Episodes

  • The Secrets of Bee Foraging: How Flower Choices Affect Bee Behavior and Biodiversity
    May 5 2025

    We’re exploring the fascinating world of flower foraging by bees with Dr. Jaya Mokkapati. How do different bee species decide between the quantity of flowers and the nutritional quality of pollen? What drives these choices, and what can they teach us about supporting pollinators? Join us to uncover actionable insights that can inspire conservation efforts and transform gardening and farming practices to better sustain our vital pollinators.

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    9 mins
  • The Fungi Factor: The Surprising Discovery of Mold's Impact on Leafcutter Bees
    Apr 14 2025

    Dive into the world of solitary leafcutter bees and discover how a seemingly undesirable mold could actually be their unlikely ally. Dr. Victoria Luizzi shares their fascinating research on Aspergillus mold, which might offer protective benefits to these essential pollinators. We talk about the leafcutter’s unique nesting habits, the symbiotic relationships between flora and fauna, and how a garden's bare patch can make a significant difference in supporting native bees.

    *The term “foulbrood” was used mistakenly, when our guest intended to refer to “stonebrood.”

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    15 mins
  • Pollinators in Peril: How Habitat Loss, Pesticides, and Climate Change Are Threatening Our Ecosystem
    Mar 31 2025

    In today's complex ecosystem, native bees play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity through their vital pollination efforts. However, their populations are under threat from various stressors such as climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use. In this episode, we explore these challenges and the actionable steps we can take to support these invaluable pollinators with Dr. Johanne Brunet.

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    18 mins
  • Building Buzz: Community Efforts to Support Native Bees
    Mar 17 2025

    In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Caroline Wagar from Environment America to explore simple, impactful steps each of us can take to support native bees. From creating vibrant urban gardens to pioneering legislative efforts, discover how small actions can have a big impact on pollinator-friendly environments. Get ready to be energized by creative ideas that engage communities in the mission to preserve bee habitats and foster biodiversity. Tune in now to learn how you can be a part of this vital movement and make a difference for the bees!

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    14 mins
  • Guardians of the Stingless Bees: Exploring the Mission to Sustain Melipona Bee Populations
    Mar 3 2025

    In this episode of The Bee's Knees, we take a virtual journey to Mexico to explore the world of the melipona, a stingless honey bee essential for pollinating the Yucatan rainforest. Join us as Rebecca Robertson, founding director of the Mayan Melipona Bee Sanctuary, shares her captivating story of conservation, culture, and community.

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    14 mins
  • Pollinators and the Art of Choice: Navigating the Chemistry of Floral Rewards
    Feb 17 2025

    Ever wondered how bees choose their favorite flowers? Today we’re talking with Dr. Claire Hemingway who reveals fascinating insights into pollinator cognition and how bees' decisions impact biodiversity.

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    8 mins
  • From Bloom to Boom: How PollinAction is Reviving Pollinator Populations
    Feb 3 2025

    What can be done about the alarming decline in pollinator populations? Today, we’re talking about the PollinAction Project’s impactful initiatives with researcher Leonardo Lorenzato. Discover how creating green infrastructures, promoting economic sustainability, and raising awareness are crucial for supporting native bees, and get actionable advice on how you can make a difference in your own environment.

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    21 mins
  • Season 3: Bee Enthusiasts
    Jan 13 2025

    Welcome to Season 3 of The Bee’s Knees! We’ll be talking to bee enthusiasts from around the globe, learning about the latest research and everyday opportunities to support and protect our native bees. Tune in for inspiring stories and actionable tips to help support our vital pollinators. The new season starts February 4.

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    2 mins