Episode Details

It's no accident that How to Get Started in Beekeeping remains one of the most listened-to episodes in the history of the Beekeeping Today Podcast. In this archive special, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman are joined by Honey Bee Obscura podcast's Jim Tew, to revisit the fundamentals every new beekeeper should hear—whether you're truly starting from scratch or beginning again after losses.

The conversation opens with an honest look at why people choose to keep bees and why that motivation matters. Beekeeping today is more complex than it once was, but it remains deeply rewarding for those who approach it with curiosity, patience, and realistic expectations. The group emphasizes that losses are part of the learning curve and that success rarely comes from going it alone.

A major focus of the episode is location and local knowledge. Bees can be kept in urban, suburban, or rural settings, but understanding forage, neighbors, ordinances, and seasonal conditions is critical. Just as important is finding a mentor or bee buddy—someone who can help interpret what you see, hear, and smell at the hive, especially during that critical first year.

The discussion also touches on education, beekeeping clubs, and classes, highlighting how much modern learning resources have improved and why local information often matters more than generalized advice. Whether you're considering bees for the first time or looking to reset your approach, this episode lays a solid foundation for what comes next in your beekeeping journey.

Websites from the episode and others we recommend:

• How To Get Started with Bees, Part 2: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-2-of-4-s6-e37/

• How To Get Started with Bees, Part 3: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-3-of-4-s6-e38/

• How To Get Started with Bees, Part 4: https://www.beekeepingtodaypodcast.com/how-to-get-started-with-bees-in-2024-part-4-of-4-s6-e39/

• Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org
• Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
• The National Honey Board: https://honey.com
• Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com

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Betterbee is the presenting sponsor of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterb