Plain Talk: NAHBE Walkabout (266)

In this special, on-the-floor episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew records live from the bustling floor of the North American Honey Bee Expo in Louisville, Kentucky. It's Jim's first time attending NAHBE, and the scale of the event leaves a strong impression—thousands of beekeepers, hundreds of vendors, and an industry that has grown far beyond what many long-time beekeepers first experienced. As Jim walks the show floor, he reflects on how dramatically beekeeping equipment, protective gear, and technology have evolved. From queen grafting stations and instrumental insemination equipment to automated honey processing systems and modern hive components, the Expo highlights just how diverse and innovative beekeeping has become. Jim also observes how today's beekeepers—especially newer ones—are entering the craft at a time of unprecedented access to tools, information, and community. Along the way, Jim chats briefly with attendees, notes the energy of the honey tasting area, and shares the simple joy of being surrounded by people who care deeply about bees. This short, unscripted episode captures the atmosphere of NAHBE and offers listeners a sense of what it's like to walk the floor—noise, crowds, enthusiasm, and all. It's a quick slice of plain talk beekeeping from the middle of one of North America's largest beekeeping gatherings. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. 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 ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC