Beekeeping For Newbees

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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this Bee Buzz episode I tackle common late-season questions about treating Varroa mites before winter, dealing with moisture and ventilation, replacing old comb, wrapping hives, and whether it’s safe to move colonies near a windbreak this time of year. We also look at what “too much insulation” really means, how to manage condensation safely, and why mite counts in early spring matter more than any single fall treatment.What’s Inside This Episode:How late you can safely treat for Varroa before winterWhy most mite treatments don’t work well during clusteringWhether to treat for Nosema or other diseases in fallHow to tell if mite levels are low enough to survive winterWhen and how to replace dark, old comb safelyWhether tilting the hive helps manage condensationHow much ventilation is too much in cold climatesWhen to wrap hives, move colonies, or open them midwinterWhy Listen to This Episode?It’s a straight-talking Bee Buzz focused on the realities of overwintering, from managing mites and moisture to balancing insulation and airflow for stronger colonies next spring.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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this Bee Buzz episode I answer listener questions about using drone comb to reduce Varroa without chemicals, getting bees to accept plastic foundation, managing weak colonies before winter, handling late season queen loss, and how to think about brood frames, pollen patties, and uncapped nectar as the season winds down.What’s Inside This Episode:How drone comb helps pull Varroa mites out of the colonyWays to coat or prep plastic foundation for better acceptanceWhen to combine weak colonies before winter hitsWhat to do if your colony goes queenless late in the yearWhy removing unused brood boxes saves energy and stressWhen pollen patties hurt more than they helpHow to move honey frames safely between coloniesWhy genetics beat feeding when it comes to overwintering successWhy Listen to This Episode?It’s a practical Bee Buzz packed with seasonal advice, field experience, and honest talk about what really works when prepping hives for winter.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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In part two of my conversation with Minnesota beekeeper Peg DeSanto, we continue unpacking the science of overwintering and explore the research behind condensation, CO₂ balance, and hive insulation. Peg explains why matching hive size to colony strength matters, how smaller overwintering spaces improve survival, and how her Hive Hugger project was born from frustration, science, and a little bit of love.What’s Inside This Episode:Why bees can freeze even with honey inches awayThe real cause behind “starvation” deaths in winterHow matching hive space to colony size improves survivalWhat Seely’s natural cavity research reveals about hive volumeHow CO₂ and humidity help bees regulate metabolismHow the Hive Hugger insulation system was developed and testedWhy insulation values (R30 top, R10 sides) are critical for cold regionsWhy Listen to This Episode?You will hear the rest of Peg’s story and learn how modern insulation research and natural bee behavior combine to create a more effective, science-based approach to overwintering.Limited offer at https://hivehugger.com , use code: BK4N for 11% off.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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode I talk with Minnesota beekeeper Peg DeSanto about one of the biggest challenges in beekeeping, getting colonies through winter. Peg explains how she became determined to stop winter losses and what she learned about insulation, moisture control, and the science behind the condensing hive approach.What’s Inside This Episode:Why 50 to 60 percent winter losses are not inevitableHow moisture and cold both threaten hive survivalWhat R values actually mean for top and side insulationHow bees manage condensation and why wet bees die fastWhat condensing hive design solves and how to build oneReal data from researchers like Tom Seeley and Etienne TardifHow proper insulation reduces honey use and stressWhy Listen to This Episode?You will learn how modern data and natural behavior work together to redefine overwintering success, with practical steps any beekeeper can apply before the cold sets in.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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Bees In The News is back with a fresh format and more commentary. Instead of just reading headlines, I dive into what these stories really mean for beekeepers. In this episode, we explore the surprising discovery of natural bacteria in pollen that may protect bees, the growing concerns about native bee loss in Missouri and Kansas, and a Penn State study showing that organic beekeeping might actually improve honey yields and beekeeper safety. We wrap up with Alaska’s first small hive beetle detection and what it really means for northern beekeepers.What’s Inside This Episode:How natural endophytes in pollen could help fight hive pathogensThe reality of native bee decline and what beekeepers can do about itWhy honey bees can act like an invasive species in certain ecosystemsBreaking down “organic” beekeeping and why it does not mean “hands off”How organic acids and essential oils can rival conventional mite treatmentsWhy true “organic honey” is nearly impossible to label in the U.S.The Alaska small hive beetle detection and why it is not cause for panicPractical steps to reduce beetle pressure in your hives year-roundWhy Listen to This Episode?This episode ties together science, practicality, and opinion. You will walk away with insight into the latest research, how it applies to your beekeeping, and why understanding natural and organic approaches can help protect both managed and wild bee populations.More Info:🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.orgReferenced Articles:🔬 Natural bacteria in pollen may protect bees (ScienceDaily)🌾 Native bees struggle in Missouri and Kansas (KCUR)🍯 Organic beekeeping benefits bees and keepers (Earth.com)❄️ Alaska confirms first small hive beetle detection (Your Alaska Link)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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Every beekeeper wonders how their colonies are doing in the middle of winter. Are they clustered? Do they have enough food? Is it safe to open the hive? In this episode, I walk through the new project I have been teasing for months, a hive monitoring system that uses temperature probes, humidity sensors, and data collectors to create real-time heat maps of the winter cluster. This is a non-invasive way to track your bees and generate actionable data for better overwintering decisions.What’s Inside This Episode:Why traditional “knock tests” and quick hive peeks fall shortUsing 18–20 temperature probes per hive to locate the clusterESP32 boards, Raspberry Pi collectors, and open source toolsHow heat maps and playback show cluster movement over timeTesting phases: hardware build, power integration, garage trials, full yard deploymentAdding heat strips to simulate cluster movement for controlled experimentsIntegrating insulation tests and measuring power to honey conversionFuture expansions like weight sensors and even drone based data retrievalWhy Listen to This Episode?This project combines beekeeping with technology, giving you a way to see what really happens inside your hives during the cold months. Whether you want to build your own system or just follow along, you will come away with new insights into how bees survive winter.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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It is Bee Buzz time again, and in this Q&A session I answer listener questions on winter prep, feeding, and hive management. We talk about whether to reduce colonies from two brood boxes to one, how to handle screened bottom boards, what to know about moisture boards, and when to stop feeding syrup. I also cover queen excluders in winter, protecting against mice, and why upper entrances may cause more problems than they solve.What’s Inside This Episode:Best times and methods for moving a hive stand without stressing beesWhat moisture boards do and whether they are worth usingWhen and why to reduce from double deeps to a single brood boxThe truth about queen excluders in winter setupsEntrance reducers, mouse guards, and facing hives away from cold windsScreened bottom boards and whether to close them for cold weatherHow much honey a colony needs by region and climateFeeding decisions: syrup, sugar bricks, fondant, and candy boardsWhy Listen to This Episode?Winter prep is full of conflicting advice. This episode cuts through the noise with straightforward answers to common questions so you can focus on keeping your bees alive and strong until spring.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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When temperatures drop, bees form the winter cluster to stay alive. In this episode, we dig into what triggers clustering, how bees rotate between the mantle and the core, and the muscle power that generates heat without flight. We also look at how the cluster moves as a unit to consume honey, why frame arrangement matters, and what not to do when preparing colonies for the cold months. Whether you are a first-year beekeeper or have decades of experience, this is a foundational topic you cannot overlook.What’s Inside This Episode:What the winter cluster is and why bees form itMantle bees vs core bees and how they rotate to stay aliveThe role of flight muscles in heat generationHow brood rearing changes cluster temperature demandsWhy colonies move together through honey stores instead of breaking clusterCommon myths about bees starving “inches away” from foodFrame arrangement mistakes that can hurt winter survivalVentilation, insulation, and protecting hives from pests like miceWhy Listen to This Episode?Understanding the winter cluster is key to successful overwintering. This episode explains how bees regulate heat, manage resources, and act as a superorganism when survival is on the line.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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport 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 Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/honeySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy