Beekeeping For Newbees®

Beekeeping For Newbees

Here we will discuss everything needed for new beekeepers to learn to keep honeybees including: Beekeeping tools, hive components, what to do and when, and every trick of the trade that we can think of. If you are new to beekeeping, this podcast is for you.

  1. 23 HR AGO

    Episode 199 - The 5 Questions Every Hive Inspection Should Answer (Part 1 of 2) 🐝

    Most new beekeepers open their hives too much or not nearly enough, and both create real problems. In this episode we build a simple, repeatable inspection framework around five questions that will focus every hive visit and cut out the guesswork. We also cover what to expect in those first one to three weeks after install, how to read your brood frames, when to feed and when to back off, and why swarm pressure can build faster than most people realize. This is Part 1 of a two-part series on growing your new colony through spring. What's Inside This Episode: • The 5 questions to answer on every inspection and why they replace the need to pull every frame • How to locate the queen as a new beekeeper, including a frame trick that works even when you cannot spot her • Reading your brood pattern and what a good pattern actually looks like versus what deserves a closer look • Food and feeding decisions in the first few weeks and when it makes sense to taper off • How to spot space issues that quietly build swarm pressure before you ever see a queen cell • Swarm pressure indicators and what to actually do when things are getting tight • How often to inspect and why stretching to four to six weeks is a setup for serious problems • Walk-away splits explained for when you need to leave town and the hive is showing signs • New app launch: AI-powered, built around the Beekeeping for Newbees training library, dropping April 28th • Free pre-inspection checklist available now at beekeepingfornewbees.com Perfect For You If: You just installed a package or nuc and are not sure what to look for when you open the hive, or you have been pulling every frame on every visit and want a smarter, faster way to get it done More Info: 🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com 🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com 📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees 💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ 🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees Additional Resources: Never Take Hive Notes Again: https://youtu.be/DWdKMG-Wl-w Package Bees Install Video: https://youtu.be/wSAXt4kODz8 About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    46 min
  2. 7 APR

    Episode 198 – Installing Packages and Nucs, Part 2: What I Did Wrong and What to Do Next 🐝

    In this episode we pick up right where we left off and continue the install process, including a mistake I made and how to handle it if it happens to you. We also walk through what to do after installation, how to handle feeding, and what to expect in those first few days. This wraps up the install process and sets you up for your first inspections.  What’s Inside This Episode: • What happens if you remove the wrong cork on a queen cage and how to fix it • Why leaving your bees alone after install is one of the most important steps • How and when to check queen release without disturbing the colony • Feeding strategies after install and when to start tapering off • Differences in feeding and management between packages and nucs • Common mistakes like over-inspecting and delaying installs too long • What to expect in the first week and how to prepare for early inspections Why Listen to This Episode? Even small mistakes during install can have a big impact if you do not know how to handle them. This episode helps you recover from those moments and sets clear expectations for what comes next. More Info: 🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com 🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com 📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees 💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ 🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees Additional Resources: Installing Bee Packages: https://youtu.be/wSAXt4kODz8 Vented Entrance Reducer: https://youtube.com/shorts/bd6cEeE_kSk Swarm Trap Prep and Bait Video: https://youtu.be/VOn8nv4ZqKE Building a Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlE About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    37 min
  3. 6 APR

    Episode 197 – Installing Packages and Nucs, Part 1: Step-by-Step Setup and Mistakes to Avoid 🐝

    In this episode we walk through the process of installing package bees and what to expect on day one. We break down the differences between packages and nucs, how to prepare your hive, and the exact steps to get your bees settled in safely. This is part one of a two-part series, focusing on setup and install before moving into early follow-up and inspections.  What’s Inside This Episode: • The key differences between package bees and nucs and how that affects your starting point • Why protective gear is still important even when bees are less defensive during install • How and when to feed new packages • Using a sprayer to calm bees during install • Positioning the queen cage for a safe release • Getting frames back in place and closing up the hive without crushing bees Why Listen to This Episode? Installing bees is one of the most important moments for a new beekeeper. This episode walks you through the process so you can avoid common mistakes and start your colony off strong. More Info: 🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com 🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com 📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees 💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ 🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees Additional Resources: Installing Packages: https://youtu.be/wSAXt4kODz8 Checking Queens: (links forthcoming) Bucket Feeder: https://youtu.be/lTowIiSjTtg Mixing 2:1 in a Bucket: https://youtube.com/shorts/sQqb_uuYzhQ Never Take Hive Notes Again: https://youtu.be/DWdKMG-Wl-w About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    45 min
  4. 3 APR

    Episode 196 – The Bee Buzz (33): Answering Your Beekeeping Questions 🐝💡

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

    29 min
  5. 2 APR

    Episode 195 – Big Updates: Thank You, MBK Program Changes, and the New Beekeeping App 🐝📱

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

    47 min
  6. 26 MAR

    Episode 194 – Feeding Bees: When, Why, and How to Do It Right 🐝

    In this episode we walk through feeding bees during the active season and when it actually makes sense to step in and help. We cover sugar syrup, protein sources, common feeding scenarios, and the mistakes that can cause more harm than good. If you have ever wondered when to feed and when to leave them alone, this will help you make better decisions.  What’s Inside This Episode: • What feeding really means and the difference between carbohydrates and protein for bees • When feeding makes sense including spring buildup, dearth periods, and late season preparation • Situations where feeding is created by beekeeper actions like splits and new packages • Why feeding at the wrong time can lead to problems like overstimulation or swarming pressure • How to mix 1:1 and 2:1 sugar syrup and when each approach is used • The most common feeder types and the pros and cons of each • Common feeding mistakes and how to avoid creating bigger problems in the hive Why Listen to This Episode? Feeding can help your colonies grow and survive, but doing it at the wrong time or the wrong way can set you back. This episode helps you understand when feeding is useful and how to approach it without creating unintended issues. More Info: 🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com 🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com 📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees 💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ 🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees Additional Resources: Bucket Feeder: https://youtu.be/lTowIiSjTtg 2:1 Sugar Syrup Mix: https://youtube.com/shorts/sQqb_uuYzhQ Water Feeder: https://youtu.be/wXTMhxdLW_I Pollen Feeder: https://youtu.be/7tnRS83jw6s About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    38 min
  7. 23 MAR

    Episode 193 – Frames, Foundation, and Bringing It All Together 🐝

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

    42 min
  8. 19 MAR

    Episode 192 – Choosing Your Hive Setup 🐝

    In this episode we walk through how to choose and configure a Langstroth hive setup and what decisions you need to make before installing bees. We talk through box sizes, equipment options, and how standardizing your setup can make management easier as your apiary grows.  What’s Inside This Episode: • Understanding the Langstroth hive and why it is the most commonly used system • Choosing between 8 frame and 10 frame equipment and what that means long term • How box size decisions affect weight, inspections, and honey production • Why standardizing your equipment can simplify management as you expand • Key components you need before installing bees including boxes, frames, bottom boards, and covers • How future plans like splits and swarm traps connect back to your initial setup • Avoiding common mistakes when selecting your first hive configuration Why Listen to This Episode? The hive setup you choose affects everything from inspections to expansion to long-term management. This episode helps you make those early Langstroth equipment decisions with a clearer understanding of what will be easiest to manage and scale. More Info: 🌐 https://beekeepingfornewbees.com 🔗 https://bestbeekeepinggear.com 📺 https://youtube.com/@beekeepingfornewbees 💬 https://discord.gg/XzkqFKrjMJ 🫶 https://thehealinghiveproject.org ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/beekeepingfornewbees Additional Resources: Vented Inner Cover: https://youtu.be/qJ0q3plIL1I New Beekeeper Hive Options: https://youtu.be/3VLYhm4ieoA Vented Entrance Reducer: https://youtu.be/SyIcnkIwKig Build a Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/uksabwBuzlE Pill Bottle Swarm Trap: https://youtu.be/jtbc8OJpTs0 Hive Placement Guide: https://youtu.be/UbJRAhoCD9Q About the Podcast: Beekeeping For Newbees is a top 1.5% podcast with over 700,000 downloads, helping new and experienced beekeepers grow stronger colonies and make smarter decisions through every season. Listen weekly for practical guidance, swarm stories, and honest takes on what works and what does not in real-world beekeeping. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/beekeeping-for-newbees/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    50 min

About

Here we will discuss everything needed for new beekeepers to learn to keep honeybees including: Beekeeping tools, hive components, what to do and when, and every trick of the trade that we can think of. If you are new to beekeeping, this podcast is for you.

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