Beekeeping Today Podcast

The weekly podcast bringing beekeepers the latest news, research, and insights on honey bees. Hosted by Jeff Ott and Dr. Becky Masterman, each episode features conversations with beekeepers, scientists, authors, and industry leaders. Whether you’re just starting your first hive or managing hundreds, you’ll find practical tips, fresh perspectives, and engaging stories to inspire your beekeeping journey.

Midwest Honey Bee Expo Interviews: Beekeepers and Innovations (Part 1) 04/03/2026

Midwest Honey Bee Expo Interviews: Beekeepers and Innovations (Part 1) 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. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40682715

[Bonus] Short - Winning Honey with Stephanie Slater 04/01/2026

[Bonus] Short - Winning Honey with Stephanie Slater 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 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. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40643360

AHB Swarming with Chip Taylor and Gard Otis (378) 03/30/2026

AHB Swarming with Chip Taylor and Gard Otis (378) 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": Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . We’d like to thank 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 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40644210

Bonus – Introducing Stephanie Slater: Honey Shows and Judging 03/24/2026

Bonus – Introducing Stephanie Slater: Honey Shows and Judging 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. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40536800

Spotted Lanternfly Honey: Beekeeper Opportunity? (377) 03/23/2026

Spotted Lanternfly Honey: Beekeeper Opportunity? (377) 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. Robyn Underwood (Penn State Extension) and Dr. Ferhat Ozturk bring both field experience and research insight to the discussion. Robyn 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: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . We’d like to thank 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 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40562400

Bee Science: Varroa Mites with Dewey Caron (BSD-3) 03/18/2026

Bee Science: Varroa Mites with Dewey Caron (BSD-3) 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. Caron, Dewey and review committee. Tools for Varroa Management. Honey Bee Health Coalition (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: 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. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40488425

Jamie Ellis: Improving Honey Bee Health (376) 03/16/2026

Jamie Ellis: Improving Honey Bee Health (376) Dr. Jamie Ellis joins the Beekeeping Today Podcast to discuss current honey bee research and what it means for everyday beekeeping management. Jamie directs the University of Florida Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory and has spent decades studying honey bee biology, pests, and colony health. In this conversation, he shares insights from his work with beekeepers across the United States and explains how research findings translate into practical decisions in the apiary. The discussion explores how modern beekeeping continues to evolve as researchers and beekeepers work together to better understand colony stress, pests, and environmental pressures. Jamie explains how scientists evaluate colony health and how different management approaches can influence outcomes in both hobbyist and commercial operations. Varroa mites inevitably enter the conversation, but the focus remains on the broader question of how beekeepers can maintain strong colonies through informed management practices. Jamie discusses the importance of monitoring colonies, staying aware of emerging research, and adapting management strategies as new information becomes available. Throughout the episode, Jamie emphasizes the role of communication between researchers and beekeepers. Scientific research is most valuable when it is translated into practical tools that help beekeepers keep colonies healthy and productive. This conversation offers listeners a thoughtful look at how honey bee science continues to shape the future of beekeeping and how research institutions and beekeepers work together to improve honey bee health. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: University of Florida Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40466395

Tara Chapman: For the Bees (375) 03/09/2026

Tara Chapman: For the Bees (375) 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: Tara's Book on her website (Preferred way to buy): Tara's Book on Amazon: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40351200

COLOSS & Honey Bee Nutrition with Dr. Priya Basu (374) 03/02/2026

COLOSS & Honey Bee Nutrition with Dr. Priya Basu (374) In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Priyadarshini “Priya” Basu of Washington State University to discuss two major topics shaping the future of beekeeping: the upcoming COLOSS North America meeting and the evolving science of honey bee nutrition. COLOSS (Prevention of Colony Losses) is an international nonprofit network of more than 2,000 honey bee researchers across 113 countries. For the first time, a multi–task force North American meeting will be held June 6–12 at Washington State University in Pullman. The event will bring together researchers, beekeepers, veterinarians, inspectors, and growers to discuss nutrition, pathogens, pesticides, climate change, and landscape impacts on honey bee health. Workshops, tours, and hands-on sessions will provide practical learning opportunities for attendees at all levels. Priya also shares updates from her lab’s nutrition research, including pollen landscape mapping across North America, micronutrient analysis, supplemental forage strategies, and how nutrition interacts with stressors like pesticides and disease. The discussion covers practical considerations for trapping and storing pollen, differences between pollen substitutes and supplements, winter feeding strategies, and how nutrition influences brood production and colony resilience. This episode connects cutting-edge research directly to real-world beekeeping decisions — from hobbyists to commercial operations. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: COLOSS: COLOSS Conference: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40264020

Midwest Honey Bee Expo - Panel Discussion: Building Your Business (373) 02/23/2026

Midwest Honey Bee Expo - Panel Discussion: Building Your Business (373) At the 2026 Midwest Honey Bee Expo, Jeff and Becky briefly introduce a live business-focused panel before turning the conversation over to experienced beekeepers representing different scales of operation, including Kamon Reynolds, John Hill and MHBE Co-Founder, Doug Koltermann. The discussion centers on the realities of running a beekeeping operation in today’s environment. Panelists address audience questions about profitability, input costs, labor, equipment investment, overwintering losses, and adapting management strategies in response to market and environmental pressures. From hobbyist beekeepers considering growth to sideliners and commercial operators evaluating margins, the panel offers candid insight into what it takes to keep colonies healthy while maintaining a sustainable business model. The exchange highlights how regional challenges, varroa pressure, and fluctuating honey markets shape decision-making at every level. Recorded live on the Expo floor, this episode captures both the practical concerns and collaborative spirit of the beekeeping community. Whether you’re running a few colonies or several thousand, the conversation offers perspective on navigating risk, managing costs, and planning for the seasons ahead. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Midwest Honey Bee Expo: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40167590

[Bonus] Colony Necropsy with Dewey (BSD-2) 02/18/2026

[Bonus] Colony Necropsy with Dewey (BSD-2) In this episode of Bee Science with Dewey, Dewey Caron introduces the concept of a colony necropsy—the careful reading of hive debris to understand what is happening inside a honey bee colony without opening the hive. By examining wax particles, pollen fragments, brood remains, mite debris, and other material on the hive floor, beekeepers can diagnose colony health, seasonal progress, and potential stressors with minimal disturbance. Dewey explains how debris patterns change through the year, what normal versus concerning signs look like, and how this simple observational practice can guide smarter management decisions. From overwinter survival clues to early warning signals of brood disease or Varroa pressure, colony necropsy offers a low-cost, low-impact tool available to every beekeeper. This episode reinforces a central theme of the series: good beekeeping begins with careful observation. By learning to interpret what bees leave behind, beekeepers gain insight that supports healthier colonies and more confident seasonal management. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Caron, D.M. 2018 Dead Colony Forensics. Bee Culture Apiary Inspectors of America: Pacific Northwest Honey Bee Survey: Underwood, R and D. M. van Englesdorf. 2007. Colony Collapse Disorder: Have We Seen This Before? American Bee Journal. Beekeeping Today Podcast, Episode 372 with Ray Baxter, "Bottom Up Beekeeping": ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40110260

Bottom Up Beekeeping (372) 02/16/2026

Bottom Up Beekeeping (372) In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff and Becky welcome Scottish beekeeper and author Ray Baxter to explore an often-overlooked source of insight inside the hive—the debris on the bottom board. Ray explains how careful observation of wax flakes, pollen, Varroa fragments, chalkbrood remains, and other materials can reveal colony health, brood cycles, forage history, and stress factors without opening the hive. Drawing on years of microscopy and time-series sampling, Ray shares how studying debris transformed his own beekeeping and inspired his book Bottom-Up Beekeeping. What began as a classroom curiosity with students evolved into long-term research that now tracks seasonal colony patterns and informs more precise hive interventions, including targeted Varroa treatments and identifying brood breaks. The conversation also highlights practical steps any beekeeper can take—such as photographing debris regularly, cleaning inspection boards consistently, and using simple tools like a smartphone or microscope to deepen understanding of colony biology. Ray emphasizes that debris analysis doesn’t replace inspections but adds another valuable layer of information to guide better decisions and reduce unnecessary disturbance to the bees. Whether you’re a new beekeeper curious about IPM boards or an experienced beekeeper seeking deeper biological insight, this discussion opens a new perspective on what the hive floor can teach us about colony survival, nutrition, and seasonal change. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Ray's Book on Amazon: Ray's Book at Northern Bee Books: Ray's Instagram Page: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at 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 , 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. 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 for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: 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 /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/40090340

Archive Special: How To Get Started With Bees - Part 1 (371) 02/09/2026

Archive Special: How To Get Started With Bees - Part 1 (371) It’s no accident that How to Get Started in Beekeeping remains one of the most listened-to episodes in the history of the Beekeeping Today Podcast. In this archive special, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman are joined by Honey Bee Obscura podcast’s Jim Tew, to revisit the fundamentals every new beekeeper should hear—whether you’re truly starting from scratch or beginning again after losses. The conversation opens with an honest look at why people choose to keep bees and why that motivation matters. Beekeeping today is more complex than it once was, but it remains deeply rewarding for those who approach it with curiosity, patience, and realistic expectations. The group emphasizes that losses are part of the learning curve and that success rarely comes from going it alone. A major focus of the episode is location and local knowledge. Bees can be kept in urban, suburban, or rural settings, but understanding forage, neighbors, ordinances, and seasonal conditions is critical. Just as important is finding a mentor or bee buddy—someone who can help interpret what you see, hear, and smell at the hive, especially during that critical first year. The discussion also touches on education, beekeeping clubs, and classes, highlighting how much modern learning resources have improved and why local information often matters more than generalized advice. Whether you’re considering bees for the first time or looking to reset your approach, this episode lays a solid foundation for what comes next in your beekeeping journey. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: How To Get Started with Bees, Part 2: How To Get Started with Bees, Part 3: How To Get Started with Bees, Part 4: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39986985

Queens, DCAs, and Africanized Honey Bees with Chip Taylor and Gard Otis (370) 02/02/2026

Queens, DCAs, and Africanized Honey Bees with Chip Taylor and Gard Otis (370) In this in-depth episode, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Chip Taylor and Gard Otis to continue a wide-ranging discussion that began last summer on queen mating behavior, drone congregation areas (DCAs), and Africanized honey bees. The conversation revisits what science actually tells us about where and how queens mate, challenging the long-held assumption that mating occurs exclusively at DCAs. Chip and Gard explain how radar and genetic studies suggest a far more dynamic system, with drones moving through landscapes and queens exerting more control over mating than previously believed. They explore common misconceptions about mating signs, drone behavior, and pheromonal cues, drawing on classic experiments and more recent research to explain why much of honey bee mating biology remains unresolved. The discussion also highlights how drone density, landscape features, and seasonal changes influence mating success. The episode then turns to Africanized honey bees and their impact on North American beekeeping. Rather than a simple “takeover,” Chip and Gard describe how colony density, climate, feral European bees, and genetic mixing have shaped the spread and behavior of Africanized populations over time. They explain why outcomes in the United States differ from those observed in South America and how these dynamics continue to evolve. The conversation closes with reflections on resilience—both in bees and beekeepers—and a preview of a future episode focused specifically on swarming behavior. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Gard's Paper in Apidologie, "Where Do Honey Bees Mate": Beekeeping Today Podcast - Chip and Gard, Queens, Drones and DCAs: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39945975

Listener Beekeeping Questions (369) 01/26/2026

Listener Beekeeping Questions (369) Listener questions drive some of the most practical and wide-ranging conversations on Beekeeping Today Podcast, and this episode is packed with thoughtful questions from beekeepers at every stage. Jeff and Becky work through a full slate of listener submissions covering mentorship, overwintering decisions, feeding practices, hive tools, monitoring systems, and a few persistent beekeeping myths. The episode opens with a listener question about mentorship—how to make it effective, sustainable, and rewarding for both mentors and new beekeepers. Jeff and Becky discuss setting expectations, encouraging hands-on learning, and building confidence without overwhelming volunteers. From there, the conversation moves into common beginner challenges, including surviving a rough season, dealing with small hive beetles in warmer climates, and improving queen-finding skills without unnecessarily stressing colonies. Jeff and Becky emphasize regional context, local support, and learning from both success and failure. Several feeding-related questions follow, including overwintering with honey supers, the use of fondant as insurance feed, and whether supplemental feeding can contaminate honey supers. Becky offers clear guidance on keeping brood nests intact, avoiding supplemental feed when honey supers are present, and making peace with sacrificing honey for colony survival when necessary. The episode also tackles practical yard questions, like how to stop losing hive tools and whether electronic hive monitoring systems make sense for smaller apiaries. Jeff and Becky share real-world strategies and tools that simplify inspections and improve efficiency. Finally, they address one of the more unusual questions circulating in beekeeping circles—feeding bananas to bees—exploring where the idea came from, what limited research suggests, and why caution and timing matter. It’s a wide-ranging, honest, and practical episode shaped entirely by the questions beekeepers are asking right now. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Beekeeping Today Podcast Bananas for Bees: Research articles mentioning bananas: - - Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39863055

Bonus: Bee Science with Dewey — Clustering and Winter Survival (BSD-1) 01/21/2026

Bonus: Bee Science with Dewey — Clustering and Winter Survival (BSD-1) In this inaugural episode of Bee Science with Dewey Caron, PhD, Dewey takes a close look at one of the most fundamental — and often misunderstood — aspects of honey bee winter biology: clustering. Why do honey bees form a winter cluster, and what actually determines whether a colony survives until spring? Dewey explains how clustering is not simply about staying warm, but about energy efficiency, colony organization, and collective behavior. He walks listeners through how cluster size, food placement, colony population, and environmental conditions interact throughout the winter months. This episode also explores common misconceptions, including the idea that tighter clusters are always better, and how beekeeper interventions — intentional or accidental — can influence winter outcomes. Dewey emphasizes what beekeepers can realistically observe, what remains hidden inside the cluster, and why patience and preparation often matter more than mid-winter hive checks. As the first installment of this new monthly bonus series, Bee Science with Dewey is designed to give beekeepers a reliable, science-based touchpoint they can count on throughout the year. Each episode focuses on a single topic, grounding current beekeeping questions in research, biology, and decades of field experience. New episodes of Bee Science with Dewey will be released on the third Wednesday of each month as a bonus feature of the Beekeeping Today Podcast. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Science Insights Article on Temperature Effects on Honey Bees: Journal of the Royal Society Interface: Mitchell, Derek. 2023. Honeybee cluster—not insulation but stressful heat sink. J R Soc Interface (2023) 20 (208): 20230488 . Beekeeping Today Podcast #293: Etienne Tardif - Hive Insulation and Overwintering - Beekeeping Today Podcast #368: Etienne Tardif - Cold Climate Beekeeping - ______________ Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping. 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 _______________ We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39786340

Cold-Climate Beekeeping and Winter Feeding Insights with Etienne Tardif (368) 01/19/2026

Cold-Climate Beekeeping and Winter Feeding Insights with Etienne Tardif (368) In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back cold-climate beekeeper and data-driven researcher Etienne Tardif, joining the conversation from Canada’s far north. Etienne keeps bees in the Yukon—well above the 60th parallel—where winter temperatures routinely reach extremes few beekeepers ever experience. The discussion begins with a listener question about queen genetics and whether mating across multiple bee lines can combine desirable traits like winter hardiness, rapid spring buildup, and large populations. Becky explores the realities of bee breeding, emphasizing selection over time, the value of diverse genetics within an apiary, and why no single “perfect bee” exists across all environments. From there, the conversation turns to Etienne’s recent observations on winter feeding—particularly how late-season fondant feeding can unexpectedly trigger brood rearing. Drawing on extensive sensor data, including temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels inside his hives, Etienne explains how even small changes in feed availability can shift colony behavior, energy use, and risk during winter. The episode dives deep into practical wintering strategies, including insulation, volume reduction, feeding timing, moisture management, and why mixing wintering methods can sometimes work against the bees. Etienne also explains how debris trays, hive sensors, and even basic microscopy can help beekeepers better understand what’s happening inside the colony without opening hives in cold weather. Whether you keep bees in Alaska, Minnesota, or milder climates, this episode offers a thoughtful, science-informed look at winter preparation, feeding decisions, and how understanding bee biology—rather than reacting to fear—leads to better overwintering success. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Etienne's Website: Etienne's YouTube Channel: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39583845

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 3 (Saturday) 01/11/2026

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 3 (Saturday) Join us for a special series of episodes recorded live from the floor of the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, KY, January 8–10, 2026. Jeff and Becky bring you the latest beekeeping insights, trends, and innovations directly from one of the biggest beekeeping events of the year. Tune in as we chat with industry leaders, researchers, and beekeepers from across the country. Whether you’re attending in person or catching up from home, these episodes will keep you connected to the hive buzz at NAHBE! Stay tuned for insights into the hottest topics in beekeeping, new product launches, and live Q&A from the Expo floor! Listen Today! Websites we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39583805

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 2 (Friday) 01/10/2026

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 2 (Friday) Join us for a special series of episodes recorded live from the floor of the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, KY, January 8–10, 2026. Jeff and Becky bring you the latest beekeeping insights, trends, and innovations directly from one of the biggest beekeeping events of the year. Tune in as we chat with industry leaders, researchers, and beekeepers from across the country. Whether you’re attending in person or catching up from home, these episodes will keep you connected to the hive buzz at NAHBE! Stay tuned for insights into the hottest topics in beekeeping, new product launches, and live Q&A from the Expo floor! Listen Today! Websites we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39583775

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 1 (Thursday) 01/09/2026

[Bonus] North American Honey Bee Expo 2026, Day 1 (Thursday) Join us for a special series of episodes recorded live from the floor of the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, KY, January 8–10, 2026. Jeff and Becky bring you the latest beekeeping insights, trends, and innovations directly from one of the biggest beekeeping events of the year. Tune in as we chat with industry leaders, researchers, and beekeepers from across the country. Whether you’re attending in person or catching up from home, these episodes will keep you connected to the hive buzz at NAHBE! Stay tuned for insights into the hottest topics in beekeeping, new product launches, and live Q&A from the Expo floor! Listen Today! Websites we recommend: Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39583740

Bee Health, Research, and Real-World Beekeeping with Dr. Jeff Pettis (367) 01/05/2026

Bee Health, Research, and Real-World Beekeeping with Dr. Jeff Pettis (367) In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back one of the most influential voices in modern honey bee health research, Dr. Jeff Pettis. A longtime USDA-ARS scientist and former president of Apimondia, Jeff Pettis joins the show to reflect on decades of research while offering a candid look at how he actually keeps bees today. The conversation begins with updates on Jeff’s transition away from Apimondia leadership and into a more focused phase of consulting, mentoring, and hands-on beekeeping. He shares insights from his ongoing work with Tropilaelaps mites, including what recent international research tells us about detection, sampling methods, and treatment options—knowledge that may prove critical if this pest ever establishes in North America. Listeners also hear a rare and refreshing perspective as Jeff opens up about his own beekeeping practices. From using organic acids for varroa management, to feeding strategies, winter preparation, and even his simple “brick system” for hive management, this episode bridges the gap between laboratory science and real-world decision making in the apiary. The discussion rounds out with reflections on the current state of honey bee research, the importance of sustained public investment in science, and why experience in the bee yard still matters—no matter how many papers you’ve published. This is a thoughtful, practical, and occasionally humorous conversation that reminds us why good science and good beekeeping belong together. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: North American Honey Bee Expo (NAHBE): Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39583660

End of Year Wrap-Up: Lessons from 2025 and Looking Ahead (366) 12/29/2025

End of Year Wrap-Up: Lessons from 2025 and Looking Ahead (366) As the year comes to a close, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman are joined by Dr. David Peck for a wide-ranging end-of-year conversation reflecting on the highs, lows, and lessons of beekeeping in 2025. From disruptive winter losses and evolving varroa pressures to promising new tools and treatments on the horizon, this episode takes a clear-eyed look at where beekeeping stands today. The discussion opens with a listener question about siting bee yards, sparking a thoughtful exploration of how to evaluate apiary locations and approach landowners about hosting colonies. Drawing on real-world experience, Jeff, Becky, and David share what actually matters when selecting bee yards, why forage diversity and long-term observation are critical, and how patience—often across multiple seasons—leads to better outcomes. The conversation then turns to the realities of 2025: amitraz resistance, elevated virus levels, and the continued challenge of sustainable overwintering. David offers practical insight into management strategies, including splitting approaches, overwintered nucs, and the importance of controlling varroa to limit viral impacts. The group also highlights emerging tools such as VarroxSan, Api-Bioxal RTU, and Norroa, discussing where they fit into integrated mite management and where expectations should remain realistic. Despite the challenges, the episode closes on an optimistic note. From beekeepers experimenting with comb honey to improved education and collaboration across the community, there’s plenty to look forward to in 2026. It’s a candid, encouraging wrap-up for anyone committed to keeping healthier bees in a changing landscape. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Beescape.net: NASA HoneyBeeNet: North American Honey Bee Expo (NAHBE): Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39533770

Holiday Special with Jim Tew - The Promise of Bees (365) 12/22/2025

Holiday Special with Jim Tew - The Promise of Bees (365) This Holiday Special episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast brings together Jeff Ott, Becky Masterman, and Dr. Jim Tew from Honey Bee Obscura, for a warm, thoughtful conversation about bees, beekeeping, and reflection during Christmas week. With a special Santa Claus opener returning for another year, the episode sets a festive tone before settling into practical winter-season observations and the deeper meaning beekeeping brings this time of year. Jim shares insights into what honey bees are doing right now in winter clusters, how beekeepers can read subtle signs of life without opening hives, and why snow can sometimes be one of the best indicators of colony survival. Becky adds perspective from northern beekeeping, discussing winter brood patterns, cleansing flights, and emerging research on winter brood rearing across the U.S. Jeff rounds out the discussion with observations from sensor data and technology-assisted hive monitoring, prompting a lively exchange on tradition versus modern tools. The episode also explores the emotional side of winter losses, beekeeper intuition, and the responsibility felt when colonies don’t survive. Listener questions spark deeper discussion about how bees sense temperature and make life-or-death decisions in cold weather, reminding us how much there is still to learn about the superorganism. To close, the hosts look ahead to the North American Honey Bee Expo, thank the sponsors who make the podcast possible, and reflect on the “promise of bees” as a symbol of renewal, resilience, and hope heading into the new year. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: North American Honey Bee Expo (NAHBE): Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39459385

[Bonus] Short - Hive Debris Analysis with Dr. Dewey Caron 12/17/2025

[Bonus] Short - Hive Debris Analysis with Dr. Dewey Caron In this December Beekeeping Today Short, Dr. Dewey Caron offers a fascinating look at what our bees communicate through something we often ignore: hive debris. This episode continues Dewey’s ongoing monthly exploration of honey bee communication—bridging bee science, beekeeper decisions, and the bees’ own intricate signals. Drawing from his upcoming American Bee Journal review and the new book Bottom-Up Beekeeping by Ray Baxter, Dewey explains how debris boards can reveal far more than mite counts. From colony size and cluster position to brood activity, queen events, moisture issues, pollen usage, and even pest signatures, hive “trash” becomes a rich source of insights. Dewey also highlights practical techniques taught by Christine Kurtz, the “Petaluma Bee Lady,” whose debris-reading presentations have inspired many beekeepers to add this tool to their regular management. The episode closes with a deep dive into undertaker bees—how they detect death inside the hive, the chemical cues involved, and the essential role these workers play in colony hygiene. This Short offers a thoughtful preview of what listeners can expect when Dewey launches his new monthly mini-series Bee Science with Dr. Dewey Caron in January. It’s practical, insightful, and rooted in research—perfect for beekeepers looking to understand their colonies from the bottom up. Links and references mentioned in this episode: Petaluma Bee Lady: Paul Seifert Hive Recordings: Ray Baxte, Bottom-Up Beekeeping: Learning from the Debris on the Hive Floor, 2025 Northern Bee Books. Undertaker Bee Study: Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping. ______________ 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 ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39359680

Bees First, Honey Second with AJ & Chryssa Gardner (364) 12/15/2025

Bees First, Honey Second with AJ & Chryssa Gardner (364) This week on Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome AJ and Chryssa Gardner of REBEL44 to discuss an approach to beekeeping rooted in stewardship rather than production. What began as a small garden project quickly evolved into a carefully managed sideline operation now spanning multiple apiaries and more than a hundred colonies. AJ shares how observing bee behavior—and listening closely to what the bees “tell you”—shaped his management philosophy. Rather than focusing on maximizing honey yields, AJ emphasizes nutrition, gentle genetics, low mite pressure, and allowing colonies to overwinter on their own terms. That mindset has led to remarkable overwintering success and strong, resilient colonies. Chryssa adds an important perspective on food systems, honey authenticity, and why knowing the beekeeper behind the honey matters. Together, they explain how REBEL44 produces hyper-local, varietal honeys, harvested in short nectar windows that capture the unique character of specific plants, locations, and seasons. From blackberry to Japanese knotweed, each harvest tells a story. The conversation also explores their immersive educational experiences, where families, beginners, and even corporate groups suit up, step into the apiary, and reconnect with nature. AJ describes how these hands-on visits often change how people think about bees, food, and stewardship. This episode is a reminder that when beekeepers slow down, observe, and put bees first, the rewards—healthy colonies, meaningful education, and exceptional honey—follow naturally. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Rebel44 Website: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39360010

Changes at BroodMinder (363) 12/08/2025

Changes at BroodMinder (363) BroodMinder has become one of the most trusted names in hive monitoring, and in this episode the team joins Jeff and Becky to share big news, new directions, and surprising insights from the field. Founder Rich Morris, software lead Amanda Stoltz, and global collaborator Lorenzo Pons sit down together during the BroodMinder Global Summit to talk about how the company has evolved, how beekeepers use hive data today, and what’s ahead for sensor-based management. Rich reflects on nearly a decade of development—from early temperature sensors to today’s multi-sensor hive ecosystem. Amanda, stepping into a new leadership role, talks about improving the user experience, the move toward mobile-first viewing, and how BroodMinder is balancing innovation with accessibility for beekeepers at all levels. Lorenzo brings a global perspective, describing how sensors help European beekeepers manage pollination services and adapt to rising hornet pressure. Together, the team explains why simple temperature sensors remain one of the most valuable tools for understanding colony health, how hive scales help track forage conditions, and how new technologies may soon support beekeepers in detecting varroa and hornet threats in real time. They also offer a candid look at designing products beekeepers can trust, balancing subscription models with affordability, and the humorous but real “Chart Addiction Club” that forms once beekeepers start watching their colonies’ data more closely than ever. Whether you’re considering your first sensor or already monitoring colonies remotely, this conversation offers a clear, grounded look at how data tools are expanding what beekeepers can understand without opening a hive—and introduces the people shaping that future. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: BroodMinder website: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39307855

Honey Bee Viruses with Declan Schroeder (362) 12/01/2025

Honey Bee Viruses with Declan Schroeder (362) This week on Beekeeping Today Podcast, Becky welcomes guest co-host Bridget Mendel as they sit down with virologist Dr. Declan Schroeder from the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Together, they explore the unseen world of honey bee viruses—how they evolve, how they spread, and why understanding them is essential for modern beekeeping. Declan brings a fresh perspective to virus ecology, sharing how his early research on marine viruses led him into honey bee health just as colony losses began escalating worldwide. He describes why viruses were overlooked for so long and how the arrival of Varroa shifted viral dynamics from background agents to major colony-level threats. Becky and Bridget dig into what this means for beekeepers: why Varroa management remains the cornerstone of reducing virus pressure, how viruses move within and between colonies, and what new research is revealing about potential spillover concerns between honey bees and native bees. Declan discusses findings from a multi-year Minnesota study showing that while bumblebees may encounter honey bee viruses, they are rarely infected—an important distinction in ongoing conservation conversations. The discussion wraps with a look ahead: evolving virus–vector interactions, improved surveillance efforts, and the growing role of researchers and veterinarians in supporting beekeeper decision-making. It’s an engaging, approachable dive into a complex subject—one that every beekeeper will benefit from hearing. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: University of Minnesota Schroeder Bee Lab: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: 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 . Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39204180

BeeCAUSE Alliance with Charlie Linder (361) 11/24/2025

BeeCAUSE Alliance with Charlie Linder (361) This week, we’re taking a close look at the future of beekeeping advocacy with BeeCAUSE Alliance, a new organization focused on industry collaboration, communication, and support. Our guest, Charlie Linder, shares how his years in commercial beekeeping, queen breeding, and honey production shaped his perspective on what beekeepers need most—and why building stronger relationships across the industry is becoming increasingly important. In this conversation, Charlie explains BeeCAUSE Alliance’s mission, its role alongside longstanding groups, and how their work aims to strengthen beekeeper education, legislative awareness, and the public’s understanding of honey bees. The focus keyphrase BeeCAUSE Alliance sits at the heart of the episode, as Charlie talks through the motivation behind forming the group, the challenges facing today’s beekeepers, and the opportunities to unite voices across beekeeping’s many sectors. We also explore Charlie’s personal path into beekeeping, the operations he runs today, and how he balances time in the bee yard with a growing leadership role. For anyone curious about how organizations shape the future of our industry—or what it really takes to launch a new national initiative—this conversation offers insight and thoughtful perspective. As always, thanks for listening. We appreciate your support of the Beekeeping Today Podcast and the work we do to inform, educate, and connect beekeepers everywhere. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: BeeCAUSE Alliance: Beekeeping Today: The Book - Photo Requests - . Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Give your bees a boost with HiveAlive! Proven to increase bee health, honey yield, and overwinter survival, HiveAlive’s unique formula includes seaweed, thyme, and lemongrass, making it easy to feed. Choose from HiveAlive’s Fondant Patties, High-Performance Pollen Patties, or EZ Feed Super Syrup—ready-to-use options for busy beekeepers. Buy locally or online. 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 . Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39062465

Molly Quade: Fighting Varroa with Fungi (360) 11/17/2025

Molly Quade: Fighting Varroa with Fungi (360) Honey bees continue to face shifting pressures from pests, and few are as relentless as varroa mites. In this episode, Jeff and Becky talk with Washington State University graduate student Molly Quade, whose research into fighting varroa with fungi offers a promising biological alternative to traditional mite treatments. Molly studies entomopathogenic fungi—especially Metarhizium species—which naturally infect arthropods and are already used in agriculture for pest management. Her work centers on finding fungal strains that can tolerate the warm environment of a honey bee colony, one of the biggest barriers to making fungus-based varroa control viable. Through strain selection and thermal tolerance testing, Molly and her colleagues are working toward biological tools that could function inside a living hive. The conversation breaks down how fungi infect varroa without harming bees, why biological treatments may reduce resistance issues, and the practical challenges of delivering fungal spores inside the hive. Molly also shares insights on fungal interactions with bee immunity and how wax moth larvae unexpectedly support early-stage testing. For beekeepers searching for future tools to manage mites more sustainably, this episode offers a clear, engaging look at one of the most innovative research directions underway today. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Washington State University Honey Bees & Pollinator Program: Molly's WSU Presentation, "Entomopathogenic Metarhizium for Varroa Control" on YouTube: Beekeeping Today: The Book - Photo Requests - . Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Project Apis m. (PAm): Honey Bee Health Coalition: The National Honey Board: Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC ______________ 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 This episode is brought to you by ! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! Thanks to as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Give your bees a boost with HiveAlive! Proven to increase bee health, honey yield, and overwinter survival, HiveAlive’s unique formula includes seaweed, thyme, and lemongrass, making it easy to feed. Choose from HiveAlive’s Fondant Patties, High-Performance Pollen Patties, or EZ Feed Super Syrup—ready-to-use options for busy beekeepers. Buy locally or online. 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 . Thanks to for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our episode and from their website: Thanks for 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: Thank you for listening! Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott. Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/39050075

[Bonus] Short: Communication in Bees and Beekeepers with Dr. Dewey Caron 11/14/2025

[Bonus] Short: Communication in Bees and Beekeepers with Dr. Dewey Caron In this month’s Beekeeping Today Podcast Short with Dr. Dewey Caron, he reflects on the many ways communication connects us — from human language to honey bee behavior. Recorded following the Oregon State Beekeepers Association’s annual meeting, Dewey explores communication on three levels: between bee scientists and beekeepers, between beekeepers and their bees, and among bees themselves. He compares human verbal, nonverbal, and written communication to the complex systems found in honey bee societies, including the famous waggle dance and the chemical cues that govern colony behavior. Dewey also shares new research from the University of Minnesota, which suggests that the protein vitellogenin may play a role in how colonies prepare to swarm — possibly acting as part of their “language” of reproduction. The discussion underscores how understanding bee communication helps us become better communicators as beekeepers, recognizing the cues our colonies send before swarming begins. As Dewey reminds us, communication is a two-way street: “We need to understand what our bees are saying and better refine what we’re asking of them.” Links and references mentioned in this episode: Klett, Katrina, Kate Ihie, Michael Simone-Finstrome and Marla Spivak. 2025. Vitellogenin plays a role in regulating honey bee swarming. 15, 36569. (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-20547-z ) Note: Kate Ihir and Michael Simone-Finstrome now at USDA Baton Rouge Bee lab) Seeley, Thomas D. 2024. Piping Hot Bees and Boisterous Buzz Runners. Princeton Univ Press The Language Doctors - University of Minnesota Bee Research Lab – Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping. ______________ 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 ** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/beekeepingtodaypodcast/id/38950915

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