul Wallace, the Provincial Grand Secretary of Leicestershire & Rutland.

]]> In this episode, we have a "Masonic Short" all about Freemasons Hall in London, and we dive into the role of Lodge Secretary, as we talk with Paul Wallace, the Provincial Grand Secretary of Leicestershire & Rutland.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3964532 Fri, 29 May 2020 16:00:00 +0100 1575 1 9 full false Episode 8. Charity & Freemasonry Episode 8. Charity & Freemasonry Freemasons are well known for their charitable giving, but how is this money raised, and how is it distributed to local and national charities?

]]> Freemasons are well known for their charitable giving, but how is this money raised, and how is it distributed to local and national charities?

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3858530 Thu, 21 May 2020 15:00:00 +0100 1168 1 8 full false Episode 7. The Universities Scheme Episode 7. The Universities Scheme We talk with Andy Green, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons about the Universities Scheme.

]]> We talk with Andy Green, the Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons about the Universities Scheme.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3783779 Sat, 16 May 2020 15:00:00 +0100 929 1 7 full false Episode 6. The Provincial Grand Master Episode 6. The Provincial Grand Master In this episode, we put questions to the Provincial Grand Master of Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons, Peter Kinder.

]]> In this episode, we put questions to the Provincial Grand Master of Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons, Peter Kinder.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3658606 Thu, 07 May 2020 15:00:00 +0100 1143 1 6 full false Episode 5. Rugby & Freemasonry Episode 5. Rugby & Freemasonry We talk with three of the founding members of the Union of Rugby Lodge in Leicestershire & Rutland.

]]> We talk with three of the founding members of the Union of Rugby Lodge in Leicestershire & Rutland.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3592996 Sat, 02 May 2020 19:00:00 +0100 1232 1 5 full false Episode 4. The Role of Orator in Freemasonry Episode 4. The Role of Orator in Freemasonry In this episode we talk with David Hughes, the Provincial Grand Orator for Leicestershire & Rutland, as we dive into the role, what it is for, and how it benefits Lodge members.

]]> In this episode we talk with David Hughes, the Provincial Grand Orator for Leicestershire & Rutland, as we dive into the role, what it is for, and how it benefits Lodge members.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3476353 Thu, 23 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0100 1581 1 4 full false Episode 3. The Light Blue Club for New & Young Masons Episode 3. The Light Blue Club for New & Young Masons Episode 3. We talk with Bob Reay and Dennis Crommentuijn of the Light Blue.

]]> Episode 3. We talk with Bob Reay and Dennis Crommentuijn of the Light Blue.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3395332 Fri, 17 Apr 2020 11:00:00 +0100 835 1 3 full false Episode 2. The Lodge Almoner Episode 2. The Lodge Almoner We speak with the Provincial Grand Almoner, David Highton, about how Lodges are coping under the current restrictions.

]]> We speak with the Provincial Grand Almoner, David Highton, about how Lodges are coping under the current restrictions.

]]> Leicestershire & Rutland Freemasons Buzzsprout-3299926 Thu, 09 Apr 2020 14:00:00 +0100 711 1 2 full false Episode 1. Provincial Grand Mentor's Perspective Episode 1. Provincial Grand Mentor's Perspective In this episode we talk with the Provincial Grand Mentor, Dale Page to get his views on Freemasonry during this period of lockdown due to Covid-19 and we can all do to help.

]]> In this episode we talk with the Provincial Grand Mentor, Dale Page to get his views on Freemasonry during this period of lockdown due to Covid-19 and we can all do to help.

]]> Richard Buzzsprout-3223300 Fri, 03 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0100 757 1 1 full false