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Jennie Durant, PhD, joins Beekeeping Today to discuss her new book, Bitter Honey: Big Ag's Threat to the Bees and the Fight to Save Them. Drawing from more than fifteen years of research, interviews, and fieldwork, Jennie explores the complex relationship between commercial beekeeping and modern agriculture. She shares how her interest in honey bees began during her graduate studies in the Philippines and eventually led to a PhD focused on the challenges facing managed pollinators in large-scale agricultural systems. Jennie discusses the evolution of commercial beekeeping in response to the growing demand for almond pollination and how intensified management practices—including supplemental feeding, migratory pollination, and aggressive mite control—have become necessary to maintain colony health and profitability. She explains how habitat loss, monoculture agriculture, pesticide exposure, climate change, and economic pressures have created a difficult environment for both beekeepers and bees. The conversation also explores the often-contentious discussions surrounding honey bees and native pollinators. Jennie emphasizes that habitat loss is the underlying issue affecting all pollinators and advocates for expanding forage resources rather than framing the discussion as a competition between species. Becky and Jeff discuss the importance of habitat restoration, pollinator-friendly land management, and the role beekeepers can play in supporting broader conservation efforts. Jennie highlights organizations such as the Bee and Butterfly Habitat Fund and discusses practical actions individuals can take to improve forage availability for pollinators. She also shares stories gathered while researching the book, including the challenges commercial beekeepers have faced in obtaining effective mite treatments over the years. Throughout the discussion, Jennie provides a thoughtful and balanced perspective on the realities facing modern beekeeping while offering hope through examples of innovative habitat projects, conservation programs, and collaborative efforts aimed at improving conditions for managed and native bees alike. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Bitter Honey: Big Ag's Threat to the Bees and the Fight to Save Them on Amazon Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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 edition of Winning Honey with Stephanie, Stephanie Slater checks in on her own honey show preparations and admits that her comb honey supers still aren't ready despite last month's plans. A strong nectar flow in southeastern Wisconsin has kept her busy in the bee yard, including hosting a retail partner for an apiary visit that showcased queen cells, egg-laying activity, pollen collection, and royal jelly production. Stephanie looks ahead to the major honey competitions coming in January, including the North American Honey and Beeswax Championship, the American Honey Show, and the Midwest Honey Bee Expo Honey Show. She also discusses the recent transition of the American Honey Show Training Council to the newly named American Honey Judges Association (AHJA), including new membership opportunities, governance changes, and the launch of a new website. The episode also highlights an engaging activity from the Wisconsin Honey Producers Association Summer Meeting: the Black Jar Honey Tasting Contest. Stephanie explains how the contest works, why it encourages participation from both competitive and non-competitive beekeepers, and how it showcases the remarkable diversity of honey flavors produced within a single state. The main educational focus of this month's segment is a reminder that one of the most important skills for honey show success is carefully reading the rules. Stephanie shares lessons learned from her own exhibiting experiences, explains the details exhibitors should review before preparing entries, and offers practical advice to avoid common mistakes that can result in lost points or disqualification. The episode concludes with a spotlight on the North Carolina Bee Jubilee Honey Show and encouragement for exhibitors to continue learning, competing, and sharing their experiences within the honey judging community. Websites mentioned: American Honey Judges Association – https://honeyshowusa.com North Carolina Bee Jubilee & Honey Show - https://www.eventeny.com/events/bee-jubilee-2026-25337/ ______________ 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
In this spring 2026 edition of Regional Beekeepers, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome a familiar panel of beekeepers from across North America to compare notes on how the season is unfolding in their respective regions. Joining the discussion are Ang Roell (Northeast), Bonnie Morse (Northern California), Duane Combs (Arizona), Jay Williams (Tennessee), and Paul Longwell (Pacific Northwest). The conversation highlights the remarkable regional differences in weather, nectar flows, colony buildup, and honey production. Duane reports one of Arizona's best honey seasons in decades following unusually wet conditions, while Bonnie describes strong honey production in California alongside increasing concerns about Varroa mites and small hive beetles. Ang shares updates on queen breeding and a new research project examining the heritability of Varroa-sensitive hygiene traits. Jay discusses challenges caused by a difficult winter, late queen production, and his early experiences with the new mite-control product Norroa. Varroa management remains a central topic, with panelists comparing treatment strategies, discussing oxalic acid applications, Formic Pro, VarroxSan, and emerging approaches to mite control. The conversation naturally expands into small hive beetles, producing both practical advice and several memorable stories from the field. The group also shares lessons learned from mistakes, unexpected setbacks, and successful innovations. Topics range from hurricane recovery and extreme desert heat to transporting bees, honey marketing, 3D-printed beekeeping tools, agritourism experiences, honey tastings, and bee-centered wellness programs. As always, the Regional Beekeepers episode provides a valuable snapshot of beekeeping conditions across the continent while highlighting the creativity, resilience, and good humor of working beekeepers. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
You might have arranged an unplugged ceremony, but what about the other 8 to 18 hours of your wedding day when it's entirely up to your guests as to whether they take photos or video.While many couples don't mind what's captured, they often do care about what's posted to social media, who gets tagged, and when. Today I'm tackling the stuff the unplugged ceremony conversation never touches: spoilers, livestream complications, ex-partners, tricky family dynamics, children being posted without consent and more. You'll also learn about what one of my couples did this year when they realised that no amount of planning was going to guarantee that their wedding day was going to be what they wanted and why it might be the most brilliant and useful mindset shift of the entire almost 4 years of the Unbridely podcast. Resources Mentioned:Send Unbridely a 90-second audio message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/unbridelypodcast*The Unbridely Podcast is sponsored by its listeners. When you purchase products or services through links on our website or via the podcast, we may earn an affiliate commission.*------This episode of the Unbridely Modern Wedding Planning Podcast is brought to you by Never Miss Moments Unbridely's recommended wedding guest photo and video-sharing tool. With your unique QR code, your family and friends can quickly, easily and securely share their snaps with you in your personalised online gallery.Visit nevermissmoments.com/unbridely to receive your 10% discount on your gallery.-----Unbridely acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we record this podcast on, the Kaurna People. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Support the showFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unbridely/or TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unbridelyEmail the Unbridely Podcast:hello@unbridely.com
Erica checked the forecast for her wedding day...
Beekeeping Today welcomes back two familiar voices in honey bee education: Dr. Robyn Underwood and Ana Heck. Together, they discuss the growing role of the Apicultural Extension Educators of America (AEEA) and how extension professionals are helping connect beekeepers with trusted, science-based information across the United States. Jeff and Becky begin the episode with a seasonal conversation about swarming management and aggressive spring splitting strategies before turning to this week's Hive IQ listener question on introducing mated queens successfully into colonies. Ana and Robyn share practical field-tested approaches for improving queen acceptance, including push-in cages, timing considerations, queen cage positioning, and the importance of confirming colonies are truly queenless before introducing a new queen. The discussion then shifts to extension education itself — what extension educators do, why they matter, and how they serve as a bridge between university research and practical beekeeping application. Ana and Robyn explain how AEEA grew from informal monthly "happy hour" discussions into a collaborative national network of extension educators, researchers, inspectors, and outreach professionals sharing resources, programs, and educational materials. Listeners will also learn about the new AEEA website, future plans for regionally organized educational resources, and why many states still lack dedicated apiculture extension positions. Becky highlights the value these programs provide to local beekeepers, while Jeff encourages listeners to support and advocate for extension resources within their own states. This episode offers valuable insight into the people working behind the scenes to improve beekeeper education, strengthen honey bee health outreach, and make trusted information more accessible nationwide. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Apicultureal Extension Educators of America (AEEA): https://www.bee-educated.org Penn State Extension Beekeeping Resources: https://extension.psu.edu/beekeeping-resources Michigan State University Pollinator Initiative: https://pollinators.msu.edu BeeSwarm.org on Beekeeping Today: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/381-bee-swarmed-with-mateo/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
Shavuos - Getting Ready for the Big Wedding Day
Oh it's the wedding day and all of the crazy updates from that event. Enjoy!!!!
What To Do & When - Wedding Planning Step-by-Step 21 Wedding BUDGET SAVING Tips Wedding Planners who have gone through Jamie's course: Union Network List Want to ask Jamie your wedding planning questions? Join her in The Master Plan! What did you think about this episode? What were your takeaways? I want to hear your feedback! Screenshot the episode and post your thoughts on Instagram and tag us @wolferandco. You can get your Perfect Wedding Timeline - HERE! Be sure to grab your Ultimate Wedding Day Checklist at https://www.wolferandco.com/engagechecklist You are also invited to join the Facebook Wedding Community she has created for y'all to support each other. ❤️ P.S. — These links may use affiliate platforms where commission may be earned based on clicks and/or purchases, and I would love it if you used them! It won't cost you anything extra, but affiliate links are RAD because they help creators like me to fund the free content we provide.
Ang Roell of They Keep Bees joins Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman for another installment of the Beekeeping Today Podcast Queen Series. Ang shares the story behind building a migratory queen breeding operation and explains how years of working with Carniolan, Russian, and hygienic stock shaped the breeding philosophy behind their Massachusetts-based apiary. The conversation explores the realities of raising queens professionally, including drone saturation, mating yards, queen cells, virgins, instrumental insemination, and the challenges of selecting for Varroa-sensitive hygienic behavior while maintaining strong overwintering performance in northern climates. Ang discusses how They Keep Bees evaluates breeder queens using hygienic testing, mite washes, and Harbo assays, while also participating in collaborative research projects examining the heritability of hygienic traits. Jeff and Becky also discuss the growing interest in queen cells and virgin queens among smaller-scale beekeepers and why understanding these systems can improve overall beekeeping management. Ang explains practical approaches to walkaway splits, late-season nucleus production, and why there is no "silver bullet" queen when it comes to Varroa management. Throughout the episode, Ang emphasizes the importance of curiosity, experimentation, collaboration between scientists and working beekeepers, and building locally adapted stock that thrives within regional nectar flows and winter conditions. It is an insightful conversation for beekeepers interested in genetics, queen production, sustainable stock selection, and the future of honey bee breeding. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: They Keep Bees: https://theykeepbees.com SARE (Sustianable Agricultural Research and Education): https://www.sare.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
The Heartland Apicultural Society returns to Michigan State University May 30–31, 2026, bringing together beekeepers from across the region for two days of education, networking, and hands-on learning. In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Ana Heck of Michigan State University and Dr. Robyn Underwood of Penn State University to preview the upcoming conference and explain why this event offers something valuable for everyone from beginning beekeepers to experienced sideliners. This year's conference emphasizes practical learning. Ana explains that Michigan State University is setting up apiaries near the conference center so participants can attend in-hive workshops covering colony inspections, splits, varroa management, queen finding, and other management topics. Unlike many spring conferences held during colder months, the late-May timing allows attendees to work directly with live colonies. The conference will also include laboratory workshops focused on honey bee anatomy, dissections, and microscopic diagnosis of bacterial brood diseases including American foulbrood and European foulbrood. Participants will have opportunities to work with microscopes and diagnostic techniques under the guidance of university researchers and instructors. Featured keynote speakers include Dr. Jennifer Tsuruda, Dr. Jeff Harris, Dr. Reed Johnson, and Dr. Robyn Underwood. Robin discusses her presentations on drones and drone congregation areas, spotted lanternfly honeydew honey, and efficient apiary inspections. Ana also outlines conference registration details, early registration pricing, and the limited-capacity laboratory sessions available for attendees who register early. Whether you are a first-year beekeeper or a seasoned beekeeper looking to deepen your knowledge, the Heartland Apicultural Society Conference offers a strong mix of science, practical management, and community. Registration and conference information can be found at: Heartland Apicultural Society 2026 Registration ______________ 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
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Spring is a season of rapid change inside the hive, and in this Bee Science segment, Dr. Dewey Caron walks through what drives colony expansion—and how beekeepers can respond effectively. Dewey emphasizes that spring growth is fundamentally tied to pollen availability and favorable flying weather. Colonies in warmer climates may expand gradually, while northern colonies often experience a compressed and intense buildup. This variability makes local awareness and timing essential. Nutrition plays a central role. Research going back to Heather Mattila's 2006 work shows that colonies receiving pollen or protein supplements begin brood rearing earlier and build stronger populations. More recent work reinforces that locally sourced pollen may improve effectiveness, and emerging commercial feeds are showing measurable gains in overwinter survival and pollination strength. As colonies grow, so does the risk of swarming. Dewey underscores the importance of proactive management—providing adequate space, maintaining ventilation, and monitoring brood nest congestion. Once swarm preparation begins, options narrow quickly, making early intervention key. The episode also introduces the "Goldilocks effect" in evaluating colony strength. Colonies that are too weak struggle to build, while overly strong colonies risk swarming. The goal is finding that "just right" balance through regular inspection, brood assessment, and strategic frame movement. Health risks remain present during this expansion phase. Diseases like European foulbrood and chalkbrood, along with pesticide exposure and nutritional stress, can limit colony development. At the same time, brood expansion creates ideal conditions for varroa reproduction, reinforcing the need for integrated management. Dewey's central message is clear: spring requires active, informed management—but not overmanagement. Listen to the bees, respond to conditions, and aim for balance between growth and control. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Caron, Dewey M. Bee MD Bee MD [https://idtools.org/thebeemd/index.cfm?pageID=3094] Mattila, Hearther R. and Gard W Otis. 2006. Influence of pollen diet in spring on development of honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) colonies. J. Econ Entomol. 99(3):604-13. doi: 10.1603/0022-0493-99.3.604 Kulhanek, Kelly, et. al. 2026. Enhanced Honey Bee Colony Strength and Economic Returns from Fall and Winter Feeding with a Complete Pollen-Replacing Feed. Insects 2026, 17(3), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects17030243 Basu, Priya. 2024 Honey bee Nutrition HBHC https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/nutritionguide/ Tew, James. 2025. Giving it Your Best Guess. March. Bee Culture DeGrandi-Hoffman G, Gage SL, Corby-Harris V, Carroll M, Chambers M, Graham H, Watkins DeJong E, Hidalgo G, Calle S, Azzouz-Olden F, Meador C, Snyder L, and Ziolkowski N. 2018. Connecting the nutrient composition of seasonal pollens with changing nutritional needs of honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies. J Insect Physiol.109:114-124. doi: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2018.07.002. Epub 2018 Jul 7.PMID: 29990468 Hoover SE, Ovinge LP, and Kearns JD. 2022. Consumption of Supplemental Spring Protein Feeds by Western Honey Bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Colonies: Effects on Colony Growth and Pollination Potential. J. Econ Entomol.115(2):417-429. doi: 10.1093/jee/toac006.PMID: 35181788Free PMC article. ______________ 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
Our latest podcast edition reflects on the journey of 200 episodes, offering essential tips like choosing the right officiant and making your Mother-Son dance unforgettable. Whether you're just beginning your wedding journey or fine-tuning the details, this episode is a must-listen. Sal and Sam dig into lessons learned and best practices to make your wedding day smooth and unforgettable. Stress-Free Wedding Planning Podcast #200: What Matters Most on Your Wedding Day? Insights from 200 Editions. Host: Sal & Sam Music: "Sam's Tune" by Rick Anthony TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction to What Matters Most on Your Wedding Day? Insights from 200 Editions. 01:00 Podcast 200th Edition Kickoff, Overview, and Goals 01:21 Top Three Flashbacks 02:30 #177. Avoid Wedding Day Drama. Essential Officiant Questions You Need To Ask. 07:00 Connecticut License Update 08:30 #43, Mother-Son Wedding Dances with our special guest, Toni Becker. 09:30 Toni Becker Story 13:14 Hear The Song Clip 19:00 #135. Planning Your Dream Wedding Without The Stress. How To Book Wedding Vendors Online with our special guest, Heidi Hanson 23:00 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement 24:15 Closing Remarks and Farewell Join us in the Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook group https://urlgeni.us/facebook/Stress-Free-CT-Wedding-Advice Recognized as the number one of the Best 30 wedding planning podcasts in the US by millionpodcast.com. https://www.millionpodcasts.com/wedding-planning-podcasts/ Copyright © 2026 Atmosphere Productions LLC. All Rights Reserved. Produced by Atmosphere Productions in association with After Hours Events of New England https://atmosphere-productions.com https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com #2028Bride #2026Bride #2027Bride #WeddingPlanning #WeddingCeremony #weddinganxiety #NewEnglandWedding #WeddingPreparations #WeddingChecklist #WeddingProTips #weddingexperts #WeddingInspo #WeddingIdeas #WeddingPlanner #WeddingGoals #WeddingWisdom #WeddingTips #DreamWedding #WalkDownTheAisle #StressFreeWedding #StressFreeWeddingPlanning #StressFreeWeddingPlanningPodcast #WeddingPodcast #WeddingTipWednesday #WeddingAdvice #WeddingMusic #WeddingDay #CTweddingdj #WeddingDJ #AtmosphereProductions #AfterHoursEventsOfNE
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman continue their queen-focused spring series with longtime beekeeper, researcher, and educator Randy Oliver and commercial beekeeper Eric Oliver. The conversation explores the realities of large-scale selective breeding for Varroa-resistant honey bees and the development of the Golden West queen line. Randy explains how his operation shifted toward breeding for mite resistance after discovering a colony in 2015 that consistently maintained zero Varroa counts without treatment. That colony became "Queen Zero," launching a years-long selective breeding effort focused on resistance, gentleness, and honey production. Eric discusses how the operation evolved from occasional mite sampling into full-operation mite washing programs involving thousands of colonies, streamlined systems, and detailed tracking methods. The discussion covers the importance of drone saturation, isolated mating yards, and why successful breeding programs require cooperation among large groups of beekeepers. Randy and Eric explain their partnership with Olivarez Honey Bees to scale Golden West queen production while preserving genetic consistency through controlled mating environments. Jeff and Becky also discuss how healthier bees change the overall beekeeping experience, from colony management and overwintering to reduced chemical inputs and calmer hive behavior. Randy shares his views on breeding for gentleness, avoiding "Frankenbee" genetics, and why maintaining a stable breeding population is essential for long-term progress against Varroa mites. The episode also includes a listener question from Anne Bettencourt about how long beginning beekeepers should keep colonies open during inspections, leading to a thoughtful discussion on balancing learning opportunities with colony health and productivity. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Scientific Beekeeping: https://scientificbeekeeping.com Olivarez Honey Bees: https://www.ohbees.com/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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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Comedy on a SundayFirst, a look at this day in History.Then, The Great Gildersleeve starring Harold Peary, originally broadcast May 10, 1950, 76 years ago, The Wedding Day. Marjorie's wedding day...at last!Followed by Father Knows Best starring Robert Young, originally broadcast May 10, 1951, 75 years ago, Junk Around The House. Father is upset about the family buying “junk”, so Jim buys a lot of putty. Little does he know...Then, The Jello Show starring Jack Benny, originally broadcast May 10, 1942, 84 years ago, Jack Thinks He's Going To Be Fired! Jack goes to see the president of General Foods, and is told that this is to be his last season on the air for Jello. Followed by My Friend Irma starring Marie Wilson, originally broadcast May 10, 1948, 78 years ago, Bon Voyage. Richard is leaving on a trip to England. Jane and all her friends go down to the Queen Mary to see him off. Finally, Claudia, originally broadcast May 10, 1948, 78 years ago, Parking the Car. W.C. Fields is alive and well and working in a parking lot. Kathryn Bard and Paul Crabtree star. Thanks to Bill B for supporting our podcast by using the Buy Me a Coffee function at http://classicradio.streamCheck out Professor Bees Digestive Aid at profbees.com and use my promo code WYATT to save 10% when you order!
In this installment of Winning at Honey with Stephanie Slater, Stephanie returns with seasonal reflections from Wisconsin and a practical deep dive into one of the most overlooked—but critical—elements of honey show success: selecting the right jars. As spring unfolds with unpredictable weather, Stephanie balances early-season beekeeping tasks like hiving nucs and making splits while also setting clear goals for the upcoming honey show season. Building on last year's success with dipped tapers and lessons learned from pollen entries, she emphasizes the importance of planning ahead—especially when aiming to enter new categories like comb honey. This month's listener question from Dave focuses on jar selection, opening the door to a detailed discussion on show requirements. Stephanie explains why glass jars are essential, the importance of uniformity, and how different categories—extracted, creamed, and chunk honey—require specific jar styles. She highlights the differences between classic and Queenline jars and shares how even sponsorship incentives can influence her choices at major competitions like the American Honey Show. Beyond style, Stephanie underscores the importance of jar quality and cleanliness. From inspecting for defects to avoiding lint contamination and removing lot numbers when possible, she walks through the meticulous preparation required to meet judging standards. Practical strategies—like sourcing jars through local suppliers or fellow beekeepers—offer accessible solutions for small-scale producers. The episode also spotlights the upcoming Eastern Apiculture Society Honey Show in Kentucky, detailing its wide range of categories and unique traditions, along with additional educational events and honey judge training opportunities across the U.S. Stephanie closes by encouraging listeners to set goals, refine their craft, and participate in the broader honey show community. Websites mentioned: Eastern Apiculture Society – https://easternapiculture.org American Honey Show Training Council – https://honeyshowusa.com Heartland Apicultural Society - https://www.heartlandbees.org/ ______________ 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
Ever wondered why bridal boutiques have so many policies—and why they seem so… specific?
In this continuation of the Queen Series, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Juliana Rangel of Texas A&M University for an in-depth discussion on honey bee queen biology, mating behavior, and the often-overlooked role of drones in colony success. Juliana shares her journey into honey bee research, beginning with stingless bees in Brazil and leading to her current work on queen reproductive biology. The conversation explores the complexity of queen mating, from orientation flights to drone congregation areas, and the many variables that influence successful mating—especially weather, timing, and environmental conditions. A key takeaway is how much remains unknown. Despite decades of research, fundamental questions—such as where queens consistently mate and how mating locations are determined—are still being revisited with new technologies like RFID tracking. The discussion highlights the importance of drone quality and diversity, emphasizing that drones contribute half the genetics of a colony. Poor drone health or limited mating opportunities can directly impact queen longevity and colony productivity. Juliana also explains how pesticide exposure and contaminated wax can disrupt normal mating patterns, sometimes leading to excessive mating or reduced sperm viability. Queen development is another critical factor. Queens raised from older larvae may appear functional but result in significantly reduced colony performance. Proper grafting practices remain essential, especially for small-scale queen producers. The episode closes with practical advice for beekeepers: observe queen retinue behavior, maintain good records, and reconsider the value of drones within colonies. Juliana also shares updates on her current research in Colombia and a new international project investigating queen mating dynamics and environmental stressors. This conversation reinforces a central theme: queen quality is multifactorial, and improving it requires attention to genetics, nutrition, environment, and management practices. For additional information where honey bees mate, listen to our conversation with Dr. Gard Otis in episode 378. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Texas A&M Honey Bee Lab: https://honeybeelab.tamu.edu Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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 Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman sit down with Dr. Sammy Ramsey to explore his role in the National Geographic docuseries Secrets of the Bees. What began as a science communication opportunity quickly evolved into a multi-year collaboration blending research, storytelling, and cinematic production. Sammy shares how he contributed as a producer, helping shape the scientific direction of the series while ensuring that even experienced beekeepers would discover something new. The goal wasn't just education—it was surprise. Even seasoned listeners may find themselves rethinking what they know about honey bees. The conversation dives into the creative process behind the series, including collaboration with renowned filmmaker James Cameron and a team of world-class cinematographers. Sammy also reveals his unexpected contribution to the soundtrack, adding subtle vocal elements that enhance the emotional tone of key scenes. A standout moment discussed is the dramatic depiction of Varroa mites interacting with resistant honey bee colonies—highlighting cutting-edge breeding work from the USDA. These scenes underscore both the challenges bees face and the progress being made through research. The series, available on Disney+ and Hulu, has quickly risen to become a top-performing show, reflecting growing public interest in pollinators and their ecosystems. Beyond the visuals, Sammy emphasizes a deeper goal: fostering interspecies empathy. By presenting the world from the perspective of the bee, the series invites viewers to connect emotionally with these essential insects in a way few productions have achieved. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on honey bees—whether you're a beginner or a seasoned beekeeper—this series delivers. Secrets of the Bees Website: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/tv/show/99802a2f-9b71-40fe-b3e0-39042897fa26 ______________ 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
In this episode, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman launch a new series focused on honey bee queens with leading researcher Dr. David Tarpy. From the start, the conversation challenges a common oversimplification: the queen is not just an "egg-laying machine," but part of a dynamic, cooperative system shaped by both biology and worker perception. Tarpy explains that queen quality extends beyond visible traits like brood pattern. Instead, it includes physical characteristics such as body size, mating success, and sperm viability—factors that set the upper limit, or "ceiling," of colony performance. However, he emphasizes that brood pattern is often a colony-level trait, influenced as much by workers, environment, and disease pressure as by the queen herself. A key insight from the discussion is that colonies do not evaluate queens based solely on pheromones produced by the queen. Brood pheromones and, importantly, the workers' ability to perceive those signals play a major role in whether a queen is accepted or replaced. This helps explain why strong queens are sometimes superseded while weaker ones persist. The conversation also explores the impact of queen handling and shipping. Temperature stress—both overheating and chilling—can reduce sperm viability without visibly harming the queen, leading to premature failure later in the season. For beekeepers, this underscores the importance of careful handling between receipt and installation. Tarpy shares insights from his long-running queen health clinic, where most "problem queens" sent in for analysis turn out to be biologically sound. In many cases, environmental factors such as pesticide exposure or colony stress are the underlying issue. This episode sets the stage for the series by reframing how beekeepers think about queens—not as isolated individuals, but as part of a complex, responsive colony system. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: North Carolina State Apiculture Program: https://www.ncsuapiculture.net North Carolina State Queen & Disease Clinic: https://pollinators.ces.ncsu.edu/apiculture/queen-disease-clinic/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
When a dog crashes the Winter Olympics, nobody can be mad. The pup thought he’d join in on a cross-country ski race with a sprint of his own. AND 12 years after his death, officers honor fallen colleagues by standing with his daughter on her wedding day. To see videos and photos referenced in this episode, visit GodUpdates! https://www.godtube.com/blog/dog-crashes-winter-olympics.html https://www.godtube.com/blog/officers-honor-fallen-colleague.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What are the halachot and customs of the wedding day, from mikveh, to fasting, to the dress and accessories? May a couple see each other prior to the wedding? Transcript and sources here: https://www.deracheha.org/the-wedding-day/ To dedicate an episode email us at deracheha@gmail.com
Maisie Adam joins Grace in the studio this week, with Soccer Aid approaching Maisie gives GK advice for the game, a key one being … maybe don't get married the day before? The pair also talk Last One Laughing, what it's really like being a stand up comedian and their favorite service stations?!
Mateo Kaiser joins Jeff and Becky to discuss how Bee Swarmed is changing the way beekeepers find and collect swarms. Built to connect the public with local beekeepers quickly, the platform helps remove the chaos that often surrounds swarm calls and replaces it with real-time alerts, cleaner communication, and better outcomes for both bees and beekeepers. The conversation begins with a timely Hive IQ question about swarm prevention and colony expansion. Jeff and Becky talk through the challenge of managing strong spring colonies, when to divide, and why waiting too long can cost both bees and honey production. That leads naturally into Mateo's work and the growing role Bee Swarmed plays in modern swarm management. Mateo explains how the system works, how beekeepers receive and claim swarm alerts, and how image recognition is helping filter out wasps and other mistaken reports. He also shares how Bee Swarmed has expanded beyond simple notifications into public education, library outreach, and large-scale data collection. Looking ahead, Mateo describes new tools under development, including local swarm timing predictions and swarm trap placement guidance based on environmental and historical data. For beekeepers hoping to catch locally adapted bees, reduce missed opportunities, and better understand swarm patterns, this episode offers a practical look at where beekeeping and technology now meet. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Bee Swarmed: https://beeswarmed.org Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
EXCLUSIVE: Taylor Swift 'Shoots Down Warning She Should Don Bulletproof Vest On Wedding Day'Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Honey show judging and beekeeper education take center stage in this final installment from the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo. In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman bring together conversations from the show floor, featuring Stephanie Slater and members of the University of Minnesota bee lab. Stephanie shares what it takes to organize a successful honey show, from publishing rules months in advance to building categories that encourage broad participation. With entries nearly doubling from the previous year, the Midwest Honey Bee Expo honey show continues to grow, reflecting strong interest in both presentation and flavor-based competition. The discussion includes preparation strategies for exhibitors and an inside look at the black jar category, where honey is judged solely on taste. The episode also features conversations with Jessica Helgen and Isabell Dyrbye-Wright from the University of Minnesota bee lab. They discuss outreach efforts through the Bee Squad, beekeeper education, and the importance of making research-based resources accessible to beekeepers at all levels. From honey judging to field-based education, this episode highlights the role of preparation, community, and applied science in modern beekeeping. This episode concludes the three-part 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo series. Be sure to listen to Part 1 and Part 2 for additional conversations from the show floor. This is Part 2 of a multi-episode series recorded at the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo. Featured Guests Stephanie Slater - American Honey Show Training Council, Honey Show Judge Jessica Helgen - University of Minnesota Bee Squad Isabell Dyrbey-Wright - University of Minnesota Bee Squad ______________ 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
"What's really bothering me lately is I'm in a stress cycle over anticipating what might go wrong during our wedding weekend and wanting to proactively jump in and plan for those things. What are some unexpected stress-points that we can be prepared for as much as possible?" Do yourselves a favor - plan to be caught off guard by something on your wedding day! Next step, mentally prepare to brush it off in the moment so that you can be fully present and enjoy your wedding day. Survey 100 couples in the week after their wedding, and 97 of them will have multiple stories of things that went off the rails and/or not according to "The Plan". The magic is in how you choose to react to the issue, combined with some tactical ways that you can be proactive and prepared. Tune in for the rundown on 7 common wedding day surprises that are shockingly easy to proactively plan for. And stick around 'til the end for a handful of listener questions on moms, dress codes & more. Cheers to being prepared! Written blog post & link to submit your questions can be found here. Enjoy early access to ad-free episodes each week when you subscribe to WEDDING PLANNING PODCAST PREMIUM in Apple Podcasts. Start your wedding website with Minted and enjoy free designs by independent artists, all of your wedding details in one place, and exclusive listener perks.
In this Bee Science Short, Dr. Dewey Caron continues his series on integrated pest management (IPM) for Varroa mites, focusing on the critical step of selecting and applying the right tools at the right time. Dewey emphasizes a simple but essential message: have a plan. Effective Varroa control begins with understanding pest levels, assessing risk, and determining when intervention is necessary based on economic injury levels (EIL). From there, beekeepers must choose appropriate management tools to keep mite populations below damaging thresholds. The episode highlights the importance of early-season intervention. By reducing mite populations in late winter and early spring—particularly through oxalic acid treatments—beekeepers can lower the initial "inoculum" of mites and slow population growth throughout the season. This proactive approach helps flatten the mite population curve and reduces the likelihood of damaging fall peaks. Dewey reviews a range of control options, including mechanical methods such as drone brood removal and brood interruption, as well as chemical treatments. These include amitraz-based products, organic acids like formic and oxalic acid, and essential oil treatments. He also discusses emerging research on resistance, including amitraz resistance mechanisms and ongoing work to improve treatment effectiveness. Importantly, the episode underscores that Varroa damage is driven not just by mite numbers, but by their role in spreading viruses such as Deformed Wing Virus (DWV). This reinforces the need for consistent, integrated management throughout the season. This episode provides a science-based framework for building a Varroa management plan that supports healthier colonies and more successful beekeeping outcomes. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Caron Dewey and committee. 2026. Tools for Varroa Management, 9th edition. Honey Bee Health Coalition. Matías D., Maggi, et. al. (incl Diana Sammataro.) 2017. The susceptibility of Varroa destructor against oxalic acid: a study case. Bull. Insectology 70 (1): 39-44, ISSN 1721-8861 Jernej Bubnič et.al 2024. Integrated Pest Management Strategies to Control Varroa Mites and Their Effect on Viral Loads in Honey Bee Colonies. Insects 5;15(2):115. doi: 10.3390/insects15020115 Rinkevich, F. D., Moreno-Martí, S., Hernández‐Rodríguez, C. S. & González‐Cabrera, J.2023. Confirmation of the Y215H mutation in the β2 ‐octopamine receptor in Varroa destructor is associated with contemporary cases of amitraz resistance in the United States. Pest Manag. Sci. 79, https://scijournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ps.7461 Rogan Tokach, Frank Rinkevich, et.a.. March 18, 2026. Evaluation of late-season Varroa destructor treatments and their impact on amitraz resistant mite populations. Scientific Reports., https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-44796-8 Bozkus, Mustafa, Carolyn Breece, Hannah Lucas, Nathalie A Steinhauer, and Ramesh R Sagili. 2025. Oxalic acid vaporization: effectiveness against Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) and safety for Apis mellifera(Hymenoptera: Apidae). J.Ins. Sci. Vol 25, Issue 6, ieaf091, https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/ieaf091 https://www.ars.usda.gov/news-events/news/research-news/2026/finding-more-effective-treatments-in-the-fight-against-varroa-mites/ Yvonne Kosch, Christoph Mülling, Ilka U Emmerich. 2024. Resistance of Varroa destructor against Oxalic Acid Treatment—A Systematic Review, Vet Sci. Aug 26;11(9):393. doi: 10.3390/vetsci11090393 Matías D. Maggi,et. al. incl Diana Sammataro. 2017. The susceptibility of Varroa destructor against oxalic acid: a study case. Bull. Insectology 70 (1): 39-44, ISSN 1721-8861 M. Maddaloni and D.W. Pascual. 2015. Isolation of oxalotrophic bacteria associated with Varroa destructormites. Letters in Applied Microbiology, Vol 61 (5) : 411–417. https://doi.org/10.1111/lam.12486 ______________ 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
True Cheating Stories 2023 - Best of Reddit NSFW Cheating Stories 2023
My Wife's Affair Partner Was My Best Man - Wedding Day Revenge! Reddit Cheating StoriesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-cheating-wives-and-girlfriends-stories-2026-true-cheating-stories-podcast--5689182/support.
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Dr. Dewey Caron for a wide-ranging discussion on Varroa management, beekeeping education, and the evolving work of the Honey Bee Health Coalition. Dewey shares his journey from academic entomology to a "retirement" filled with teaching, research, and extension work across the Pacific Northwest. Now based in Oregon, he continues to educate beekeepers through presentations, writing, and his monthly Bee Science series on the podcast. A central focus of the episode is Dewey's work with the Honey Bee Health Coalition (HBHC), which brings together researchers, beekeepers, industry representatives, and regulators to provide science-based, unbiased guidance for honey bee health. Dewey explains how the Coalition's Tools for Varroa Management guide has evolved since its first release in 2014 and is now approaching its ninth edition. One of the most important updates discussed is a shift in recommended Varroa thresholds. Where beekeepers once tolerated higher mite levels, emerging research and field experience show that even low mite counts—around 1%—can present significant risk due to the viruses Varroa mites vector, including Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) and related pathogens. The conversation also highlights the Coalition's decision tool, which helps beekeepers navigate treatment options based on their management style, seasonal timing, and colony conditions. Dewey emphasizes that successful Varroa management is not about a single product, but about integrating monitoring, thresholds, and multiple control strategies. The episode also touches on Dewey's long-running Pacific Northwest colony loss survey, offering insights into overwintering success, beekeeper experience levels, and management practices across the region. This episode reinforces a key message: effective beekeeping today requires informed, proactive Varroa management grounded in science and adapted to changing conditions. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
The squad is back and looking "wonky" after surviving the Coachella dust storms and flying tents that turned the campgrounds into a graveyard for gear., We're breaking down the wild news of Hunter Biden accepting a cage match challenge from YouTuber Andrew Callahan to fight Don Jr. and Eric Trump—and he's not even asking for cash as payment!, On a high-stakes Homie Helpline, Aussie reveals he hooked up with his late best friend's sister to "cope," and now his bride-to-be wants her in the wedding party. CHAPTERS/TIMESTAMPS (00:00) Petty Police (03:59) Scrolling (8:15) Homie Helpline (20:24) Coachella Breakdown (26:42) Don't You Know I'm Local (30:25) Play Ball Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman continue their live coverage from the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo, featuring two conversations focused on innovation in comb honey production and hive feeding systems. The episode begins with Mick and Madison Fry, creators of SimplKomb, a comb honey production system designed to simplify harvesting while reducing waste. Their approach integrates production and packaging into a single cassette that fits standard medium frames, allowing bees to build comb directly within the final retail container. The result is a cleaner workflow for beekeepers and a more accessible product for customers, especially those new to comb honey. In the second interview, Gary and Gigi Drumright of BRB Feeder share the story behind their hive-top feeding system. Designed to address common issues with jar feeding—such as water intrusion, inconsistent flow rates, and robbing—the BRB Feeder provides a controlled, weather-resistant solution that supports both colony nutrition and management efficiency. Together, these interviews highlight the creativity and problem-solving happening across the beekeeping community, where practical challenges inspire new tools and approaches for modern beekeepers. This is Part 2 of a multi-episode series recorded at the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo. Featured Guests Mick Fry & Madison Fry – SimplKomb Gary & Gigi Drumright – BRB Feeder ______________ 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
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Dr. Jeff Pettis and Carlos Perea of Terra Vera for an update on their evolving approach to honey bee health—one that goes beyond traditional varroa control. The discussion begins with a listener question on varroa management in top bar hives, highlighting the complexity of applying existing treatments across different hive configurations. From there, the conversation shifts to Terra Vera's oxidant-based technology, which mimics natural immune responses found in mammals and honey bees. Carlos explains how their chemistry, originally developed for plant health, showed effectiveness against mites and pathogens while remaining safe for bees at specific concentrations. Dr. Pettis shares results from cage studies and colony-level trials, demonstrating that the product can be applied directly to brood and adult bees without observed mortality under proper conditions. The conversation expands into two developing applications: Hive Health, aimed at improving colony resilience and reducing pathogen loads, and Hive Wash, designed to disinfect equipment and dead-outs by eliminating bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This introduces a broader concept of biosecurity—an area often overlooked in beekeeping but increasingly critical for managing disease transmission within and between apiaries. The episode also explores the role of viruses in colony collapse, the interaction between varroa and pathogen load, and early observations suggesting potential benefits in queen rearing. While distribution methods and application efficiency are still being refined, Terra Vera's work points toward a more integrated approach to colony health. This episode highlights the importance of moving beyond single-solution treatments and toward comprehensive hive management strategies that include nutrition, parasite control, and biosecurity. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Terra Vera Website: https://terravera.com 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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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 special Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman record live from the floor of the Midwest Honey Bee Expo, bringing listeners a series of conversations with beekeepers, educators, and innovators shaping today's beekeeping community. The episode captures the energy of the expo, where hundreds of beekeepers gather to learn, connect, and share ideas. From practical hive management to emerging technologies and equipment, these conversations highlight the diversity of perspectives and experiences within beekeeping. Jeff and Becky begin with David Burns, a well-known educator and EAS Certified Master Beekeeper, who shares insights on queen acceptance and the importance of ensuring colonies are truly queenless before requeening. The discussion then shifts to Amanda Stoltz of BroodMinder, who explains how hive monitoring data can help beekeepers make better decisions without unnecessary disturbance. Finally, Tracy Perlmeyer of Hive Butler introduces a versatile tool designed to make beekeeping tasks cleaner, easier, and more efficient. Together, these interviews reflect the collaborative spirit of beekeeping—where shared knowledge, innovation, and community support help beekeepers at all levels succeed. This is Part 1 of a multi-episode series recorded at the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo. Featured Guests David Burns – EAS Certified Master Beekeeper; educator and YouTube content creator Amanda Stoltz – BroodMinder, New Queen Bee Tracy Pielemeir – Hive Butler, Founder ______________ 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
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Stephanie Slater launches a new monthly series focused on honey shows, judging, and the art of presenting hive products. Stephanie begins by sharing how she got started in beekeeping, tracing her journey from attending an Earth Day presentation to becoming an active honey show competitor and judge. Her story sets the stage for a series designed to make honey shows more accessible to beekeepers at all levels. This first episode focuses on the value of entering honey shows. Stephanie explains how competition raises quality standards, helps beekeepers improve their craft, and serves as an important educational tool for the public. Honey shows don't just reward good beekeeping—they help tell the story of honey bees and the products they produce. She also introduces one of the most approachable entry points: the Center for Honey Bee Research Black Jar Contest. Unlike traditional shows, this competition focuses entirely on taste, with entries judged blind. Stephanie walks through the basics of entering, including submission timing, entry requirements, and what to expect during judging. Throughout the episode, Stephanie emphasizes that honey shows are not just about winning ribbons—they're about learning, improving, and connecting with other beekeepers. This new monthly series will release on the first Wednesday of each month, offering practical guidance for anyone interested in improving their hive products and participating in honey shows. ______________ 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
We get to meet Selene's very normal brother on his very special wedding day! First though, the crew decides they need a little bit of intel on the whole family situation. So, naturally, we end up in in a screaming match in and around a bathroom.Help out people being oppressed in Minnesota and Kansas!The adventure continues with Screech Echo (Mike Bachmann), Selene Von Esper (Jennifer Cheek), R'Oarc (Nika Howard), T'Chuck (Tim Lanning), and our Dungeon Master Michael DiMauro. Edited by Vincent.Podcast art by TheDedchicken! Want the world to see your fan art? Post it with #DrunksAndDoodlesFind more info by clicking right here -https://linktr.ee/GAPCast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Vont has a big announcement to make, we play Name That Tune, and more!
Vont has a big announcement to make, we play Name That Tune, and more!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Dr. Chip Taylor and Dr. Gard Otis for a deep dive into Africanized honey bee swarming behavior—and what it reveals about honey bee biology. The conversation begins with a listener question on comb rotation and foundation use, offering practical spring management tips for replacing old brood frames and encouraging new comb building. From there, the discussion shifts to swarming—one of the most important reproductive behaviors in honey bees. Drawing on decades of research in South and Central America, Chip and Gard describe how Africanized honey bees differ from European bees in their responsiveness to environmental conditions. African bees react quickly to incoming resources, rapidly expanding brood production and initiating swarming cycles. In contrast to European bees, which often wait for sustained resource availability, Africanized colonies can swarm repeatedly in short intervals, sometimes producing multiple afterswarms in a matter of days. The episode explores key concepts such as the "effective brood nest," pheromone distribution, and how crowding within the colony triggers queen production and swarm events. Chip and Gard also share firsthand field observations—from tracking swarm cycles in French Guiana to witnessing colonies produce multiple swarms in rapid succession. The discussion expands to include how Africanized bees spread across the Americas, the role of absconding behavior, and how their reproductive strategy contributed to rapid geographic expansion. The episode closes with a fascinating origin story behind swarm lures, including the discovery of lemongrass-based attractants still used today. This episode blends practical beekeeping insight with scientific perspective, offering listeners a clearer understanding of swarming behavior and how different honey bee populations respond to their environment. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Gard's Latest Research, "Where Do Honey Bees Mate": https://www.researchgate.net/publication/399733448_Where_do_honey_bees_Apis_mellifera_mate 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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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
Vont has a big announcement to make, we play Name That Tune, and more!
In this short episode, we introduce Stephanie Slater and preview a new recurring segment focused on honey shows and judging. Stephanie joins the Beekeeping Today Podcast to share her background in beekeeping, with particular experience in participating in and judging honey shows. This area of beekeeping—often overlooked by many—plays an important role in evaluating honey quality, presentation, and craftsmanship. In this introduction, Stephanie discusses her involvement in honey shows and offers a glimpse into what goes into judging entries, from visual appearance to handling and preparation. Her experience provides a unique perspective that connects everyday beekeeping practices with standards used in competition and evaluation. This episode sets the stage for a new monthly series where Stephanie will explore honey shows in greater depth—helping listeners understand how to participate, what judges look for, and how to improve their hive products. Whether you've entered a honey show before or are simply curious, this short opens the door to a deeper look at one of the more specialized and rewarding aspects of beekeeping. ______________ 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
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman explore a topic that can divide beekeepers, almost immediately: spotted lanternfly honey. Today's conversation centers on spotted lanternflies, an invasive pest spreading across the eastern United States. Guests Dr. Robin Underwood (Penn State Extension) and Dr. Ferhat Ozturk bring both field experience and research insight to the discussion. Robin shares firsthand observations from Pennsylvania, where the insect first established, while Ferhat connects the honey produced from lanternfly honeydew to broader research on honey composition and bioactive properties. Together, they unpack what spotted lanternfly honey actually is, how bees collect it, how it tastes, and why it has generated both excitement and skepticism. The discussion remains grounded—this is not a silver bullet product—but rather a unique honey source emerging from an ecological challenge. For beekeepers, the key takeaway is perspective. Even in the presence of invasive species, honey bees adapt, forage, and sometimes create new opportunities. Understanding those dynamics helps beekeepers make informed decisions rather than react to headlines. This episode offers a balanced look at a rapidly evolving topic, blending science, field observations, and practical beekeeping considerations. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Spotted Lanternfly Distribution Map: https://cals.cornell.edu/integrated-pest-management/outreach-education/whats-bugging-you/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly-reported-distribution-map 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. 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. 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; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; 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 89 of 1 800 Drama where in this Reddit Stories r/ AITA and r/ 1800drama deep dive, we explore an eagle eyed girlfriend at the sink, a mochi toe bean cat, and a bride keeping wedding secrets that even the groom didn't know about... grab a cuppa and let's go fishing!
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
Two other episodes you might want to check out: How to BECOME a Wedding Planner BTS: Join Jamie on a Real Sales Call | Wedding Planning Business Tips Share your thoughts on this episode over on Instagram! What do you think?! Take a screenshot and tag @wolferandco so we can hear from you! Join the amazing discussions over in the Wedding Pros Facebook Group. This is a group for aspiring, new, and experienced wedding planners and wedding vendor professionals! Jamie would love to help you get started with your wedding planning business or optimize the one you have already started. If you'd like personal guidance from Jamie, access to her community of VIP wedding professionals, and the opportunity to be listed on her preferred wedding planner listing that is shared with thousands of engaged couples every month, consider joining The Union Mastermind. You can find out more about that program HERE. Our Favorite Wedding Business Resources: Generation Tux - join their Partner Program and start earning affiliate money recommending a reputable suit vendor to your clients! Timeline Genius - create detailed timelines for your events (automated text messages, emails, and more!) Legally Set - Get all your legal contract templates you need; use code “UNION” for 20% OFF Honeybook - keep all your clients organized; use code “UNION” to get the current deal Jamie locked in for ya! P.S. - The links above may use affiliate platforms where commission may be earned based on clicks and/or purchases, and I would love it if you used them! It won't cost you anything extra, but affiliate links are RAD because they help creators like me to fund the free content we provide.
Dr. Jamie Ellis joins Beekeeping Today Podcast to discuss improving honey bee health, colony management strategies, and how beekeepers can strengthen their colonies heading into spring. Jamie shares insights from his work in research, extension education, and beekeeper outreach, helping bridge the gap between academic science and real-world beekeeping practices. The conversation explores how beekeepers can make better management decisions by understanding colony biology, seasonal dynamics, and the pressures that modern honey bee colonies face. Jeff, Becky, and Jamie discuss the importance of monitoring colonies closely as winter transitions into spring. This includes evaluating colony strength, assessing food reserves, and preparing for rapid brood expansion that often accompanies early nectar flows. Jamie emphasizes that successful beekeeping often comes down to careful observation and timely intervention rather than rigid adherence to calendar-based management. The conversation also touches on common misconceptions that beekeepers encounter when managing colonies and the importance of staying adaptable in response to changing environmental conditions, pests, and disease pressures. Jamie's ability to translate complex research into practical guidance makes this episode particularly valuable for beekeepers at all experience levels. Whether managing a few backyard colonies or operating a larger apiary, listeners will find useful reminders about the fundamentals of good colony management and the importance of staying curious about the biology and behavior of honey bees. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: University of Florida Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/honey-bee/ 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
So Raccoons, is Love truly Blind??Love the girls? Get more of their cringey, awesome content at Patreon.com/realitytvcringe!Follow us on IG https://instagram.com/realitytvcringeSubscribe to see our raccoon faces on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_2CgqXLWjIEKV9PCtH3Kjw?sub_confirmation=1Leave a message for us on SpeakPipe: https://speakpipe.com/realitytvcringeSupport the pod by leaving a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! Thank you so much.
In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome back Tara Dawn Chapman, founder of Two Hives Honey and author of For the Bees: A Handbook for Happy Beekeeping. Tara first joined the podcast during the series on building a bee business, and she returns to discuss her new book, her unconventional path into beekeeping, and why she believes every beekeeper should begin by understanding honey bee biology. Tara shares how a beekeeping class sparked a dramatic career change—from working in intelligence and traveling internationally to launching a beekeeping operation in Austin, Texas. Starting with just two colonies, she quickly expanded her apiaries and built a successful enterprise by focusing on creative revenue streams like agritourism and education rather than relying solely on honey sales. Much of the conversation centers on Tara's philosophy of teaching beekeeping through the lens of biology and the superorganism. Her book emphasizes understanding how honey bees interact with their environment—especially how weather patterns and floral resources shape colony behavior. Rather than relying on fixed calendar schedules, Tara encourages beekeepers to observe resource availability and environmental signals to guide management decisions. Tara also discusses the challenges of writing a book for beekeepers across diverse climates, the importance of visual storytelling through illustrations, and the realities of managing bees in Central Texas, including extreme summer heat and the presence of Africanized honey bee genetics. Finally, she hints at future plans to expand her work helping beekeepers develop sustainable bee businesses—possibly through new educational programs or mentorship opportunities. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Tara's Two Hives Honey Website: https://twohiveshoney.com Tara's Book on her website (Preferred way to buy): https://www.twohiveshoney.com/product/book/ Tara's Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3NaMzyW 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