Beekeeping Today Podcast

What does it take to make beekeeping look authentic in a Hollywood movie? In this BT Short, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman talk with Adam Hickman of Foxhound Bee Company, who served as a bee wrangler and beekeeping consultant for The Rivals of Amziah King, starring Matthew McConaughey.
Adam's involvement began when a member of the production team visited his Alabama bee supply business looking for inspiration. Before long, Adam and his team were working with the filmmakers—and teaching McConaughey how to look and move like a beekeeper.
Adam takes us behind the scenes of several major bee sequences, including an elaborate cutout staged with a real colony and the striking scene of McConaughey holding a queen while thousands of live bees gather on his arm. The filmmakers wanted real bees, minimal protective equipment, and no CGI substitutes, creating some unusual challenges for the bee-wrangling team.
He also explains how beekeeping equipment, honey-processing gear, colonies, comb, and even the layout of the honey house were sourced and managed for production. And while Hollywood occasionally wins out over absolute accuracy—yes, actors really do run while carrying full honey supers—Adam says the filmmakers made a serious effort to portray beekeepers and beekeeping authentically.
It's a fascinating look at what happens when the craft of beekeeping meets the craft of filmmaking—and how a group of Alabama beekeepers helped bring the bees to the big screen.
Notes and references:
The Rivals of Amziah King on IMDB:  https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27706593/
Behind the Scenes of the Movie: https://www.foxhoundbeecompany.com/blogs/rivals-of-amziah-king-movie
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Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.
 

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, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening! 
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Do you listen to your bees? Beekeepers rely heavily on sight when inspecting a colony, along with touch and even smell. But in this installment of Bee Science with Dr. Dewey Caron, Dewey asks us to consider another source of information—the remarkable world of sound and vibration produced by honey bees.
Honey bees live in an acoustic world that extends well beyond the familiar buzz we hear around a colony. Dewey explores how bees produce sound through their flight muscles and how they perceive airborne vibrations through their antennae and substrate-borne vibrations through their legs. He also explains why a queenless colony can sound noticeably different from a queenright colony and how experienced beekeepers can sometimes recognize changes within a colony simply by listening.
Dewey then returns to the waggle dance, exploring research showing that sound and vibration are important components of honey bee communication. Recruits aren't simply following a dancer—they are receiving vibroacoustic information that helps communicate the distance to a food source.
The science gets even more fascinating as Dewey examines stop signals, predator warnings, learning among young dancers, and acoustic communication in other honey bee species.
Finally, Dewey traces the history of using colony sounds to understand bee behavior, from Eddie Woods' pioneering Apidictor in the 1950s to today's digital sensors, sophisticated microphones, and machine-learning systems designed to interpret what's happening inside a colony without unnecessarily opening the hive.
The next time you're working your bees, don't just look. Listen. Your colony may be telling you more than you realize.
This is Part One of Dewey's exploration of sound in honey bees. In Part Two, he'll return to some of the specialized sounds associated with swarming and communication.
Notes and references:
Mea McNeil https://americanbeejournal.com/sounds-of-the-hive-part-1/
Towne W.F., Kirchner, W,H. 1989. Hearing in honey bees: detection of air-particle oscillations. Science. 12;244(4905):686-8. doi: 10.1126/science.244.4905.686. PMID: 17740340.
Mario Vallejo-Marín. 2018. Buzz pollination: studying bee vibrations on flowers. https://doi.org/10.1111/nph.15666
Claudi Roller. 2025. Honey  Bee Sensory Superpowers: Hearing. https://www.buddhabeeapiary.com/blog/honey-bee-sound
Ferrari, S., Silva, M., Guarino, M., Berckmans, D. 2008.  Monitoring of swarming sounds in bee hives for early detection of the swarming period. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture 64(1), 72–77
Arnia Discussion: https://forum.honeyflow.com/t/want-to-spy-on-your-bees-the-arnia-is-coming-the-arnia-is-coming/7669
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Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.
 

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, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening! 
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

What if carbon dioxide could offer beekeepers another way to control Varroa mites? In this episode, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman talk with award-winning high school researcher Aakash Manaswi, whose multi-year research project investigates using carbon dioxide (CO₂) as a treatment against Varroa mites. Aakash traces his interest in honey bees back to a childhood visit to an apiary, where a beekeeper explained how Varroa was affecting his colonies. That encounter eventually led Aakash to ask whether there might be another way to tackle the parasite.
Aakash explains the development of his CO₂ treatment prototype—a hive-top device that distributes carbon dioxide throughout a colony. His research progressed from laboratory testing of different CO₂ concentrations to prototype development and field trials comparing the approach with existing treatments. He discusses the 30% CO₂ concentration used in his research, treatment timing, effects on phoretic mites, and some of the important limitations that still need to be investigated.
The conversation also explores Aakash's AI-based system for counting Varroa mites on sticky boards, his work with mentors at 3M, USDA, and the University of Florida, and where he hopes to take the research next.
Aakash's work earned first place in Animal Sciences at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication.
Before the interview, Jeff and Becky answer a listener question about another emerging tool for beekeepers: artificial intelligence. They discuss where AI can be genuinely useful—and why beekeepers should still question its answers, check its sources, and remember that sometimes the best answer in beekeeping remains, "It depends."
Websites from the episode and others we recommend:

Aakash's Science Project: https://isef.net/project/anim005-capturable-carbon-dioxide-to-save-our-bees
Regeneron ISEF Grand Awards: https://www.societyforscience.org/blog/regeneron-isef-2026-grand-awards/


Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org
The National Honey Board: https://honey.com
Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
 
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
 
 
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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, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com.

We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening! 
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

What is the current state of honey bee health in the United States? Recorded live at the Tri-States Beekeeping Conference in Fargo, North Dakota, Jeff Ott and Dr. Becky Masterman moderate a lively panel discussion featuring Randy Oliver, Jackie Park-Burris, Dr. Katie Lee, and Dr. Rogan Tokash.
The conversation explores the biggest challenges facing beekeeping today—from Varroa mite resistance and evolving treatment strategies to honey bee nutrition, forage loss, pesticide exposure, queen breeding, and the economic pressures confronting commercial beekeepers. The panel also discusses the importance of applied research, the future of almond pollination, and why collaboration between researchers and beekeepers remains essential.
Audience questions expand the discussion into pesticide impacts, carrying capacity for honey bees, beginning beekeepers and mite management, and what gives these experts hope for the future of honey bee health.
Whether you manage two colonies or thousands, this conversation offers valuable insight into the challenges—and opportunities—shaping modern beekeeping.
Websites from the episode and others we recommend:

Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org
Project Apis m. (PAm): https://www.projectapism.org
The National Honey Board: https://honey.com
Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com
 
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC
 
 
______________

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, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com

This episode is brought to you by Global Patties! Global offers a variety of standard and custom patties. Visit them today at http://globalpatties.com and let them know you appreciate them sponsoring this episode! 

As a beekeeper, you want products that benefit you and your bees. When you choose Premier Bee Products, you choose hive components that are healthier for bees and more productive for you. Because we believe that in beekeeping, details make all the difference. Premier Bee Products: Better for bees. Better for beekeepers. Use promo code PODCAST for 10% off your next online order.

Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about their line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com

HiveIQ is revolutionizing the way beekeepers manage their colonies with innovative, insulated hive systems designed for maximum colony health and efficiency. Their hives maintain stable temperatures year-round, reduce stress on the bees, and are built to last using durable, lightweight materials. Whether you're managing two hives or two hundred, HiveIQ's smart design helps your bees thrive while saving you time and effort. Learn more at HiveIQ.com.

We'd like to thank Vita Bee Health for supporting the podcast. Vita provides proven tools for controlling Varroa—from Apistan and Apiguard to the new VarroxSan extended-release oxalic acid strips—helping beekeepers keep stronger, healthier colonies.

Thanks for Northern Bee Books for their support. Northern Bee Books is the publisher of bee books available worldwide from their website or from Amazon and bookstores everywhere. They are also the publishers of The Beekeepers Quarterly and Natural Bee Husbandry.
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening! 
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; I'm Not Running Away This Time by Max Brodie; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC

Preparing extracted honey for competition may seem intimidating, but according to Stephanie Slater, success comes down to patience, attention to detail, and understanding what judges are really looking for.
In this episode of Winning at Honey, Stephanie shares practical advice for preparing award-winning extracted honey—from bottling weeks in advance to achieving the proper fill level, eliminating bubbles, selecting matching jars, and avoiding common defects that cost exhibitors valuable points. She also explains how judges evaluate entries, what can disqualify an otherwise beautiful jar of honey, and why proper handling begins long before the honey reaches the extraction room.
Stephanie is also joined by Brutz English, President of the American Honey Judges Association, who discusses the organization's remarkable growth, upcoming governance changes, and his vision for expanding honey judging education throughout North America.
The episode concludes with this month's Honey Show Spotlight featuring the West Virginia Beekeepers Association Bee Fair & Honey Show, along with several additional honey show opportunities taking place throughout August.
Websites mentioned:
West Virginia Beekeepers – https://www.wvbeekeepers.org/beefair
American Honey Judges Assn - https://honeyshowusa.com/
______________
Brought to you by Betterbee – your partners in better beekeeping.
 

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, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com
_______________
We hope you enjoy this podcast and welcome your questions and comments in the show notes of this episode or: questions@beekeepingtodaypodcast.com
Thank you for listening! 
Podcast music: Be Strong by Young Presidents; Epilogue by Musicalman; Faraday by BeGun; Walking in Paris by Studio Le Bus; A Fresh New Start by Pete Morse; Wedding Day by Boomer; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; Red Jack Blues by Daniel Hart; Bolero de la Fontero  by Rimsky Music; Perfect Sky by Graceful Movement; Original guitar background instrumental by Jeff Ott.
Beekeeping Today Podcast is an audio production of Growing Planet Media, LLC
** As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases
Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC