Bee Love Beekeeping... presented by Mann Lake

Eric Bennett
  • 4.7 (14)
  • NATURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Bee Love Beekeeping podcast is for everyone who loves honey bees! Hobby Beekeepers, Sideline Beekeepers, Commercial Beekeepers, Wanna-Bee Beekeepers, or anyone who is planting flowers and other native plants to support honey bees and other pollinators. Bee Love Beekeeping podcast includes interviews with real beekeepers, the latest news on honey bees and beekeeping, the newest gadgets and beekeeping inventions, plus fun stories about crazy things that happen in the bee yard. Hosted by Eric Bennett, Bee Love is a fun, informative way to connect with other honey bee lovers.

  1. Beekeeping Hobby Gone Too Far!

    5D AGO

    Beekeeping Hobby Gone Too Far!

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of honey bees, looking at how bees communicate, work together, and inspire humans—from scientists to everyday beekeepers. The show opens with a brief reflection on honey bees as masters of collective intelligence, followed by intriguing research suggesting that bees and their mathematical communication may even offer insights for extraterrestrial intelligence studies. The conversation then turns to Sung Lee, a passionate beekeeper whose backyard experiment in beekeeping grew into a full-blown obsession. What began as a way to help garden pollination evolved into managing more than 100 hives and producing thousands of pounds of honey. Sung shares how education, genetics, and community shaped his beekeeping journey, along with unforgettable stories—from breeding gentler honey bees to rescuing swarms, teaching new beekeepers, and unexpectedly becoming a viral social media sensation. This episode blends science, storytelling, and humor while celebrating bees, honey bees, and the joy (and chaos) of modern beekeeping. Video Version ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com Sung Lee: https://www.tiktok.com/@sungleethebeecharmer https://www.youtube.com/@beecharmersung

    39 min
  2. How Much Do You Really Know About Honey Bees & Beekeeping?

    JAN 15

    How Much Do You Really Know About Honey Bees & Beekeeping?

    Conversation with Dr. Jason Graham, Ph.D. Questions asked and answered. In this episode, we kick off our coverage from the North American Honey Bee Expo with an in-depth and surprisingly entertaining conversation with entomologist and beekeeper Dr. Jason “Dr. J” Graham. Recorded live on the bustling expo floor, this episode blends science, storytelling, and practical beekeeping insight. Dr. Graham shares his unconventional journey from high school dropout to PhD, and how a single beekeeping class sparked a lifelong passion for honey bees. From there, the discussion dives deep into the inner workings of the hive—exploring bee lifespans, age-based job roles, pheromone-driven decision-making, and why a colony functions more like a single “superorganism” than a collection of individuals. We also explore fascinating topics like swarming as colony reproduction, how queens are “put on a diet” before a swarm, the misunderstood role of drones, and why bees are far more flexible and adaptive than we often give them credit for. The conversation wraps with a look at modern innovations in beekeeping, including insulated and thermodynamic hive designs, sensors, AI-driven hive monitoring, and how new technology may be helping us better mimic the bees’ natural tree-hollow homes. Whether you’re a backyard beekeeper, a seasoned professional, or just bee-curious, this episode offers a fresh appreciation for the complexity, resilience, and mystery of honey bees. Video Version ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com Primal Bee Bee Wise

    33 min
  3. Inside The Mind of a Commercial Beekeeper - 2026 Preview

    JAN 8

    Inside The Mind of a Commercial Beekeeper - 2026 Preview

    In this episode, we reconnect with Chris Hyatt, past president of the American Honey Producers Association and a lifelong commercial beekeeper managing 18,000 colonies across North Dakota, California, and Washington. Chris returns to give an unfiltered look at the state of commercial beekeeping after one of the most challenging years on record. The conversation opens with a reflection on devastating winter losses, where even the most experienced operators saw colonies wiped out despite best management practices. Chris explains why there is no single cause—amitraz resistance, viral loads, pesticide exposure, weather, and management variables all intertwine to create what he calls a “complex mess.” From there, the discussion broadens to economics: low honey prices, rising labor and input costs, consolidation within the industry, and cautious optimism around pollination markets—particularly almonds. Chris also dives deep into policy and advocacy efforts, including the Honey Integrity Act, FDA oversight, honey fraud, and the push to promote American honey to consumers who often don’t realize what’s actually in the bottle on grocery store shelves. The episode wraps with reflections on the art and labor of commercial beekeeping, advice for hobbyists, and a powerful story linking beekeeping, land use, and the disappearance of sage grouse in the northern plains—underscoring how closely pollinators, wildlife, and agriculture are connected. Video Version: https://youtu.be/gLsiYWfrY4k ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    33 min
  4. Beekeeping's Biggest Challenges - "North American Bee Strategy"

    JAN 2

    Beekeeping's Biggest Challenges - "North American Bee Strategy"

    In this episode, we kick off Season 3 by diving deep into the North American Bee Strategy with special guest Matt Mulica of the Honey Bee Health Coalition. Together, we explore the biggest challenges facing honey bees and beekeepers today—and what’s being done across the U.S. and Canada to address them. From Varroa mites and emerging threats like Tropilaelaps, to honey fraud, beekeeping economics, pesticides, forage, and applied research, this is a wide-ranging and practical conversation for beekeepers of all experience levels. Along the way, we discuss why “live and let die” is not a Varroa management strategy, how agriculture and beekeepers can (and must) work together, and why protecting honey authenticity matters for both consumers and beekeepers. Plus, a reminder that beekeeping is officially cool—with a long list of celebrity beekeepers to prove it. Video Version: https://youtu.be/tEZqo01uSrI ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. Matt Mulica: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/ Full Report: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/nabs/ https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    34 min
  5. Treating Hay Fever With Bee Products - Apitherapy with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, Pt. 3

    12/26/2025

    Treating Hay Fever With Bee Products - Apitherapy with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, Pt. 3

    "Desensitization" is the key, but how is it applied? In this final installment of the Apitherapy series, we return to Romania to sit down once more with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, MD, beekeeper and one of the world’s leading authorities on apitherapy. Building on the foundation laid in episodes 250 and 251, this conversation takes a deep dive into how bee products can be used to support the body in cases of seasonal allergies and hay fever. Dr. Stangaciu explains the science behind pollen allergies, distinguishing between airborne anemophilous pollen and the heavier pollen collected by honey bees. He outlines traditional and modern desensitization strategies using local honey, bee pollen, propolis, and the increasingly popular beehive air therapy practiced throughout Europe. The episode also explores how beehive air works on a physiological level, including the role of trace allergens, anti-inflammatory pheromones, and volatile compounds from beeswax and propolis. Along the way, listeners learn what practices are safe to try on their own, when to involve medical professionals, and how beekeepers can responsibly expand into apitherapy services. Wrapping things up, Dr. Stangaciu shares a memorable and humorous beekeeping story, offers practical advice on combining bee products for health support, and leaves listeners with a powerful reminder: understanding the composition of bee products unlocks their true potential. Video Version: https://youtu.be/jyqPCgnv5X8 ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. Dr. Stangaciu: https://apitherapy.com/ https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    22 min
  6. How to Treat Burns With Honey - Plus Bee Venom Therapy, Pt. 2

    12/18/2025

    How to Treat Burns With Honey - Plus Bee Venom Therapy, Pt. 2

    Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu: In this episode of Bee Love Beekeeping, we discuss the step-by-step approach to treating burns with honey. Then we shift to bee venom therapy to treat all kinds of illnesses, including Lyme Disease, Cancer, Chronic Pain, and more. Takeaways Honey has hygroscopic properties that aid in wound healing.Drinking water before consuming honey prevents stomach irritation.Honey can block free radicals and reduce burn pain.Proper application of honey can lead to minimal scarring.Bee venom therapy can stimulate the nervous system and improve blood flow.A holistic approach is essential in treating chronic diseases.Detoxification is a critical first step in healing.Bee venom can be effective against various neurological conditions.Cancer treatment should address multiple underlying causes.Nutrition and lifestyle changes are vital for effective healing.Video Version: https://youtu.be/RP4ZpLi1IZs ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. Dr. Stangaciu: https://apitherapy.com/ https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    34 min
  7. Miracles of Propolis - Apitherapy with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, Pt. 1

    12/11/2025

    Miracles of Propolis - Apitherapy with Dr. Stefan Stangaciu, Pt. 1

    Join host Eric Bennett and Dr. Ștefan Stangaciu, MD from Romania. Dr. Stangaciu is the world’s leading authority on apitherapy, as well as being a beekeeper, medical doctor, and president of the International Federation of Apitherapy. In part 1 of this series, we learn why propolis, pollen and bee-derived extracts often outperform honey for healing, how to extract and handle honey for medicinal use, and practical ways beekeepers and families can use propolis safely. The conversation delves into the medicinal uses of these products, their extraction methods, and practical applications for everyday health issues. Dr. Stangaciu emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of bee products and their potential in natural healing. VIDEO VERSION: https://youtu.be/ham0UXAoUZE ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. Dr. Stangaciu: https://apitherapy.com/ https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    36 min
  8. Mann Lake CEO Opens Up About The Company and Industry

    12/04/2025

    Mann Lake CEO Opens Up About The Company and Industry

    In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, host Eric Bennett, welcomes Rob Wright, CEO of Mann Lake, for an honest and surprisingly personal look at the current state of the beekeeping industry. From swarm-catching mishaps and hive cutouts to global honey tastings and the future of bee health, this episode blends practical insights, industry updates, and stories that every beekeeper—from hobbyist to commercial operator—will relate to. Rob shares what he’s learned from four years of active beekeeping, how Mann Lake has transformed under new family ownership, and why bee nutrition is becoming one of the most important levers in improving colony survival. The two also dive into new industry technologies, the newly released North American Honey Bee Strategy, and why staying connected to your bees is still more powerful than any gadget, social media, AI, or automation. VIDEO VERSION: https://youtu.be/ZzTSveQxUSs ________________ Discount on Live Bees & Beginner Essentials at Mann Lake: https://www.mannlakeltd.com/honey-bees/ https://www.mannlakeltd.com/hives-components/beginner-essentials/ Discount Code: GETSTARTEDINBEES _________________ Special thanks to our presenting sponsor, Mann Lake! https://www.mannlakeltd.com/ Mann Lake discount code: MLBEELOVE10 for $10 off your first $100 order. North American Bee Strategy Report: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/nabs/ https://www.beelovebeekeeping.com/ Eric@BeeLoveBeekeeping.com

    35 min
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4.7
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Bee Love Beekeeping podcast is for everyone who loves honey bees! Hobby Beekeepers, Sideline Beekeepers, Commercial Beekeepers, Wanna-Bee Beekeepers, or anyone who is planting flowers and other native plants to support honey bees and other pollinators. Bee Love Beekeeping podcast includes interviews with real beekeepers, the latest news on honey bees and beekeeping, the newest gadgets and beekeeping inventions, plus fun stories about crazy things that happen in the bee yard. Hosted by Eric Bennett, Bee Love is a fun, informative way to connect with other honey bee lovers.

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