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.
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Shaping the Future of Beekeeping with Kamon Reynolds (351)
09/15/2025
Shaping the Future of Beekeeping with Kamon Reynolds (351)
In this episode, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome back Kamon Reynolds, Tennessee beekeeper and founder of the North American Honeybee Expo (NAHBE). Kamon shares how he balances managing over 150 colonies with organizing one of the largest beekeeping events in North America. Kamon discusses the logistics of moving bees to Wisconsin for basswood honey flows, keeping mite loads low through early-season oxalic acid slow release treatments, and maintaining young queens to build resilient colonies. He reflects on the challenges of dearth periods in the South, creative solutions like late splits and comb drawing, and the lessons learned from experimenting with migratory beekeeping. The conversation shifts to NAHBE’s growth and its role in shaping the future of the industry—highlighting innovation, connecting vendors with beekeepers, and inspiring a new generation of apiarists through outreach to FFA (Future Farmers of America). The next expo takes place January 8–10, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky, with expanded workshops and more vendor engagement opportunities. If you’ve ever considered attending NAHBE or want insight into sideline beekeeping, queen management, or the state of the industry, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for beekeepers at every level. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: North American Honey Bee Expo: Kamon's YouTube Channel: 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. 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
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[Bonus] Short - Dr. Dewey Caron: Fat Bees and Overwintering Success
09/10/2025
[Bonus] Short - Dr. Dewey Caron: Fat Bees and Overwintering Success
In this BTP Short, Dr. Dewey Caron shares another of his “audio postcards,” this time exploring the critical role of fat bees—also known as diutinus bees—in helping colonies survive winter. Dewey explains how these long-lived worker bees differ from their summer sisters, with enlarged fat bodies, higher protein reserves, and lower juvenile hormone levels, all tied to the key blood protein vitellogenin. Drawing on published research papers, Dewey highlights how environmental cues such as declining pollen, temperature, and daylight trigger the production of winter bees, and how clustering helps colonies thermoregulate through the cold months. He emphasizes that strong, heavy colonies going into winter are far more likely to survive than weak or light ones. For beekeepers, Dewey stresses the importance of continuous Varroa control throughout the season, fall feeding to ensure sufficient carbohydrate and protein stores, and combining weaker units when necessary. He also discusses drone eviction, stock influences, and climate change modeling that suggests warmer falls may disrupt the balance of winter bee production and survival. This episode provides science-based insights and practical recommendations to help beekeepers communicate with their colonies—ensuring not only fat bees, but fat, well-prepared colonies for overwintering success. Websites and Links mention in the episode: Dewey's Book, Honey Bee Biology and Beekeeping, 3rd Edition: Döke, Mehmet A. M. Frazier, and C. Grozinger, 2015 “Overwintering honey bees: biology and management,” Current Opinion in Insect Science. Mehmet Ali Döke, Christina M. Grozinger. 2017. Döke, Mehmet Ali, CM McGrady, M. Otieno, CM Grozinger, M Frazier. 2019. . J. Econ. Entomology 112 (2), 525-533, DOI: Stephanie Feliciano-Cardona, †Mehmet Ali Döke, Janpierre Ale man,Jose Luis Agosto-Rivera. Christina M. Grozinger and Tugrul Giray 2020. Honey Bees in the Tropics Show Winter Bee-Like Longevity in Response to Seasonal Dearth and Brood Reduction. Front. Ecol. Evol., 8. Somerville, Doug (2005) Fat Bees Skinny Bees, A manual on honey bee nutrition for beekeepers., Australia. Available on the Web at Kirti Rajagopalan, Gloria DeGrandi-Hoffman, Matthew Pruett, Vincent P. Jones, Vanessa Corby-Harris, Julien Pireaud, Robert Curry, Brandon Hopkins & Tobin D. Northfield. 2024. Warmer autumns and winters could reduce honey bee overwintering survival with potential risks for pollination services. volume 14, Article number: 5410 (2024) For homework Ashley L. St. Clair , Nathanael J. Beach, Adam G. Dolezal. 2022. Honey bee hive covers reduce food consumption and colony mortality during overwintering. Plos One. SBGM videos: 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
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Top-Bar Beekeeping with Vikki Atkinson (350)
09/08/2025
Top-Bar Beekeeping with Vikki Atkinson (350)
In this milestone 350th episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Vikki Atkinson of Pennsylvania to share her deep experience managing over 100 Top-Bar hives. Vikki walks listeners through the unique design of Top-Bar hives, from follower boards and shims to the angled sides that encourage natural comb building. She explains how handling bars like a “steering wheel” prevents comb breakage, and why level placement is critical to success. With candor and clarity, she outlines both the advantages—lighter lifts, less colony disturbance, and beautiful natural comb—and the challenges, including cross-comb management and the lack of standardized equipment. The discussion ranges from honey harvest methods (from crush-and-strain to using extractors with creative adaptations) to overwintering strategies with rigid insulation, to managing Varroa through genetics, VSH queens, and careful testing. Vikki shares how she transitioned from a beginner fascinated by Les Crowder’s book to running a thriving Top-Bar operation and mentoring others. Whether you’re curious about trying a Top-Bar hive, or simply want fresh insights into honey bee biology beyond Langstroth boxes, this conversation offers practical lessons, inspiration, and a celebration of the diversity of modern beekeeping. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Wes Crowder's Book on Top-Bar Beekeeping: 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. 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
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[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatments - ApiLife Var and Apiguard
09/05/2025
[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatments - ApiLife Var and Apiguard
In this Varroa Treatment Short, Jeff and Becky are joined once again by Dr. David Peck of BetterBee to discuss two thymol-based mite control options: ApiLife Var and Apiguard . Both products rely on the essential oil thymol, but differ in formulation and delivery. ApiLife Var comes as wafers containing thymol along with eucalyptus oil, menthol, and camphor, while Apiguard is a gel tray or gel-applied product containing thymol alone. While both products are gentle on bees and effective against Varroa mites, they require multiple applications over several weeks and are best suited for broodless colonies or fall treatments. Listeners will also learn about potential honey contamination risks, flavor changes in comb, and why residue awareness is critical when frames move between brood boxes and supers. This episode highlights the pros and cons of ApiLife Var and Apiguard, helping beekeepers understand where these thymol-based treatments fit into an integrated pest management plan. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - HiveAlive with Dara Scott: Winter Survival Insights
09/03/2025
[Bonus] Short - HiveAlive with Dara Scott: Winter Survival Insights
In this BTP Short, Jeff and Becky welcome back Dara Scott of HiveAlive to share the results of a recent customer survey on overwintering success during the devastating 2024–25 winter. While national losses reported by Project Apis m averaged around 60%, HiveAlive users reported losses less than half that rate—about 23%. Dara explains how HiveAlive’s unique seaweed extract, combined with lemongrass and thymol, helps support colony health, reduce Nosema levels, and improve overwintering outcomes. The conversation also touches on HiveAlive’s origin story, the science behind seaweed extracts in animal nutrition, and the importance of fall feeding to maximize health benefits throughout winter. Dara and Becky discuss survey methodology, beekeeper management styles, and surprising findings—such as queen losses being the most common challenge among otherwise well-managed colonies. Listeners will also hear about HiveAlive’s customer newsletter and Dara’s plans to make complex research more accessible to everyday beekeepers. This episode highlights both the science and the beekeeper experiences that make HiveAlive a compelling option for supporting colony survival and strength. Websites and Links mention in the episode: HiveAlive Winter Survival Survey - 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Bee Great with David Mullins (349)
09/01/2025
Bee Great with David Mullins (349)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Dave Mullins of Bee Great, based in Churubusco, Indiana. Dave shares how a hobby with his father in 2014 grew into a dynamic beekeeping business now managing 150 hives, a thriving retail store, and a diverse line of honey and bee-inspired products. From flavored honeys and goat milk soaps to international exports, Bee Great has become a model of creativity and adaptability in the beekeeping world . Dave describes his journey from professor to full-time beekeeper and entrepreneur, offering candid insights into product development, branding, and customer service. He discusses lessons learned at farmers markets, the importance of transparency in labeling, and how community support during the COVID pandemic helped sustain and grow the business. He also reflects on balancing innovation—like Cajun and wasabi hot honey—with the challenges of scaling responsibly while staying true to a family-centered mission. Listeners will find inspiration in Dave’s story of persistence, ingenuity, and passion for bees. His experiences highlight the possibilities—and realities—of turning beekeeping into a business while still keeping the heart of the practice rooted in service, education, and connection. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Dave's Website for His Store: 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. 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatments - HopGuard 3
08/29/2025
[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatments - HopGuard 3
In this Varroa Treatment Short, Jeff and Becky are joined by Dr. David Peck of BetterBee to discuss HopGuard 3, the latest version of this organically derived mite control option. The conversation covers the product’s evolution from earlier formulations, its active ingredient (hops beta acids), and what makes it safe to use even with honey supers in place. The discussion highlights the pros—organic origins, safe with honey, rotation potential—and the cons, including its limited effectiveness during brood periods and relatively high cost. Listeners will also hear practical guidance on when HopGuard 3 is most effective, such as during broodless periods or engineered brood breaks, and how it can serve as a rotational tool in an Integrated Pest Management strategy. While not the most potent treatment available, HopGuard 3 remains an important option for beekeepers looking to diversify their approach to Varroa management. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Dave McComb: From One Hive to a Thriving Beekeeping Business (348)
08/25/2025
Dave McComb: From One Hive to a Thriving Beekeeping Business (348)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome Indiana beekeeper Dave McComb to share his journey from inheriting one defensive hive in 2018 to managing over 100 colonies, producing honey, nucs, and queens with remarkable success. Dave explains how he quickly immersed himself in beekeeping education, adopted single-deep hive management, and built an operation known for exceptionally low winter losses. Beyond management techniques, Dave opens up about his business growth, from building a website and learning social media outreach to creating innovative honey products—like single-serve honey packets for athletes, inspired by his years as a competitive cyclist. He also discusses the value of honey shows, where his award-winning creamed honey has earned recognition at the state, national, and ABF levels. Whether you’re curious about improving colony survival, queen management, or expanding your beekeeping into a thriving sideline business, Dave’s story is full of inspiration and practical takeaways. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Dave McComb's Apiary Website: Indiana Queen Breeders Assn: BTP Episode with Randy Oliver: 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: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Dr. Lewis Bartlett - The Evolving Challenges Beekeepers Face (347)
08/18/2025
Dr. Lewis Bartlett - The Evolving Challenges Beekeepers Face (347)
Dr. Lewis Bartlett returns to Beekeeping Today Podcast to share the latest science on honey bee health, pest management, and the evolving challenges beekeepers face worldwide. In this wide-ranging conversation, Lewis dives into how shifting climates, global trade, and emerging pests are reshaping the landscape for beekeeping. He explores the role of integrated pest management, the importance of genetic diversity in colonies, and why maintaining flexibility is essential for long-term success. A highlight of the discussion focuses on the yellow-legged hornet — a newly arrived invasive predator in the U.S. Lewis explains its biology, how it differs from the Asian giant hornet, and what early detection efforts are underway to prevent it from establishing. He emphasizes the need for beekeeper vigilance and public reporting to help slow its spread before it becomes a permanent threat to honey bees and native pollinators. Listeners will also gain insights into how research priorities are shifting in response to these challenges, and how beekeepers can take actionable steps today to prepare for tomorrow’s realities. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: University of Georgia 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: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatment Options - Formic Acid
08/13/2025
[Bonus] Short: Varroa Treatment Options - Formic Acid
In this Varroa Treatments short, Jeff Ott and co-host Dr. Becky Masterman welcome Dr. David Peck from Betterbee to discuss formic acid—a powerful tool in the fight against varroa mites. David explains how Formic Pro, the most common formic acid product now available in the U.S., is formulated to safely release vapors that penetrate capped brood cells, killing mites both on adult bees and developing brood. David and Becky highlight both the strengths and cautions: formic acid’s ability to deliver a fast, thorough mite knockdown, its temperature sensitivity, and its potential to cause temporary brood loss or even queen replacement in stressed colonies. They emphasize protective gear, ventilation requirements, and why strong colonies benefit most from treatment. From freezer tricks to reduce fumes, to understanding normal bee behaviors like bearding after application, this episode gives beekeepers the knowledge to use formic acid effectively and safely—making it a valuable addition to a year-round mite management plan. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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John Miller - Swimming with Piranha (346)
08/11/2025
John Miller - Swimming with Piranha (346)
In this week’s episode, Jeff and Becky welcome back fourth-generation commercial beekeeper John Miller for a candid conversation about the challenges—and potential—facing the beekeeping industry today. With his decades of experience and generational insight, John doesn’t hold back on concerns about low honey prices, rising input costs, invasive pests like tropilaelaps, and the closure of critical research facilities like USDA’s Beltsville Bee Lab. John offers a front-line view of what it means to be a commercial beekeeper in 2025 and why he describes the current moment as “swimming with piranha.” He also speaks passionately about the importance of collaboration across beekeeper “silos”—commercial, sideliner, and hobbyist alike—and about the hope he sees in new leadership, community engagement, and research-backed innovation through organizations like Project Apis m. Whether you manage a few colonies or a few thousand, this episode offers a sobering but motivating reminder of the shared challenges beekeepers face—and why now is the time to come together and act. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Miller Honey Farms: 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: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short: Dr. Dewey Caron - Mite Management and Bee Learning Breakthroughs
08/06/2025
[Bonus] Short: Dr. Dewey Caron - Mite Management and Bee Learning Breakthroughs
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Dr. Dewey Caron returns with his monthly audio postcard—this time focused on August mite management and a remarkable discovery about honey bee learning. Dewey reminds beekeepers that August is a critical month to monitor and treat for varroa mites before their populations explode. He shares updates on new and emerging treatments, including Norroa (a dsRNA-based biopesticide), Mite Bee Gone (L-glutamic acid strips), and Apivar 2.0, as well as best practices for applying oxalic acid extended release strips like VarroxSan. Dewey shifts from mites to mind-blowing research on bee communication. Drawing on the work of Dr. James Nieh, he explains how the waggle dance—used by bees to communicate foraging locations—is learned through social exposure, similar to how birds and humans acquire language. This study, featured in Science, marks the first demonstration of social learning in insect spatial communication. This episode blends practical mite management insights with inspiring science, all in under 20 minutes. Stay proactive. Plan your treatments. And appreciate the depth of honey bee intelligence. Links & Resources: Overviews of mite control: Beekeeping Today Podcast Shorts on Varroa Treatments: University of Massachusetts Extension Flyer on Varroa: NY Bee Wellness presentation of Dr David Peck of BetterBee Veto Pharma (makers fo Apivar 2.0 and Apiguard and Varroa Easy Check sampling device) has 2 informative, nicely illustrated flyers: Integrated varroa mite management throughout the seasons - Varroa Mite Biology - VitaBee Health products (makers of VarroxSan, VARROCheck sampling jar and Vita feed supplements) - MiteBeeGone: Additional Resouces Thomas A. O’Shea-Wheller, Asia Hall, Kirsty Stainton, Victoria Tomkies, Giles E. Budge, Selwyn Wilkins and Ben Jones. 2025. A large-scale study of Varroa destructor treatment adherence in apiculture. Entomologia Generalis.DOI: 10.1127/entomologia/2024/2758 Reports on oxalic acid effectiveness from Canada Quebec: and Ontario: Science article on social learning in Dance Language YouTube presentation at 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Yellow Jackets with Dr. Richard Zack (345)
08/04/2025
Yellow Jackets with Dr. Richard Zack (345)
Late summer brings not just honey harvests but also the return of yellow jackets. For many beekeepers, their sudden appearance can spark concern—or outright dread—around the bee yard. In this episode, Jeff and Becky sit down with Dr. Richard Zack, professor of entomology at Washington State University, to unpack the truth about these misunderstood wasps. Rich shares fascinating insights into yellow jacket biology, their annual colony cycle, and why they turn up at apiaries during nectar dearth. He explains the differences between yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, and honey bees, and why their carnivorous diets can actually make them beneficial predators in many ecosystems. The conversation covers practical tips for beekeepers, including seasonal control strategies, entrance reduction, and why strong honey bee colonies can easily fend off these opportunistic scavengers. By the end, you may look at yellow jackets a little differently—as part of the natural balance rather than the enemy of your hives. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Referenced BTP Episode with Yellow Jacket Collector Zach Techner: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Oxalic Acid (OAV and Dribble)
08/01/2025
[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Oxalic Acid (OAV and Dribble)
In this installment of the Varroa Treatment Series, Jeff and Becky welcome Dr. David Peck of BetterBee to discuss oxalic acid treatments, one of the most widely used organic options for controlling Varroa mites. The conversation explores both oxalic acid vaporization (OAV) and the dribble method, breaking down how each is applied, safety considerations, and when they are most effective. David explains the differences between registered products like Api-Bioxal and EZ-OX, recent label updates allowing higher dosages, and practical tips for using each method safely—particularly the critical need for proper respiratory and eye protection with vaporization. He also shares insights into when broodless periods provide the greatest impact, why oxalic acid poses minimal risk to bees but requires careful handling by beekeepers, and what research still doesn’t know about how this acid kills mites. This episode is an essential listen for beekeepers looking to add oxalic acid—whether dribble or vaporization—to their integrated mite management toolkit. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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UK National Honey Show – History, Traditions & Global Impact (344)
07/28/2025
UK National Honey Show – History, Traditions & Global Impact (344)
The UK’s National Honey Show is the world’s largest and most prestigious honey show, drawing beekeepers and entries from across the globe. In this episode, Jeff and Becky talk with Bob Mauer, current chairman of the show, about its remarkable 102-year history, its roots at the Crystal Palace, and the traditions that have helped it grow into an international event. Bob shares how the show combines competitive honey judging with practical workshops, lectures from leading experts, and a vibrant trade hall. He explains what it takes to organize 2,500 entries across 240 honey, wax, and mead classes, along with photography, microscopy, and decorative displays. Listeners will also learn about the challenges of transporting honey from abroad, the rigorous standards judges apply, and the welcoming community that keeps the show thriving. Whether you’re curious about entering your first honey show or adding this renowned event to your beekeeping bucket list, this conversation offers an inside look at what makes the UK National Honey Show so unique. The 2025 show will be held October 23–25 at Sandown Park in Surrey. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: The National Honey Show website: The Wax Chandlers: Referenced BTP Episode with Stephanie Slater: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Amitraz aka Apivar
07/25/2025
[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Amitraz aka Apivar
In this BTPS Varroa Treatments short, Jeff and Becky are joined again by Dr. David Peck of Betterbee to explore amitraz—known commercially to most U.S. beekeepers as Apivar. As a synthetic miticide, Apivar has long been a cornerstone of mite control due to its effectiveness, wide temperature range, and bee-friendly properties. But as with many tools in the beekeeper’s arsenal, its strength may also be its vulnerability. David explains how amitraz works by overstimulating the varroa mite’s nervous system, effectively paralyzing and killing the parasite while leaving bees largely unaffected. The treatment avoids comb contamination and breaks down quickly in the hive, making it an appealing option for many beekeepers—especially in late summer or early fall once honey supers are removed. However, the discussion also delves into growing concerns about resistance. Increasing reports, particularly from commercial operations, suggest amitraz is not as effective as it once was. Resistance genes in varroa populations have been linked to recent large-scale colony losses, and misuse or overuse of the chemical—including unapproved, home-mixed applications—may be accelerating the issue. The takeaway? Apivar can still be a reliable tool when used properly, but its effectiveness isn’t guaranteed. Rotating treatments, testing for mites, and monitoring efficacy are essential. This episode highlights not only the promise of amitraz but also the need for responsible stewardship of every miticide in the beekeeper’s toolbox. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Honey with Dr. Dewey Caron
07/22/2025
[Bonus] Short - Honey with Dr. Dewey Caron
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Dr. Dewey Caron returns with another insightful “audio postcard,” this time exploring the marvel of honey—its meaning for honey bees, its significance for beekeepers, and its surprising impact on human health. Dewey begins by examining how we define honey, touching on both scientific and regulatory perspectives, including recent efforts like the proposed Honey Integrity Act. He then dives into how honey is processed by bees—from nectar foraging to enzyme transformation and evaporation—highlighting the bee-to-bee communication system of trophallaxis that powers the hive’s food-sharing network. Beyond the hive, Dewey explores honey’s powerful medicinal properties. Drawing from a comprehensive mega-review of over 100 studies, he outlines honey’s antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even anti-cancer effects, with a focus on manuka honey’s growing use in clinical wound care. Finally, he turns the spotlight on beekeeper-to-bee communication—urging beekeepers to proactively manage supers and recognize nectar flows to support colony health and maximize harvest. Whether you’re fascinated by bee biology or interested in honey as a functional food, this episode is packed with sweet insight. Links & Resources: , and , 2017. Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. Pharmacognosy Res. Apr-Jun;9(2):121– 27. doi: Crailsheim, Craig, 1998. Trophallactic interactions in the adult honeybee (Apis mellifera L). Collison, Clarence 2017. Trophallaxis. Bee Culture Tezze, A.A. and W.M. Farina 1999. Trophallaxis in the honeybee, Apis mellifera: the interactions between viscosity and sucrose concentration of the transferred solution. Anim. Behav. 57: 1319-1326. 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Dr. Steve Pernal: Varroa Mite Research (343)
07/21/2025
Dr. Steve Pernal: Varroa Mite Research (343)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky speak with Dr. Steve Pernal, research scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, about his team’s recent work monitoring Varroa destructor populations and treatment efficacy across Canada. As varroa continues to be the leading driver of colony mortality, Steve and his colleagues are collecting long-term data on mite levels, reinfestation rates, and treatment performance across a wide range of beekeeping operations. Steve shares insights from national monitoring efforts, including surprising findings on how quickly mites can rebound after treatment and the complexities of interpreting mite counts in commercial yards. The conversation covers regional differences in resistance development, what’s known (and unknown) about reinfestation, and why simply applying treatments may no longer be enough to manage mites sustainably. This episode offers a grounded, research-informed look at varroa management—what’s working, where the gaps are, and what Canadian researchers are doing to equip beekeepers with better tools and knowledge. Whether you run a few hives or a thousand, you’ll walk away with fresh insights on what to watch for in your own operation. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Referenced BTP Episode with Dr. Erika Plettner: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatments: Apistan & Checkmite+
07/18/2025
[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatments: Apistan & Checkmite+
In this Varroa Treatments Short, Jeff and Becky are once again joined by Dr. David Peck of Betterbee to examine two early weapons in the war against varroa: Apistan and CheckMite+. These synthetic miticides—fluvalinate and coumaphos—once gave beekeepers a critical lifeline when varroa first emerged in U.S. apiaries in the late 1980s. But what started as a breakthrough quickly turned into a warning tale of overuse, resistance, and long-lasting chemical residues. David walks us through the history of these treatments, how their effectiveness faded with repeated use, and what their legacy teaches us about the importance of rotating miticides in integrated pest management (IPM). Although still available, neither Apistan nor CheckMite+ are commonly recommended today due to widespread resistance and the risk of beeswax contamination. David also discusses their potential relevance in places like Madagascar—where resistance hasn’t yet developed—and their limited role in research targeting future threats like Tropilaelaps mites. This episode is a reminder that while tools may lose their edge, the lessons they leave behind are invaluable for today’s beekeepers navigating the ever-evolving varroa landscape. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Queens, Drones and DCA's with Chip and Gard (342)
07/14/2025
Queens, Drones and DCA's with Chip and Gard (342)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome researchers Dr. Orley “Chip” Taylor and Dr. Gard Otis to discuss their fascinating work on drone congregation areas (DCAs)—the mysterious gathering points where honey bee drones meet virgin queens for mating. The conversation explores how DCAs are located, the behavioral cues that guide drones, and what these sites can tell us about colony genetics, health, and evolution. Drawing from decades of fieldwork and scientific inquiry, Chip and Gard share insights into how these high-stakes mating events unfold, what makes a DCA stable over time, and why understanding these areas is important for breeders and beekeepers alike. They also reflect on the challenges of observing this elusive part of the honey bee life cycle and share stories from their field studies across North America and beyond. This episode offers a rare window into a little-understood but critical aspect of honey bee biology. Whether you’re a backyard beekeeper curious about queen mating or a researcher interested in honey bee genetics, this conversation deepens our understanding of what happens when drones take flight. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Varroxsan
07/11/2025
[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Varroxsan
In this episode of our BTP Shorts series on varroa treatments, Jeff and Becky welcome back Dr. David Peck of Betterbee to explore VarroxSan—an extended-release oxalic acid strip used to manage varroa mites. David explains how this USDA-registered product works, its origins in South American formulations like Aluen CAP, and why its slow-release delivery makes it a valuable tool for maintaining mite levels throughout the brood cycle. Oxalic acid, a naturally occurring organic acid, is effective against varroa and safe for bees when used correctly. David walks through how the fiberboard strips are dosed, placed in the hive, and gradually deliver oxalic acid over a 42–56 day period. While the exact mechanism of mite mortality remains somewhat mysterious, VarroxSan’s ability to hold down mite levels—especially during nectar flows—makes it a helpful part of an integrated mite management plan. The team also discusses pros and cons: the product’s compatibility with honey supers (with proper spacing), the need for good hive records to time strip removal, and the importance of following label instructions. They caution that VarroxSan may not be ideal as a first-response treatment for colonies already overwhelmed with mites, but it excels at keeping mite populations from rebounding. If you’re considering an organic acid treatment that doesn’t interrupt honey production, this episode is a must-listen. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Series Introduction
07/09/2025
[Bonus] Short - Varroa Treatment Options: Series Introduction
In this first episode of our Beekeeping Today Podcast Shorts series on varroa mites, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman are joined by Dr. David Peck of Betterbee to lay the foundation for an important multi-part series. Varroa mites continue to be the most damaging pest to honey bee colonies worldwide. In this introduction, the trio covers the biology and lifecycle of varroa, the damage they inflict, and why routine monitoring and informed treatment choices are critical for beekeepers. David explains how varroa mites reproduce inside brood cells and evade detection, riding under the bees’ abdominal plates where they’re nearly impossible to spot. They discuss effective monitoring methods—from sticky boards to alcohol washes—and highlight why consistent testing matters, especially before and after applying treatments. The episode also previews what’s ahead: bite-sized episodes focusing on each available varroa treatment—both chemical and nonchemical—including tips on timing, efficacy, and practical use. This series aims to provide an accessible, up-to-date, and evergreen reference guide for beekeepers managing mites throughout the year. Links & Resources: Honey Bee Health Coalition: Betterbee Pest Management Resource Page: 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Jerry Hayes on Honey Bee Health, Science, and Industry Change (341)
07/07/2025
Jerry Hayes on Honey Bee Health, Science, and Industry Change (341)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky welcome back Jerry Hayes, renowned honey bee advocate, author, and researcher, for a wide-ranging conversation on bee health, industry change, and the future of beekeeping. Drawing from decades of experience—from inspecting colonies in the field to influencing corporate and regulatory policy—Jerry shares what he’s learned about building bridges between science, beekeepers, and the broader agricultural world. The discussion touches on Jerry’s roles across the beekeeping ecosystem—from his early days as Florida’s Chief Apiary Inspector to leadership positions at Monsanto, Vita Bee Health and now, Bee Culture Magazine. He reflects on lessons learned while advocating for honey bees in spaces that didn’t always understand their value, and how science communication and transparency have become central to his mission. Jerry also shares insights into how beekeeping has changed, what’s needed to better support bees in today’s agricultural systems, and the role of products like oxalic acid and other treatment innovations. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a commercial beekeeper, this episode offers valuable perspective from someone who’s seen the industry evolve from every angle. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Bee Culture Magazine: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Alan Wade, Dannielle Harden: Managing Two-Queen Hives (340)
06/30/2025
Alan Wade, Dannielle Harden: Managing Two-Queen Hives (340)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky dive into the fascinating world of two-queen hive systems with guests Alan Wade and Dannielle Harden. Alan, an Australian researcher and longtime contributor to The Australasian Beekeeper, brings deep technical expertise and historical context to the discussion. Dannielle, a beekeeper and educator, adds a hands-on perspective from the field. Together, they explore what it takes to successfully manage colonies with two laying queens—why beekeepers attempt it, how it’s traditionally done, and what innovations are reshaping the approach. Alan shares his work comparing various dual-queen configurations, including divided brood chambers and vertically stacked systems. Dannielle discusses her practical experience implementing and refining these techniques in real-world apiaries. This episode unpacks the potential benefits of two-queen colonies—like increased brood and honey production—as well as the complexities and labor involved in managing them. It’s an engaging conversation that blends research, experimentation, and lived experience. If you’ve ever wondered about pushing your colonies’ productivity or testing advanced management systems, this episode offers insight and inspiration from two thoughtful voices in modern beekeeping. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Alan's Book on Two Queen Hives: Betterbee's Divided Deep: An Explanation on the Demaree Method of Queen Management: Bill Hesbach's Mentioned Article in Bee Culture: Tom Theobald and 2-Queen Hives on Beekeeping Today: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Regeneron STS Finalist, Atreya Manaswi - SHB (339)
06/23/2025
Regeneron STS Finalist, Atreya Manaswi - SHB (339)
In this episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, we welcome an inspiring young voice in honey bee research—Atreya Manaswi, a high school senior and top 40 finalist in the 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search. Atreya shares the fascinating journey that began with a fishing trip and led to a multi-year research project aimed at controlling one of the most damaging pests of honey bees: the small hive beetle. Working under mentorship from the USDA and University of Florida, Atreya developed a new organic bait based on the volatile compounds found in beer. He didn’t stop there—he designed a solar-powered, 3D-printed trap equipped with LED sensors and a Raspberry Pi to count beetles automatically and predict future infestations using artificial intelligence. His bait-and-trap system could offer a cleaner, more sustainable, and reusable alternative to traditional beetle traps. Atreya also talks about his picture book The Bee Story, his outreach work with youth and beekeeping clubs, and his upcoming studies at Yale University. His dedication to pollinator health and science communication offers a hopeful glimpse into the future of bee research. Whether you’re a beekeeper dealing with small hive beetles or just curious about next-gen solutions, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Atreya on Regeneron-STS Website: Atreya's Website: Atreya's Book on Amazon: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Summer in the Apiary with Dewey
06/17/2025
[Bonus] Short - Summer in the Apiary with Dewey
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Dr. Dewey Caron returns with his latest “audio postcard,” diving into summer apiary management. As the season heats up, Dewey asks: are we unknowingly stressing our bees through our supering choices? Drawing from a recent Brazilian study led by Dr. David De Jong, Dewey explores the physiological impacts of over-supering on honey bee colonies. The research found that adding too many foundation supers at once can elevate stress markers in forager bees—potentially compromising immune response and productivity. Dewey explains how thoughtful supering—adding boxes as needed—yields more honey and less stress. He also discusses mid-season mite management, reminding us that effective control now means healthier colonies heading into fall. Dewey reviews options like formic and oxalic acid treatments, as well as how summer’s heavy populations influence product effectiveness. Through it all, Dewey emphasizes the unique, personal nature of beekeeping, encouraging beekeepers to communicate intentionally with their bees—whether by managing mites, supering wisely, or preparing for harvest. Links & Resources: Ross Conrad April 2025. Supering. Bee Culture: David de Jong's Research: HBHC Tools for Varroa Management: Communication in a Colony: HoneyBee Democracy 2010 and Piping Hot Bees and Boisterous Buzz Runners. 2024 Princeton University 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Pollinator Week 2025 with Pollinator Partnership (338)
06/16/2025
Pollinator Week 2025 with Pollinator Partnership (338)
In this special episode of Beekeeping Today Podcast, we launch our eighth season with a celebration of Pollinator Week and a conversation with Kelly Bills, Executive Director of Pollinator Partnership. Kelly returns to share exciting updates on their growing programs, from the BeeMD diagnostic tool relaunch to the expansion of Bee Friendly Farming and Gardening certifications. She also discusses the Pollinator Steward Certification, a program educating people across professions to become effective stewards of pollinators in their communities. We explore the importance of native plants, new educational tools like Find Your Roots, and proactive efforts to prepare for the potential arrival of Tropilaelaps mites through the Tropi STOP initiative. Plus, Kelly highlights the landmark lighting of Niagara Falls in honor of Pollinator Week and the evolving Pollinator Power Party. This episode is packed with practical ways beekeepers and land managers can get involved in pollinator conservation—from habitat planning and research grants to farmer certifications and community engagement. It’s a great start to the season and a meaningful way to mark Pollinator Week 2025. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Pollinator Partnership: The BeeMD: North American Pollinator Protection Campaign (NAPPC): Bee Friendly Farming: Pollinator Steward Certification: TropiSTOP: Find Your Roots: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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[Bonus] Short - Jeometry Bee Wear Designed for Women!
06/13/2025
[Bonus] Short - Jeometry Bee Wear Designed for Women!
In this Beekeeping Today Podcast Short, Jeff sits down with Jenna York, founder of Jeometry Beewear, a new line of protective beekeeping clothing designed specifically for women. Combining her 10 years of beekeeping experience with two decades in fashion design, Jenna shares how frustration with ill-fitting gear inspired her to create a solution from the ground up. Based in Charleston, South Carolina, Jeometry Beewear uses eco-friendly materials—including a breathable, recycled honeycomb mesh—and thoughtful design elements like bust pleats, functional pockets, and single-zipper access. Jenna explains the challenges of domestic manufacturing, the importance of gear that fits real women, and her vision for expanding the line to separates and even men’s sizes in the future. This episode is a great listen for beekeepers who want gear that fits and functions—because good design shouldn’t be gendered. Learn more at . Links & Resources: Jeometry Beewear - 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 Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Bee Business with Jim Hartman (337)
06/09/2025
Bee Business with Jim Hartman (337)
In this episode, Jeff and Becky sit down with Jim Hartman, the 2024 North Carolina Small Farmer of the Year and a dedicated honey producer. Jim shares his journey from military service and corporate life to becoming a full-time “honey farmer” and entrepreneur. His passion for beekeeping and veteran advocacy shines through as he discusses building a farm business from the ground up—debt-free and focused on sustainable growth. Jim offers practical insights into treating a beekeeping operation as a serious business rather than a hobby. He breaks down essential strategies like proper bookkeeping, the importance of filing a Schedule F, and setting clear business goals. Jim also highlights programs and resources available to veterans and new farmers, including the underutilized Veteran Small Business Enhancement Act and the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA). Whether you have 10 colonies or 200, Jim emphasizes the importance of mindset: stop thinking in terms of hobbyist or sideliner—if you’re running your bees to make a profit, you’re a farmer. His story and advice offer valuable lessons for any beekeeper looking to strengthen their operation and approach their bees with a business-first mentality. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: Secret Garden Bees (Jim's Website): Kutik Queens: Veterans Small Business Enhancement Act: USDA Farm Service Agency: USDA Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP): 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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Summer Management Tips with Jim Tew (336)
06/02/2025
Summer Management Tips with Jim Tew (336)
In this lively episode, Jeff and Becky welcome back Dr. Jim Tew, host of Honey Bee Obscura and longtime beekeeper, for an unscripted conversation on the quirks, questions, and quiet joys of summer beekeeping. With decades of experience and a healthy dose of humor, Jim reflects on managing colonies during the busy season—when things rarely go to plan. From ants nesting under hive covers to quirky package bee behavior and the eternal struggle of running out of supers, Jim offers practical advice laced with storytelling. He shares his experiences with package installs, queen releases, and how he’s dealt with flighty bees that don’t seem to settle. Jeff and Becky weigh in with their own seasonal challenges, from sneaking equipment into the garage to dealing with overflowing honey production. The conversation also touches on the ever-expanding nature of beekeeping: how it’s easy to go from a few colonies to more than you can manage, and the elusive challenge of knowing when to say “enough.” Along the way, Jim’s tales cover everything from pressure washers and wax moths to giving (or not giving) away bees. It’s equal parts insight, therapy, and appreciation for the art and absurdities of keeping bees. Whether you’re a new beekeeper or an old hand, you’ll find something to nod—and laugh—along with in this episode. Websites from the episode and others we recommend: 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 Dalan who is dedicated to providing transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. Dalan's vaccination against American Foulbrood (AFB) is a game changer. Vaccinated queens protect newly hatched honeybee larvae against AFB using the new Dalan vaccine. Created for queen producers and other beekeepers wanting to produce AFB free queens. Retailers offering vaccinated queens and packages: More information on the vaccine: 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 © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
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