Ep. 49 - The Code We Live By: LAPD Stories, Freemasonry & Music with Raymond Foster

What do LAPD car chases, Freemasonry myths, and Baroque music have in common? Raymond Foster. In this episode of the Drop the Needle podcast, host Jim Alstott interviews Raymond Foster, a retired LAPD lieutenant and author. They discuss Raymond's extensive career in law enforcement, including memorable stories from his time on the force, and delve into his involvement with Freemasonry, exploring its myths, symbols, and relevance in today's society. The conversation also touches on Raymond's musical journey, his eclectic taste in music, and the songs that resonate with him personally. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth and the importance of having a code to live by. Takeaways Raymond Foster has a diverse background in law enforcement and writing. He shares a memorable high-speed chase story from his LAPD days. Freemasonry is often misunderstood, with many myths surrounding it. The importance of mentorship and guidance in today's society is emphasized. Music plays a significant role in Raymond's life, influencing his experiences. He believes in the potential renaissance of Freemasonry among younger generations. Symbols in Freemasonry have deep meanings and moral lessons. Raymond's eclectic musical taste includes jazz, classical, and country. He reflects on the importance of having a personal code to live by. The conversation highlights the connection between personal growth and music. Sound bites "I showed up and I was number 101." "I probably still hold the record." "I love Baroque music." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Raymond Foster 01:12 Raymond's Journey in Law Enforcement 04:07 Memorable LAPD Stories 11:16 Understanding Freemasonry 15:55 Debunking Myths about Freemasonry 20:36 The Structure of Freemasonry 28:20 The Future of Freemasonry 29:48 The Need for Mentorship in Modern Society 31:06 Understanding Masonic Symbols 34:49 Musical Journey: From Boot Camp to Jazz 41:20 The Soundtrack of Life: Musical Influences 52:02 Songs that Resonate: Personal Connections to Music 54:06 Living by a Code 54:44 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude