R.I.P. Wild Bill

Brother Ironside joins the Two Burning Tapers podcast from Denmark to share how curiosity led him to Freemasonry in Italy, his later experience with the United Grand Lodge of England, and how he found the Widow Sons through the shared bonds of brotherhood and motorcycling. The conversation explores differences between Masonic rituals, the anticipation of initiation, and the experience of living across Italy, the UK, and Denmark.

Brotherhood has no borders—and Brother Disco proves it. Joining Gilligan and Shawn from Ontario, he shares how he found Freemasonry, became part of the Widows Sons, and discovered the kind of connection that makes brothers feel like family, wherever they meet.The conversation ranges from differences in lodge culture and the importance of the Senior Deacon’s role to Canadian winters, motorcycle ice racing, and the stories that make rallies unforgettable. Disco also reflects on the trust and support that unite Widows Sons across countries—and how a new app could help brothers find one another while traveling or in need.Along the way, the brothers trade plenty of laughs, talk bourbon, and make plans for future visits between Canada and Kentucky. Whether you’re interested in Freemasonry, motorcycles, or the friendships built through shared journeys, this episode is a lively look at brotherhood in action.

The Tyler is the unsung guardian of the lodge—and this conversation makes the case that his role might be more important than you ever realized. Shawn Skittles Parker and Gilligan Marrillia turn a simple question into a bigger lesson about protection, character, and how Freemasonry shapes the way you live, lead, and welcome others in.What starts with a lively debate about lodge roles quickly opens into a deeper look at symbolism, accountability, and what it really means to “meet on the level.” Shawn and Gilligan connect the Tyler’s job to everything from guarding the lodge door to guarding your mind, your choices, and the people you allow into your life. Along the way, they explore why memorization is only part of the work, why the meaning behind the words matters, and why brotherhood is built through action—not title.In this episode, they discuss:Why the Tyler may be just as important as the Worshipful MasterHow lodge symbolism mirrors personal discipline and self-protectionWhy rushing through degree work can mean missing the real lessonWhat “meeting on the level” looks like in everyday lifeHow encouragement—not jealousy—strengthens brothers, chapters, and familiesGilligan shares a story from a regional gathering where a tense misunderstanding became an example of Masonic brotherhood and common ground. That story leads into a wider conversation about responding to conflict, supporting one another, and building trust across state lines, lodges, and generations.The conversation also reaches beyond the lodge room and into family life. Shawn and Gilligan talk about introducing kids to Freemasonry, raising children around good men, and how brotherhood can create a wider circle of trust for families. If you’ve wondered how to balance lodge life, fatherhood, and personal growth, this episode offers plenty to reflect on.They also touch on showing up, sending the text, uplifting a brother, and keeping the spirit of the craft alive in everyday life. It’s a thoughtful, practical conversation about why these bonds matter—inside the lodge and beyond it.

Fall riding is better than most riders think—but only if your bike and your mindset are ready for it. Gilligan (Casey) Marrillia and Shawn Skittles Parker break down the upgrades, maintenance moves, and brotherhood habits that help keep you on the road when the weather turns.From heated gear and wind control to fuel, tires, batteries, and winter project planning, this conversation is packed with practical Harley wisdom. The guys also discuss what riders can overlook until it leads to a bigger repair—from stators and battery tenders to tire pressure, brake performance, and choosing the right fix.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why heated grips and wind management can make cold-weather rides more comfortableHow to extend your riding season while keeping safety in mindMaintenance checks that can help prevent roadside troubleHow to spot potential battery and stator issuesWhat to consider when planning winter upgrades to cams, exhaust, suspension, or brakesHow to stay connected through chapter gatherings, outreach, and community supportGilligan shares mechanical insight from years of building and riding, while Shawn considers how modifications can affect the whole bike—from horsepower and clutch wear to long-term reliability. Along the way, they talk key fobs, leather gear, and a memorable hot sauce mishap.This episode is for riders, Widows Sons brothers, Masons, and anyone looking to prepare their bike and community for the months ahead.

Freemasonry loses its power when brothers stop talking, stop visiting, and stop leading. Brother Reggie pulls no punches on what keeps a lodge alive, why some men should never chase the East, and how the right kind of brotherhood can spark a whole new generation of Masons.What starts as a lively conversation between Shawn Skittles Parker, Gilligan (Casey) Marrillia, and Reggie quickly turns into a deep look at leadership, lodge culture, and the real reason younger men stay engaged. Reggie shares how he went from being surrounded by Masons in his family to joining after a powerful funeral service, why he ended up in the senior warden chair, and what he’s learned from decades in Prince Hall Masonry, the York Rite, and Scottish Rite.You'll discover:Why not every Master Mason should become Worshipful MasterHow Reggie uses a simple leadership analogy to explain why some lodges stall outWhy Masonic funeral services are often the first real introduction the public has to the CraftHow relationship-building outside the lodge keeps younger brothers activeWhy long-form learning, memorization, and patience matter more than rushing through degreesReggie also breaks down the difference between ritual knowledge and real lodge leadership, explains how different men learn in different ways, and makes a strong case for giving brothers more than one path to become useful, engaged Masons. Shawn and Gilligan add their own perspectives from Blue Lodge, Eastern Star, and their experience trying to keep brothers connected beyond the meeting room.The conversation widens into something bigger: a vision for a massive, public gathering of Masons from every branch, state, and body, all showing up together to change the narrative around Freemasonry. Reggie argues that the Craft is strongest when brothers stop isolating themselves and start showing up for one another in public, online, and in the community.If you care about lodge health, Masonic leadership, ritual, mentoring younger brothers, or the future of the Craft, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and honest conversation. Perfect for any Mason who wants more than titles and tradition—and wants to help build a stronger brotherhood.

A 41-Generation Masonic Legacy, Light, Shadow, and BrotherhoodA 41-generation Masonic legacy, a Widows Sons rider, and a tattoo artist-author walk into one conversation and turn Freemasonry into something you can actually feel. Brother Inky reveals how family history, ritual, and personal philosophy shaped the books that are changing how brothers think about light, shadow, and what we leave behind.Shawn Skittles Parker and Gilligan Casey Marrillia sit down with Jerry “Inky” Ledford of Camp Knox Lodge 919, a past master, 32nd-degree Scottish Rite Mason, Shriner, and Widows Sons brother from Kentucky. But this isn’t a resume parade—it’s a conversation about what Freemasonry means when it’s lived in the real world, from funeral rites during COVID to the moment a father finally tells his son the truth that changes everything.You’ll discover:The story behind Inky’s 41 consecutive generations of MasonsWhy he wrote The Sacred Torch and The Silent SkullThe real meaning of “cowan” and its connection to stonemasonryWhat the Widows Sons represent to a Mason who rides and lives the brotherhoodWhy the altar and officers’ podiums at Camp Knox Lodge are unlike anything else in the worldHow Masonic philosophy connects to fatherhood, legacy, mortality, and self-reflectionInky also shares the personal stories behind his Masonic journey, including the funeral that pushed him toward the Craft, the mentor culture that keeps new brothers learning, and the philosophy behind his work as both an artist and a writer.This episode is essential listening for Masons, motorcycle brothers, tattoo collectors, and anyone drawn to deeper meaning, family history, and wisdom that can be carried into everyday life. By the end, you may never look at a torch, a skull, or a square and compass the same way again.purchase the books here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H8XYL94M?binding=hardcover&qid=1788572932&sr=8-1&ref=dbs_dp_awt_sb_pc_thcv&dplnkId=30ea5065-1e6b-464f-81bf-0425ba23f846&nodl=1

The best rallies do more than fill a campground - they build better riders, stronger brothers, and memories you talk about all year. Gilligan Marrillia and Shawn Skittles Parker break down what actually makes a Widow Sons event worth showing up for, from road blocking strategy and slinky-effect safety to family-friendly rally design, bike games, and the small details that turn a good ride into a great one.They revisit a packed rally season across Kentucky, Illinois, Ohio, and Indiana, comparing what each state does well and where the bar keeps getting raised. You’ll hear why Kentucky’s Widows Kiddos setup stands out, how Ohio pulled off grand-gathering-level energy at a state rally, why Illinois turned skillet toss into a crowd magnet, and how Indiana’s degree work and branding kept the momentum going.You’ll discover:Why confidence is the real key to safer road blockingHow to keep a group ride smooth by managing pace through turns and intersectionsThe rally features that bring brothers back with their families, not just their bikesWhy bike games like slow race, plank ride, tug of war, and skillet toss work best when the whole crowd gets involvedWhat Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, and Indiana each did that other rallies can borrowWhy family space, Widows Kiddos, and smart rally pricing can double attendance almost overnightThe episode also takes a heartfelt turn as the brothers honor fallen Widows Sons, including Wild Bill, and reflect on the kind of legacy that lives on through obligations, fellowship, and showing up for each other. Shawn also shares what fatherhood is teaching him about holy habits and spiritual legacy, making this more than a rally recap - it’s a conversation about what the brotherhood is really for.Perfect for Widows Sons members, motorcycle rally regulars, and anyone who wants to build safer, better, more welcoming events. If you care about the ride, the brotherhood, and the future of the fraternity, this one hits home.

Two Burning Tapers — Supporting the Future of DeMolayOn this episode of Two Burning Tapers, Skittles and Gilligan sit down with two outstanding brothers who are passionate about DeMolay, Masonry, leadership, and building the next generation. Brother Buddy “Fly Boy” Herring is the current Vice President of the Boaz Chapter of the Arkansas WSMRA and serves as Arkansas State Road Captain. He is the sitting Secretary of Alma Masonic Lodge #735, a Past Master of Alma #735 and Clear Creek #332, and currently serves the M∴W∴ Grand Lodge of Arkansas as an At-Large District Deputy Grand Master.Fly Boy’s Masonic journey began in 2001, when he joined the Albert Pike Chapter of DeMolay International at just 13 years old. His DeMolay honors include DeMolay of the Year, Advisor of the Year, Chevalier, Legion of Honor, and the DeMolay Medal for Saving a Human Life.His years of service have also included serving as Arkansas State Master Councilor, International Congress Secretary, Deputy Director of the Great Plains DeMolay Leadership Conference, International Congress Advisor, and an Active Member of the International Supreme Council. Kevin Durden is the 60th International Congress Secretary of DeMolay International, making him one of the organization’s two elected international youth leaders. Kevin has been a member of DeMolay since 2018 and previously served as State Master Councilor of Arkansas DeMolay.DeMolay is a youth service and leadership organization for young men ages 12–21, focused on developing leadership, character, brotherhood, and service.This episode is about more than Masonry today — it’s about investing in the young men who will carry these values into tomorrow.Learn more about DeMolay at beademolay.org. SAVE THE DATE — 2027 ARKANSAS RALLY Fort Smith, Arkansas June 3–7, 2027More information coming soon!Arkansas Widows Sons 2027 State Rally | Fort Smith ARArkansas Widows Sons 2027 State Rally, Fort Smith. 263 likes · 54 talking about this. Nonprofit organization

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The Widow Sons are supposed to be about brotherhood, but what happens when that bond stretches from Quebec to Maine to Illinois and still feels like family? Brother Chef, president of Montreal's chapter, shares how Freemasonry, motorcycles, food, and philanthropy turn strangers into lifelong brothers. If you care about what makes this organization real beyond the patch, this conversation will hit home fast.Shawn Parker, Gilligan Marrillia, and Stefan Jacob open up a rare cross-border conversation about what the Widow Sons actually do in the world. Stefan, known as Brother Chef, brings a uniquely Canadian perspective shaped by French Quebec, years on bikes, and a life built around service. He talks about finding Masonry in his forties, becoming a Widow Son almost immediately after, and building a chapter culture that lives out the values instead of just talking about them.You'll discover how Stefan blends three worlds - Masonic brotherhood, motorcycle culture, and a full-time career as a chef and entrepreneur. He breaks down the chapter rules in Quebec, why he prefers blue-collar lodges, how his family rides too, and why his Road King still feels like "his" bike no matter what else is in the garage. He also shares the role food plays in bringing people together, from smash burgers at Grand Gathering to charity cigar events and massive rallies built around giving back.We also get into the deeper side of the brotherhood. Stefan explains why the Widow Sons help bring Freemasonry to the masses, how they change public perception, and why the organization gives men a place to be vulnerable, supportive, and real. The conversation goes from the meaning of Masonry to the power of adopting brothers, the value of showing your light in public, and what it looks like when men actually live the principles they claim.If you've ever wondered why some brothers seem connected across states and countries as if they grew up together, this episode has the answer. It's equal parts warm, funny, and inspiring, with plenty of motorcycle talk, Masonic insight, and real-world examples of service. Perfect for Masons, Widow Sons, riders, and anyone who wants to see what true brotherhood looks like in action