Beekeeping Today Podcast

In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Dr. Jay Evans from the USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Lab. Jay shares his vast experience and insights into honey bee research, focusing on the critical issues affecting beekeepers today. From his beginnings studying ants to his current role in bee research, Jay offers a fascinating perspective on the complexities of bee health and the collaborative efforts needed to tackle these challenges.

Jay discusses the importance of viewing the colony as a whole system, emphasizing the impact of viruses, mites, and environmental stressors on bee health. He highlights the current research on how bees behave when they're sick, and how understanding these behaviors can help in managing colonies more effectively. The conversation also touches on the significance of climate and weather changes, particularly how warmer late falls can negatively impact bee health by extending their active season.

Listeners will learn about the ongoing efforts to find new treatments for Varroa mites, with Jay detailing the promising research into new chemicals that could provide beekeepers with more effective options. He also talks about the importance of collaboration in research, with different experts bringing their unique skills to tackle various aspects of bee health.

This episode is a treasure trove of information for beekeepers of all levels, offering practical advice and updates on the latest research in the field. Tune in to hear from one of the leading voices in bee research and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and solutions in modern beekeeping.

Listen today!

Websites we recommend!

• USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Lab: https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/
• Beltsville Bee Disease Diagnostic Service: https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/docs/bee-disease-diagnosis-service/
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

HiveAlive offers a unique supplement with seaweed extracts, thyme, and lemongrass, proven to maintain low disease levels, increase bee populations, boost honey production, improve bee gut health, and enhance overwinter survival.

 Check out their new HiveAlive EZ Feed Super Syrup this fall! Visit www.usa.hivealivebees.com and use code "BTP" for a special discount.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, Jeff and Becky are joined by Dr. Jim Tew to discuss the little nagging issues every beekeeper face, humorously termed "bee peeves." Jim, a seasoned beekeeper and co-host of the Honey Bee Obscura podcast, brings his extensive experience and wit to the conversation, making this episode both enlightening and entertaining.

Jim shares his thoughts on the perennial problem of keeping smoker fuel dry and having it on hand when needed most. He humorously recounts times when running out of fuel in the middle of an inspection led to frantic searches for leaves and twigs, often resulting in unintended consequences like poison ivy exposure.

Becky and Jeff also share their frustrations, from dealing with the sticky aftermath of honey spills to the unpredictability of how long inspections will take. They highlight the difficulty of estimating time needed for hive visits, which often leads to underestimating the time commitment and subsequent delays in their schedules.

Jim discusses his dislike of unexpected stings, especially those that occur outside of the bee yard. He vividly describes the chaos of being stung by a bee that finds its way up a pant leg or under glasses, turning what should be a peaceful task into a painful and frantic experience.

Throughout the episode, Jim, Becky, and Jeff's lighthearted approach to these common bee peeves offers listeners a chance to laugh and commiserate. Their stories and insights provide both seasoned beekeepers and newcomers with practical advice and reassurance that they are not alone in facing these everyday challenges.

Join us for this candid and humorous discussion, and feel free to share your own bee peeves with us.

Listen today!

Websites we recommend!

• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this engaging episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Frank Linton, a seasoned beekeeper and author with a deep passion for observation hives. Frank shares his unique journey into beekeeping, sparked by his grandfather's influence and reignited years later with his first observation hive. Listeners will be captivated by Frank's enthusiasm and extensive knowledge as he discusses the intricacies and benefits of keeping observation hives.

Frank explains the appeal of observation hives, highlighting their educational value and the fascinating insights they offer into bee behavior. He contrasts temporary observation hives often seen at fairs and markets with permanent setups that provide year-round observation opportunities.

Listeners will learn about the key considerations for setting up a successful observation hive. Frank emphasizes the importance of having the hive only one frame wide, ensuring it's easy to manage and observe. He also shares practical tips on hive placement, both inside and outside the home, and the importance of maintaining proper lighting to enhance visibility.

Frank discusses the maintenance of observation hives, and the benefits of having a backup hive for the occasional bee transfers.

This episode provides a wealth of information for beekeepers interested in observation hives, from selecting the right hive to managing it effectively. Frank’s practical advice and firsthand experiences offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to enhance their beekeeping practice with an observation hive.

For our Beekeeping Today Podcast listeners, Betterbee is offering a discount code for both sizes of observation hives (OH1 and OH2), good through August 31, 2024. Use the code: OBSERVE when you check out to receive a 10% discount!

Listen today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Frank's Observation Hive Handbook on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Observation-Hive-Handbook-Studying-Honey/dp/1501707264/
• Frank's Hive Tour Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hive-Tour-Insiders-Guide-Honey/dp/B0B15NJ9B2/
• Frank's BeePeeker website: https://thebeepeeker.com

Additional websites we recommend!

• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, Jeff and Becky are joined by Andy Pedley, a retired Environmental Health Officer and experienced beekeeper from the UK. Andy shares his extensive knowledge on food safety in the context of honey production, an often overlooked but critical aspect of beekeeping. With over 30 years of beekeeping experience, Andy provides invaluable insights into maintaining a clean and safe honey house, discussing the importance of proper sanitation practices, the risks of using outdated equipment, and the potential contaminants that can affect honey quality.

Listeners will learn about the specific challenges and solutions related to honey storage, the use of food-grade materials, and the importance of keeping equipment clean and well-maintained. Andy also highlights the legal implications and responsibilities that come with producing and selling honey, emphasizing the need for beekeepers to stay informed and proactive about food safety standards.

Join us for this informative conversation that will help you improve your beekeeping practices and maintain the trust of your customers. Andy’s practical tips and expert advice are sure to enhance your understanding of food safety in beekeeping.

Whether you're a hobbyist or a commercial beekeeper, this episode offers practical advice to ensure your honey is both safe and high-quality.

Listen today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Andy's Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Food-Safety-Beekeepers-requirements-practical/dp/1914934377/

Additional websites we recommend!

• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, hosts Jeff and Becky chat with Brooke Decker and Natasha Garcia-Anderson from the Apiary Inspectors of America (AIA). Brooke and Natasha share their extensive knowledge and experiences as regulatory officials dedicated to supporting beekeepers and maintaining bee health across North America.

Brooke, the Pollinator Health Specialist from Vermont, and Natasha, the Apiary Inspector for Washington, D.C., discuss their unique backgrounds and how they became involved in beekeeping and regulatory work. Their roles encompass a wide range of responsibilities, from writing regulations and inspecting hives to educating and supporting local beekeepers. They highlight the crucial role of apiary inspectors in monitoring bee health and preventing the spread of diseases and pests, such as Varroa mites and the potentially devastating Tropilaelaps.

Listeners will learn about the structure and mission of the AIA, a nonprofit organization made up of regulatory officials from various states, provinces, and territories in the U.S. and Canada. The AIA serves as a support network for these officials, facilitating collaboration and information sharing to address common challenges in beekeeping. Brooke and Natasha emphasize the importance of their annual meetings, which provide a platform for inspectors to exchange knowledge, develop strategies, and foster camaraderie.

The episode delves into the challenges faced by apiary inspectors, including funding limitations and the ever-present threat of emerging pests and diseases. Natasha and Brooke discuss their efforts to stay ahead of these threats through training programs, sentinel hives, and regional collaboration. They also touch on the need for more states to establish apiary inspector programs, particularly in regions with significant beekeeping activities but no dedicated regulatory support.

Natasha and Brooke share insights into the benefits of having an apiary inspector, such as improved communication during emergencies, better pest and disease management, and enhanced support for beekeepers. They encourage beekeepers to view inspectors as allies and resources, rather than as regulatory burdens, and to take advantage of the valuable expertise inspectors offer.

Join us for this informative episode to gain a deeper understanding of the vital work done by the Apiary Inspectors of America and how their efforts contribute to the overall health and sustainability of the beekeeping industry.

Listen Today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Apiary Inspectors of America: https://apiaryinspectors.org

Additional websites we recommend!

• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman sit down with John Hill, the innovative force behind HillCo Bees, a quickly emerging player in the beekeeping equipment industry. John shares his inspiring journey from a young enthusiast to a successful entrepreneur, offering listeners a unique insight into the rapid growth and development of his company.

Listeners will how he got started in bees and learn about the early challenges John faced starting his business, including his initial foray into manufacturing hive boxes with minimal resources. His persistence paid off as he gradually improved his designs and gained local traction. The turning point came in 2020 when he shifted focus to producing high-quality honey extractors and other stainless steel beekeeping equipment, rapidly expanding his business.

John delves into the strategic decisions that have driven HillCo's success, including sourcing components from overseas to maintain competitive pricing. He addresses common concerns about manufacturing in China, explaining how HillCo ensures quality through rigorous testing and assembly in the United States. Additionally, John reveals exciting plans for future product developments and potential expansions into new markets.

This episode also features a special segment with Dr. Dewey Caron, who discusses the intricacies of communication among bees, beekeepers, and scientists. Dr. Caron’s insights into swarming, supering, and the dance language of bees provide valuable context for understanding honeybee behavior and management practices.

Tune in to discover how John Hill’s dedication and innovative approach have made HillCo a trusted name in the beekeeping community. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a commercial beekeeper, John’s story and expertise offer inspiration and practical advice for anyone passionate about beekeeping.

Listen Today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Hill Co: https://www.hillco.buzz
• John's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@hillcollc

Additional websites we recommend!

• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
• 2 Million Blossoms - The Podcast: https://2millionblossoms.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this insightful episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Master Beekeeper David Burns. David, a well-known figure in the beekeeping community, shares his extensive knowledge and experiences, offering invaluable advice for beekeepers of all levels. From his early, adventurous beginnings to becoming an EAS Master Beekeeper, David’s journey is both inspiring and educational.

David discusses his initial, challenging experience of cutting bees out of a fallen tree, which led him to a lifelong passion for beekeeping. His story is a testament to perseverance and self-education in the world of beekeeping. David also talks about his contributions to beekeeping education through his YouTube channel, classes, and mentorship programs, emphasizing the importance of combining practical experience with formal education for successful beekeeping.

David addresses the misconceptions about YouTube beekeepers and underscores the importance of using multiple resources, including local clubs and conferences, to become a well-rounded beekeeper. He also shares his innovative approach to winter bee feeding with the Winter Bee Kind, which has helped his colonies emerge strong and healthy in the spring.

Finally, David talks about the challenges and strategies of running a successful beekeeping business, highlighting the critical role his wife plays in managing the business side of their operations. He discusses the importance of balancing business and beekeeping, and how collaboration with others has been key to his success.

Join us for this engaging conversation and gain practical insights from one of the leading educators in the beekeeping community. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned beekeeper, David Burns’ advice and stories will enhance your beekeeping journey.

Listen Today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• David's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beek
• David's Book, "Backyard Beekeeping - Everything You Need to Know to Get You Through the First Year": https://www.amazon.com/Backyard-Beekeeping-Everything-Start-First/dp/1647395143/
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

During this seventh year anniversary week of the podcast, we bring you this special memorial episode honoring our former co-host, colleague, and dear friend, Kim Flottum, who passed away in December 10, 2023. This episode is dedicated to celebrating Kim’s remarkable life and his immense contributions to the beekeeping community.

Join hosts Jeff Ott, Becky Masterman, and Honey Bee Obscura’s, Jim Tew, as they reflect on Kim's enduring legacy. This heartfelt tribute includes touching memories and stories shared by friends, colleagues, and family members during Kim’s memorial service held in April in Medina, Ohio. Hear from Kim’s friends those he touched, like Brenda Bray, Tracy Alarcon, and Eugene Makovec, who recount their cherished moments with Kim and the profound impact he had on their lives and careers.

Kim Flottum was a cornerstone of our podcast and the Honey Bee Obscura Podcast. His passion, knowledge, and warmth made a lasting impression on all who knew him. From his early days at The A.I. Root Company to his influential role in beekeeping media, Kim’s curiosity and dedication to learning were truly inspiring.

Listen today and hear these moving tributes and to celebrate the life of a true beekeeping legend. You can leave your own remembrances in the comments section of this episode.

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Welcome to a special episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, presented by Betterbee. As we kick off our seventh year and celebrate the first day of Pollinator Week, we are thrilled to bring you a conversation filled with insights and stories that highlight the importance of pollinators in our ecosystems.

In this episode, Jeff and Becky delve into the fascinating world of pollinators with our guest, Anthony Colangelo, the Outreach and Education Specialist from Pollinator Partnership. Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge about pollinators, sharing his current projects across North America and his involvement in the Pollinator Steward Certification Program.

Join us as we discuss:

- The diverse roles of various pollinators in our environment.

- The unique challenges and adaptations of bees in extreme climates.

- Practical tips for beekeepers to protect themselves and their bees from common pests like ticks.

- Anthony’s involvement in groundbreaking initiatives like Bee Friendly Farming and the importance of community science projects like iNaturalist.

As we celebrate this milestone—our 282nd episode—not only do we reflect on the journey so far, but we also emphasize the ongoing need for awareness and action to support pollinator health globally. Whether you are a seasoned beekeeper or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartwarming stories to inspire your practice.

Don’t miss out on this enriching discussion that connects beekeepers and nature enthusiasts with the critical issues facing pollinators today. Tune in to learn, laugh, and be part of our growing community dedicated to making a difference in the world of beekeeping and beyond.

Listen Today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Pollinator Partnership: https://pollinator.org
• Bee Friendly Farming: https://www.pollinator.org/bff
• Bee Friendly Gardening: https://www.pollinator.org/bfg
• Pollinator Steward Certification: https://www.pollinator.org/psc
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(281) Join us in this episode as we delve into the sophisticated world of beekeeping record management, focusing on the innovative platform, HiveTracks!

Explore the capabilities of HiveTracks—a mobile app and cloud-based system designed to streamline beekeeping management. Our dialogue with James Wilkes and Max Rünzel, the visionaries behind HiveTracks, showcases the evolution of this platform and its pivotal role in empowering beekeepers with strategic, data-driven decisions about their hives.

Listeners will discover the extensive benefits of using HiveTracks for record-keeping, including simplified hive inspections and integrated weather data for optimal planning. The platform caters to beekeepers of all scales, from hobbyists to commercial operators, ensuring a tailored experience to meet each user’s unique needs.

Furthermore, we discuss the advanced features of HiveTracks, such as its community insights capabilities which harness the collective expertise of the beekeeping community to provide dynamic insights and regional updates. Another innovative feature for beekeepers who market and sell honey is “Honey Stories,” which allows beekeepers to share the unique narrative of each honey jar through a shareable public profile link via a simple QR code.

Don’t miss this enlightening exploration of how technology like HiveTracks is not only simplifying beekeeping management but also fostering a more interconnected beekeeping community. Whether you are an experienced beekeeper or a newcomer, understanding the tools available can profoundly impact your success and enjoyment of the craft.

Listen Today!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• HiveTracks: https://www.hivetracks.com
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

This episode is brought to you by Dalan Animal Health. Dalan is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. We are redrawing the boundaries of animal health by bringing our vaccine technology platform to underserved animal populations, such as honeybees and other invertebrates.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, Jeff and Becky delve into the groundbreaking development of the first American Foulbrood (AFB) vaccine for honeybees with Annette Kleiser, co-founder of Dalan Animal Health, and Tim Ferris, a commercial beekeeper based in Pennsylvania and New Zealand.

Annette shares her journey from concept to market, highlighting the challenges faced in creating a vaccine for bees, a vital yet often overlooked livestock. Tim discusses his practical experiences with the vaccine, emphasizing its importance in preventing the devastating effects of AFB.

American Foulbrood has long been a severe threat to beekeeping, capable of destroying entire colonies due to its highly contagious nature. Historically, the only control methods were burning infected hives or using antibiotics. This episode explores the innovative approach of using an oral vaccine, which offers a promising solution to this persistent problem.

Learn about the future implications of this pioneering vaccine and its role in enhancing bee health and sustainability.

(Photo above courtesy USDA)

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Dalan Animal Health: https://dalan.com
• BTP Episode with Dr. Keith Delaplane on the Research: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/s5e30  
• Honey Bee Health Coalition Foulbrood Management: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/managing-foulbrood/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

This episode is brought to you by Dalan Animal Health. Dalan is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. We are redrawing the boundaries of animal health by bringing our vaccine technology platform to underserved animal populations, such as honeybees and other invertebrates.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Dr. Christina Grozinger, a distinguished researcher from Penn State University, who delves into her extensive work on bee behavior, genetics, and the vital role of nutrition in bee health. As the director of the Center for Pollinator Research, Dr. Grozinger offers invaluable insights into the complexities of pollen nutrition and its critical impact on bee resilience and hive productivity.

Listeners will benefit from a deep dive into how various stressors like pesticides, poor nutrition, and parasites affect bee colonies at a molecular level. Dr. Grozinger discusses her pioneering research in understanding the genetic underpinnings of bee behavior, particularly how genes from the queen and drones influence colony dynamics and individual bee actions.

Moreover, this episode covers the groundbreaking development of Beescape, an online tool that provides beekeepers with detailed information about their local environment, including land use, floral resources, and potential pesticide exposure. This tool is designed to help beekeepers and researchers make informed decisions to enhance the health and productivity of their colonies.

Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or new to the field, this episode is packed with cutting-edge scientific findings and practical guidance that can transform your beekeeping practices and help ensure the sustainability of your hives.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Penn State BeeScape: https://pollinators.psu.edu/bee-health/beescape
• Penn State Center for Pollinator Research: https://pollinators.psu.edu

• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

This episode is brought to you by Dalan Animal Health. Dalan is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. We are redrawing the boundaries of animal health by bringing our vaccine technology platform to underserved animal populations, such as honeybees and other invertebrates.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this fun episode of our podcast, we're diving deep into the topics of bee health and maximizing honey production with insights from Steve Donohoe and Paul Horton, seasoned beekeepers from the UK. These experts share their pioneering strategies detailed in their new book, Healthy Bees, Heavy Hives, aimed at enhancing hive productivity and bee wellbeing.

Listeners will discover practical advice on various aspects of beekeeping, from queen management to handling Varroa mites, emphasizing the importance of strong, healthy colonies for successful honey production. The discussion also touches on innovative approaches to hive management, tailored to keeping bees thriving in the changing climates and landscapes that beekeepers face today.

This episode is not just for those looking to turn their beekeeping hobby into a business—it's also for any beekeeper striving to understand more deeply how to maintain the health of their hives while optimizing honey yield. Through engaging stories and clear, actionable guidance, Steve and Paul illustrate how strategic hive management and understanding bee biology can lead to more robust bee colonies and, consequently, better honey production.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from two of the leading minds in beekeeping today. Tune in to learn how to keep your bees healthier and your hives heavier!

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Healthy Bees, Heavy Hives on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Bees-Heavy-Hives-maximise/dp/1914934679 
• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

This episode is brought to you by Dalan Animal Health. Dalan is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. We are redrawing the boundaries of animal health by bringing our vaccine technology platform to underserved animal populations, such as honeybees and other invertebrates.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#277) In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of honey bee virology with Dr. Michelle Flenniken from Montana State University. As a seasoned researcher specializing in honey bee viruses, Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge that's both enlightening and essential for understanding the health challenges our bees face.

This episode is packed with insights on how honey bees combat viruses through their immune systems and the significant impact of environmental factors on their health. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation of the complex interplay between bee biology and viral pathogens, highlighting the critical role of beekeepers in managing hive health.

Michelle’s research focuses on the immune responses of honey bees to various viral infections and explores potential strategies for enhancing bee health through genetic and environmental interventions. Her work is pivotal in paving the way for future advancements in beekeeping practices and viral mitigation techniques.

Whether you're a new or long-time beekeeper, this episode offers valuable lessons on the importance of monitoring hive health, understanding the signs of viral infections, and implementing effective management strategies to support robust and resilient bee colonies.

So, tune in to enrich your knowledge and equip yourself with the tools to better protect your bees against the ever-present threat of viruses. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the leading experts in the field of honey bee health.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Montana State University Pollinator Lab: http://www.montana.edu/pollinators/ 
• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#276) In this enlightening episode, we are joined by Dr. Kaira Wagoner of Optera, who introduces us to groundbreaking research in bee hygiene. Kaira shares her extensive study on hygienic behavior in honey bees, a critical trait that helps colonies combat pathogens like varroa mites and various bee diseases. This episode not only dives deep into the science behind bee hygiene but also discusses how beekeepers can apply these insights practically.

Our hosts, Jeff and Becky, engage Kaira in a detailed discussion about her latest invention, UBeeO, a tool designed to assess the hygienic behavior of bee colonies efficiently. This revolutionary assay allows beekeepers to identify and breed from colonies that naturally exhibit strong hygienic traits, thus potentially reducing the need for chemical treatments against pests and diseases.

Listeners will gain an understanding of how UBeeO works and its implications for bee health management and queen breeding practices. Dr. Wagoner explains the concept of "hygienic behavior" and how it enables bees to detect and eliminate brood affected by health issues, enhancing the overall resilience of the hive.

This episode is particularly valuable for beekeepers interested in sustainable practices and those looking to enhance the genetic traits of their bee colonies through selective breeding. Whether you're a backyard beekeeper or manage a large apiary, the insights offered by Kaira will inspire you to consider new strategies for maintaining healthy bees

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Optera: https://opterabees.com
• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this latest episode, we dive deep into our seasonal segment, "Regional Beekeeper Updates." This episode offers a rich compilation of insights as beekeepers from various U.S. regions share the unique challenges and triumphs of their beekeeping experiences.

Our hosts, Jeff and Becky, guide listeners through a series of engaging discussions with beekeepers from contrasting environments, highlighting the diverse conditions that influence beekeeping practices. For example, Paul Longwell from Olympia, Washington, enjoys the benefits of a temperate climate which offers a variety of pollen and nectar sources, contrasting sharply with Duane Combs in Phoenix, Arizona, who shares innovative techniques to combat extreme heat and ensure hive survival.

Listeners will find valuable lessons in the stories of Jay Williams and Ang Roell, who bring to life the realities of regional beekeeping. Jay, operating out of Nashville, Tennessee, talks about the extensive public support for beekeeping in his area, which enhances his business centered around agritourism and educational outreach. Meanwhile, Ang, who keeps bees in both Massachusetts and North Carolina, discusses the logistics and learning opportunities that come from managing hives in two distinct climates, emphasizing the role of local knowledge in successful queen rearing and colony management.

This episode not only addresses the challenges faced by beekeepers but also celebrates the resilience and adaptability of the beekeeping community. Whether discussing pest management strategies in Northern California with Bonnie Morse or innovative hive cooling methods in Arizona with Duane Combs, the episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories.

Essential listening for anyone engaged or interested in the nuances of regional beekeeping, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge, especially beneficial for those in the early stages of their beekeeping journey.

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#274) Welcome to this informative episode of the "Beekeeping Today Podcast," featuring a detailed discussion with Christy Payne from Collinsville, Oklahoma. This episode is designed to provide both new and experienced beekeepers with insights into advanced beekeeping practices and the integration of beekeeping within corporate environments.

In our conversation, Christy Payne shares her journey into beekeeping which began from the necessity to improve pollination in her garden and expanded to her becoming a key figure in urban beekeeping at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tulsa. Listeners will benefit from her experiences in managing hives in a corporate setting, discussing both the logistical and ecological aspects of urban beekeeping.

Throughout the episode, Christy also addresses the practicalities of maintaining hives in city environments, the importance of proper nutrition for bees, and reviews innovative beekeeping tools that can aid beekeepers in optimizing hive health and productivity.

Additionally, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman enrich the discussion with their expert insights, offering further guidance on beekeeping best practices and sustainable management. This episode serves as an excellent resource for those looking to deepen their understanding of modern beekeeping challenges and solutions.

Moreover, Christy’s involvement in educational initiatives for the community underscores the significant role beekeepers can play in promoting environmental stewardship and biodiversity through public engagement and corporate partnerships.

We invite you to listen to this episode for a comprehensive look at the strategies that can help you manage your hives more effectively and play a part in urban sustainability efforts. Stream this episode and access further beekeeping resources at www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Christy's Big V Honey Bee Farm: https://www.bigvhoneybee.com
• Alvéole: https://www.alveole.buzz 

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#273) In this enlightening episode, we delve into the complex world of Varroa management with the insightful Dr. Kirsty Stainton. As beekeepers eagerly set up their new colonies, the specter of Varroa destructor looms large, threatening the health and productivity of hives across the globe. Kirsty, armed with her profound expertise and passion for bee health, offers a deep dive into the intricacies of battling this pervasive parasite.

Listeners will be equipped with actionable strategies for early detection, understanding the critical role of monitoring, and the integration of management practices to keep Varroa populations in check. The conversation also navigates through the nuanced differences between treatment options, highlighting the importance of a tailored approach that respects both the beekeeper's objectives and the well-being of the hive.

Kirsty’s pragmatic advice underscores the necessity of ongoing vigilance and adaptability in Varroa management, advocating for a combination of traditional and innovative methods to safeguard our precious pollinators. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for both novice and seasoned beekeepers, offering fresh perspectives on a challenge that unites the beekeeping community in a common goal: thriving, healthy colonies in the face of Varroa adversity.

Kirsty’s book, “Varroa Management: A practical guide on how to manage Varroa mites in honey bee colonies” is available on Amazon or directly from the publisher, Northern Bee Books.

Join us to arm yourself with the latest insights and tools to turn the tide against Varroa, ensuring the resilience and prosperity of your beekeeping endeavors.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Varroa Management on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Varroa-management-practical-manage-colonies/dp/1914934415
• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management Resources: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#272) In the latest episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, we dive into the pressing issues facing beekeepers today with our guest, Dr. Erika Plettner from Simon Fraser University. As beekeepers, we are all too familiar with the challenge of managing Varroa mites, a pervasive threat to our hives and the global bee population. Dr. Plettner brings a refreshing perspective to this challenge, sharing her innovative research on disrupting the chemoreceptors of Varroa mites, offering a potential breakthrough in our ongoing battle against these destructive parasites.

Dr. Plettner’s work focuses on a novel compound that not only disorients the mites, making them less effective at feeding on bees but also has the potential to reduce mite populations without harming the bees themselves. This research is particularly relevant for beekeepers in their first five years, as managing Varroa mites is a critical skill for maintaining healthy and productive hives. Moreover, even experienced commercial beekeepers struggling with mite resistance to traditional treatments will find the insights offered in this episode invaluable.

We also discuss the importance of monitoring mite levels and the strategic application of treatments to manage resistance and maintain colony health. Dr. Plettner emphasizes the significance of integrating new methods with existing management practices to effectively control Varroa populations, ensuring the longevity and prosperity of our beekeeping endeavors.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the latest advancements in beekeeping research and looking for effective strategies to combat the Varroa mite threat. Join us to learn how Dr. Plettner's work could revolutionize our approach to bee health and help us build stronger, more resilient bee communities.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Dr. Plettner's Collaborative Research: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10336134/
•  SFU PR Summary of Dr. Plettner's Research: https://www.sfu.ca/sfunews/stories/2022/08/sfu-researchers-developing-new-methods-for-controlling-deadly-ho.html

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#271) In this enlightening episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Thomas Seeley, a celebrated biologist and author, to discuss his latest book, "Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners: 20 Mysteries of Honey Bees Solved." Dr. Seeley shares his deep fascination with the individual behaviors of worker bees and how their collective actions contribute to the colony’s success. The conversation delves into the intricate world of bee communication, particularly during the swarming process, revealing how scout bees signal to their counterparts to prepare for the journey to a new home. This discussion also touches on the decision-making process within the swarm, showcasing bees' remarkable consensus-building capabilities.

Listeners will be captivated as Dr. Seeley explains the critical factors bees consider when selecting a new nest site, such as entrance height and cavity size, emphasizing bees' preference for sunny, south-facing entrances. The episode also explores the sophisticated communication methods bees use, including the iconic waggle dance, through which bees share vital information about food sources, water, and nesting sites.

Dr. Seeley's passion for his subject shines through as he recounts personal stories from his research, making complex scientific concepts accessible to beekeepers and enthusiasts alike. This episode is not only a deep dive into the behavioral mysteries of honeybees but also a testament to the collaborative nature of scientific discovery. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or a newcomer to the world of bees, this episode and Dr. Seeley’s new book "Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners: 20 Mysteries of Honey Bees Solved" promises to enrich your understanding of these fascinating creatures and their complex societies.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Piping Hot Bees & Boisterous Buzz Runners on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4CFuGJl
• All of Tom's books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Thomas-D.-Seeley/author/B001HPUI6S

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#271) In this captivating episode, Jeff and Becky chat with Bo Sterk, the visionary founder of Bees Beyond Borders, an organization dedicated to uplifting communities through beekeeping in the Caribbean. This episode delves into Bo's three decades of beekeeping experience, highlighting his profound impact on economically challenged regions by using beekeeping as a tool for sustainable income. Bo shares his journey from his first mission trip to Barbados to his current endeavors, providing invaluable insights into the challenges and rewards of international beekeeping education and development.

Listeners will be treated to fascinating stories from Bo's extensive work in the Caribbean, where each island presents unique beekeeping challenges, from the arrival of bees to the introduction of varroa mites. Bo's innovative solutions, including the development of a beekeeping guidebook and education on hive construction from local materials, showcase his commitment to practical, sustainable beekeeping practices. His efforts in Haiti, where he taught communities to build and manage log hives, illustrate the transformative power of beekeeping in improving livelihoods.

This episode is not just a conversation; it's a journey through the complexities and joys of beekeeping across different cultures and landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned beekeeper or just starting, Bo's stories of resilience, innovation, and the global beekeeping community will inspire you to see the bee world in a new light.

Join us for an episode that celebrates the global impact of bees and the people who dedicate their lives to their care and conservation.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Bees Beyond Borders: https://beesbeyondborders.com
• Bo Sterk on Bee Culture: https://www.beeculture.com/bo-sterk/ 

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#269) In this episode, Becky and her guest cohost and Bee Culture writing partner, Bridget Mendel, take you on a journey with Liz Frost, an American beekeeper turned technical specialist in honeybees for the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries in Australia. Frost shares her transition from the U.S. to Australia, offering a unique perspective on beekeeping without Varroa mites, and the recent challenges since their introduction in New South Wales.

Through engaging discussions, listeners gain insights into Australia's diverse beekeeping practices, the impact of Varroa on the industry, and the strategies being adopted to manage this new threat. Frost's journey underscores the global nature of beekeeping challenges and the importance of international knowledge exchange.

This episode not only highlights the nuances of Australian beekeeping but also serves as a reminder of the resilience and adaptability required in the face of emerging challenges.

Join us to learn from Frost's extensive experience and explore the dynamic world of beekeeping down under.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Becky and Bridget's Bee Culture Article: https://beeculture.com
• Liz on the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries website: https://extensionaus.com.au/professionalbeekeepers/expert/liz-frost/
• Honey Bee Health Coalition, Varroa Management Guide: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#268) In the concluding episode of our four-part series on "How To Get Started With Bees," we explore the crucial topics of parasites, pathogens, predators, and pesticides—from this point on, to be collectively known as the “four Ps of beekeeping”. Our hosts, along with guest, Jim Tew and David Peck, tackle these challenges with optimism, aiming to equip new beekeepers with strategies to protect their colonies.

From the pervasive threat of Varroa mites to the nuances of local beekeeping challenges, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of bee health management. Practical advice on monitoring and treatment options is shared, emphasizing the importance of integrated pest management and community support. The conversation underscores the necessity of ongoing education and proactive measures in maintaining healthy hives.

This episode serves as a vital resource for beginner beekeepers, offering guidance and encouragement in navigating the complexities of bee health.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• How To Get Started in Beekeeping Episode Collection Page: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/htgs
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• Betterbee Quick Start Guide: https://www.betterbee.com/instructions-and-resources/how-to-be-a-beekeeper.asp 
• University of Minnesota Bee Squad - Gentle Beekeeping: https://beelab.umn.edu/person-mentoring-apiary
• USDA Bee Lab: https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#267) In "How To Get Started With Bees," part three of our four-part series, we delve deeper into the essential steps for budding beekeepers. This episode focuses on equipment selection, emphasizing the critical decision between new and used gear, and the potential risks associated with each.

Our experts, including Honey Bee Obscura's Jim Tew and master beekeeper, Paul Longwell, provide invaluable advice on navigating the overwhelming array of beekeeping tools and accessories. We discuss the importance of understanding bee space, the pros and cons of building your own equipment versus purchasing pre-assembled kits, and strategies for effective colony feeding and expansion.

By breaking down these fundamental aspects, we aim to equip novice beekeepers with the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring their journey into beekeeping starts on solid ground.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• How To Get Started in Beekeeping Episode Collection Page: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/htgs
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• Betterbee Quick Start Guide: https://www.betterbee.com/instructions-and-resources/how-to-be-a-beekeeper.asp 
• University of Minnesota Bee Squad - Gentle Beekeeping: https://beelab.umn.edu/person-mentoring-apiary
• USDA Bee Lab: https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#266) In this episode, Jeff, Becky, and Jim dive deep into the world of developing advanced beekeeping skills. The trio revisits the 2020 foundational series on getting started with bees, adding a fresh perspective with new insights for 2024. They tackle the essentials of beekeeping, emphasizing the journey from beginner to experienced keeper, and highlight the commitment required to master the craft.

The discussion opens about the time and dedication beekeeping demands, debunking the glossy, effortless image often portrayed. They share personal anecdotes and practical tips on making beekeeping more manageable, stressing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to maintain healthy colonies.

Listeners will gain insights into the seasonal tasks of beekeeping, the value of local beekeeping communities, and the significance of mentorship. The episode also covers the importance of proper equipment use, weather considerations, and flexible scheduling to meet the needs of your bees throughout the year.

By the end, the conversation underscores the evolving nature of beekeeping, encouraging beekeepers to seek out education, embrace community support, and stay abreast of new practices for a fulfilling beekeeping experience.

This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for beekeepers aiming to enhance their skills and deepen their understanding of the intricate world of beekeeping.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• How To Get Started in Beekeeping Episode Collection Page: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/htgs
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• Betterbee Quick Start Guide: https://www.betterbee.com/instructions-and-resources/how-to-be-a-beekeeper.asp 
• University of Minnesota Bee Squad - Gentle Beekeeping: https://beelab.umn.edu/person-mentoring-apiary
• USDA Bee Lab: https://www.ars.usda.gov/northeast-area/beltsville-md-barc/beltsville-agricultural-research-center/bee-research-laboratory/
• Mission Beelieve: https://www.missionbeelieve.com/
• Heros to Hives: https://www.canr.msu.edu/veterans/Veterans-Programming/Heroes-to-Hives/index
• Bee Veterans: https://beelab.umn.edu/bee-veterans

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#265) Welcome to a new chapter in beekeeping with the Beekeeping Today Podcast, presented by Betterbee. In today’s special episode, "How to Get Started with Bees in 2024, Part 1," we kick off a four-week series revisiting and expanding upon our 2020 foundational series for beekeepers. Jeff Ott, alongside co-hosts Becky Masterman and Jim Tew from the Honeybee Obscura, delve into the evolving world of beekeeping, addressing the challenges faced by new beekeepers, with practical advice honed by years of experience.

This episode, part one of the updated series, emphasizes the importance of understanding beekeeping's challenges and rewards. Despite increased difficulties such as varroa mites and other pests, beekeepers can manage their honey bees with available tools and reap the many benefits from maintaining healthy honey bee colonies.

The conversation covers a range of topics crucial for beginners, from the philosophical—why we start beekeeping—to the practical—where and how to keep bees in various environments. Highlighting the significance of mentorship and community, the episode encourages new beekeepers to seek out experienced mentors and join local clubs for support and guidance.

Listeners will find invaluable insights into making their first year successful, touching on the importance of local knowledge, preparation, and realistic expectations. This episode sets the stage for an enriching beekeeping journey, inviting both newcomers and veterans to engage with the broader beekeeping community and embrace the challenges and joys of keeping bees in 2024.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• 2020 How To Get Started - Part 1: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/s2e16
• How To Get Started in Beekeeping Episode Collection Page: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/htgs
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• Betterbee Quick Start Guide: https://www.betterbee.com/instructions-and-resources/how-to-be-a-beekeeper.asp 

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

(#264) In this week’s episode, we explore into the fascinating world of drones with Dr. Brock Harpur from Purdue University. Listen and discover the critical role drones play in bee colony health and how current research is challenging previous misconceptions about these maligned members of the hive.

Dr. Harpur shares his journey from a studious kid in Northern British Columbia to leading groundbreaking research in bee genetics and evolutionary biology. Learn about the innovative projects underway at the Harpur Lab, including a deep dive into drone nutrition and the quest for understanding the genetic diversity among drones.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for beekeepers eager to deepen their knowledge and improve their beekeeping practices.

Featured Topics Include:

• Dr. Harpur's personal journey into bee research.
• The underestimated importance of drones in bee colonies.
• The Harpur Lab's cutting-edge drone research projects.
• The potential impact of drone nutrition and genetics on beekeeping.

Links and websites mentioned in this episode:

• Harpur Bee Lab – https://beemolevo.com
• Purdue University Varroa Resistant Honey Bee Breeding Program - https://extension.entm.purdue.edu/beehive/our-breeding-program/
• Indiana Queen Breeders Assn - https://www.iqbaindiana.com

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this week’s episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, we're excited to have Dr. Erica Shelley, CEO and founder of Best For Bees, rejoin us. Best For Bees is at the forefront with their innovative ProtectaBEE hive entrances, designed for multifunctional use, including a groundbreaking method for applying a fungal powder to combat varroa mites.

We delve into the potential of Metarhizium, a widely recognized fungus, for its arthropod- and insect-killing properties. Our discussion highlights ongoing research, in partnership with institutions like Washington State University, aimed at identifying the optimal Metarhizium strain for varroa mite treatment. The ProtectaBEE system offers a novel delivery method, enhancing the effectiveness of this biocontrol strategy.

Furthermore, Erica introduces the concept of “Big Bee Data,” a visionary approach leveraging beekeeper-collected data—from management apps to sensors and online forms—to shift from reactive to predictive colony management. This episode explores the challenges and solutions in refining this model to aid beekeepers in more effective bee management.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Best For Bees - https://bestforbees.com

• BTP Episode with Nectar Technologies - https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/precision-beekeeping-with-nectar-technologies-max-cherney-nico-coallier-s6-e03/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode we're excited to introduce Anna, a Stanford University freshman and hobby beekeeper from Campbell, California. With a passion for honey bees and a background in engineering and science, Anna has embarked on an intriguing journey to address the decline in bee populations, focusing on the critical issue of queen failure.

Anna’s innovative research led her to the concept of “queen roar,” a unique sound bees make when their queen is missing. Leveraging her engineering skills, Anna developed a three-pronged approach to monitor queen acceptance and rejection within the hive. This approach includes:

1. An acoustic-based IoT device for data collection.

2. Gathering high-quality and diverse data sets.

3. Developing machine learning models for accurate queen assessment.

Despite facing challenges in her research, Anna's determination and inventive spirit shone through. Her efforts resulted in the collection of over 7,000 data points, achieving an impressive 91.8% accuracy rate in detecting queen presence.

Her remarkable paper, titled “Smart Bee Colony Monitor: Internet of Things Device & Fusion Convolutional Neural Network for Queen Assessment,” not only showcases her talent but also earned her a $10,000 scholarship through the Davidson Institute Fellowship Scholarship program, a testament to her contribution to the field of beekeeping and STEM.

Join us in this episode to delve into Anna’s fascinating research and her contributions to understanding and improving honey bee queen assessment. This is a shining example of how STEM programs are inspiring and supporting gifted students in the United States. Tune in to learn more about the cutting-edge intersection of beekeeping, technology, and science.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Anna's Page on the Davidson Institute 2023 Fellow Page:  https://www.davidsongifted.org/gifted-programs/fellows-scholarship/fellows/current-and-past-fellows/2023-fellows/2023-davidson-fellow-anna-yang/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, we delve into a pivotal event in the North American beekeeping calendar: the annual migration of over two million honey bee colonies to California's almond orchards. This massive movement, spanning mid-February to mid-March, marks the beginning of the beekeeping year.

Coordinating this migration demands meticulous planning and collaboration between beekeepers and almond growers. It's a race against time, with the almond bloom not waiting for any delays. Beekeepers face the challenge of ensuring their colonies are both robust and healthy for this critical period.

Our special guest today is Omer Davidi, CEO and co-founder of BeeHero. This innovative company is revolutionizing beekeeping with in-hive sensors that monitor colony health. These sensors provide vital data, aiding beekeepers in making informed decisions and reducing the need to open hives unnecessarily.

BeeHero also plays a unique role in bridging the gap between beekeepers and growers. They take the helm in representing beekeepers for pollination contracts, using detailed data from their sensors to negotiate with growers. This service is especially beneficial for beekeepers who prefer focusing on beekeeping rather than the marketing and contracting aspects of the business.

Backyard beekeepers, take note! Although you might think these large-scale operations don't impact you, they actually play a crucial role. The success of these almond orchard bees lays the foundation for the country's package and nuc business, influencing beekeepers nationwide.

Join Jeff and Becky as they explore BeeHero's business model and its potential benefits for beekeepers involved in pollination. Tune in to gain valuable insights into this fascinating aspect of beekeeping!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• BeeHero Website: https://www.beehero.io

• Almond Board Page on Pollination: https://www.almonds.com/almond-industry/orchard-management/pollination 

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Every hobbyist beekeeper eventually contemplates scaling up to a commercial operation with thousands of hives. Our podcast guest, Charlie Linder, embraced this challenge and has been forging ahead ever since.

Initially, Charlie's beekeeping business centered on honey production. However, facing declining wholesale honey prices and competition from imported honey, he pivoted to pollination services. Now managing over 5,000 colonies, Charlie still feels like a novice compared to beekeepers with over 10,000 hives.

Currently, Charlie is preparing his colonies ready to go into almond pollination mid-February. The almond orchards lure in over 2-million colonies from all over the USA in what is considered the largest single bee migration in the world (of course… via four colonies to a pallet on a semi).  The pallets of bees get dropped off in the dark, settled in place in the low glow of head and taillights, smoke and cloud of confused and disoriented bees.

In six weeks, this process is reversed. The bees are transported again, undergoing grading, splitting, and preparation for other crop pollinations, as well as for package and nuc sales.

Apart from running his bee operation, Charlie serves on the American Beekeeping Federation's board of directors. Contrary to popular belief, the ABF's efforts extend beyond commercial beekeeping. The Federation vigilantly addresses national issues to ensure honey bees and their keepers aren't adversely affected by ill-informed legislative actions. Today, Charlie talks specifically about the proposed transfer of miticide regulation from the EPA to the FDA, a move that could delay critical varroa mite treatments.

Listen to today’s episode as Jeff and Becky talk with Charlie Linder, a backyard turned commercial beekeeper!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• EPA Advisory on Pesticides Targeting Varroa: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/epa-issues-advisory-pesticides-used-control-varroa-mites-beehives-including-coordinated

• EPA Q&A on EPA and FDA Oversight: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/questions-and-answers-regarding-epafda-whitepaper-modern-approach-epa-and-fda-product

• American Beekeeping Federation Legislative Issues and Updates: https://abfnet.org/legislation-advocacy/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, Dr. Eva Reinicke, DVM, of Northfield, Minnesota joins Becky and guest cohost, Dr. Meghan Milbrath, assistant professor at Michigan State University. One focus of Meghan’s MSU bee lab is honey bee medicine training for veterinary practitioners. Her expertise is perfect for chatting with Eva who has been practicing honey bee medicine since 2018.

Honey bees are an emerging specialty for Veterinarians. Meghan and Eva have used the antibiotic access restrictions imposed by the 2017 Veterinary Feed Directive to support the honey bee industry. Eva has set up a honey bee practice to support beekeepers. In addition to providing access to needed antibiotics, she describes how veterinarians can help beekeepers diagnose disease and monitor pests. 

Listeners will learn about advanced disease diagnosis and the tools that other livestock industries use to detect pathogens. Eva describes the need and opportunity for more research and governmental support for the honey bee industry from the perspective of a veterinary health care practitioner. Also, this episode addresses how biosecurity is different in honey bee management as compared to other livestock animals. 

Join this conversation to learn why honey bees need as many professionals as possible to help take care of them. This episode explores how veterinarians' contribution to honey bee health is growing and where the potential opportunities for improving honey bee care exist. Veterinary care for honey bees is not just limited to access to antimicrobials!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Michigan State University Pollinator Initiative -https://pollinators.msu.edu/programs/bees-need-vets/index.aspx
• University of Minnesota Bee Squad - https://beelab.umn.edu/bee-squad/outreach-programs
• Veterinary Feed Directive - https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/one-health/antimicrobial-use-and-antimicrobial-resistance/veterinary-feed-directive-basics
• Dr. Reinicke’s Honey Bee Practice -https://northlandhoneybeevet.wordpress.com/about/
• Dr. Declan Schroeder’s Virology Lab - https://vetmed.umn.edu/bio/college-of-veterinary-medicine/declan-schroeder
• Honey Bee Veterinary Consortium -https://www.hbvc.org/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast episode with the Honey Bee Veterinary Consortium - https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/s3,e15/

• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2024 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Recorded live from the Beekeeping Today Podcast booth at the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, Kentucky, Jeff prepared this update from special guests who stopped by the booth and from the floor, on the last day of the Expo

Included in this special episode are:

• Cliff Struhl - Bee Smart Designs
• Aaron and John - Pierco
• The Roses (attendees)
• Deb Klugher (attendee)
• Josh Cowen - Cowen Manufacturing
• Matt Shaw - Premier Manufacturing, Propola Hives
• James Wilkes, Max Runzel - Hive Tracks
• Victor Croker, HiveIQ

Listen to this bonus episode to hear short, quick, updates from these folks who stopped by and learn of their latest updates, recorded live from the vendor trade floor at the North American Honey Bee Expo.

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Recorded live from the Beekeeping Today Podcast booth at the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, Kentucky, Jeff prepared this update from special guests who stopped by the booth.

Included in this special episode are:

• Attending beekeepers
• Dr. Erica Shelley - Better For Bees
• Anna Kaur and John Turpin - StrongMicrobials
• Dr. Larry Connor - Wicwas Press

Listen to this bonus episode to hear short, quick, updates from these folks who stopped by and learn of their latest updates, recorded live from the vendor trade floor at the North American Honey Bee Expo.

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Happy New Year! As we embark on a new year, often marked by resolutions, we're excited to present a New Year's Archive Special. Join Jeff and Becky as they revisit Jeff‘s and Kim’s insightful interview with Colorado beekeeper Tom Theobald, in 2021. While Tom might not be the inventor of the two-queen colony management system for increasing honey yields, his refinements to the technique are remarkable. If boosting honey production is on your 2024 agenda, this episode is for you!

Tom ran a modest commercial beekeeping operation in Colorado during the late 1970s, managing around 200 colonies. He began experimenting with two-queen colonies early on. The underlying biology of this method is fascinating and effective, as Tom demonstrates, but it does entail more physical labor. His most productive hives consisted of three deeps for brood and seven mediums for honey storage. While an average strong colony in his region typically produced about 70 pounds of honey per season, Tom’s two-queen colonies impressively averaged between 240 and 270 pounds!

The method's benefits extend beyond substantial honey yields. These colonies begin the season with the previous year's queen and introduce a new queen in early spring. At season's end, the newer queen usually takes precedence, ensuring a proven queen for the following year. Additionally, the enlarged foraging population of these colonies amasses an extensive pollen reserve, vital for the next season’s buildup.

Despite its advantages, two-queen honey production is becoming a rarity, largely due to the labor intensity, precise timing, and deep understanding of local nectar flows required. However, the rewards can be significant, particularly in areas with abundant forage and minimal varroa mite or pesticide issues.

Have you experimented with two-queen colonies? We're eager to hear about your experiences! Share your thoughts in the episode comments.Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Our First Season Interview with Tom about Neonicotinoids: https://beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/tom-theobold-the-problem-with-neonics
• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: http://honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Happy New Year from all our fantastic sponsors!

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Merry Christmas from Beekeeping Today Podcast! If you're tuning in on this festive day, we're glad to have you with us. The holiday season is a cherished time for family and friends, and though we dearly miss our beloved colleague, Kim Flottum, we're here to bring some warmth and reflection to your day.

In this Holiday episode, Becky and Jeff are delighted to be joined by Jim Tew of Honey Bee Obscura podcast and Kirsten Traynor from the 2-Million Blossoms podcast. Together, we'll reminisce about the beekeeping adventures and lessons of 2023, sharing insights and stories that resonate with beekeepers at all levels.

As you celebrate this joyous time, we hope our conversation adds to the spirit of your day. Thank you for inviting us into your holiday moments. We extend our heartfelt wishes to you, your loved ones, and, of course, your buzzing companions. Happy Holidays and a wonderful New Year to our beekeeping community!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• 2 Million Blossoms Podcast - https://2millionblossoms.com 
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Happy Holiday from all our fantastic sponsors!

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Welcome to this week’s episode where we've woven together a rich tapestry of stories and expertise to enrich your winter days and nights with the fascinating world of bees.

Ed Colby: High-Altitude Beekeeping Tales

We start with our regular contributor, Ed Colby, a seasoned beekeeper from Colorado's Western Slopes. Ed's bees thrive in the high altitudes of Aspen, Glenwood Springs, and surrounding mountain towns. A familiar voice in the beekeeping community, Ed is well-known for his column “The Bottom Board” in Bee Culture magazine. In this episode, he shares a heartwarming story of spreading holiday cheer and honey in the ski town of Aspen. Join us as Ed brings his unique perspective as a Regional Beekeeper, along with excerpts from his book, “A Beekeeper’s Life: Tales From The Bottom Board”.

Anandamayi Baker: Empowering Young Minds with "Bee-Coming Strong”

Next, we delve into the imaginative world of Anandamayi Baker's latest children's book, “Bee-Coming Strong”. Aimed at 6-10 year-olds, this enchanting tale follows Jazianzza, a bee who learns to navigate life's hurdles with bravery and benevolence. Anandamayi's storytelling not only captivates young readers but also imparts valuable lessons about overcoming prejudice and fear. Discover how this book can be a delightful addition to your family’s reading list.

Jonna Sanders: Navigating the Winters with AŽ Hives

Rounding off our episode, we welcome back AŽ hive specialist Jonna Sanders to address a listener query from Trevor L. in British Columbia. Jonna, who last joined us in October 2021, revisits the unique characteristics of the Slovenian AŽ hive compared to the Langstroth hive. She'll delve into key management strategies for winter and respond to Trevor’s question about feeding AŽ colonies during the colder months.

Wrap yourself in this episode's "Winter Quilt of Guests" and join us for an enlightening journey into the world of beekeeping. Your winter days are about to get a whole lot warmer with these fascinating stories and insights!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Ed Colby, A Beekeeper’s Life. Tales from the Bottom Board - https://www.amazon.com/Beekeepers-Life-Tales-Bottom-Board/dp/1912271885
• Anandamayi Baker - https://anandamayibaker.com/
• Bee-Coming Strong Book on Amazon -  https://www.amazon.com/Bee-Coming-Strong-Anandamayi-Baker/dp/B0CMZBPZ35
• Martin Dohrn Documentary on PBS, My Garden of a Thousand Bees - https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/my-garden-thousand-bees-about/26263/
• Jonna Saunders - AŽ Hives North America - https://azhivesnorthamerica.com
•  
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode we are joined by Grace Foster-Reid, the visionary behind Ecofarms Jamaica. Ecofarms is not only a beacon of sustainable beekeeping in the Caribbean but also a platform for uplifting disadvantaged groups, including individuals who are deaf.

Grace shares the compelling story of Ecofarms, from its humble beginnings to becoming a model of inclusive and ecologically conscious beekeeping. We talk with her about the unique challenges and successes of integrating deaf individuals into beekeeping, highlighting how Ecofarms has become a place of empowerment and skill-building for them. The conversation sheds light on the innovative communication techniques and supportive environment that make this possible.

Additionally, Grace discusses Ecofarms' broader mission to work with various disadvantaged groups. These initiatives help produce high-quality honey and other hive products, which are then sold to support the community. This model not only provides financial stability for the participants but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Listeners will gain insight into Ecofarms' approach to organic beekeeping, their dedication to environmental stewardship, and the profound social impact of their work. Grace's passion is evident as she talks about the transformative power of beekeeping in changing lives and nurturing a more inclusive society.

Join us to discover how Ecofarms is making a meaningful difference in Jamaica, one hive and one life at a time.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Ecofarms Jamaica - https://www.ecofarmsjamaica.com
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, we're joined by Monica Schmitt, Director of Mission Beelieve, an organization dedicated to using beekeeping as a therapeutic and vocational resource for veterans and first responders. Monica, talks about how her enjoyment of beekeeping led her to discover how beekeeping can be used as an therapeutic tool, aiding in the mental health and well-being of those who have devoted their lives to serving our country.

We delve into the fascinating ways in which beekeeping helps in combating stress, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Monica explains how the calming, rhythmic nature of beekeeping activities, coupled with the nurturing of colonies, fosters a sense of purpose and tranquility, essential for emotional healing and resilience.

Additionally, we explore how Mission Beelieve offers vocational training, equipping participants with valuable skills in beekeeping. The work not only aids in their therapeutic journey but also opens doors for new career opportunities, especially for those transitioning back to civilian life.

Monica shares heartwarming success stories from the program, demonstrating the profound impact of beekeeping on improving the quality of life for veterans and first responders. This episode is a testament to the therapeutic wonders of beekeeping and its potential to bring positive change to the lives of our heroes.

Join us as we uncover the remarkable journey of Mission Beelieve, where beekeeping transcends beyond a hobby and becomes a beacon of hope and healing.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Mission Beelieve - https://www.missionbeelieve.com
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode, we talk with Ron Miksha, a former commercial beekeeper now living in Calgary, Alberta. Ron was on the podcast back in August of this year talking about the Western Apiculture Society conference with Étienne Tardiff. At the time, he mentioned his research on the impact of the non-native honey bee on native bees and floral sources. This topic deserved its own space so we invited him back today.

The debate over the impact of honey bees on native bees, pollinators, and floral sources is a complex and multifaceted issue, touching upon ecology, conservation, and agriculture. At the heart of this debate lies the honey bee, a non-native species in many parts of the world.

One major concern is the competition honey bees may pose to native bee populations. By sheer numbers, honey bees can dominate floral resources in an area, potentially outcompeting native bees for nectar and pollen. This competition can be particularly significant in areas with limited floral abundance. Some studies suggest that the presence of honey bees in resource-constrained areas can lead to a decrease in the diversity and abundance of native bees.

Honey bees are renowned for their pollination services, crucial for many agricultural crops. However, their dominance in certain ecosystems may alter pollination dynamics. While they contribute significantly to the pollination of a wide range of crops, their presence may affect the pollination efficiency of native plants, which have evolved alongside native pollinators.

Honey bees not only compete with native bees for existing resources but can also influence the abundance and distribution of floral resources themselves. Their foraging patterns can affect the flowering plants' reproductive success, potentially leading to changes in plant community composition over time.

The debate extends to conservation and beekeeping practices. There is a growing call for responsible beekeeping that minimizes the impact on native bee populations and ecosystems. This includes managing hive numbers, especially in ecologically sensitive areas, and supporting habitat restoration and conservation efforts to bolster both native and non-native pollinator populations.

The challenge lies in balancing the agricultural benefits of honey bees with the ecological needs of native pollinators and plants. This involves a nuanced understanding of local ecosystems, the role of different pollinators, and the impact of human activities.

The debate over the impact of honey bees on native bees and ecosystems is an ongoing one, requiring continued research, informed policy-making, and collaborative conservation efforts. Thoughtful consideration and continued research are needed. Listen to our conversation with Ron as he shares his research and observations on this topic.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Honey Bee Health Coalition Best Pollinator Management Practices - https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resource_category/best-management-practices/ 
• Bee Culture Article on the Topic - https://www.beeculture.com/honey-bees-vs-native-bees/
• Ron's Book, Bad Beekeeping - https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Beekeeping-Ron-Miksha/dp/1412006279/
• Industrial Metal Band, "Miksha" - https://metalstorm.net/bands/band.php?band_id=1195
• Kirsty Stainton's Book, "Varroa Management" - https://www.northernbeebooks.co.uk/products/varroa-management-stainton/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this enlightening episode, we're thrilled to welcome Dr. Samuel Ramsey for his fifth appearance on the podcast. Renowned for his groundbreaking work on honey bee parasites, ‘Dr. Sammy’ brings his wealth of knowledge and passion for bee health to our listeners once again.

In today's discussion, we receive an update on the latest research on the varroa mite, a pervasive threat to honey bee colonies worldwide. His innovative studies have reshaped our understanding of how these mites feed and thrive, leading to more effective control methods. Dr. Sammy’s approach combines meticulous scientific investigation with a deep concern for bee welfare, providing invaluable insights for both novice and experienced beekeepers.

But that's not all. Dr. Sammy also shares his latest research endeavors on the Tropilaelaps mite, an emerging concern in beekeeping. This lesser-known parasite poses a significant risk to honey bee populations, particularly in Asia. HIs work is pioneering our understanding of this mite, setting the stage for developing strategies to mitigate its impact.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Ramsey emphasizes the importance of ongoing research and collaboration in the fight against these parasitic threats. His dedication to bee health and conservation, through the Ramsey Research Foundation, is not only inspiring but also vital for the sustainability of beekeeping and the broader ecosystem.

Join us in this captivating conversation with Dr. Samuel Ramsey, as we explore the frontiers of bee parasitology and the future of beekeeping.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Jason Statham's "The Beekeeper" Movie Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzINZZ6iqxY
• Dr. Sammy's University of Boulder Webpage - https://www.colorado.edu/ebio/samuel-ramsey
• Dr. Sammy's Personal Website - https://www.drsammy.online/
• The Ramsey Research Foundation - https://www.ramseyresearchfoundation.org/
• The Tropilaelaps Mite Background - https://www.woah.org/fileadmin/Home/eng/Health_standards/tahm/2.02.06_TROPILAELAPS.pdf
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s episode, Jeff and Becky talk with Dr. Meghan Milbrath, assistant professor at Michigan State University. Meghan splits her time between teaching at the MSU veterinary school, extension and research. On today’s episode, Meghan discusses the impact European foulbrood on today’s honey bees and what beekeepers can do to fight its spread.

EFB is misunderstood and not heavily researched, but as we’ve been learning (listen to our episode with Dr. Andony Melanthopoulos for additional information on EFB) it’s negative impact to honey bees - especially (for unknown reasons) those going into blueberries - are costly.

European Foulbrood, caused by the bacterium Melissococcus plutonius, presents a significant challenge in beekeeping. This brood disease, primarily affecting young larvae, can have considerable economic impact due to its potential to weaken or even destroy bee colonies if left unmanaged. In the U.S., where beekeeping plays a crucial role in agriculture, both for honey production and for pollinating crops, the repercussions of EFB are notably economic.

The impact of EFB is multifaceted. Firstly, it reduces the population of healthy bees in a colony, leading to lower honey production. For beekeepers, especially in their initial years, this translates to direct revenue loss. Additionally, weakened colonies are less effective pollinators, affecting crop yields. This has broader implications for agriculture, as many crops depend on bees for pollination. 

The cost of managing EFB also contributes to its economic impact. This includes the expenses related to veterinary care, antibiotics (where allowed and appropriate), and sometimes the replacement of affected colonies. There's also an indirect cost in the time and labor invested in monitoring and managing bee health to prevent outbreaks.

While EFB doesn't always lead to colony loss, its presence can significantly set back a beekeeping operation, both financially and in terms of colony development. Understanding and managing this disease is crucial for maintaining healthy bee populations and ensuring the economic viability of beekeeping in the United States. Research and science-based practices continue to be key in mitigating the impacts of EFB and supporting the beekeeping industry.

Listen today, as Dr. Meghan Milbrath discusses EFB and what beekeepers can do to limit the impact of this disease, what treatments are being developed, and what you can do should your colonies become infected.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Meghan at MSU - https://www.canr.msu.edu/people/meghan_milbrath
• Michigan Pollinator Initiative - https://pollinators.msu.edu/
• Meghan's The Sand Hill  - http://www.sandhillbees.com/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today’s episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, we delve deep into the intricate world of honey bees and the environmental challenges they face. Today, we are honored to chat with Dr. Judy Wu-Smart, who leads the bee lab  at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her extensive research on pesticides' effects on bee health caught our attention and we knew you would benefit from the discussion.

Dr. Wu-Smart sheds light on the complex interactions between honey bees and various pesticides, including neonicotinoids (neonics), which have been at the forefront of bee health concerns. She discusses her latest findings on how sublethal exposure to these chemicals may not cause immediate bee mortality but can disrupt foraging patterns, learning behaviors, and overall hive vitality.

The conversation also touches on the subtle intricacies of pesticide exposure, such as the combined effects of multiple chemicals and the role of environmental stressors that can compound the impact on bee colonies. Dr. Wu-Smart emphasizes the importance of integrated pest management strategies and the need for collaboration between farmers, beekeepers, and scientists to mitigate risks and protect our invaluable pollinators.

Whether you are a novice beekeeper or a seasoned professional, this episode offers valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to ensure the health and longevity of honey bee populations. Join us as we explore the delicate balance between agricultural practices and bee conservation, arming ourselves with knowledge to make informed decisions in our beekeeping ventures.

Don't miss this informative session with Dr. Wu-Smart, where science leads the conversation on safeguarding the future of beekeeping. Tune in, stay informed, and be part of the solution!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln Bee Lab - https://entomology.unl.edu/beelab
• BTP Episode on the AFB Vaccine Research - https://www.podpage.com/beekeeping-today-podcast/afb-vaccine-for-honey-bees-with-dr-keith-delaplane-s5-e30/
• BTP Episode Pete Berthelsen: Bee and Butterfly Fund - https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/hbhc-part-3-pete-berthelsen-habitat/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today’s episode, Jeff and Becky chat with Chris Hiatt, the President of the American Honey Producers Association (AHPA). AHPA, with a history dating back to its establishment in 1969, has been a cornerstone of the beekeeping community. Their mission has always revolved around advocating for beekeepers and the honey industry, and they've consistently upheld this commitment.

The AHPA has played a pivotal role in advancing the beekeeping industry, with a primary focus on the needs and concerns of all beekeepers, from the hobbyist, to the commercial and sideline beekeeper. They work tirelessly with organizations promoting bee health, research and awareness, such as the Honey Bee Health Coalition, Bee Informed Partnership, Project Apis m., and Pollinator Partnership. (All of whom have been guests on this podcast!)

AHPA is also deeply involved in honey promotion and marketing. They understand that creating a strong demand for honey and honey-related products is essential to support the livelihoods of beekeepers. Through collaborations with industry partners (such as the National Honey Board) and various initiatives, they work diligently to ensure that the efforts of beekeepers are rewarded fairly.

Additionally, AHPA is actively engaged in honey standards and advocacy, working to ensure that the quality of honey products is maintained, and that beekeepers' interests are well-represented on regulatory fronts.

Listen as we sit down with Chris Hiatt to gain insights into the important work being done by the American Honey Producers Association. His wealth of experience and expertise as President of the organization provides valuable perspectives on the current state and future of beekeeping. Don't miss this informative and enlightening episode!

Interesting, educational and thought provoking, today’s episode is one you will want to listen to!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• American Honey Producers Association - https://ahpanet.com/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In pop culture, beekeepers are generally portrayed as quirky side characters. There are exceptions, of course. The movie Ullee's Gold with Peter Fonda, comes to mind, as does The Secret Life of Bees, first as a novel and later a movie. Now, there is a new book where both bees and an entomologist are the subject, victim, and heros! Today, author and screenwriter, David Boito, join Jeff and Becky to talk about his newly released book, Bee Conspiracy.

David talks about why he chose the characters he did and why he set bees as both the focus of the heros and the villan of his novel. Part cop-buddy, murder mystery, futuristic and agro-terrorism, Bee Conspiracy, is a fun winter read for anyone interested in insects and especially honey bees. 

Interesting and entertaining, today’s episode is one you will want to listen to!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Honey Bee Conspiracy on Amazon -  https://www.amazon.com/Bee-Conspiracy-David-Boito/dp/B0CJLCNQZY/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s show, Jeff and Becky welcome back Eugene Makovec, editor of the American Bee Journal!

Honey labeling laws vary widely across the US, creating a complex patchwork of regulations that can be challenging for both new and experienced beekeepers. While these laws are intended to protect consumers and promote transparency, they can be a source of confusion within the beekeeping community. As we will hear, these differences can be particularly vexing for beekeepers who sell their products across state lines, as they must navigate varying requirements.

Eugene shares his experience working with his state and those of neighboring states to standardize labeling requirements. Later in the episode, Eugene shares insight into the current debate between conservationists and beekeepers: native vs. non-native.

Honey bees were once the ‘canary in the coal mine’ of our natural environment. Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) had beekeepers and media promoting, “Save The Honey Bee”. Now conservation groups have adopted a more critical and perhaps adversarial stance toward honey bees, citing honey bees’ potential harm to native pollinators. True or false, in whole or in part, this controversy is a topic with which all beekeepers should familiarize themselves and know how to respond to neighbor and community questions.

Interesting, educational and thought provoking, today’s episode is one you will want to listen to!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• The American Bee Journal - https://americanbeejournal.com/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today's episode, guest cohost Becky Masterman, PhD, joins Jeff to talk with Al Renslow, who lives at a Chicago senior living community, The Admiral at the Lake. Al, a retired schoolteacher turned beekeeper, has assembled a corp of like-minded ‘bee-lievers’, who refer to themselves as The Admiral Bee Buddies. Al developed this hobby as a passion project, a way to learn new skills and contribute to the environment. As a bonus, he now has an outlet that benefits his mental well-being! 

Al launched The Admiral’s beekeeping program in 2019 based on his belief that we must be good stewards of the environment. With the support of The Admiral community, he began dedicating time to the start-up. Through his own research, he taught himself how to manage his bees and, in the process, discovered how unique the colony’s urban honey is. City bees create exquisite-tasting honey due to the diverse native plants, and this unique honey can only be found within The Admiral's campus. The Admiral Bee Buddies have expanded over the years and now there are eight residents helping maintain the bees. Last season, over 400 bottles of urban honey were harvested, bottled, labeled and distributed with the help of Admiral community members who reside in the memory care unit, who volunteered to package the Bee Buddies’ prized possession.

The Bee Buddies rooftop program is a boost to everyone at The Admiral, whether they are helping manage the bees or just share in the sweet rewards.

We hope you enjoy listening to their story. Thank you!

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• The Admiral at the Lake - https://admiral.kendal.org/
• The Admiral in the News - https://www.chicagomag.com/city-life/the-admirals-bees-are-picking-up-the-slack/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Fall is here. No amount of denial no longer can hide that fact, now.  There is lots to do to prep the bees for the coming cold months. You should be well down that task list of colony preparation. In this episode, we talk with Betterbee co-owner, John Rath, about constructing bear fences.

Fall is a time when all animals across the Northern Hemisphere prepare for the coming winter. Many find our carefully maintained bee colonies a great sweet energy source… with a crunchy coating. OR… there are those critters that find the hive box a great shelter from the winter cold winds, with warm food just above their head. Either spell problems for the bees and the beekeeper.

Bears are notorious for damaging bee yards across many parts of the country. Once a bear gets a taste for honey and bee larvae, it is hard to dissuade them. However, you can take steps to stop them before they get into your bee yard. Primarily, by building an electric fence around the parameter. While not an absolute defense, a well-constructed bear fence will deter many bears from destroying your yard.

In today’s episode, we talk with John Rath about what it takes to build an electric bear fence then perhaps just importantly… how to train a bear to fear the fence!

If you don’t have bear problems now, you may in the future. This episode will help you prepare for the possibility.

Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Betterbee - https://www.betterbee.com/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

There are two organizations shaping the American beekeeping industry: the American Beekeeping Federation (ABF) and the American Honey Producers Association (AHPA). On today’s episode, we talk with Dan Winter, President of the American Beekeeping Federation.

The ABF takes comprehensive approach to serving its members by, addressing educational programs, research, and legislation impacting beekeepers at the state as well as national level. For those interested in science-backed beekeeping practices, conservation efforts, and the intricacies of policy, ABF is an essential resource.

ABF actively works with the other organizations on issues that impact all beekeepers, regardless of their organizational ties. However, that is not all they do!

The ABF has many different programs besides the advocacy work. Perhaps one of most widely known is the American Honey Queen and Princess program, providing important marketing and public relations experience for young college-aged spokes persons. They also have scholarships, education and of course, their large Annual Conference. This year heald in New Orleans. 

Whether you're a novice beekeeper looking for educational resources or a veteran seeking to influence industry policy, ABF provides the tools, knowledge, and network to help you succeed.

Listen today to learn just what the American Beekeeping Federation is doing for you!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• The American Beekeeping Federation - https://abfnet.org/ 
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On this week’s episode we welcome beekeeper, YouTube influencer and conference organizer Kamon Reynolds.

Kamon’s YouTube channel provides viewers factual and entertaining looks at managing honey bees, product reviews and interviews. There are many different beekeeping Youtube channels, and Kamon’s is one of the best. In today’s show, he tells us how it all got started.

Also today, he talks about the new North American Honey Bee Expo, set for early January in Louisville, Kentucky. The NAHBE promises to be the largest beekeeping show in the United States, featuring hands-on beekeeping speakers and presentations, a super large trade show with products available to buy at a discount, a honey show and the awarding of the 2024 Next Gen Beekeeper to 30 young and upcoming beekeepers.

Beekeeping is a lifelong learning adventure. Fall and winter offer a perfect chance to invest in your skills and expertise. Whether you choose to attend a regional conference, attend a national event, or simply immerse yourself in a good beekeeping book, keeping your education alive during the off-season will pay dividends in the health and success of your colonies.

Listen today!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• North American Honey Bee Expo - https://www.nahbexpo.com/
• Kamon's YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@kamonreynolds
•  
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Welcome to another episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast! This week, we're excited to host Joy and Eric McEwen, the authors behind the recently released book, “Raising Resilient Bees.” The McEwens offer a natural and sustainable model that focuses on hive health and prioritizes the well-being of the bee over the beekeeper.

We chat about their book as well as their approach to beekeeping which places emphasis on a system of management that works with the honey bee as opposed to against it, including a natural nest hive design. But this isn't all just for the backyard beekeeper. They're using in their pallatized operation for commercial management. 

Of course, they are also rearing their own queens, selecting for resilient, mite-resistant genetic lines, without relying on the risks of swarming or expense of grafting.

Before we meet the McEwen's, Jeff discusses the importance of hive and especially top insulation for hives going into the winter.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• The McEwen's Website: http://www.digginlivin.com
• Raising Resilient Bees on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/Raising-Resilient-Bees-Heritage-Techniques/dp/1645021947
•  
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

While Jeff and Kim are taking time this week to tend their bees, we bring you this Archive Special from May of 2021. In this third installment of our five-part Hive Types Series, we talk with Colorado Master Beekeeper and columnist Tina Sebestyen about the Long or Horizontal Langstroth.

Horizontal hives are very much like the traditional Langstroth hives, which are vertical stacks of boxes, except horizontal hives are only one box high and about three boxes long. The very best thing about horizontal hives is that you never have to lift a very heavy box off the top of a hive to get to what’s below that box. Essentially, no lifting for the beekeeper.

Horizontal hives, using 30 frames, can have the front door on either or both ends, or in the middle. If there is just one opening, it should be on the end, so the bees build their nest a frame or two of honey right next to the entrance, behind that some of the bee bread, then the brood next, and at the end away from the front door will be the honey. Not up, but back.

Tina explains there are additional advantages for the beekeeper and these are why long hives are so appealing to many beekeepers, including the accessable hive of choice for beekeepers with limited mobility or in wheelchairs.

Tina has written several articles on horizontal hive keeping for Bee Culture magazine (starting with the February 2020 issue), has loads of info on her web page and is in the process of writing a book on the topic.

She shares it all in this podcast. Listen today!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast:

• Tina's Website - https://beequest.buzz/
• Follow Tina on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bee.longing/  
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s episode we are joined by professor, author and noted speaker Dr. Dewey Caron. Dewey is an active member of the Honey Bee Health Coalition where he helps with the creation and maintenance of the Coalition’s Hive Management program. Today he joins us to talk about the just updated, Varroa Management Guide.

Varroa management is a very serious problem for beekeepers around the world. Sadly, varroa was just found in Australia this year with devastating consequences as hundreds, if not thousands of colonies, have been destroyed in an attempt to eradicate the mite before it establishes a foothold on the last, varroa-free continent.

The HBHC has published several useful tools for beekeepers to help them manage varroa to a level where the negative effects of varroa, such as the varroa associated viruses and diseases can be limited. This is includes varroa management videos, the Varroa Management Decision Tool, Commercial Beekeeper Case Studies, the Varroa Resistance and Testing Team and today’s topic the Varroa Management Guide.

The Management Guide explains the tested, practical, and effective methods to manage the mites in your colonies. Dewey talks with us about the updates, varroa and also talks about the latest edition of his book, “Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping.”

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Thank you for listening!

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Honey Bee Health Coalition Varroa Management Webpage - https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/  
• Bee Conspiracy by David Boito - https://www.amazon.com/Bee-Conspiracy-David-Boito/dp/B0C88H19H1/
• Honey Bee Obscura - https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Thanks to Jennifer Keller, opening this episode! Jennifer stopped at the Betterbee booth during EAS and left us that greeting! You too can record an opening for an upcoming episode! Simply record one on your phone and send it to us at the podcast! Simple as that!!

We do have an important show coming up for you today. We talk with Becky Masterman of the Minnesota Honey Producers Association and commercial beekeeper, and good friend of the podcast, John Miller, to talk about the Bee and Butterfly Fund and the upcoming renewal of the USDA Farm Bill legislation that will definitely impact beekeepers.

And just a heads up, John was on his mobile, sitting in Golden State Park, so some of his conversation is not as clear as we strive for. We apologize for this in advance!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Bee and Butterfly Fund: https://www.beeandbutterfly.org
•  USDA Farm Bill: https://www.usda.gov/farmbill

• Kim’s interview on Who Am I Podcast: https://whoimettoday.com/podcasts/podcast-kim-flottum-honey-bees/

• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Etienne Tardif and Ron Miksha join us today to talk about the Western Apicultural Society 2023 Conference in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Listen in as they talk about all that’s going to be happening and everything you wanted to know about this year’s WAS meeting, highlighting the topic Northern Lights Beekeeping

This year, the conference is at the Gray Eagle Resort and Casino in Calgary, Canada. There will be a swarm of speakers on any topic you can think of, multiple workshops, a trade show area, outside demonstrations, a honey contest, and a lot of tours showing off the beauty of this Province.

Check out the WAS web page for registration, sponsorships, and all the rest, and plan on being in Calgary, September 29, 30, and Oct 1.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• WAS Website: https://www.westernapiculturalsociety.org/
• WAS Conference Website:  https://www.westernapiculturalsociety.org/2023conference
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s podcast, we talk with third generation Australian commercial beekeeper, Victor Croker. When we caught up with Victor, he was in the States promoting his new EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) hive system developed with his experience of over the past 40 years of moving beehives around Eastern Australia. His beekeeping business centers on producing over 330,000 pounds of honey and pollinating almonds and other crops each season.

Victor and his beekeeping partner started to experiment with EPS hives for their insulation qualities, but quickly found that what was available, was not suitable for commercial beekeepers. So, they set out to design and manufacture hives that they could use in their own operation and survive the subjected rigors and abuse hives receive daily in the field. Their design quickly became so popular, they decided to mass produce the hive and make it available to other beekeepers – first in Australia and now the USA. Thus, was born the HiveIQ.

Join us today as we discuss the HiveIQ, it’s design, features, future directions and even the HiveIQ software, made with colony and yard management in mind.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• HiveIQ: https://www.hiveiq.com/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In this episode we talk with Amber Leach, North American Sales Manager, and Dr. Miguel Angel Rodriguez, DVM, and Business Development Head, from Véto-Pharma. Véto-Pharma is just rolling out and the distribution of their newest varroa control compound called Amiflex.

Primarily for commercial beekeepers, this amitraz-based product comes in premeasured does of a gel beekeepers can place in their hives between honey flows, or after the honey season is over. It is considered a flash treatment because the compound is only allowed in a hive for 7 days. If needed, 7 days after removal, it can be applied again.

As of this date, Amiflex remains a restricted use pesticide, so beekeepers will need to be registered with their state officials even before purchasing the product. Check the Véto-Pharma website to see if Amiflex has been registered for use in your state.

Before Amber and Miguel, Beekeeping Today Podcast's friend Ed Colby joins us with another Tale from the Bee Yard. This story is titled, “Deadman Walking”.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Véto-Pharma Amiflex website - https://www.veto-pharma.com/products/amiflex/

• USDA-ARS NP-305 Comment Website:  https://np305.arsnet.usda.gov/

• Minnesota Honey Producers News Website: https://minnesotahoneyproducers.com/call-for-input-to-the-usda-ars-pollinator-plan-for-2023-and-beyond/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

We are excited to bring you this packed episode. We start with Jeff talking with Becky Masterman, from the Minnesota Honey Producers Assn. about the USDA-ARS National Publication 305 (NP-305) and its importance.  Next Jeff and Kim talk with Dr. Lars Chittka about his book, The Mind of a Bee.

Becky Masterman has been on the podcast before and we enjoy having her back to discuss the USDA-ARS NP-305. The NP-305 sets the research priorities for the USDA-ARS for the next five years. Right now and until August 7, the USDA-ARS is soliciting beekeeper feedback and comments on where they should focus their research funding. Unfortunately, as important as this decision is to beekeepers… relatively few beekeepers know about this comment period. Listen in as Becky helps us understand how critical this is for the next five years and what you can do to help!

Next, Dr. Lars Chittka joins us to discuss his 2022 book, The Mind of a Bee.  Lars talks about how his research and that of many others of the honey bee has uncovered fascinating insights into their cognitive abilities, communication, and problem-solving skills. Join us as we explore the remarkable world of bees and gain a deeper understanding of their intricate minds, the possibility of a “bee consciousness”, the essential role they play in our ecosystem and our understanding of intelligence in the animal kingdom.

This is one episode you will want to listen to several times!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Dr. Lars Chittka's website: http://chittkalab.sbcs.qmul.ac.uk/Lars.html
• The Mind of a Bee on Amazon: www.amazon.com/Mind-Bee-Lars-Chittka/dp/0691180474
• USDA-ARS NP-305 Comment Website:  https://np305.arsnet.usda.gov/
• Minnesota Honey Producers News Website: https://minnesotahoneyproducers.com/news-events/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today's episode, we have two guests, both deep in the promotion of honey and honey bees.  First up, Jeff talks with Allison Hager, the 2023 American Honey Princess, and then we talk with Keith Seiz, of the National Honey Board (NHB) and how they are promoting the use of honey and how this benefits beekeepers across the United States.

First up, we learn about the American Beekeeping Federation Honey Queen program. This program selects an ambassador to represent the beekeeping industry, promoting honey and educating the public about the importance of bees. Jeff talks with Allison Hager, of Iowa and the 2023 American Honey Princess,  about the Honey Queen Program and upcoming visits.

The National Honey Board was established in 1985 through an Act of Congress and managed by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service's, Research and Promotions Program, as an industry-funded organization promoting honey and honey products. They became operational in 1987. Their mission is to increase consumer awareness, research, and education about honey, as well as support the sustainability and success of beekeepers nationwide. While originally funded by honey producers, as of 2008 the funding has switched to US honey packers and importers, where the first handler or packer is assessed $0.015 per pound of honey and honey products.

The NHB serves as a valuable resource for beekeepers, offering essential information on best practices, research advancements, and market trends. Check out their wonderful and informational website today!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• American Honey Queen Program: https://abfnet.org/american-honey-queen-program/
• National Honey Board: https://honey.com/
• NHB Hive Sessions Educational Series: https://honey.com/honey-industry/resources/hive-sessions-volume-1
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today’s episode, we welcome back Dr. Andony Melathopoulos of Oregon State University. In this episode, Andony talks about the dual concerns surrounding European Foulbrood (EFB) and the ongoing debate between native bees and honey bees on public lands. EFB, a highly contagious bacterial disease, poses a significant threat to honey bee populations and the beekeeping industry.

Andony works with beekeepers who deal with EFB as they pull their bees out of pollination of Oregon’s blueberry crop on an annual basis. He tells us that EFB is no longer responding to the traditional treatment practices.

Oregon State University also has a Master Melittologist Program in which Andony is also actively involved.  We explore the issue of honey bees competing with native bees for resources on public lands. We discuss the arguments for and against the presence of honey bees in natural habitats, addressing concerns related to pollinator diversity, potential ecological impacts, and the need for conservation measures.

Andony also hosts his own podcast, “PolliNation”. If you don’t have it in your regular podcast feed, add it. You will be glad you did!

Join us as we shed light on the impact of European Foulbrood and delve into the intriguing debate between native bees and honey bees on public lands, exploring the complexities surrounding this ongoing issue.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Dr. Andony Melathopoulos: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/people/andony-melathopoulos
• PolliNation Podcast: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/podcast/pollination-podcast
• Oregon State Master Melittologist Program: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/master-melittologist
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s show, Jeff chats with Max Cherney and Nico Coallier. Max is the Chief Operating Officer and Nico the Principal Data Scientist of Nectar Technologies. Max joined us back in Season 4, along with Washington State University’s Dr. Rae Olson.  The combination of Nectar’s products: a NFC/QR tag, portable app and a management portal helps the owner manage their operation with a single comprehensive view.

Max and Nico join us from their Montreal base, but they spend most of the season across North America working with commercial beekeepers perfecting their precision beekeeping solution. Listen today and learn how they’re helping beekeepers improve honey bee colony survival, help pollination and leverage pollinator health data to help all growers and the food industry.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Nectar Technologies: https://www.nectar.buzz/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today’s episode we talk with Amelia Cadwell who grew up with a grandfather who kept bees, which lead to time spent working for a commercial beekeeper and today, keeps bees herself. She also works with Suterra, a global pest management company headquartered in Bend, Oregon. Suterra specializes in providing a pesticide-free approach protecting crops including citrus, nut, vine and vegetable using a technique called ‘mating disruption’.

Amelia works primarily with Almond and citrus growers in California.

Mating disruption is a management technique that disrupts the mating patterns of pests, effectively reducing their population without the need for harmful chemicals. By releasing synthetic pheromones or using other innovative methods, this approach confuses male pests, making it challenging for them to find females for reproduction.

The result? There is less exposure of honey bees and other pollinators to synthetic pesticides, including neonicotinoids.  Many states are requiring a broad IPM plan to reduce the use of hard chemicals.  Mating disruption can help reduce grower use to one, or zero spray of the hard insecticides, thereby reducing environmental harm to their use.

There are many people and companies working to find alternatives to hard chemical pesticide sprays. The naturally occurring compounds used in mating disruption help growers maintain a ‘certified organic’ labeling, and protect all pollinators in the process.

Listen in as Amelia talks about what she does and how mating disruption protects our honey bees!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Suterra: https://www.suterra.com
• Mating Disruption: https://www.suterra.com/mating-disruption
• Honey Bee Health Coalition, Varroa Management Resources: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/
• Good Food Awards Honey Competition: https://goodfoodfdn.org/awards/entry-form/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

We welcome Blue Sky Bee Supply as a sponsor of the podcast! Check out blueskybeesupply.com for the best selection of honey containers, caps, lids, and customized honey labels. Enter coupon code PODCAST and receive 10% off an order of honey containers, caps, lids, or customized honey labels. Offer ends December 31, 2023. Some exclusions apply.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Welcome to Season 6 of Beekeeping Today Podcast! When we launched this podcast on the first day of Pollinator Week in 2018, we had no idea where the podcast would go, or how long it would continue. It is fun to see that we are still going strong and growing– thanks to you, our listeners. So, this is not a celebration of BTP as much as it is a celebration of you and your support!

Thank you!

If it is the start of a new BTP season, then it must also mean that it is the kickoff of Pollinator Week! On today’s episode, we welcome Kelly Bills, the Executive Director of Pollinator Partnership back to the podcast to talk to us about the planned activities for the week. Pollinator Partnership’s (P2) mission is to promote the health of pollinators, critical to food and ecosystems, through conservation, education and research.

Listen today to find out how you too can celebrate pollinators no matter where you live across the country or around the world through virtual and in-person gatherings, webinars, planting sessions, garden and farm walks, and monument lightings.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Pollinator Partnership: https://www.pollinator.org/
• Pacific Northwest Bee Survey: https://pnwhoneybeesurvey.com/
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Kim's Climate Change Blog: https://www.growingplanetmedia.com/blog
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

We welcome Blue Sky Bee Supply as a sponsor of the podcast! Check out blueskybeesupply.com for the best selection of honey containers, caps, lids, and customized honey labels. Enter coupon code PODCAST and receive 10% off an order of honey containers, caps, lids, or customized honey labels. Offer ends December 31, 2023. Some exclusions apply.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

On today’s episode, we welcome Dr Brandon Hopkins of Washington State University back to the podcast to talk about his recent research on the benefits of indoor banking of honey bee queens in temperature-controlled storage facilities. Traditionally, queens are banked in small nucs in yards throughout the summer.

Queen banking refers to the practice of preserving and storing surplus queen bees for use later in the season. This process allows queen breeders (both backyard and commercial) to maintain a constant supply of healthy and productive queens. By drawing on banked queens, beekeepers can address a range of challenges that may arise, such as replacing aging or underperforming queens, preventing the spread of diseases, or even expanding their operations as the season progresses.

Join us as we discuss the benefits of storing banked queens indoors as opposed to outdoors where they can be exposed to all the environmental variables, including extremes in heat, cold, and even smoke!  Should queen breeders and beekeepers purchasing queens may want to consider using queens banked indoors?

Also on today’s episode, Jeff talks with Chris Cripps, partner at Betterbee about how Betterbee started and their new sponsorship of BTP.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Brandon's Research Paper "Summer Indoor Queen Banking As An Alturenative To Outdoor Queen Banking Practices": https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/KAJSICTJDMJYBDSEWZQN/full?target=10.1080/00218839.2023.2165747 
• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Kim's Climate Change Blog: https://www.growingplanetmedia.com/blog
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

We welcome Blue Sky Bee Supply as a sponsor of the podcast! Check out blueskybeesupply.com for the best selection of honey containers, caps, lids, and customized honey labels. Enter coupon code PODCAST and receive 10% off an order of honey containers, caps, lids, or customized honey labels. Offer ends December 31, 2023. Some exclusions apply.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

“All beekeeping is local” so the saying goes.  On today’s episode, we welcome back our Regional Beekeepers, all from different parts of the country, to see just how localized beekeeping can be. And how much it can be the same, too.

Today we’ve asked Rainier Eich (Maine), Mark Smith (North Carolina), Tracy Alarcon (Ohio), Jay Williams(Tennessee), Ed Colby (Colorado), Duane Combs (Arizona) and Paul Longwell (Washington) to talk about their past winter season, the challenges they faced in their area and how they are addressing them.  The “Regionals” range from backyard hobbyist to sideline beekeepers. Chemical free and local breeding to larger expanding operations.

Is there a beekeeper here that represents you? Your seasons? Your challenges? What are you doing differently? What are you doing that is the same? Listen today and find out!

Also today, we announce our new partnership with Betterbee Beekeeping Supplies as our Key Sponsor. Betterbee has been a sponsoring BTP episodes since 2020!  Betterbee’s dedication to the beekeeper is demonstrated by their focus on beekeeper education, as well as selling quality beekeeping products used by their own beekeeper employees.  They actually use what they sell. They KNOW what they sell. Betterbee is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers.  We are delighted and honored to have Betterbee as our Key Sponsor.  Thank you, Betterbee!

We hope you enjoy the episode. Leave comments and questions in the Comments Section of the episode's website.

Links and websites mentioned in this podcast: 

• Beekeeping Today Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@beekeepingtodaypodcast
• Kim's Climate Change Blog: https://www.growingplanetmedia.com/blog
• Honey Bee Obscura: https://www.honeybeeobscura.com

______________

Betterbee is the presensting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

We welcome Blue Sky Bee Supply as a sponsor of the podcast! Check out blueskybeesupply.com for the best selection of honey containers, caps, lids, and customized honey labels. Enter coupon code PODCAST and receive 10% off an order of honey containers, caps, lids, or customized honey labels. Offer ends December 31, 2023. Some exclusions apply.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.

_______________

We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: [email protected]

Thank you for listening! 

Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott

Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC

Copyright © 2023 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

In today’s episode, we talk with Dr. Robyn Underwood of Penn State’s Lopez-Uribe Lab. We’ve invited Robyn as she has researched and written about the Spotted Lantern Fly and how its presence can impact honey production.

Have you ever tasted your honey and thought was a bit off, or perhaps… way off?  Maybe even awful?  If you are along the East Coast of the United States and now even parts of the Midwest… check to see if you have the Spotted Lantern Fly in your State and locale.

If you do live in an area with the SLF… then what you may be tasting… what your bees may be collecting, is the ‘honey’ created from the sweet ‘honeydew’ excrement from the this imported leafhopper from China.

(Yes, the bees can collect enough of the honeydew to produce frames of SLF ‘honey’…)