Beekeeping For Newbees®

In this episode we pick up right where we left off and continue the install process, including a mistake I made and how to handle it if it happens to you. We also walk through what to do after installation, how to handle feeding, and what to expect in those first few days. This wraps up the install process and sets you up for your first inspections. What’s Inside This Episode:• What happens if you remove the wrong cork on a queen cage and how to fix it• Why leaving your bees alone after install is one of the most important steps• How and when to check queen release without disturbing the colony• Feeding strategies after install and when to start tapering off• Differences in feeding and management between packages and nucs• Common mistakes like over-inspecting and delaying installs too long• What to expect in the first week and how to prepare for early inspectionsWhy Listen to This Episode?Even small mistakes during install can have a big impact if you do not know how to handle them. This episode helps you recover from those moments and sets clear expectations for what comes next.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Installing Bee Packages: https://youtu.be/wSAXt4kODz8Vented Entrance Reducer: https://youtube.com/shorts/bd6cEeE_kSkSwarm Trap Prep and Bait Video: https://youtu.be/VOn8nv4ZqKEBuilding a Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlEAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we walk through the process of installing package bees and what to expect on day one. We break down the differences between packages and nucs, how to prepare your hive, and the exact steps to get your bees settled in safely. This is part one of a two-part series, focusing on setup and install before moving into early follow-up and inspections. What’s Inside This Episode:• The key differences between package bees and nucs and how that affects your starting point• Why protective gear is still important even when bees are less defensive during install• How and when to feed new packages• Using a sprayer to calm bees during install• Positioning the queen cage for a safe release• Getting frames back in place and closing up the hive without crushing beesWhy Listen to This Episode?Installing bees is one of the most important moments for a new beekeeper. This episode walks you through the process so you can avoid common mistakes and start your colony off strong.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Installing Packages: https://youtu.be/wSAXt4kODz8Checking Queens: (links forthcoming)Bucket Feeder: https://youtu.be/lTowIiSjTtgMixing 2:1 in a Bucket: https://youtube.com/shorts/sQqb_uuYzhQNever Take Hive Notes Again: https://youtu.be/DWdKMG-Wl-wAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we jump into a Bee Buzz and work through a series of listener questions from around the country. We cover a range of real-world scenarios including equipment cleanup, feeding decisions, splits, brood development, and adding space. This is a practical Q&A focused on what beekeepers are dealing with right now. What’s Inside This Episode:• How to clean used frames and what to watch out for when reusing old equipment• Feeding decisions during spring buildup and how syrup fits into comb production• How to set up new packages and when to expand from a single box• Timing splits and why drone availability is critical for successful mating• Why bees may ignore pollen patties and how to use them safely• Uneven brood expansion between colonies and what is considered normal• When to add honey supers and how to avoid becoming honey boundWhy Listen to This Episode?These Bee Buzz episodes focus on real questions from real beekeepers. If you are working through spring decisions and want straightforward guidance, this episode gives you practical answers you can use right away.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we take a step back from the hive and talk about some important updates. We start with a big thank you to the community and supporters who help keep everything going, then dive into the Master Beekeeper program, what it was designed to do, and why things have shifted. We also introduce the new coaching app and how it is shaping the future of how this content is delivered. What’s Inside This Episode:• A sincere thank you to listeners and Buy Me a Coffee supporters and how that support directly impacts the work being done• Hitting a major milestone in podcast downloads and what that growth means for the community• What the Master Beekeeper program was designed to accomplish and who it was built for• Why the original course rollout was delayed and the challenges behind the scenes• The vision of creating a more accessible path for beekeepers with unique challenges or limitations• How the new coaching app works and how it delivers training, tracking, and resources in one place• What the shift to the app means for future content, training, and ongoing developmentWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode gives you a clear look at where everything is heading and why certain decisions were made. If you follow the podcast or are interested in the upcoming training tools, this connects all the pieces.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we walk through feeding bees during the active season and when it actually makes sense to step in and help. We cover sugar syrup, protein sources, common feeding scenarios, and the mistakes that can cause more harm than good. If you have ever wondered when to feed and when to leave them alone, this will help you make better decisions. What’s Inside This Episode:• What feeding really means and the difference between carbohydrates and protein for bees• When feeding makes sense including spring buildup, dearth periods, and late season preparation• Situations where feeding is created by beekeeper actions like splits and new packages• Why feeding at the wrong time can lead to problems like overstimulation or swarming pressure• How to mix 1:1 and 2:1 sugar syrup and when each approach is used• The most common feeder types and the pros and cons of each• Common feeding mistakes and how to avoid creating bigger problems in the hiveWhy Listen to This Episode?Feeding can help your colonies grow and survive, but doing it at the wrong time or the wrong way can set you back. This episode helps you understand when feeding is useful and how to approach it without creating unintended issues.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Bucket Feeder: https://youtu.be/lTowIiSjTtg2:1 Sugar Syrup Mix: https://youtube.com/shorts/sQqb_uuYzhQWater Feeder: https://youtu.be/wXTMhxdLW_IPollen Feeder: https://youtu.be/7tnRS83jw6sAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we break down one of the most overlooked parts of beekeeping: frames and foundation. We walk through the different frame styles, foundation options, and how each choice impacts how your bees build comb and how you manage your hives. Whether you are brand new or just want to simplify your setup, this episode helps you understand what actually works and why. What’s Inside This Episode:• The different types of wooden frames including groove, wedge top, and split bottom designs• How plastic and wax foundation compare and when each one makes sense• Why bees often reject plastic foundation and how to pre-treat it for better acceptance• Using wired wax foundation for strength and avoiding blowouts during honey extraction• How to use starter strips for foundationless frames and guide natural comb building• Common issues like wonky comb and how to fix it early before it becomes a problem• When to replace old brood comb and how to rotate frames over timeWhy Listen to This Episode?Frames and foundation choices directly impact how your bees build comb and how easy your hives are to manage. This episode simplifies the options so you can choose a setup that works for both you and your bees.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we walk through how to choose and configure a Langstroth hive setup and what decisions you need to make before installing bees. We talk through box sizes, equipment options, and how standardizing your setup can make management easier as your apiary grows. What’s Inside This Episode:• Understanding the Langstroth hive and why it is the most commonly used system• Choosing between 8 frame and 10 frame equipment and what that means long term• How box size decisions affect weight, inspections, and honey production• Why standardizing your equipment can simplify management as you expand• Key components you need before installing bees including boxes, frames, bottom boards, and covers• How future plans like splits and swarm traps connect back to your initial setup• Avoiding common mistakes when selecting your first hive configurationWhy Listen to This Episode?The hive setup you choose affects everything from inspections to expansion to long-term management. This episode helps you make those early Langstroth equipment decisions with a clearer understanding of what will be easiest to manage and scale.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Vented Inner Cover: https://youtu.be/qJ0q3plIL1INew Beekeeper Hive Options: https://youtu.be/3VLYhm4ieoAVented Entrance Reducer: https://youtu.be/SyIcnkIwKigBuild a Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlEPill Bottle Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/jtbc8OJpTs0Hive Placement Guide: https://youtu.be/UbJRAhoCD9QAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we talk about getting ready for the upcoming bee season and the things every beekeeper should have prepared before the first inspections begin. We walk through personal gear, hive tools, smokers, checking equipment from last season, preparing frames and boxes, and thinking ahead about inspections and mite management. Whether this is your first year with bees or you are getting ready for another season, this episode is all about making sure you are prepared before the bees arrive.What’s Inside This Episode:• Preparing your personal protective gear and choosing the setup that keeps you comfortable working bees• Why hydration, mindset, and staying calm in the bee yard can make inspections go much smoother• Getting your smoker ready and choosing safe natural materials for smoker fuel• Hive tools, J-hook tools, and why it helps to keep multiple tools available• Checking last year’s hive bodies, frames, lids, and inner covers before the season begins• Planning ahead for feeders so packages, nucs, or splits can keep building if weather turns bad• Why every beekeeper should already be thinking about a varroa management plan before the season ramps upWhy Listen to This Episode?The start of bee season comes quickly, and being prepared ahead of time prevents a lot of frustration once bees arrive. This episode walks through the basic gear, preparation, and mindset that can help make the start of the season much smoother.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Regular hive tool: https://amzn.to/4iaACUfJ-hook style hive tool: https://amzn.to/4kTqZL9Pullover top: https://amzn.to/4hmzvzAHat w/ veil: https://amzn.to/3FtrhZ2Smoker: https://amzn.to/3DyBSS9About the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week we jump into another Bee Buzz episode and answer a new round of listener questions from around the world. We talk through several early-spring scenarios including cleansing flights, brood removal, feeding decisions, swarm preparation, and signs of potential queen or mite problems. These practical questions highlight the kinds of things many beekeepers start noticing as colonies come out of winter and begin ramping up for spring.What’s Inside This Episode:• Brown streaks on the outside of a hive and how to tell the difference between normal cleansing flights and possible disease• Why bees sometimes drag larvae out of the hive and how hygienic behavior helps keep colonies healthy• Whether reversing brood boxes in spring is necessary or simply a management preference• When to feed 1:1 syrup and why early feeding can sometimes cause problems if weather turns cold• Signs of deformed wing virus and why it often points to a varroa mite issue• What clustered bees near the entrance may actually be doing during warmer winter or early spring days• When to begin thinking about swarm management and why preparation often starts earlier than many expectWhy Listen to This Episode?Bee Buzz episodes focus on real questions from beekeepers dealing with real hive situations. If you are heading into spring inspections or trying to interpret what you are seeing inside your hive, this episode walks through several common scenarios and what they might mean.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:📺 Digitizing Hive Inspection Notes: https://youtu.be/DWdKMG-Wl-wAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Swarm trapping is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to grow your apiary, and in this second part of the discussion we move from theory to real-world execution. In this episode we talk about where to place your traps, when they should go up in different regions, and what to do after you successfully catch a swarm. From planning your removal process to installing the bees into a hive, this episode walks through the practical steps that turn a swarm trap into a thriving new colony.What’s Inside This Episode:• Planning ahead for swarm trap removal and why thinking through the process before you catch bees makes everything easier• Ideal swarm trap placement including edges of fields, road borders, and other transitional areas bees naturally travel• Why densely wooded areas often perform worse for swarm traps due to predators and poor flight access• Regional timing guidance for placing swarm traps across the southern United States, Mid-Atlantic, and northern states• What to do once a swarm moves into your trap and why many beekeepers leave them undisturbed for several days• How to safely close and remove a swarm trap at night and relocate it to your apiary• Installing captured swarm frames into a full hive and helping the colony build quickly with feeding and comb drawing• Techniques some beekeepers use to anchor a swarm to the hive including adding a frame of broodWhy Listen to This Episode?Catching a swarm is only the first step. This episode explains how to move that swarm safely into a hive, avoid common mistakes, and give the new colony the best chance to establish quickly and grow into a productive hive.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Pill Bottle Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/jtbc8OJpTs0Swarm Trap Assembly: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlE60 Second Swarm Trap Build: https://youtu.be/Wfy3ybL3PJMSwarm Trap Plans: https://beekeepingfornewbees.com/resourcesSwarm Trap & Nuc Entrance Wheels: https://amzn.to/3FzSMAnAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 650,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Swarm season is one of the most exciting times of the year for beekeepers. In this episode we begin a two-part discussion about swarm traps, what they are, why they work, and how you can use them to capture free bees during the spring swarm season. We walk through the biology of swarming, why scout bees search for new cavities, and how a simple swarm trap can turn that natural behavior into a powerful tool for growing your apiary.What’s Inside This Episode:• What swarming actually is and why honeybee colonies naturally divide during spring buildup• Why swarm traps allow beekeepers to capture large colonies of free bees during swarm season• The advantages and potential risks of bringing wild swarm genetics into your apiary• The cavity size honeybees prefer when selecting a new home and how swarm traps mimic it• Materials commonly used when building swarm traps and why durability matters outdoors• Using drawn comb and lemongrass oil to attract scout bees searching for a new colony site• Practical guidance on where to place swarm traps and how to do it safelyWhy Listen to This Episode?Swarm traps can give beekeepers access to strong local genetics and large colonies without buying packages or nucs. This episode explains how swarming works and how simple traps can dramatically increase your chances of catching a swarm during the busiest part of the season.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAdditional Resources:Pill Bottle Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/jtbc8OJpTs0Swarm Trap Assembly: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlE60 Second Swarm Trap Build: https://youtu.be/Wfy3ybL3PJMSwarm Trap Plans: https://beekeepingfornewbees.com/resourcesSwarm Trap & Nuc Entrance Wheels: https://amzn.to/3FzSMAnAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Spring is getting closer, which means the questions from beekeepers are starting to pour in again. In this Bee Buzz episode, I work through a lightning round of listener questions covering late winter hive activity, feeding decisions, early inspections, and what normal colony behavior looks like as temperatures begin to warm. If you're seeing bees flying on warm days, noticing dead bees in front of the hive, or wondering if it's time to check food stores or add space, this episode walks through the most common questions beekeepers are asking right now.What’s Inside This Episode:• Why bees suddenly start flying during warm winter days and what cleansing flights actually mean• What a pile of dead bees in front of the hive usually indicates during late winter cleanup• When it makes sense to check food stores and how to do a quick cold weather hive check• Why one hive may appear active while another seems quiet coming out of winter• How to estimate food stores and determine if a colony may be running low without pulling frames• Whether bees bringing in pollen means the queen has already started laying again• When to perform your first full spring inspection and what to focus on early in the seasonWhy Listen to This Episode?Late winter can be one of the most confusing times for beekeepers as colonies begin transitioning toward spring. This episode answers the questions many beekeepers are asking right now and helps you understand what normal behavior looks like as your bees begin ramping up for the season.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesBeekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

March is one of the most critical transition points in the beekeeping year. Colonies are expanding, winter bees are aging off, brood production is ramping up, and nectar flows are just beginning. In this episode, I walk through the key management decisions that can determine whether your colonies thrive, swarm, or collapse in the weeks ahead.What’s Inside This Episode:Why March is the most dangerous transition period for overwintered coloniesThe balance between declining winter bees and rising brood productionWhen to feed, how to feed, and what not to stimulate too earlyBox management, reversing hive bodies, and when to add spaceWhy I do not equalize weak colonies at the expense of strong geneticsEarly swarm pressure, queen cups, and how quickly things can escalateInspection timing and how missing one queen cell can cost you half a colonyWhy Listen to This Episode?If you want strong colonies heading into spring instead of surprise losses or swarms, this episode gives you a practical framework for managing the most volatile month of the year.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 650,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Cold weather has a way of making even experienced beekeepers second guess everything. With unusually low temperatures showing up across large parts of the country, I wanted to take some time to walk through what cold actually means for overwintering colonies, how much additional honey they may consume, and when intervention does or does not make sense.This episode is a general update covering several seasonal topics, including winter feeding philosophy, evaluating colony stores, progress on ongoing projects, and getting ready for spring.What’s Inside This Episode:Why extended cold spells increase honey consumption and how much more bees may actually useRealistic weekly honey usage at different winter temperaturesWhy panic inspections often cause more harm than goodHow to assess colony weight and food stores without opening the hiveDifferent feeding strategies and why context and goals matterUpdates on the hive monitoring project and why it is temporarily pausedProgress on the Master Beekeeper Program and what is coming nextSwarm trap preparation and placement timing for the upcoming seasonWhy Listen to This Episode?If cold weather has you worried about your bees or questioning your winter management decisions, this episode provides calm, experience-based perspective to help you evaluate what actually needs attention and what does not.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 650,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Laying workers are one of those beekeeping problems that feel intimidating until you understand what is actually happening inside the hive. After a listener reached out asking where to find guidance on laying workers and realizing it deserved its own episode, I finally sat down to break the topic down from the ground up.In this episode, we walk through the pheromonal mechanics behind laying workers, what causes the condition, how to recognize it early, and several proven ways to correct it depending on your resources and goals.What’s Inside This Episode:Why queen mandibular pheromone and brood pheromone are central to colony stabilityHow prolonged queenlessness leads to ovary development in worker beesClear visual signs that indicate a laying worker conditionWhy laying workers can involve multiple workers, not just oneThe role of brood pheromone, open brood frames, and synthetic QMPPractical options for fixing a laying worker colony, including splits, shake-outs, and recombiningCommon mistakes that cause queen introductions to fail in laying worker hivesWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode gives you the biological context and practical tools to diagnose and fix a laying worker situation with confidence.Referenced Video About Hive Site Selection:📺 https://youtu.be/UbJRAhoCD9QMore Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 650,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Africanized honeybees are one of the most misunderstood topics in beekeeping. In this episode, I cut through the fear driven headlines and talk honestly about what Africanized bees are, where they actually pose a risk, and how much of what we hear is grounded in biology versus social media panic. We also dig into real behavior differences, why identification is not as simple as people think, and how beekeepers should realistically manage risk.What’s Inside This Episode:Where Africanized honeybees came from and how they spread through the AmericasWhy Africanized bees are not a separate species and cannot be identified by looks aloneThe real behavioral differences that matter, including defensiveness, pursuit distance, and response thresholdsWhich parts of the United States have established populations and why cold climates limit their spreadWhy most serious incidents involve unmanaged or feral colonies, not maintained apiariesHow Africanized colonies differ in defensive behavior compared to hot European stockUsurpation behavior and how one colony can take over another in minutesWhy Listen to This Episode?You will walk away with a realistic understanding of Africanized honeybees, how real the risk actually is, and how to protect yourself without letting fear dictate your beekeeping decisions.Referenced Article:🔬 Usurpation: When One Colony Takes Over Another (Honey Bee Suite)https://www.honeybeesuite.com/usurpation-when-one-colony-takes-over-another/More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesBeekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

American foulbrood gets a lot of attention in beekeeping circles, often accompanied by fear and worst-case scenarios. In this episode, I walk through what AFB and EFB actually are, how they differ, how they spread, and why severity does not always equal likelihood. We also talk about realistic risk, common misdiagnoses, used equipment, open feeding, and whether the new AFB vaccine makes sense for most beekeepers.What’s Inside This Episode:Why American foulbrood is high severity but low likelihoodHow AFB and EFB differ in cause, symptoms, and outcomesWhat sunken cappings, patchy brood, and larval death really indicateHow spores spread through honey, equipment, robbing, and driftWhy most beekeepers will never see a confirmed case of AFBWhen fear-based messaging does more harm than goodThe limits and realities of the new AFB vaccine for queensWhy mites, nutrition, and basic management still matter moreWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode helps cut through fear and misinformation so you can better understand foulbrood risks, recognize real warning signs, and focus your energy on the management practices that actually keep colonies healthy.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Bees in the News edition covers four fascinating stories from around the world, from new species discoveries to the first honeybee vaccine. We look at how research and innovation continue to change our understanding of bees, their intelligence, and the threats they face.What’s Inside This Episode:Discovery of the horned “Lucifer” bee in Western Australia’s goldfieldsHow small hive beetle larvae convert excess pollen into usable foodNew research showing that bees can perceive and measure timeThe first successful vaccine for American foulbrood diseaseA misleading viral post about queen bee insemination and why it’s wrongHow social media often distorts beekeeping practices for clicksFinal reflections on seasonal slowdown and winter beekeeping prepWhy Listen to This Episode?It’s an engaging round-up of bee science, discovery, and controversy, highlighting what’s real, what’s hype, and what it all means for everyday beekeepers.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesReferenced Articles:🌏 Horned “devil” bee found in remote Goldfields prompts call for further research (ABC News)🍯 Circular Economics: Honey Bee Pest Turns Excess Pollen Into Food (Entomology Today)🧠 Bees Can Tell Time: New Study Reveals Shockingly Advanced Insect Intelligence (The Debrief)💉 Vaccine for Honeybees Successfully Completes Efficacy Trials (DVM 360)About the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5 % podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is a follow-up to last week’s discussion about Pennsylvania’s proposed bee legislation. We move from the 2024 Senate Bill 1198 to the newly filed 2025 House Bill 1277, breaking down what changed, why it matters, and how the bill expands the state’s authority over beekeepers.What’s Inside This Episode:What happened to the 2024 Senate Bill and why it expiredHow HB 1277 was reintroduced with stronger enforcement languageExpanded licensing that now includes hobbyist beekeepersWhat “risk-based inspections” really mean and why they are undefinedThe department’s new powers to enter property and destroy hivesHow fines, fees, and licensing revenue now fund enforcement directlyWhy “exclusive jurisdiction” language limits local flexibilityWhat small-scale beekeepers can do before this moves forwardWhy Listen to This Episode?You’ll get a clear explanation of how Pennsylvania’s new bill evolved, what it means for local beekeepers, and why it could set the tone for future pollinator legislation across the country.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5 % podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode takes a closer look at Pennsylvania’s proposed Plant and Pollinator Protection Act (SB 1198) and why it’s raising concerns among beekeepers across the country. I break down how it rewrites the long-standing Bee Law, what new powers it gives the Department of Agriculture, and why even backyard beekeepers could be affected.What’s Inside This Episode:What SB 1198 actually proposes and why it mattersHow it expands licensing and inspection powersWhat “risk-based inspections” could mean for hobbyistsHow unregistered hives could be seized or destroyedThe shift from a $10 registration to open-ended licensing feesNew record-keeping and reporting requirementsWhy this legislation could set a national precedentWhy Listen to This Episode?You’ll learn what’s buried in the fine print of SB 1198, how it could reshape state-level beekeeping regulation, and what actions Pennsylvania beekeepers should take before this bill advances further.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5 % podcast with over 600,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy