Chuck Cook Podcast

Chuck Cook
  • 5.0 (9)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Chuck Cook Podcast where aviation expertise intersects with autonomous technology and sustainable innovation. Hosted by Chuck Cook—a retired US Navy Commander, Airbus A321 Captain, and pioneering Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta tester—this podcast dives into the forefront of aviation, autonomy, and the technologies shaping our world. With over three decades of flying experience and a passion for pushing technological boundaries, Chuck shares unparalleled insights into the evolution of autonomous systems. From his extensive testing of Tesla’s FSD software to tackling real-world challenges like unprotected left turns, listeners gain a behind-the-scenes look at how AI is transforming mobility and safety. But this podcast is about more than just tech. Chuck delves into his diverse passions, including beekeeping, arboriculture, aquaponics, and keto coaching, offering practical tips and thought-provoking discussions on sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Whether it’s advice on maintaining healthy hives, exploring cutting-edge agriculture, or optimizing health through keto, Chuck provides a wealth of actionable knowledge. Each episode brings a unique blend of personal stories, expert insights, and thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of technology, aviation, and nature. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or someone passionate about sustainability, The Chuck Cook Podcast is your destination for inspiration, innovation, and exploration. Subscribe Today Embark on a journey through the skies, the autonomous frontier, and the natural world, all guided by Chuck’s expertise and passion for discovery. Follow Chuck Online • Follow Chuck on X: @Chazman • Tesla FSD Testing and Insights: YouTube: Chuck Cook • Beekeeping Adventures and Education: YouTube: Chuck’s Honeybees Join the conversation and stay connected as we explore the future of aviation, autonomy, and sustainable living.

  1. Moving the Started Cells into the Cell Finisher

    FEB 16

    Moving the Started Cells into the Cell Finisher

    🐝✨ Things are getting real in the apiary today! Join Chuck for a candid look at the critical transition from "cell starter" to "cell finisher." It’s not just about the wins; we’re showing the mistakes too! 🤔 What is the correct configuration for a queen-right finisher above an excluder? 😬 Can you actually save a queen cell after it falls off the bar? 📊 Is a less than 10% failure rate considered a success after 48 hours? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ The step-by-step process of moving cells at the 48-hour mark ✅ Analyzing the "take rate" and identifying the no-takers ✅ Troubleshooting signs of chilled brood and temperature regulation ✅ Real-time recovery when queen cells fall off the plastic bars ✅ Why switching from a double screen board to a queen excluder matters ✅ The hard lesson learned about waxing cups (don't skip this step!) ✅ Tips for feeding and keeping the finisher colony strong 🎙️ We believe in showing the good, the bad, and the sticky! Hit subscribe for more honest beekeeping lessons and drop a comment if you've ever had a cell bar mishap. #QueenRearing #BeekeepingLife #ApiaryManagement #SustainableBeekeeping #HiveTips #Beekeeper #QueenCells

    7 min
  2. How I Chose my VSH Breeder Queen This Year

    FEB 14

    How I Chose my VSH Breeder Queen This Year

    🐝👑 Is it time to let nature take the wheel in our apiaries? We’re back for grafting day, but Chuck is dropping some serious hot takes on Varroa management and why his best breeder queen this year came straight from the wild! 🤔 Are we actually making the Varroa problem worse in the US by constantly treating our hives? 🧬 Could a random wild swarm actually hold better genetics than expensive, famous breeder lineages? 👀 What does a full, unedited grafting sequence look like when you're over 50 and need "cheater" glasses? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ The controversial decision to stop ALL chemical treatments (including Oxalic!) ✅ Why this year's H4 breeder queen is marked "Wild" instead of a famous lineage ✅ Comparing US beekeeping struggles to Cuba’s treatment-free success ✅ A step-by-step look at the grafting process using Chinese tools ✅ Understanding the difference between commercial constraints and hobbyist freedom ✅ How to manage cell starters and finishers for optimal queen acceptance ✅ The harsh reality: Is nature beating us at our own game? 🗣️ We want to hear from you—are you team treatment or team nature? Drop your thoughts in the comments below and hit subscribe to follow the progress of these wild grafts! #Beekeeping #QueenRearing #VarroaMites #TreatmentFree #ApiaryLife #GraftingDay #SustainableBeekeeping

    23 min
  3. Beekeeping with Chuck - February Hive Expansion

    FEB 13

    Beekeeping with Chuck - February Hive Expansion

    🐝💥 Spring is buzzing early in the Southeast, and it’s time to wake up the apiary! Are you ready to build some "monster hives" for the upcoming season? 🤔 Wondering how to expand your colonies early without triggering a premature swarm? 🧐 Curious why giving your virgin queens the "front door" might drastically boost your mating success rates? 🏗️ Want to know the specific steps for a "Modified Demaree" manipulation to maximize laying space? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ Strategies for early spring feeding and capitalizing on maple pollen ✅ A step-by-step breakdown of the "Modified Demaree" technique ✅ The harsh but necessary reality of treatment-free stock assessment ✅ Why you should put mated queens at the top and virgins at the bottom ✅ How to safely perform mite checks during early season inspections ✅ Tips for managing drawn comb versus foundation in February ✅ Live hive inspection: identifying healthy brood patterns and food stores 🎧 Tune in now to get your apiary ready for a record-breaking year! Hit that subscribe button and let us know in the comments: are your hives waking up yet? #TheBLab #BeekeepingTips #QueenRearing #SwarmPrevention #TreatmentFreeBeekeeping #ApiaryManagement

    42 min
  4. Beekeeping with Chuck - 2026 VSH Queen Rearing - The Cell Starter Configuraiton

    FEB 13

    Beekeeping with Chuck - 2026 VSH Queen Rearing - The Cell Starter Configuraiton

    🐝 It’s officially the start of the 2026 season! While most people are prepping for Valentine’s Day, Chuck is out in the apiary focused on a different kind of labor of love: setting up the first queen cell starter of the year. This episode takes you right into the hive to configure a powerhouse starter for tomorrow's graft. 🤔 Is the "zero mite" count goal actually a total fallacy in modern beekeeping? 🧪 What is Harbo testing really telling us about genetic resistance vs. mite reproduction? 📋 How do you properly configure a queen-less bottom box while keeping the queen safe up top? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ The strategy behind Valentine's Day grafting and the 2026 season kickoff ✅ Breaking down Harbo test results: Level 4 breeders vs. Level 0 resource hives ✅ Why aiming for "zero mites" might be the wrong data point to chase ✅ Step-by-step guide to shaking bees and setting up a double screen board ✅ Selecting the perfect pollen frames to fuel your nurse bees ✅ A look at custom 3D-printed gear for temperature sensors and feeders ✅ How to use a high-mite, untreated colony as a strong cell starter 🎙️ We want to hear your take on the mite count controversy! Drop a comment below with your thoughts, and don't forget to like and subscribe for more deep dives into sustainable apiary management. #QueenRearing #Beekeeping #VarroaResistance #ApiaryLife #SustainableBeekeeping #HarboTesting

    20 min
  5. Beekeeping with Chuck - January 3 2026 - The Beginning of My Bee Season

    JAN 3

    Beekeeping with Chuck - January 3 2026 - The Beginning of My Bee Season

    🍯🌿 It’s January in Zone 9B, and that means the maples are budding and the vacation is over! The 2024 beekeeping season is kicking off early, so it's time to get off the sofa and get back into the apiary. 🤔 Are you accidentally triggering a March swarm by overfeeding your bees right now? Wondering how to stop your sugar water from fermenting without using bleach? Curious about how to manage explosive colony growth using the Demaree method? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ Why the "beekeeping year" actually starts in January for the Southeast ✅ The DIY ball-valve bucket hack that makes feeding mess-free ✅ Using Thymol in syrup to prevent fermentation and boost hive health ✅ The delicate balance of stimulating hives without causing early swarms ✅ Plans for VSH queen rearing and instrumental insemination classes ✅ Real-time hive inspections: How to spot a dead-out vs. a sleeper ✅ Choosing the right gear: Top feeders vs. in-frame deep feeders 🎙️ Grab your smoker and join me as we crack some lids! Let me know in the comments how your overwintered hives are looking. #Beekeeping #BackyardBeekeeping #ApiaryLife #Zone9B #HoneyBees #SustainableBeekeeping

    32 min
  6. FSD v14.2.1 - First Impressions and A Deep Dive Into the Airbus Airworthiness Directive

    11/30/2025

    FSD v14.2.1 - First Impressions and A Deep Dive Into the Airbus Airworthiness Directive

    ✈️🚙 What do a terrifying Airbus incident, solar flares, and the latest Cybertruck FSD update have in common? Join Captain Chuck for a drive that turns into a fascinating deep dive into software reliability! 🌞 How can a "bit flip" caused by solar activity force a massive aviation software update? 🏎️ Is the removal of max speed control in the new FSD profiles a dealbreaker for daily drivers? ⛓️ Did the Cybertruck finally pass the infamous "Thin Chain" test, or did it fail again? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ First impressions of FSD v14.2.1 on the Cybertruck ✅ The debate over Chill, Standard, and Mad Max speed profiles ✅ A pilot’s breakdown of the recent Airbus "uncommanded pitch down" incident ✅ Understanding "Bit Flips" and how the sun affects computer logic ✅ How legacy aviation software updates compare to Tesla’s OTA magic ✅ Real-world testing: Charging spot parking fails and the "Thin Chain" attempt ✅ Why supervising FSD feels exactly like piloting a modern airliner 🎙️ Are you loving these technical deep dives while we drive? Let us know in the comments if you prefer the aviation talk or pure road testing! Don't forget to subscribe for the next version update. #Cybertruck #TeslaFSD #AviationDaily #SoftwareEngineering #TechNews #PilotLife #BitFlip

    48 min
  7. FSD v14.2.1 - First Impressions Drive in the AI4 Model Y

    11/28/2025

    FSD v14.2.1 - First Impressions Drive in the AI4 Model Y

    🦃🚘 Thanksgiving came with a side of AI! We’re taking the new Tesla FSD V14.2.1 for a spin on the Model Y to see if the holiday update is a feast or a flop. 🤔 Does the new update finally fix the dreaded "Thin Chain" parking test? Why is the car still emergency braking for piles of leaves, and what does that say about object mass detection? And is the "learning curve" for FSD too steep for the average driver receiving a free trial? 📍 Highlights in this episode: ✅ The "Navigation Switcheroo": Why the car overrides driver route choices ✅ Analyzing human vs. AI logic regarding obstacles (The "Cotton Ball vs. Nails" theory) ✅ A surprisingly perfect execution of the School Zone speed limit test ✅ The challenge of "Butts in Seats" and mentoring new FSD users ✅ Why V14.3 might finally bring the "Reasoning" capabilities we've been waiting for ✅ Another attempt at the tricky Thin Chain reverse test ✅ Smooth garage parking to cap off the Black Friday drive 🚗💨 What’s your experience with the new V14 update? Let us know in the comments if you've noticed the navigation bug! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more real-world testing. #TeslaFSD #ModelY #AI4 #FSDBeta #TeslaCommunity #AutonomousDriving

    46 min
  8. FSD Supervised v14.1.7 - First Impressions Drive

    11/14/2025

    FSD Supervised v14.1.7 - First Impressions Drive

    🤖⚡️ FSD v14.1.7 is here, and it might be the smoothest, most human-like version yet! We're taking the new Model Y "Juniper" for its first spin on the latest software, and the results are mind-blowing. 🤔 Is the infamous FSD brake-jab finally a thing of the past? Can the car really see and react to a "Road Closed" sign in real-time? And how is this new level of automation changing the role of the driver forever? Highlights in this episode: ✅ First impressions drive on the brand new FSD v14.1.7. ✅ Witness FSD react instantly to a 'Road Closed' sign and reroute on its own! ✅ See the car make a human-like decision at a confusing stop sign. ✅ Flawless handling of school zones, jaywalkers, and complex parking scenarios. ✅ A deep dive into why the driver's role is evolving into an "automation manager." ✅ The new dedicated camera cleaning wash in action! ✅ A must-know PSA for new Model Y "Juniper" owners about floor mats! 🎙️ What was the most impressive moment from this drive? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know what you want to see tested next! #Tesla #FSD #FSDBeta #ModelY #Juniper #EV #Tech #Podcast #SelfDriving #Robotaxi #TeslaFSD

    1h 8m
See All (71)

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Chuck Cook Podcast where aviation expertise intersects with autonomous technology and sustainable innovation. Hosted by Chuck Cook—a retired US Navy Commander, Airbus A321 Captain, and pioneering Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta tester—this podcast dives into the forefront of aviation, autonomy, and the technologies shaping our world. With over three decades of flying experience and a passion for pushing technological boundaries, Chuck shares unparalleled insights into the evolution of autonomous systems. From his extensive testing of Tesla’s FSD software to tackling real-world challenges like unprotected left turns, listeners gain a behind-the-scenes look at how AI is transforming mobility and safety. But this podcast is about more than just tech. Chuck delves into his diverse passions, including beekeeping, arboriculture, aquaponics, and keto coaching, offering practical tips and thought-provoking discussions on sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Whether it’s advice on maintaining healthy hives, exploring cutting-edge agriculture, or optimizing health through keto, Chuck provides a wealth of actionable knowledge. Each episode brings a unique blend of personal stories, expert insights, and thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of technology, aviation, and nature. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or someone passionate about sustainability, The Chuck Cook Podcast is your destination for inspiration, innovation, and exploration. Subscribe Today Embark on a journey through the skies, the autonomous frontier, and the natural world, all guided by Chuck’s expertise and passion for discovery. Follow Chuck Online • Follow Chuck on X: @Chazman • Tesla FSD Testing and Insights: YouTube: Chuck Cook • Beekeeping Adventures and Education: YouTube: Chuck’s Honeybees Join the conversation and stay connected as we explore the future of aviation, autonomy, and sustainable living.

Information

  • Creator
    Chuck Cook
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    71
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Chuck Cook 2025
  • Show Website
    Chuck Cook Podcast

You Might Also Like