Ep 042 · July 2, 2026 · 01:01:12

Freemasonry in Academic Studies of Western Esotericism with Bro. Doug Russel | EFC 2022

with Bro. Doug Russel

Audio
About this episode

The conversation digs into why academics are only now beginning to take Freemasonry seriously as a subject of study, how the craft intersects with broader currents in Western Esoteric thought, and what it means for brethren when scholars start examining the traditions from the outside looking in.

Show notes

In this throwback episode recorded at the Esotericism in Freemasonry Conference 2022, Bro. Doug Russel sits down to explore how Freemasonry fits into the growing academic field of Western Esotericism. A past editor of the Fraternal Review and an officer of the Academy of Reflection, Bro. Russel brings a unique perspective that bridges scholarly research and lived Masonic practice.

The conversation digs into why academics are only now beginning to take Freemasonry seriously as a subject of study, how the craft intersects with broader currents in Western Esoteric thought, and what it means for brethren when scholars start examining the traditions from the outside looking in.

Bro. Doug Russel returns to the Esotericism in Freemasonry Conference 2026 this September, where he will be leading the Friday night meditation session and presenting his upcoming book. Tickets are available at esotericmasonry.com.

Links and resources

Esotericism in Freemasonry Conference: masonicconferences.com RSVP for the upcoming conference: esotericmasonry@gmail.com Mystic Tye website and event calendar: mystictye.com Patreon (early episodes, extended cuts, artwork, extras): patreon.com/mystictye

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Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again.