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In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, Amy Vu and Dr. Jamie Ellis are joined by Christopher Rosario, State Entomologist, Division Chief of Biosecurity, and State Apiary Inspector for the Guam Department of Agriculture, to discuss beekeeping in Guam. Check out our website: www.ufhoneybee.com for additional resources from today's episode.
Freeform review of current beekeeping activities, 2nd half 2026 plans, Cell Starter, Transporting Bees, Queenlessness Recovery
In this week's Podcast: The weather has been typically Spring like, warmer days, but with chilly nights. The double brood method has worked well in managing Spring growth and the Spring Honey Crop is growing nicely.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 394 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Jim Tew welcomes his grandson, Will Laditka, back to Honey Bee Obscura for a candid conversation about the realities of learning beekeeping as a young beginner. Will reflects on losing his first colonies, the emotional impact of what initially appeared to be American Foulbrood, and how those difficult experiences ultimately strengthened his understanding of honey bee management. Jim and Will discuss the importance of learning through setbacks, the challenge of managing Varroa, and why resilience is one of the most important qualities for new beekeepers. The discussion also explores how beekeeping intersects with education and communication. Will shares how he recently used beekeeping as the subject of a college speech presentation, explaining basic hive equipment, bee communication, pheromones, and colony behavior to classmates unfamiliar with bees. The conversation highlights how honey bees can engage audiences far outside traditional beekeeping circles. Jim and Will also compare beginner beekeeping experiences across generations. Jim reflects on the simplicity and affordability of starting beekeeping decades ago, while Will explains how modern equipment costs and management expectations can make entering the hobby more difficult for younger beekeepers today. Together, they discuss how beekeeping has evolved while still maintaining the same lessons of patience, observation, and continual learning. This episode offers thoughtful perspective for beginning beekeepers, especially younger listeners navigating the steep learning curve of modern honey bee management. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. 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 We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies. ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
Bees at the entrance matt, Bettercomb Status, Mehylation, TF Ad manager needed, Certan for Waxmoth, Dutch Clover, Local Hive Report, Closing Comments
Adam Martin is a natural, sustainable beekeeper based in Middle Tennessee, specializing in treatment-free, chemical-free beekeeping using wild, locally adapted bees. In this episode, Adam breaks down why most honey on store shelves — even the stuff labeled raw, organic, and local — is little more than glorified sugar water, how Big Ag has quietly corrupted the beekeeping industry from the ground up, and why returning to the way bees were always meant to live might be the simplest and most powerful upgrade you can make to your family's health. 00:00 Becoming a Beekeeper in Tennessee 05:40 What's the best food for bees? 11:30 Not all Honey is the Same 17:20 Commercial vs Backyard Success Rate 21:20 Methods of Beekeeping & How Adam Teaches It 30:30 How to Trap & Catch Feral Bees 39:00 Being Good Stewards of the Land 44:00 The Danger of Varroa Mites 45:30 Honeybees are Not Native to the U.S. 48:30 Can Bees Sense Fear? 51:50 The Return to Nature 56:20 Does Better Honey Mean Better Health? 01:00:30 The Reward of Hard Work 01:09:40 Mind-Blowing Queen Bee Facts 01:13:10 Learn More About Beekeeping
In this week's Podcast: It's been yet another swarmy week with another two collected from my own apiaries. We have a nectar flow at the farm, and I'm using that to draw out more frames of foundation.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 393 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, Amy Vu and Dr. Jamie Ellis are joined by Dr. David Peck, Director of Research and Education at Betterbee, to discuss invasive species and their impact on honey bees and beekeeping. Check out our website: www.ufhoneybee.com for additional resources from today's episode.
The most surprising leadership insights may not be found where you'd expect… In this episode, Céline sits down with Philip Atkinson, an organizational coach and beekeeper who has spent his career helping leaders around the world become better humans with better skills. Philip is also the author of Bee Wise: 12 Leadership Lessons from a Busy Beehive, a beautifully written book structured across the four seasons, blending the science of bees with the very human challenges of leading an organization. Philip and Céline explore why leadership is still so often rooted in command-and-control thinking – a model built for industrial-era machines, not the living, breathing organizations of today. They dig into what it really means to lead without having all the answers, why "busy" has become a dangerous badge of honor, and how slowing down to sense your environment (the way a beekeeper reads a hive before lifting the lid) can change the quality of every conversation and decision you make. They also get into the often-broken world of feedback: why so many leaders give it wrong, why the simple question "is now a good time?" is a game-changer, and how the bees' famous waggle dance is actually a masterclass in clear, consistent, repeated communication inside a noisy system. If you're navigating constant change, holding your team together, and trying to lead well without pretending you have all the answers, this conversation is for you. Philip's message is simple and grounding: everyone deserves to be led well, and being a good leader starts with being a good human. Bee Wise is available wherever you purchase books, with all proceeds going to Bees for Development, a charity supporting families in developing countries through sustainable beekeeping businesses. Learn more at beewisebook.com. Connect with Philip on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/philipatkinsonhivelogic.
Imkern wird in Städten immer beliebter. Deshalb gibt es dort deutlich mehr Honigbienen. Forschende haben untersucht, ob das negative Auswirkungen auf die Wildbienen in der Stadt hat. Ergebnis ist das "Urban Bee Concept“ mit Maßnahmen, wie Honigbienen und Wildbienen zusammenleben können. Sedir Dabbass berichtet
It is peak bee season and busy bees mean busy beekeepers. Oliver chats to Chris Hodges, from VeesBees, co-founder of the Loughshore Apiary in beautiful Co Down. Back from the Brink starts this Sunday, May 17th on RTÉ One at 6.30pm.
Swarm Prevention, swarm 1, swarm 2, swarm 3, swarm 4, Local Hive Report, Dee Lusby, Closing Comments, Live Swarm Capture Audio
In this week's Podcast: We're off and running and in April, that means very changeable weather, intermittent showers, and some chilly inspections days. I had this just yesterday and although the bees behaved themselves, they certainly let you know you're not welcome. Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 391 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this week's Podcast: My plans for a gentle stroll into Spring were thrown off track this week when I received a call telling one of my colonies had swarmed. It was just the 2nd of April, too late for an April Fool's joke, and so my season begins! Listen in for the full story and my surprise at feeling my first, new season sting!Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 390 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
New Hampshire Unscripted talks with the performance arts movers and shakers
(Proudly celebrating 80yrs of exemplary community radio!) Well WKXL and NH Unscripted have dutifully turned our clocks forward and turning the clocks forward tells me that it's time to talk again with Jamie Jobin and Heather Moynihan from the Capitol Area Beekeepers Association. Beekeepers around the state are eager about getting to look at their bee boxes to see how they've faired over the winter. Bears, parasites, colony collapse and a whole host of other tasks all come under the umbrella of topics that are addressed!
Welcome to Episode 215 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we sit down with a central Iowa farm family that's been producing honey for more than 40 years. We also discuss another ag topic that's creating plenty of buzz in recent years: regenerative agriculture. Resources mentioned in this episode Learn more about Spring Valley Honey Farms. View Iowa Farm Bureau's webinar on beekeeping, featuring Iowa's State Apiarist, Andrew Joseph.
We're at the end of April and everything suddenly feels early this year. Warm days, fast growth, and that sense that the season has properly kicked into gear. I've taken a few risks in the kitchen garden, made good progress down on the allotment, and had a beekeeping experience that's left me more excited than ever about keeping my own hive. Here's what's been happening. From the Kitchen Garden; Planting Early I've done something I don't normally do at this time of year: I planted out all my tender plants. Tomatoes, aubergines, chillies, peppers, courgettes — they're all in the ground. It's a gamble, but with fleece ready and plenty of backup plants, I'm willing to take the chance. The kitchen garden looks full now, even though a few brassicas are still flowering before they come out. A big job finally ticked off was moving the Belfast sinks that hold our herbs. With my brother's help, they're now in front of the potting shed and look much better there. Seed sowing is calming down, although I did lose a batch of sweetcorn after leaving them too long in the heated propagator. A reminder that airflow matters. I've also sown Crown Prince pumpkins — one of my favourites — and I'm hoping to save seed from them later in the year. Watering has suddenly become a daily job. Mulching with compost is helping, but if this dry spell continues, we'll be relying heavily on the water butts. Down the Allotment; Protecting Brassicas It's been warm enough that I regretted not taking water with me, so a reminder to take fluids, sunscreen and a hat. I've made myself ill before by ignoring that. The last of the potatoes went in this week — King Edwards — finishing off six weeks of staggered planting. Compost is always tight, but we had just enough to mulch the bed. The brassicas are all planted out too: sprouts, cabbages, cauliflowers, kale. A bit of lime, firm soil, and a good watering. The pigeons have already shown interest, but instead of netting, I've put up children's windmill toys. They move in the breeze, scare off pigeons, and still let the smaller birds in to deal with slugs and snails. A quick mow made the whole plot look better, and the asparagus bed is now producing well. I picked a good handful this week, and more spears are appearing every day. Recipe of the Week With early peas and fresh mint ready, I made a simple pea and mint soup. Butter, onion, garlic, peas, stock, fresh mint — blended until smooth and served with crusty bread. It tastes like spring in a bowl and is a great way to use those first early peas. From the Podding Shed; My First Real Beekeeping Experience For my birthday, my wife booked me onto a beekeeping experience day, and it was fascinating. The beekeeper I visited manages 140 hives across Sussex, and as we arrived, a swarm was already moving between trees. Standing in the middle of thousands of bees was incredible — they weren't aggressive, just busy. We suited up and went through several hives, checking for eggs, honey stores, pollen and queen cells. I learned a huge amount, including how to spot signs of swarming. One hive was a bit angry, and after we took our suits off, I did get stung twice, but it hasn't put me off at all. What it has done is confirm that keeping bees at home isn't suitable — too close to neighbours. The allotment is the better option, but the council requires experience before granting permission, which is tricky when you can't get experience without keeping bees. I'm working with them to find a way forward. I'm more excited than ever to start keeping bees properly.
In this week's Podcast: Well the week of warmer weather has suddenly turned cold and with it, a halt to my early inspections. We're always busy though and with that in mind, I've been back to the workshop catching up on Spring preparations.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 389 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom is all abuzz about honey bees and thinks you should "bee" too. These pollinators help California farmers feed the world with cherries, melons, almonds and more. But bee colonies are dying at nearly unprecedented rates and the reasons why remain unclear. Join Assemblymember Ransom for a buzzworthy visit to a hive, hear from a local farmer who is a big fan of pollinators, and learn all about her ideas she's working on to Save the Honey Bees.
Ultradeck Bottom Boards, Bawden Assay, Supersedures, Taxing items in your beekeeping, Zabrus Cappings Wax, Local Hive Report, Closing Comments
In this week's Podcast: First inspections, such an exciting moment in the season. An opportunity to have a quick look, at how our colonies have coped with the long winter months. This is just what I did during the week and it was a mixed bag as ever!Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 388 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, Amy Vu and Dr. Jamie Ellis are joined by Patti Sherlock, author of The Nectar Collector, to discuss the inspiration and challenges behind her book. Check out our website: www.ufhoneybee.com for additional resources from today's episode.
Meet the Mancunian Podcast: social impact stories from Manchester
In the fourth episode of Season 12 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe speaks with Alun Morris, creator of the Red Lane Growing Project in Bolton and a community engagement worker with Bolton at Home. Alunshares how moving from Buckinghamshire led him into outdoor volunteering and conservation, and how a derelict former playground became a secure community growing space. He describes the project's evolving focus, including a “grow it, cook it, eat it” approach, family activities drawing around 2,000 visits a year, plant giveaways, and plans to expand beekeeping classes. The conversation covers impact on community connection and mental health, challenges, the value of flexible “drop-in” volunteering, and Alun's view of Greater Manchester's superpower as community, alongside a call for greater patience and tolerance. Did you know: · Community gardens are shared plots of land, often managed by local volunteers, where people grow fresh produce, herbs, and flowers. · Found in urban or suburban areas, thesespaces—ranging from allotments to rooftop gardens—foster social connection, promote environmental sustainability, and provide access to nutritious food while revitalising unused spaces.Key resource:The Red Lane Growing Project Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode &transcript:(01:37) Alan's volunteering roots(02:42) Red Lane origins(03:44) Grow Cook Eat together(05:17) Measuring community impact(07:55) Safe space and wellbeing(11:05) Funding, volunteers, motivation(14:34) Beekeeping and how to help(21:07) Signature Questions
In this week's Podcast: Early inspections are just around the corner and with it, an opportunity to see how our colonies have fared over the Winter months. If you do take a look, do you know what you're looking for? Listen in to hear what I think you should be checking out.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 387 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Nucleus Colonies For SaleBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Did you know that American Idol alum and Shine.FM artist Danny Gokey and his wife Leyicet have a garden? And bees? And chickens? The Gokeys join Megan for the most fun conversation about their experiences doing these things at home and how some of these activities are currently making and going to make a community difference through their nonprofit and other ministry connections as well...like the vision of a farm-to-table restaurant!
In this week's Podcast: As we head into Spring beekeepers will, no doubt, be contemplating various techniques to use on their hives to maximise the seasons honey crop. Techniques such as the Shook Swarm and Bailey Comb Change are useful ways of replacing comb and reducing pests and disease loading in your hive.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 385 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Beekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Thorne Beehives Bailey BoardSome of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Janet Michael talks with Megan Craggs of Carter Hall Farm and Christa Nahhas of La Grange Family Farm to share everything you need to know about the inaugural Lost Arts Festival — a celebration of heritage crafts, hands-on skills, and community connection in the Shenandoah Valley. Event Details Date: April 12th Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Location: La Grange Family Farm, 5498 Valley Pike, Stephens City, VA (next to Capon Valley Bank) Tickets: $9.31 online | $10 at the door Capacity: 200 people at a time — purchase tickets in advance recommended Proceeds benefit: NW Works (supports individuals with disabilities and barriers to employment) Scheduled Demonstrations Sheep dog herding demo – 11:00 AM Sheep shearing demo – 11:00 AM Fiber arts: spinning, knitting, and weaving Barn quilt making Tin type photography Canning demo Stone carving Stained glass & soldering (Liberty Hills Farm) Soap making Baking from scratch Grain grinding Fairy house door making Foraging talk Lavender sachet making with kids Book binding Vintage photography Entertainment & Food Live Music: Hancock's Civil War String Band performing in the barn Food Vendors: Shaffer's Barbecue & Market Franklin Smokin' Barnyard Billy Sous of Clem's Kitchen (Middletown, VA) Bee'z Lemonade Vault and Cellar (mocktails) Shopping: Vintage vendors inside the historic McCloud House on the property Parking Bottom field open for parking with attendants on site Additional parking at the neighboring church Street parking available Drop-off accommodation available for those with mobility needs Guests & Links Megan Craggs – Carter Hall Farm Website: CarterHallFarm.net Farm Stand: Sundays 12–4 PM | 310 Carter's Lane, Stephens City, VA Instagram & Facebook: @CarterHallFarm Christa Nahhas – La Grange Family Farm Website: lagrangefamilyfarm.com Market open 7 days a week (honor system) Instagram & Facebook: @LaGrangeFamilyFarm Lost Arts Festival Instagram: @LostArtsFest Facebook: Lost Arts Festival Tickets available on Eventbrite Black Valley Creative (event organizer & marketing) Instagram & Facebook: @BlackValleyCreative Also Mentioned Stephens City Farmer's Market – Opening April 25th, 10 AM–3 PM at Newtown Commons (Earth Day & Arbor Day celebration) Middletown Farmer's Market – Grand opening Mother's Day, May 10th, 11 AM–3 PM
Parasite Host Relationships- Dr David Peck, Placing Swarm Traps – You don't really need a ladder, What's Blooming in your direct neighborhood – using AI, Don't feed Pollen Subs in Spring, Honey BBQ Recipe, Mites and Viruses, Local Hive Report, Closing Comments
In this week's Podcast: The Demaree method, honestly, I've always failed with it, on the other hand, my version using a split board is so much more effective and reliable. An important consideration for me when our seasons can be so short.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 385 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Beekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this week's Podcast: It won't be long before the early March Sunshine arrives and many beekeepers will start to stress a little, or maybe a lot, over their colonies swarming. The Artificial Swarm is an excellent method of managing this busy time of the season and, actually, it's a really simple process that sometimes confuses. Hopefully today, I can take the mystery out of the technique for you.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 384 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Beekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Jon Herold launches America First Stories by sitting down with Mo Benson of Benson Honey Farms, one of Badlands' earliest supporters, to share the real story behind her family business and her fight to survive a life-threatening medical crisis. Mo walks through the brutal health battle that nearly took her life, how it reshaped her perspective, and the strength it took to come back while raising five young children and rebuilding their operation. The conversation dives deep into the world of commercial beekeeping, from starting with 90 hives to scaling into thousands, the realities of pollination across the country, and the hands-on process of producing raw honey. Mo explains the economics behind the industry, the challenges facing American beekeepers, and how foreign honey impacts local producers. Beyond business, Mo shares her journey into grassroots politics, detailing how local involvement can create real change from the ground up. From county-level organizing to working alongside elected officials, she breaks down how everyday people can step into leadership and influence the direction of their communities. This episode blends resilience, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement into a powerful introduction to the stories behind the people who support Badlands. Visit Benson Honey Farms: https://badlandsmedia.tv/honey
In this episode of Hort Culture, the podcast crew welcome Dr. Amanda Skidmore, Kentucky's state apiarist, to discuss the vital role of beekeeping in agriculture and the challenges facing pollinators. Skidmore shares insights into her work supporting beekeepers through inspections, education, and outreach across the state. The conversation highlights the importance of honeybees in pollinating specialty crops and maintaining food systems.A major focus of the episode is the emerging threat of the invasive yellow-legged hornet, a predator of honeybees that has recently been detected in the southeastern U.S. Skidmore explains its life cycle, how it spreads, and the potential ecological and economic impacts if it reaches Kentucky. Listeners also learn how to identify the hornet, report sightings, and even participate in monitoring efforts. Blending humor with urgency, the episode emphasizes awareness and collective action to protect pollinators and the agricultural systems that depend on them.Georgia Department of Agriculture Yellow-Legged HornetClemson Yellow Legged HornetDr. Amanda Skidmore, Kentucky State ApiaristKentucky State ApiaristQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: hortculturepodcast@gmail.comCheck us out on Instagram!
Varroa mites are the most destructive parasite affecting honey bee colonies worldwide. In this Bee Science Short, Dr. Dewey Caron explains how Varroa destructor reproduces, spreads within colonies, and why understanding the mite's biology is essential for modern beekeeping. Female Varroa mites enter brood cells shortly before they are capped and reproduce alongside the developing bee. Inside the sealed cell, mites feed on the developing bee and produce offspring that emerge with the young adult bee. Because the mite's reproductive cycle is closely tied to brood production, populations can increase rapidly during the active season. Beyond direct feeding damage, Varroa mites also spread viruses that weaken colonies and shorten the lifespan of worker bees. Dewey explains why unchecked mite populations can quickly overwhelm a colony if they are not monitored and managed. For beekeepers, the key is awareness. Regular monitoring allows beekeepers to track mite levels and respond before populations reach damaging levels. Understanding the biology of Varroa helps beekeepers make informed decisions about management strategies and colony health. This episode is part of the Bee Science with Dewey series, where Dr. Caron shares practical explanations of honey bee biology to help beekeepers better understand what is happening inside their colonies. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Lundin, Ola. Et. al. 2021. Integrated pest and pollinator management – expanding the concept. Frontiers Ecol & Environ. https://doi.org/10.1002/fee.2325 Caron, Dewey and review committee. Tools for Varroa Management. Honey Bee Health Coalition https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/ (you want to get the 9th edition (available soon) Bruckner, Selina, et.al. 2025. Let's not sugar coat it: the powdered sugar shake is Published online: https://doi.org/10.1080/00218839.2025.2550855 Caron, D.M. and L. J. Connor. 2025. Honey bee Biology and Beekeeping. Wicwas Press. ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com 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; Bolero de la Fontero by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
Welcome to Episode 212 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, renowned behavioral scientist Dr. Abbie Maroño shares tips to help farmers build trust with consumers. Dr. Abbie has trained the FBI, Secret Service and Homeland Security on improving cooperation in high-stakes situations, and the U.S. Department of State has recognized her as being in the top 1% of behavioral scientists. Resources mentioned in this episode Learn more from behavioral scientist Dr. Abbie Maroño. Learn more about Iowa Farm Bureau's F.A.R.M. (Farmer Advocates Reaching Mainstreet) Team. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's March 27 webinar: Why it Pays to Test Your Soil Nitrogen Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's Beekeeping on the Family Farm webinar (March 19). Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2026 Spring Planting Weather Outlook webinar (March 31).
Record Keeping with AI, Tracking Flight Paths of Bees, Sweeping Gadget for Honey Harvesting, Local Hive Report, Closing Comments
In this week's Podcast: I talked about Nosema last week, and it got me thinking about the things I do to give my honeybees the very best opportunity at the start of the new season to produce a lovely crop of honey in the Summer. Let's kick off with a more detailed look at the Spring Clean.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 383 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Beekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
Midwest Expo Impression, David Burns Introducing Queens, Rance Bennett overwintering, James Lee-Northern Queen Initiative, BCBA Webinar, Local Hive Report, Closing Comments
In this week's Podcast: Nosema apis and Nosema Ceranae. Two, spore forming, parasitic Microsporidia! They sound like something of a horror show for our bees and the effects of a heavy infection can be quite damaging. Listen in as I explain what it is, how you can identify it, and ultimately deal with it, so your bees can have a healthy and productive Summer.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 382 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.References: Glavinic U, Blagojevic J, Ristanic M, Stevanovic J, Lakic N, Mirilovic M, Stanimirovic Z. Use of Thymol in Nosema ceranae Control and Health Improvement of Infected Honey Bees. Insects. 2022 Jun 24;13(7):574. doi: 10.3390/insects13070574. PMID: 35886750; PMCID: PMC9319372.Hive Five Multi Guard EntrancesBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this week's Podcast: The past week has been all about the move home. I'm glad to say the office is getting there, but the honey room, well, that's another story!Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 381 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Hive Five Multi Guard EntrancesBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this week's Podcast: We have a few weeks yet until the start of the new beekeeping season. How can I make sure this year is as successful for my bees and me as it can possible be? Stay tuned to hear my thoughts and plans.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 380 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Hive Five Multi Guard EntrancesBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive The Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
#783 What happens when a side hobby turns into a life-changing business built around passion, risk, and a whole lot of bees? In this episode, host Britlyn Williams sits down with Nicole Buergers, founder of Bee2Bee Honey Collective, to unpack how a simple beekeeping hobby turned into a full-time, purpose-driven business. Nicole shares her leap from B2B internet marketing into urban beekeeping, the realities of monetizing a passion, and the challenges — both physical and mental — of building a business from scratch. From crowdfunding her launch and finding her first customers to learning boundaries, community building, and what it really means to work with nature, this conversation is an honest look at entrepreneurship, sustainability, and designing a life around what you love! What we discuss with Nicole: + Turning a hobby into a business + From B2B marketing to beekeeping + Urban beekeeping fundamentals + Mentorship as a revenue stream + Crowdfunding the business launch + Building a local beekeeper community + Physical realities of beekeeping + Learning to say no + Selling hyperlocal honey + Designing a lifestyle business Thank you, Nicole! Check out Bee2Bee Honey Collective at Bee2BeeHoney.com. To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff and Becky welcome Scottish beekeeper and author Ray Baxter to explore an often-overlooked source of insight inside the hive—the debris on the bottom board. Ray explains how careful observation of wax flakes, pollen, Varroa fragments, chalkbrood remains, and other materials can reveal colony health, brood cycles, forage history, and stress factors without opening the hive. Drawing on years of microscopy and time-series sampling, Ray shares how studying debris transformed his own beekeeping and inspired his book Bottom-Up Beekeeping. What began as a classroom curiosity with students evolved into long-term research that now tracks seasonal colony patterns and informs more precise hive interventions, including targeted Varroa treatments and identifying brood breaks. The conversation also highlights practical steps any beekeeper can take—such as photographing debris regularly, cleaning inspection boards consistently, and using simple tools like a smartphone or microscope to deepen understanding of colony biology. Ray emphasizes that debris analysis doesn't replace inspections but adds another valuable layer of information to guide better decisions and reduce unnecessary disturbance to the bees. Whether you're a new beekeeper curious about IPM boards or an experienced beekeeper seeking deeper biological insight, this discussion opens a new perspective on what the hive floor can teach us about colony survival, nutrition, and seasonal change. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Ray's Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4rdp0nH Ray's Book at Northern Bee Books: https://www.northernbeebooks.co.uk/en-us/products/bottom-up-beekeeping-baxter Ray's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/bottomupbeekeeping Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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! As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order. APIS Tactical is a beekeeping brand focused on innovation. We create a wide range of gear for beekeepers of all types—whether you're managing a few hives or working bees every day. We combine science and artistry to create purposeful, hardworking gear. We're here to help you care for your bees with confidence, so you can focus on what matters most—your hive. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.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: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com 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; Bolero de la Fontero by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
In this week's Podcast: We've had some sunny weather for a change, I've been able to get out to an Apiary full of nucleus colonies. So this week, as promised, my take on what to look out for if you're thinking of buying a nucleus colony for the start of the new season.Hi, I'm Stewart Spinks, welcome to Episode 379 of my podcast, Beekeeping Short and Sweet.Please support us throught affiliate links below, they cost you nothing and help us continue to produce our content.Hive Five Multi Guard EntrancesBeekeeping Courses at Thorne Beehvies in Wragby Lincolnshire 2026Some of my Favourite Microscopy Books:Pollen Loads of the Honeybee by Dorothy HodgesRex Sawyer's Pollen IdentificationPollen Grains and Honeydew by Margaret AdamsThe Pollen Landscape by Joss BartlettPollen Microscopy by Norman ChapmanThe National Bee Unit Varroa Information can be found HEREBee Aware Varroa Information can be found HEREThorne Beehives Bees on a Budget Hive Brunel Microscopes - Beekeeper's Equipment hereThe Beekeeper's Dictonary on AmazonThe Beekeeper's Dictionary websiteEthyl Acetate for colony destructions can be found hereAsian Hornet book by Sarah BunkerThe Beekeeper's Guide to Defences against the Yellow Legged Asian Hornet by Andrew DurhamGardening Potting Tray for effective frame cleaningStainless Steel Stock Pots for use as a double boiler. Get one slightly larger than the other to fit inside.Gas Stove for outdoor use to render wax and old comb.Contact Me at The Norfolk Honey CompanyVMD Website: Click HEREJoin Our Beekeeping Community in the following ways:Early Release & Additional Video and Podcast Content - Access HereStewart's Beekeeping Basics Facebook Private Group - Click HereTwitter - @NorfolkHoneyCo - Check Out Our FeedInstagram - @norfolkhoneyco - View Our Great PhotographsSign Up for my email updates by visiting my website hereAmazon links are affiliate links. I recieve a small commission should you choose to purchase.Support the show
In this episode of Two Bees in a Podcast, Amy Vu and Dr. Cameron Jack discuss beekeeping and research in India with Dr. Neloy Chakroborty, a Senior Assistant Professor at Thapar University in Punjab, India. This episode ends with a Q&A segment. Check out our website: www.ufhoneybee.com for additional resources from today's episode.
It's no accident that How to Get Started in Beekeeping remains one of the most listened-to episodes in the history of the Beekeeping Today Podcast. In this archive special, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman are joined by Honey Bee Obscura podcast's Jim Tew, to revisit the fundamentals every new beekeeper should hear—whether you're truly starting from scratch or beginning again after losses. The conversation opens with an honest look at why people choose to keep bees and why that motivation matters. Beekeeping today is more complex than it once was, but it remains deeply rewarding for those who approach it with curiosity, patience, and realistic expectations. The group emphasizes that losses are part of the learning curve and that success rarely comes from going it alone. A major focus of the episode is location and local knowledge. Bees can be kept in urban, suburban, or rural settings, but understanding forage, neighbors, ordinances, and seasonal conditions is critical. Just as important is finding a mentor or bee buddy—someone who can help interpret what you see, hear, and smell at the hive, especially during that critical first year. The discussion also touches on education, beekeeping clubs, and classes, highlighting how much modern learning resources have improved and why local information often matters more than generalized advice. Whether you're considering bees for the first time or looking to reset your approach, this episode lays a solid foundation for what comes next in your beekeeping journey. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: How To Get Started with Bees, Part 2: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-2-of-4-s6-e37/ How To Get Started with Bees, Part 3: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-3-of-4-s6-e38/ How To Get Started with Bees, Part 4: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-4-of-4-s6-e39/ Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.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: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com 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 ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
Winter doesn't always offer tidy lessons, and in this Plain Talk episode, Jim Tew takes listeners with him into a brutally cold Ohio bee yard. Standing among hives buried in snow after weeks of extreme temperatures, Jim shares an honest, unfiltered look at what it feels like to face possible winter losses—without inspections, without answers, and without easy optimism. Rather than offering prescriptions or quick fixes, Jim reflects on expectations versus reality. He talks candidly about how weather outside a region's "normal range" can push colonies beyond their limits, even when bees have adequate stores and minimal disturbance. Listeners will hear Jim wrestle with hard questions many beekeepers face quietly: How many colonies should I replace? Packages or splits? What could I have done differently—and what might not have mattered at all? This episode also touches on broader themes of resilience and perspective. Jim contrasts textbook claims about cold tolerance with lived experience, and he acknowledges the financial and emotional weight winter losses carry, especially later in life. Yet, even in the coldest moments, the episode closes with resolve. Beekeeping is not abandoned because of a bad winter—it's continued because of the good days that come after. This is Plain Talk at its most raw: reflective, sobering, and deeply familiar to anyone who has ever stood quietly in a winter bee yard wondering what spring will bring. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. 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 ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
Greenlight Biosciences Norroa - A first look into a totally new product approach for controlling Varroa Mites
PennState Beginner Book, Not a BigAG shill, Why honey separates and what to do about it, Follow up on Mushrooms for Bees, Listener Mail on Condensing Method
Listener questions drive some of the most practical and wide-ranging conversations on Beekeeping Today Podcast, and this episode is packed with thoughtful questions from beekeepers at every stage. Jeff and Becky work through a full slate of listener submissions covering mentorship, overwintering decisions, feeding practices, hive tools, monitoring systems, and a few persistent beekeeping myths. The episode opens with a listener question about mentorship—how to make it effective, sustainable, and rewarding for both mentors and new beekeepers. Jeff and Becky discuss setting expectations, encouraging hands-on learning, and building confidence without overwhelming volunteers. From there, the conversation moves into common beginner challenges, including surviving a rough season, dealing with small hive beetles in warmer climates, and improving queen-finding skills without unnecessarily stressing colonies. Jeff and Becky emphasize regional context, local support, and learning from both success and failure. Several feeding-related questions follow, including overwintering with honey supers, the use of fondant as insurance feed, and whether supplemental feeding can contaminate honey supers. Becky offers clear guidance on keeping brood nests intact, avoiding supplemental feed when honey supers are present, and making peace with sacrificing honey for colony survival when necessary. The episode also tackles practical yard questions, like how to stop losing hive tools and whether electronic hive monitoring systems make sense for smaller apiaries. Jeff and Becky share real-world strategies and tools that simplify inspections and improve efficiency. Finally, they address one of the more unusual questions circulating in beekeeping circles—feeding bananas to bees—exploring where the idea came from, what limited research suggests, and why caution and timing matter. It's a wide-ranging, honest, and practical episode shaped entirely by the questions beekeepers are asking right now. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org The National Honey Board: https://honey.com Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.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: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com 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 ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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