Beekeeping For Newbees

When bees overwinter in a tree cavity, they enjoy thick insulation, controlled airflow, and condensation that actually helps them survive. In a Langstroth hive, things look very different, and without adjustments, those differences can cost colonies dearly.In this episode, I break down what happens inside a natural cavity and compare it to the equipment most of us use today. You will hear how bees manage heat, water, and carbon dioxide in winter, why condensation is not always the enemy, and what steps you can take to make your hives perform more like nature intended.What’s Inside This Episode:Why tree cavities give bees a head start on winter survivalHow clustering really works, from core temps to the outer mantleThe surprising role of carbon dioxide in calming bees and slowing consumptionWhy water and condensation are vital, but only when they drip below the clusterThe insulation gap: tree walls vs. Langstroth boxesHow entrance size and placement change survival oddsPractical takeaways to prep your colonies for colder monthsWhy Listen to This Episode?If you have ever wondered why colonies thrive in trees but struggle in wooden boxes, this episode connects the dots. You will leave with actionable ways to improve your overwintering setup, from insulation strategies to smarter entrance management.More Info:🌐 beekeepingfornewbees.com📘 bestbeekeepinggear.com🎥 youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🌱 thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the PodcastBeekeeping 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Winter is coming, and the way you prepare your hives now will determine how strong your colonies are in the spring. In this episode, we go step by step through assessing colony strength, when to combine hives, and what kind of feeding really works. We also break down insulation and ventilation, weighing your hives, and why candy boards and sugar bricks are not the magic fix some people think they are. This is the practical, no-nonsense guide you need before the cold weather sets in.What’s Inside This Episode:How to evaluate colony strength before winterWhen and how to merge weak hives without the newspaper methodFeeding options: 1:1, 2:1, and 3:2 sugar syrup, plus what to avoid in cold tempsWhy candy boards, sugar bricks, and fondant usually failUsing pollen patties wisely without triggering brood too lateWeighing hives to judge food stores and survival chancesInsulation, ventilation, and preventing condensation problemsCheap and simple gear for securing hives against wind and snowWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode clears away bad advice and simplifies what works. You will leave with a clear plan to get your bees through winter without wasting money or losing colonies to preventable mistakes.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode focuses on the difference between spring and fall pollen and how seasonal shifts impact bee nutrition. We look at what bees need to raise brood, how they build fat reserves for winter, and why feeding is not the same in every season. At the end of the episode, I share my personal story of 9/11, where I was that day in DC, what I saw, and how it unfolded.What’s Inside This Episode:Tree pollen, brood buildup, and spring protein needsThe role of high-lipid fall pollen in building winter fat bodiesWhy pollen patties are not a one-size-fits-all solutionWhat to do when your fall flow never arrivesHow feeding mistakes can backfire going into winterA first-hand 9/11 account from DC and how it shaped the dayThe renovation timing that kept my mother away from the Pentagon impact zoneWhy Listen to This Episode?You will gain a clearer understanding of how bee nutrition changes by season and hear a first-hand account of 9/11 that offers perspective and reflection.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

News of the USDA Beltsville Bee Lab closing has sparked controversy, but what’s fact and what’s fearmongering? In this episode, we dig into the proposed relocation of the nation’s oldest bee research lab and what it means for diagnostics, research, and beekeepers like you. We also take a hard look at the usual claims about bee declines, climate blame, pesticide hysteria, and what the real numbers say about colony health. This one might ruffle some feathers, but it’s a conversation worth having.What’s Inside This Episode:The truth about Beltsville’s shutdown and what might happen nextWhy moving lab services doesn’t mean losing themCan private industry or nonprofits step in and do it better?Debunking lazy climate arguments with real-world contextGlobal honey bee colony counts and why they’re risingThe almond industry, monoculture problems, and managed pollinationWhy honey bees are the invasive species nobody talks aboutReframing decline: how growth and loss can coexistWhy Listen to This Episode?This isn’t just about one lab. It’s about who controls the narrative and how beekeepers get their information. If you’re tired of politics clouding science and fear replacing facts, this episode clears the smoke and brings things back to reality.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Oxalic acid has long been a trusted treatment for Varroa mites, but recent label updates are causing confusion about dosage, legality, and safety. In this episode, we talk through what the updated EPA labels for Api-Bioxal and EZ-OX actually say, why generic wood bleach is not a legal alternative, and how much is too much when vaporizing OA. We also dig into what studies show about dose vs. efficacy, why more isn’t always better, and what to watch out for when combining treatments. If you’ve heard people say “the label changed,” this episode breaks it all down.What’s Inside This Episode:Api-Bioxal now approved at 4g per brood box — what that actually meansEZ-OX’s label vs. Api-Bioxal: different brands, different limitsWhy you can’t legally use generic wood bleach for OA vaporizingWhat new research shows about 5g+ doses and delayed colony lossesThe risk of vaporizing OA with honey supers still onProper PPE and how inhaling vaporized OA can damage your lungsWhy rotating treatments is more important than everApiguard vs. Apivar confusion: why amitraz resistance is important to understandWhy Listen to This Episode?Whether you're brand new to OA or a seasoned vaporizer, the treatment landscape is changing. This episode helps you stay compliant, effective, and safe while keeping your bees healthy and your colonies thriving.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% globally ranked 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Fall swarms aren’t just a myth, and in some areas, they’re happening right now. While most beekeepers associate swarming with spring, certain late-season conditions can trigger it all over again. In this episode, we break down what those triggers are, how to recognize the signs, and what to do if your bees get the fall swarm bug. We also clear up the confusion between fall bearding and true swarm behavior, and talk about what really happens when you see queen cells in September.What’s Inside This Episode:What causes fall swarming and why it’s more than just a lack of spaceHow reduced brood pheromone and strong nectar flow can set the stageWhy fall pollen may not stimulate brood the way spring pollen doesWhy bearding is not the same as swarming but can still be a clueSwarm vs. supercedure vs. emergency cells and how to tell them apartThe dangers of fall swarms for both the swarm and the parent colonyWhat to do if you catch a fall swarm or miss it entirelyManaging space and drawn comb during the fall flowWhy Listen to This Episode?Understanding the subtle signals of a fall swarm can help you avoid losing a colony right before winter. This episode gives you the tools to recognize the warning signs and respond before it’s too late.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As the summer bees finish their work and the fall flow begins, the colony shifts gears. In this episode, we explore how the biology of the honey bee changes for winter, why the nutritional profile of fall forage is different from spring, and what that means for feeding decisions. We talk about cluster sizes, race-specific overwintering tendencies, CO₂ and ventilation in winter, and how to decide what is right for your bees rather than following blanket advice from others.What’s Inside This Episode:Quick update on yellow jacket and wasp trap testingHow to estimate honey yield from a full deepWhy ordering your 2026 bees early can save you money and stressThe shift from summer bees to winter bees and what changes biologicallyFall versus spring forage and how nutrient profiles match seasonal needsDeciding on cluster size based on bee race, climate, and goalsCO₂, ventilation, and keeping entrances open in winterWhy overwinter feeding should fit your bees and your specific conditionsWhy Listen to This Episode?If you want your colonies strong and ready for spring, understanding the biology and seasonal needs of winter bees is key. This episode gives you practical, fact-backed strategies you can adapt to your own bees, location, and goals.More Info:🐝 beekeepingfornewbees.com📘 bestbeekeepinggear.com🎥 youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🌱 thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Record-breaking heatwaves aren’t just hard on humans — they challenge your colonies too. In this episode, we talk through ways to support your bees during extreme summer temperatures. You’ll learn how hive ventilation works, what role water plays in cooling the colony, and why some popular summer hacks may do more harm than good.What’s Inside This Episode:Why beekeeping forums are flooded with conflicting, often bad informationHow bees manage internal hive temps through fanning, evaporative cooling, and beardingA walkthrough of vented inner covers, screened bottom boards, and screened entrance reducersWhat we can (and can’t) learn from tree cavities and natural hive structuresThe critical importance of accessible water in summer heatHeat shielding: the wild way bees absorb and relocate thermal energyWhy opening the hive for “extra ventilation” may backfire — and what to try insteadA reminder that Varroa doesn’t take the summer off, and why low counts can still mean high viral loadWhy Listen to This Episode?If you’ve ever worried about your bees overheating or wondered how much intervention is too much, this episode offers practical advice and a calming reality check. You'll leave with a better understanding of what bees can handle and what they need from you.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Thinking about starting beekeeping next spring? This lighthearted but information-packed episode walks you through the full “gestation” process, from the initial idea of getting bees to the big delivery day. Whether you're still dreaming or already placing your order, we’ll break the season into trimesters and help you prepare every step of the way. From first tools to first inspections and even “bee nesting” behaviors, this episode is full of practical tips (and a few dad jokes) to get you ready for your brand-new colony.What’s Inside This Episode:Mapping your beekeeping journey from idea to installationWhat to expect in each “trimester” leading up to your first seasonThe nesting phase: organizing gear and setting up your apiaryBee Day prep: sugar syrup, smoker checks, and installation timingPost-installation care and inspection best practicesHow to document early hive progress without fumbling with paperWhy Listen to This Episode?Whether you're just toying with the idea or already knee-deep in gear, this episode gives you a practical timeline, helpful tools, and a humorous nudge to get your beekeeping plans in motion the right way.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What’s the real deal with summer ventilation hacks? Should you remove entrance reducers? In this episode, I break down some bad advice floating around YouTube, walk through key updates to the online course platform, and share the growing list of experiments I’ll be running in 2026. If you’ve noticed fewer uploads lately, there’s a reason for that too.What’s Inside This Episode:Why certain “ventilation tricks” can do more harm than goodReal talk on hive entrances, reducers, and hardware clothThe new course platform and how it fixes major pain pointsPreview of upcoming experiments on feeding, queen excluders, ventilation, and mite testingDIY hive sensors and environmental trackingLife updates: wedding planning, grad school, and production delaysWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode gives you a transparent look at what’s working and what’s not when it comes to hive management, course development, and community support. If you're curious about what's ahead for 2026 or want a heads-up on common mistakes to avoid this summer, it’s all here.Connect and Learn More:🌐 Website: https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Gear and blog site: https://bestbeekeepinggear.com💬 Discord: https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ🫶 Nonprofit: https://thehealinghiveproject.org📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbeesSupport the Show:☕ Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport 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 closer look at some of the most common alternatives to the Langstroth hive, including Top Bar, Horizontal (Long Langstroth and Layens), and Warre hives. Each of these styles offers something different, from lower lifting demands to more natural comb construction. We cover how they work, who they’re best suited for, and what you need to consider before making a change — including frame support, extraction limitations, and realistic tradeoffs. This episode also includes a listener mention of how horizontal hives can provide better accessibility for disabled beekeepers.What’s Inside This Episode:Why Langstroth remains the default hive for most beekeepersKey features of Top Bar hivesThe difference between Long Langstroth and Layens hivesPros and cons of horizontal hives for backyard beekeepersWarre hive historyAccessibility considerations and why style choice should reflect your goalsMore Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com📘 Read our articles: bestbeekeepinggear.com🎥 YouTube channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport 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 practical honey extraction methods for beekeepers of all levels. If you're new to harvesting or just looking to improve your setup, this episode covers when and how to take honey, how to test moisture content, what to avoid during treatment windows, and how to extract honey with or without expensive equipment. We’ll also go over tips for drying uncapped honey, clearing bees from supers, and managing sticky cleanup after the fact.What’s Inside This Episode:Why you shouldn’t harvest honey in your first yearHow to know when your honey is ready (capped vs uncapped)Using a refractometer to measure moisture contentTips for drying uncapped honey frames before extractionWhy your treatment history matters before harvestingHow to clear bees using escape boards, one-way exits, or shakingOverview of manual vs electric extractorsCrush and strain method explainedFinal tips for safe, efficient honey harvestsMore Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com📘 Read our articles: bestbeekeepinggear.com🎥 YouTube channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the Discord: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport 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 cover a few important topics to help you avoid major headaches in your beekeeping journey.🐝 What’s Inside This Episode:Why the presence of a queen cell doesn't mean “do a split”How to avoid disaster when buying used gear (AFB risks)Best practices for moving bees out of swarm trapsWhen it's safe to relocate, and how long to waitWhat to ask when picking up a nuc or packageWhy queen age, mite treatment, and egg-laying status matterRegional timing differences for splits and trapping💬 More Info:🌐 Website: beekeepingfornewbees.com📘 Articles & reviews: bestbeekeepinggear.com🎥 YouTube: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 Join the community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Value in the episode? Buy Me a CoffeeOur Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Thinking of doing a walkaway split? Before you divide that colony, hit play. In this episode, we break down why timing is everything — especially as the summer dearth sets in. Inspired by a real listener question, we walk through what a walkaway split is, how it works, and why it might be one of the riskiest moves you can make during a seasonal lull. Learn why your queen might not emerge (or mate), what happens to your workforce while you wait, and why “just because” splits usually backfire.🧭 What’s Inside This Episode:What exactly is a walkaway split, and how is it different from other types?Why splits are easier (and safer) in the springHow long it really takes to go from queenless to new beesWhy feeding and robbing become serious concerns4 key reasons not to split your colony right nowHow to test drone availability without risking an entire hiveWhy “my mentor said it was a good idea” is not always a green lightTips for getting honest, timely advice from experienced beekeepers🔗 More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.org📌 About the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport 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 dive into the what, who, when, where, why, and how of honeycomb production. You'll learn how wax gets made, when bees choose to build it, what types of foundation help or hinder that process, and how to manage common comb problems — from burr and brace comb to the dreaded “wonky comb.” We also get into frame spacing habits, foundation color (black vs yellow), and why wax production is all about energy balance, not instinct alone.Whether you’re dealing with bridge comb between deeps, weird bulging frames, or just want to help your bees draw clean comb, this episode will walk you through every angle.🧭 What’s Inside This Episode:Who makes comb, when, and whyHow nectar flow (not honey stores) triggers wax productionThe hidden costs of wax secretion for the colonyFoundation types: plastic, wax, foundationless, and starter stripsBurr, brace, and bridge comb — what’s the difference?Fixing frames stuck together or warped from weird combMy personal hot take on why I do not squish frames togetherTips on checkerboarding and why it doesn’t always workShould you use black or yellow foundation? Here’s the real deal.🔗 More Info🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees📌 About the PodcastBeekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ever wonder how long it takes for a queen to emerge? Or why drones take longer to develop than workers? In this deep-dive episode, we break down the full development cycle of honey bee castes — workers, drones, and queens — from egg to emergence. You’ll learn what happens during each stage, how nutrition influences caste, and why understanding these timelines is essential for swarm control, requeening, and sustainable colony growth.What’s Inside This Episode:Worker, drone, and queen development timelines: 16, 21, and 24 days explainedWhat each bee does during its life — from cleaning cells to mating flightsWhat royal jelly is and how it differs from worker jellyWhy bee bread is preferred over fresh pollen for larval nutritionHow to calculate timing for walkaway splits and swarm preventionTips for spotting queenright vs queenless conditions during a dearthUsing drone brood to monitor and interrupt Varroa mite reproductionWhy Listen to This Episode:This is one of the most detailed episodes we’ve ever done — and it’s loaded with knowledge that will help you make better management decisions. Whether you’re requeening, splitting, or just trying to understand what’s happening inside the hive, mastering the timeline of bee development is one of the most powerful tools in a beekeeper’s toolkit.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees☕ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On this Memorial Day, we pause to reflect on the meaning of service, sacrifice, and the families who carry that burden. In this special episode, Jeff shares his own story of military transition, how beekeeping became a source of healing, and why he's launching a new nonprofit: The Healing Hive Project. This initiative will create a retreat and training center for veterans and first responders using the therapeutic power of honey bees.What’s Inside This Episode:A personal message of gratitude to Gold Star families and those who serveReflections on military transition, loss, and reconnecting with purposeA behind-the-scenes look at the vision for The Healing Hive ProjectFacilities, programming, and how the beekeeping community can get involvedCall for volunteers, donors, and partners to support this missionA reminder to show grace on Memorial Day — and to educate with kindnessWhy Listen to This Episode:If you’re a veteran, first responder, or someone who believes in the power of nature to heal, this episode shares the story behind a meaningful new direction. Whether you want to lend a hand, share the mission, or just reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day, this episode lays the foundation for something that matters far beyond beekeeping.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 Learn more about the nonprofit: thehealinghiveproject.orgAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The nectar flow doesn't last forever, and when it ends, things can get tough. In this episode, we talk about how to recognize the start of a summer dearth, how to feed bees without triggering robbing, and how to use this broodless period to crush your mite population. You'll also hear what not to do with syrup feeders (Jeff's mistake was gross), and why hive beetles and robbing go hand in hand this time of year.What’s Inside This Episode:Signs your bees have entered a dearthWhen to feed — and how to do it without attracting robbersEntrance reducers: size mattersBest feeder styles (and how to avoid fermenting syrup disasters)Hive beetle traps, pollen patty caution, and SHB vacuumsLeveraging the brood break for more effective mite treatmentsWhy blind treating for mites without testing is hurting your bees (and everyone else)How to recognize robbing in action — and how to shut it down fastWhy Listen to This Episode:If you’re beekeeping anywhere that sees a summer dearth, this episode is essential. You’ll learn how to keep your colonies healthy, productive, and protected through the toughest part of the season and how to time your mite treatments for maximum impact when brood levels drop.More Info:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Buy Me a Coffee: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We wrap up our three-part Bee Buzz Q&A series with a big one — covering everything from screen bottom boards and queen excluders to robbing behavior, swarm cells, spring mite counts, aggressive bees, and more. Plus, a quick family update from graduation weekend, a pickup mission to Kentucky, and the latest with Howard the cat (who now demands an intro shoutout). This is a packed episode with over 20 questions answered.What’s Inside This Episode:When to do your first mite wash after installing packagesQueen cells: how to tell the difference (and what to actually do)Is a loud hive a sign of danger?Should I be worried if one new package is way more active than another?Robbing, screen bottom boards, and entrance reducer strategyLate spring brood levels, swarm triggers, and inspection timingBest mite treatment strategies for early seasonAnd yes — why the queen excluder can go on anytimeWhy Listen to This Episode:This is the kind of episode you revisit every spring. Whether you're installing new bees, spotting queen cells, worried about brood patterns, or just trying to stay one step ahead of swarming season — this Q&A hits the key questions every new (and not-so-new) beekeeper runs into.🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We’re back with The Bee Buzz! In this episode, I recap a wild cross-country trip that ended in a busted transmission, a used car purchase, and the world's best Applebee’s salmon. Then we jump into your beekeeping questions. What’s Inside This Episode:Weekly inspections vs bi-weekly: what you risk by skippingReversing boxes vs adding space — what actually mattersWhen and how to rotate or replace framesSigns your bees are running out of roomQueen cells: when to panic, when to leave them aloneHow to time spring feeding, splits, and adding supersSwarm traps, package installs, brood patterns, and moreWhy Listen to This Episode:This Bee Buzz is packed with practical advice for spring management, swarm prevention, and making better colony decisions — especially if you're still figuring out when to step in and when to let bees do their thing. Whether you're managing two hives or twenty, there’s something in here for you.Support the Show:🌐 Visit the website: beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 Also visit: bestbeekeepinggear.com💬 Join the Discord community: discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbeesAbout the Podcast:Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 2% podcast with over 500,000 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 doesn’t in real-world beekeeping.Our Sponsors:* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy