Honey Bee Obscura Podcast

Short, in-depth, plain talk discussions of all things honey bees, with Dr. Jim Tew and occasional guests.

Plain Talk: Installing Tew Packages (230) 05/08/2025

Rosario Candelero: Student Bee Vet (229) 05/01/2025

Rosario Candelero: Student Bee Vet (229) In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew welcomes special guests Rosario Candelero, a veterinary student at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and Jason Ferrell, a beekeeper and IT specialist. Together, they explore how beekeeping in Mexico differs from practices in the United States. Rosario shares insights from her veterinary training, where bee health is treated as part of veterinary medicine, not entomology. She describes common honey bee diseases in Mexico, including Varroa, American foulbrood, chalkbrood, and the rarer stonebrood. Jim and Rosario discuss how Mexican beekeepers adapt to managing defensive bees descended from Africanized honey bees, balancing challenges with the country’s strong honey production industry. The conversation also touches on the traditional Melipona stingless bees, their cultural importance, and their distinct honey properties. With Rosario preparing for advanced bee health courses, Jim looks forward to following her journey toward becoming a veterinary advocate for honey bees. It’s a fascinating look at beekeeping across borders and the critical role veterinarians play in supporting healthy colonies. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/36340720

Plain Talk: To Wire Frames or Not (228) 04/24/2025

Plain Talk: To Wire Frames or Not (228) In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew revisits a seemingly simple question that sparked a surprisingly passionate response from readers and listeners alike: Do beekeepers still wire and embed their own wax foundation? After a passing remark in a recent article suggesting that the practice might be fading into history, Jim was met with a steady stream of replies from beekeepers who are very much keeping the tradition alive. Jim explores the reasons why many still choose to wire frames, reflecting on both the craftsmanship and the sense of satisfaction that come with building comb the old-fashioned way. He shares the evolution of foundation—wax, plastic, aluminum—and the many experimental paths that brought us to today’s foundation inserts. With thoughtful insight, he considers the benefits and drawbacks of each method, from concerns about microplastics in honey to the question of how foundation thickness might affect colony communication or wintering behavior. Whether you favor the simplicity of modern snap-in inserts or the tactile, meditative process of wiring and embedding beeswax foundation, Jim reminds listeners that both methods have their place in today’s diverse beekeeping landscape. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/36186735

Plain Talk: The Evolution of Beekeeping (227) 04/17/2025

Plain Talk: The Evolution of Beekeeping (227) In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, host Dr. Jim Tew takes listeners on a reflective and thought-provoking journey through the changing landscape of beekeeping practices over the decades. From his early experiences wiring frames and embedding wax foundation, to the rise of plastic components and convenience-driven innovations, Jim contrasts the hands-on craftsmanship of “traditional beekeeping” with the realities of modern hive management. Listeners will enjoy Jim’s personal anecdotes and insights as he explores what it meant—and what it now means—to be a “traditional” beekeeper. Is it the practice of assembling wooden frames with brass eyelets and violin-tight wires? Or has the definition shifted to include quick-assemble plastic frames and foundation inserts? Jim discusses the evolving expectations of both bees and beekeepers, the potential implications of increased plastic use in hives, and the broader question: What do we gain or lose when tradition gives way to convenience? This episode will resonate with anyone who’s ever built their own hive equipment, questioned the long-term sustainability of modern materials, or simply wondered what legacy their beekeeping practices leave behind. Whether you’re a nostalgic purist or an efficiency-minded modernist, this episode invites you to reflect on your own evolution as a beekeeper. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/36128105

Plain Talk: Thoughts on Queen Bees (226) 04/10/2025

Plain Talk: Thoughts on Queen Bees (226) In this reflective episode, Jim Tew shares an honest and personal conversation about queens—both the winged kind in the hive and the ones we buy in cages. Sitting among his thriving colonies, Jim weighs the pros and cons of letting bees raise their own queens versus introducing commercially produced ones. He explores the timing, risks, and costs of each approach and how personal priorities—like honey production, genetics, and even beekeeping stamina—factor into the decision. As spring builds, Jim considers the idea of walkaway splits, splitting strong colonies and letting the bees raise their own queens naturally. But is that the right call? Will a naturally reared queen be as productive or reliable as one from a queen producer? What if the colony falters during the queen-rearing process? From his rocking chair among the bees, Jim doesn’t offer a definitive answer—just thoughtful questions and seasoned observations for beekeepers at any stage in their journey. Whether you’re driven by production goals or simply enjoy the companionship of your colonies, this episode offers plenty to think about when it comes to queens, splits, and what it means to keep bees. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35981470

Plain Talk: Exploring Bee Rooms (225) 04/03/2025

Plain Talk: Exploring Bee Rooms (225) Have you ever heard of a bee room? In this episode, Jim Tew revisits a nearly forgotten practice of intentionally housing honey bee colonies inside homes—typically in attics or wall cabinets—during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Far from today’s observation hives or honey extraction rooms, these “bee rooms” featured free-hanging feral colonies living just above or beside the families who kept them. Jim shares vivid stories from his own experiences visiting these historical remnants with a former lab technician and reflects on how societal attitudes toward living with insects have changed over time. From swarms in attic closets to cabinets built into upper-story walls, he considers why people once welcomed bees into their homes and why such practices have all but disappeared. The conversation also explores practical issues—like swarming, temperature control, wax moths, and mice—and draws modern comparisons to observation hives and controlled setups like those in zoos or garages. Through it all, Jim emphasizes that bees haven’t changed much—but we certainly have. Join Jim for this fascinating look back at a different era of “living with your bees,” and maybe you’ll start to wonder: could the attic bee room make a comeback? ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35958535

Plain Talk: A Bee Yard Stroll (224) 03/27/2025

Plain Talk: Tew Bee Tales (223) 03/20/2025

Plain Talk: Mentoring Challenges (222) 03/13/2025

Archive Special: Hive Finishes with Kim (221) 03/06/2025

Plain Talk: Dead and Dying Bees (220) 02/27/2025

Battling Mites with Anne (219) 02/20/2025

Battling Mites with Anne (219) Varroa mites remain a persistent challenge for beekeepers, and effective management is key to colony survival. In this episode, Jim Tew welcomes Anne Frey from Betterbee to discuss practical approaches to monitoring and controlling mites. Anne explains why beekeepers must check for mites every two to four weeks, even when early-season counts appear low. She and Jim explore detection methods, from sticky boards for beginners to more advanced sampling techniques, and emphasize how quickly mite populations can escalate if left unchecked. Treatment strategies depend on colony size and seasonal conditions. Anne discusses organic acids like Formic Pro and oxalic acid, synthetic options such as Apivar, and why DIY treatments are unreliable. They also explore non-chemical approaches, including drone brood removal, which Anne summarizes with the phrase, “When they’re capped, the mites are trapped.” Timing is critical, and waiting until fall to treat can be too late. Managing mites throughout the season helps prevent virus transmission and ensures stronger winter colonies. Jim and Anne highlight the importance of consistent mite monitoring and encourage beekeepers to use reliable resources like the for science-based treatment guidance. Mite management is a year-round responsibility. Whether you’re new to beekeeping or experienced, this conversation offers practical insights to keep your colonies healthy. Honey Bee Obscura is produced by and is a sister podcast to . Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35314795

Discussing Big Colonies with Anne (218) 02/13/2025

Discussing Big Colonies with Anne (218) Managing large honey bee colonies comes with its own set of challenges and rewards, but are bigger colonies always better? In this episode, Jim Tew is joined by Anne Frey of Betterbee to explore the benefits and potential downsides of managing large hives. Picking up from last week’s discussion, they dive into the complexities of oversized colonies, swarming tendencies, and strategies for keeping bees at a manageable size. Jim shares his experience as a beekeeper who once sought out massive colonies but now prefers smaller, more manageable hives. Anne brings her perspective from working with New York beekeepers, discussing how colony size can impact honey production, hive efficiency, and even beekeeping enjoyment. They talk about the natural inclination of honey bees to expand, how to slow colony growth, and why some beekeepers may choose to let their bees swarm. The conversation also touches on practical solutions for controlling hive size, from strategic brood management to using frame isolation cages. They discuss the challenges of making splits when you don’t want to expand your operation and explore alternative ways to manage excess bees. Whether you’re a beekeeper striving for high honey yields or simply trying to maintain a manageable number of colonies, this episode offers valuable insights into the pros and cons of big hives. Honey Bee Obscura is produced by and is a sister podcast to . Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35243320

Plain Talk: Big Hives - Blessing or Curse? (217) 02/06/2025

Plain Talk: Big Hives - Blessing or Curse? (217) In this episode, Jim Tew takes a deep dive into the world of big colonies, posing the question: Are larger hives always better? With his signature blend of humor and beekeeping wisdom, Jim unpacks the complexities of managing booming colonies, reflecting on the pros, cons, and unintended consequences of letting colonies grow to massive sizes. Jim discusses the labor-intensive demands of large hives, from the physical strain of handling heavy boxes to the increased challenges with swarm management, disease control, and even neighborly relations. Drawing from decades of experience, he shares personal anecdotes—including a memorable encounter with his grandson in an unexpectedly powerful hive—that highlight the sometimes-overwhelming nature of big colonies. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Jim acknowledges the undeniable benefits of strong hives, such as impressive honey production and robust pollination capabilities. However, he reminds us that bigger isn’t always better, especially when considering the beekeeper’s goals, physical limitations, and local environment. Whether you prefer managing small, easy-to-handle colonies or love the challenge of bustling hives bursting with bees, this episode will give you plenty to think about. Tune in for candid reflections, practical advice, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to manage big colonies. Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35145575

Plain Talk: Plastic in Beekeeping (216) 01/30/2025

Plain Talk: Plastic in Beekeeping (216) This week, Jim Tew takes a nostalgic yet practical dive into the evolution of plastic in the world of beekeeping. From his early days in the 1970s, when plastic was virtually non-existent in beekeeping equipment, to its widespread adoption in everything from frames to veils, Jim reflects on how this material has shaped the industry. Jim shares anecdotes about the challenges of using glass honey jars, metal extractors, and wooden cages in the past—and how plastic innovations, such as plastic foundation, queen cages, and five-gallon buckets, have transformed beekeeping. He discusses the pros and cons of plastic equipment, including its environmental implications and the improved convenience it brings to everyday beekeeping tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper who remembers the early days of this transition or a newer beekeeper curious about the history of your tools, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on the role of plastic in beekeeping and its lasting impact on the craft. Listen today to reminisce with Jim, explore the benefits and challenges of this material, and consider what the future might hold for plastic in beekeeping. Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/35048015

Plain Talk: Stressing Winter Bees (215) 01/23/2025

Plain Talk: Stressing Winter Bees (215) In this week’s episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew delves into the challenges and dilemmas beekeepers face when managing small, struggling colonies in the heart of winter. With his signature mix of candor and experience, Jim explores the emotional and practical aspects of trying to save weak hives during the harshest months. Jim shares personal anecdotes about a small swarm that settled in one of his hives, only to struggle against the odds. From emergency feeding with honey and fondant to the futility of late-season interventions, he discusses the fine line between helping a colony survive and simply prolonging the inevitable. Along the way, Jim reflects on the stressors that bees face—both natural and those inadvertently caused by beekeepers. Whether it’s finding innovative ways to provide winter sustenance or grappling with the ethical questions of colony management, Jim’s stories resonate with beekeepers of all experience levels. He also reflects on the broader concept of stress—both for bees and beekeepers—and the delicate balance between intervention and letting nature take its course. Join Jim as he navigates the complexities of winter beekeeping, offering insights that are both practical and thought-provoking. Listen Today! ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/34941360

Archive Special: Packages and Nucs with Kim Flottum (214) 01/16/2025

Archive Special: Packages and Nucs with Kim Flottum (214) In this special archive episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew and the late Kim Flottum dive into the age-old debate between starting with packages or nucleus colonies (nucs). Whether you’re a beginner beekeeper or looking to expand your apiary, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice to help guide your decision-making. Jim and Kim discuss why packages are often the preferred choice for beginners, emphasizing their simplicity and control. They explore the advantages of nucs, which allow for faster colony growth and even the potential for a honey harvest in the first year. The conversation also delves into the challenges associated with both methods, including population drops in packages and the increased risk of varroa mites in nucs. Throughout the episode, they offer practical tips for selecting and managing both packages and nucs, ensuring your colonies have the best possible start. Their candid and informative discussion highlights the considerations beekeepers should weigh when preparing for spring and making decisions about their next colony purchase. Join us for this insightful episode, where two legends of the beekeeping world share their expertise and experiences to help you succeed in your beekeeping journey. Listen Today! ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/34850155

Archive Special: Bee Yard Smells with Kim Flottum (213) 01/09/2025

Archive Special: Abnormal Queens (212) 01/02/2025

Archive Special: Abnormal Queens (212) In this archive special episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew is joined by Anne Frey from Betterbee to discuss the unpredictable and sometimes puzzling world of queen honey bees. While queens are typically diligent workers with a singular focus on laying eggs, anomalies can and do occur, leaving beekeepers scratching their heads. Jim and Anne share fascinating stories of queens fainting in the beekeeper’s hand, queens with physical deformities that still manage to thrive, and the challenges of marking queens without mishap. They delve into the history and controversy of clipping queen wings, and the art of applying paint marks—a practice that can go hilariously wrong if not done with care. The episode highlights the importance of understanding that not all queens behave or perform as expected. Whether it’s a queen that suddenly stops laying, exhibits unusual traits, or appears to defy logic, these experiences remind beekeepers that every hive tells its own story. Whether you’re a seasoned beekeeper or just starting out, this episode offers valuable lessons and a reminder that sometimes the unexpected makes beekeeping all the more rewarding. Listen Today! ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee’s mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of . Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin () Copyright © 2025 by Growing Planet Media, LLC /episode/index/show/honeybeeobscura/id/34623370