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Beekeeping Buddies

Luke Harvey

"Beekeeping Buddies" is your go-to podcast for all things buzzing in the world of beekeeping! Join Steve and Luke, two seasoned hobbyist beekeepers with over a decade of experience each, as they take you on a journey through the captivating realm of beekeeping.

Tune in as they share firsthand accounts of the latest buzz in their personal bee yards parked in picturesque Peoria, IL. From Midwest seasonal hive updates to intriguing anecdotes, Steve and Luke provide invaluable insights garnered from years of tending to their buzzing colonies.

Stay informed with their segment on the latest buzzworthy news in the beekeeping community. Whether it's breakthroughs in bee research or tips on sustainable beekeeping practices, they've got you covered with the latest buzz.

Have burning questions about beekeeping? Fear not! Dial into their "Honeybee Hotline" segment, where Steve and Luke lend their expertise to answer listener-submitted queries. Whether you're a novice beekeeper or a seasoned pro, their wealth of knowledge and friendly banter make for an enlightening and entertaining listen.

So grab your beekeeping gear and buddy up with Steve and Luke as they explore the sweet world of beekeeping on "Beekeeping Buddies"!

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 1 hr 6 min
  • English
  • S3 · E51
    August 27 · 1 hr

    Episode 51 - Beginning Winter Preparation, Another Cutout, Honeybee Hotline and more!

    Episode 51 of Beekeeping Buddies takes us from new honey bee research to the very practical work of preparing colonies for winter. We dig into a recent study out of Korea and discuss what the findings could mean for beekeepers. We also look at fascinating research suggesting that queens may have a unique ability to shed or eliminate pesticide residues—and what that might tell us about queen biology, colony health, and pesticide exposure. Then we head back into the bee yard. With fall approaching, Luke and Steve talk through what they're doing now to get colonies ready for winter: evaluating colony strength, managing mites, checking food stores, making decisions about weaker colonies, and setting hives up for the months ahead. In Episode 51: New honey bee research from Korea Can queens shed pesticide residues? What the research could mean in the real world Late-summer colony assessments Mite control heading into fall Food stores and winter preparation What Luke and Steve are doing in their own bee yards Research, practical beekeeping, and probably a little droning on along the way.

  • S3 · E50
    August 5 · 1 hr 15 min

    Episode 50 - Requeen Problems, Cutout, July 4 Honey Harvest, Mite Treatment Meeting, Honeybee Hotline, Droning on, and MORE!

    Your Beekeeping Buddies got a little busy, but not to worry... we are back to cover our summer honey harvest, requeening issues, OA mite treatments, Norra, answer some Honeybee Hotline, and what is coming up in our Droning On segment. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E49
    June 24 · 1 hr 16 min

    Episode 49 - Rain, Dutch Clover, Honey Extraction, State Association Talk, and IAPV Studies, Different Beeswax, and more!

    Summer is in full swing, and there is plenty happening in the bee yard. In Episode 49, Steven and Luke discuss how recent rain has affected nectar flows, the role Dutch clover plays in honey production, and what beekeepers should be watching for as honey supers start filling up. The conversation also covers current honey extraction plans, observations from local apiaries, and Luke's recent presentation at the Illinois State Beekeepers Association summer conference. Along the way, they dive into recent research surrounding Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (IAPV), what scientists are learning, and why understanding bee health research matters for beekeepers of every size. The episode wraps up with a discussion on beeswax, including why not all wax is created equal and what differences beekeepers may notice when processing wax from different sources. Whether you're harvesting honey, raising queens, or simply enjoying a good nectar flow, this episode has something for every beekeeper. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E48
    June 11 · 1 hr 18 min

    Episode 48 - Growing into Sideliner Beekeeping, Increasing your Network, and Venom Cancer Research

    When does a hobby become a business? In this episode, Steve and Luke discuss the transition from hobbyist beekeeper to sideliner, including the challenges, opportunities, and mindset shifts that come with managing more colonies and serving customers. They share practical thoughts on growth, avoiding common mistakes, and determining whether expansion is right for your operation. The conversation also explores the importance of building a strong beekeeping network. From local clubs and mentors to industry contacts and research partners, the relationships you develop can open doors, solve problems, and create opportunities that would be difficult to achieve alone. Finally, the hosts review emerging research investigating compounds found in honey bee venom and their potential role in cancer treatment. While much of the work remains in the research stage, the discussion highlights some of the promising findings and what they may mean for the future of medicine. Whether you're managing your first hive or considering your next fifty, this episode offers insights on growth, community, and the surprising ways honey bees continue to impact our world. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E47
    May 14 · 1 hr 5 min

    Episode 47 - Busy as a Bee! Cutouts, City Ordinances, Inordinate Amount of Swarms

    Episode 47 of Beekeeping Buddies has us still busier than we have been in years! Early spring translated to early swarms, early honey crops, and earlier cutouts, and earlier stings! Come listen to what we are doing this time of year. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E46
    May 1 · 1 hr 7 min

    Episode 46 - We are Having a Crazy Spring; Chasing Swarms; Preparing for the Honey Flow

    Episode 46 of Beekeeping Buddies has us busier than we have been in years! Early spring means early swarms, early honey crops, and earlier cutouts! Come listen to what we are doing this time of year. New thumbs up thumbs down section of beekeeping buddies as well! Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • April 15 · 1 hr 13 min

    Episode 45 - Come Hang Out with Our Beekeeping Buddies 628 Dirt Rooster Randy McCaffery and His Brother Tommy McCaffery

    Episode 45 of Beekeeping Buddies has us visited by some of our own Beekeeping Buddies! Randy McCaffrey (628 Dirt Rooster) and Tommy McCaffrey come by and explain how Hobby Beekeeping is a Way Of Life... and how that changes in Illinois vs Mississippi. 628 Dirt Rooster Website: https://628dirtrooster.com/collections/all 628 Dirt Rooster Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/628DirtRooster 628 Dirt Rooster YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@628DirtRooster Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E44
    April 1 · 1 hr 10 min

    Episode 44 - Beekeeping in Arizona with Honey Hives Farm, Package Queen Swapping, Hive Body Types and more!

    Episode 44 of Beekeeping Buddies takes us out west as we talk about beekeeping in Arizona and how conditions there compare to what many of us see in the Midwest. We also dig into swapping queens in package bees, including why a beekeeper might choose to do it. In this episode's Honeybee Hotline, we answer listener questions and work through practical beekeeping issues from the field. Lastly on our droning on, we talk about what we will be doing as we reach warmer temperatures and longer days! Honey Hives Farm: https://honeyhivefarms.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S3 · E43
    February 28 · 1 hr 15 min

    Episode 43 - Is Spring Here? Accident in the Yard! Luke Goes to the Midwest Honeybee Expo!

    We're enjoying a stretch of beautiful weather here in the Peoria area, and that can only mean one thing for beekeepers: false spring temptation. This week, Steve and Luke talk through what you should (and shouldn't) be doing during these warm February days. When is it smart to crack a lid? When should you leave well enough alone? And how do you avoid setting your colonies back before maples even think about blooming? Luke also shares a hard lesson from the yard an accident that resulted in a grass fire. What happened, what caused it, and what you can do to avoid the same mistake around your apiary. Finally, Luke breaks down some of the standout speakers and takeaways from the Midwest Honeybee Expo in Wisconsin. From practical management tips to bigger industry conversations, there was plenty worth bringing back home to Illinois. If you're staring at your hives in 50-degree weather wondering whether to "just take a quick peek," this episode is for you. Midwest Honeybee Expo: https://www.midwesthoneybeeexpo.com/ North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E42
    January 14 · 59 min

    Episode 42 - 2025 Statistics, Season Wrap Up, Plans for the New Year!

    Welcome to episode 42 where we talk about our statistics for the last year and our plans in the new one. We talk about our aparies, what we will be doing, and how we plan to tackle some of these new challenges. Thank you for season 2 and we look forward to seeing you season 3! Randy Oliver 2025 Research Roundup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DT2HTyF2-k North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E41
    Dec 11, 2025 · 54 min

    Episode 41 - Winter has arrived and so has our holiday Christmas list for your beekeeping needs!

    Welcome to episode 41 where we talk a bit about the weather, but because we don't have a lot going on in the yard, we are going to run down our gift buying guide for 2026! We hope everyone has an excellent holiday season. Randy Oliver 2025 Research Roundup: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DT2HTyF2-k North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E40
    Nov 26, 2025 · 49 min

    Episode 40 - We talk to Dr. Jeff Pettis about the Tropilaelaps mite and what to know about this threat

    I know, two episodes in two weeks? Well, episode 40 is here, and this one is big. We sat down with Dr. Jeff Pettis, former President of Apimondia and one of the world's leading honey bee researchers, for an in-depth conversation about the Tropilaelaps mite—the parasitic threat looming over global beekeeping. In this episode: • What Tropilaelaps mites are and how they differ from Varroa • Why they spread so rapidly and how countries currently battling them (like South Korea) are coping • What would happen if Tropilaelaps arrived in the United States—the realistic short- and long-term impacts • Early detection, containment strategies, and the U.S. preparedness gap • What beekeepers can do right now to stay informed and ready This is one of our most important interviews to date, offering clear-eyed insight from a scientist who has studied global bee health for decades. Tune in, learn what's coming, and help shape the conversation about protecting honey bees in North America. Apimondia Tropilaelaps Mite Talk: https://www.apimondia.org/mites-webinar.html North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E39
    Nov 20, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min

    Episode 39 - Fall preparation, late fall cutouts, how to price and install an observation hive

    This week we dig into some of the most important tasks heading into the colder months. We cover practical fall preparation, what to expect with late-season cutouts, and how to price and install an observation hive for schools, businesses, and homeowners. Whether you're tightening up your hives for winter or planning new educational opportunities for next year, this episode offers clear, experience-based guidance you can put to work right away. Listen now and stay ahead of the season. North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E38
    Oct 29, 2025 · 53 min

    Episode 38 - Fall has crept in, spooky Halloween Beekeeping Stories, Chunk Comb and our Honeybee Hotline!

    It's the Beekeeping Buddies Halloween Special! Luke and Steve dive into the spookier side of beekeeping from bees starting WW3, to the mornful swarm, frakenbees and more! We'll talk about our fall preparations and some interesting chunk comb we were able to sample, and answer some Honeybee Hotline questions. We hope you'll tune in as our buddy this episode! North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E37
    Oct 15, 2025 · 1 hr 33 min

    Episode 37 - Beekeeping Buddies Finds a Buddy With 628 Dirt Rooster!

    We have broken 4,000 listens and want to thank everyone for taking some time to listen to us talk about our passion, honey bees. For this episode we take a break from the normal format of the show to interview a Beekeeping Buddy of our own, Randy McCaffrey better known as the 628 Dirt Rooster! We talk about beekeeping, how different areas do things, and learn the important lesson of how hobby beekeeping is a way... of... life! We hope you all enjoy this special episode and thanks again for being a buddy! 628 Dirt Rooster Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@628DirtRooster North American Honeybee Expo: https://www.nahbexpo.com/ Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E36
    Sep 30, 2025 · 1 hr 3 min

    Episode 36 - Feeding for winter, details on fall feeding, measuring hives, nucs 2026, new varroa treatment, managing robbing, fall festivals, and cutouts

    Around the Yard: Dry Midwest Fall: Fall is here, the hot and dry have not gone away. Details on Fall Feeding: Recipe for Luke's fall feed is: 4.5 lbs sugar, 0.5 lbs pollen sub, 7 oz water mixed together with a mixer of some sort and put into ziplock baggie. How to Know if to Feed: Steve and Luke talk about how we measure hives to know if they need feed. Start Thinking of Nucs: Luke and Steve suggest you start thinking about nucs for 2026. In the News Vandescona Mite Treatment: dsRNA treatment for mites?! Honeybee Hotline: Stick Up Your Hands!: How to manage robbing. Again?: How long to wait until I place a hive where one had been robbed? What to do with a small hive: 3 frame hive, can it make it through winter? Droning On: Fall Festivals: Luke talks about fall festivals, and what we make Cutouts: Steve and Luke talk about troubles with cutouts! Tune in to Episode 36 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E35
    Sep 16, 2025 · 1 hr

    Episode 35 - Dry Fall, Another Strange Cutout, Luke returns from Spain, Varroa makes it to Spain, HMF correction, Honeybee Hotline Questions, What to do with honey frames

    Around the Yard: Dry Midwest Fall: Fall is mostly here, but is sure is dry. Details on Another Cutout: Luke and Steve have another fall cutout. Luke Returns From Spain: Luke goes to Spain... and finds few pollinators? Steve and Luke Review Spainish Honey: We review some honey from Spain I brought back. In the News Varroa Mites make it to S. Australia: Varroa mites are now spreading to S. Australia. HMF Correction: Luke has a short correction to HMF. Honeybee Hotline: Bee Identification: Variation inside a honeybee hive. Comb Color: Why is there different comb colors? What to do with a small hive: 3 frame hive, can it make it through winter? Droning On: What are we doing in the next few weeks? What to do with honey frames? Tune in to Episode 35 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E34
    Aug 28, 2025 · 50 min

    Episode 34 - Cooler Weather Preparation, Honey Harvest for Summer, Open Feeding, Working with the USDA, Another Strange Cutout... and Important Bee News!

    Around the Yard: Cooler Weather: Fall has started peeking around the corner. What do we do? Honey Harvest for Summer: Luke and Steve take the last of our summer honey. Open Feeding: Is it the time for open feeding yet? Illinois USDA: Luke and Steve are working with the USDA... providing small hive beetles. In the News Newly Engineered Yeast Makes Better Pollen: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-09431-y Honeybee Disease Impacts Flight: It appers that different diseases impact how far our honeybees will fly. https://phys.org/news/2025-08-hidden-honey-bee-viruses-flight.html Honeybee Hotline: Can You Feed Maple Syrup: We talk about if this is a problem! Taking Honey Leaving Deep and Medium: What does it take to overwinter in a deep and a medium? Are there other issues? Droning On: What are we doing in the next few weeks? Luke's New Trip: Luke goes overseas to check out an overseas apiary! Tune in to Episode 34 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E33
    Aug 13, 2025 · 1 hr 22 min

    Episode 33 - Pulling Honey, Fall Prep, News from Luke, and Lots of Honeybee Hotline

    Around the Yard: Pulling Honey: Luke and Steve talk about the struggles of staying cool in the bee yard. Fall Prep: Is it already time to feed our bees for winter? What treatments do we use? In the News Big News From Luke Honeybee Hotline: How Long Does a Field Bee Spend Away: We talk mabout when to treat, what we are treating with, and how useful are the new OA boards? Queen Introduction Problem: Our tips and tricks on introducing a new queen. Laying Worker vs New Queen: How do you tell the difference between a laying worker and a newly mated queen? Doomed to Always Have Hive Beetles?: If you have hive beetles once are they always at that hive? Tune in to Episode 33 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

  • S2 · E32
    Jul 29, 2025 · 53 min

    Episode 32 - Staying Cool in the Bee Yard, Time to Feed?, Hive Treatment, Queen Introduction, Problems Running a Beekeeping Management Business

    Around the Yard: Staying Cool: Luke and Steve talk about the struggles of staying cool in the bee yard. Time to Feed?: Is it already time to feed our bees for winter? Honeybee Hotline: Hive Treatments: We talk mabout when to treat, what we are treating with, and how useful are the new OA boards? Queen Introduction: Our tips and tricks on introducing a new queen. Droning On: Extracting Honey: Luke and Steve are busy getting ready to extract honey. Problems Running a Beekeeping Business: Luke shares some of his struggles running a beekeeping business. Tune in to Episode 32 for all this and more as we delve into the world of beekeeping in Central Illinois, providing you with practical advice, the latest news, and answers to your buzzing questions. Discord Server: https://discord.gg/Jk6hyZAY Randy Oliver Mite Calculator Calendar: https://scientificbeekeeping.com/randys-varroa-model/ How RRA Makes Fondant: https://youtu.be/CAiOF3onmBQ The American Bee Journal: https://americanbeejournal.com/ Project Apis m. Bee Survey Video 2025: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCis4ZPfp8 Project Apis m. Website: https://www.projectapism.org/events/i8yr94doxarjvh453lchfhr0xf3bvq Riverview Road Apiary Nucs: https://riverviewroadapiary.com/products/spring-2025-nuc Heart of Illinois Beekeeping Club: https://hoibees.org/ Dalan Animal Health Queens: https://bluetoad.com/publication/?m=5417&i=830245&p=38&ver=html5 Beekeeping Buddies Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/beekeepingbuddies/ Fruit and Vegetable Pollination Handbook: https://www.ars.usda.gov/arsuserfiles/20220500/onlinepollinationhandbook.pdf

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