Bees First, Honey Second with AJ & Chryssa Gardner (364)

This week on Beekeeping Today Podcast, Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome AJ and Chryssa Gardner of REBEL44 to discuss an approach to beekeeping rooted in stewardship rather than production. What began as a small garden project quickly evolved into a carefully managed sideline operation now spanning multiple apiaries and more than a hundred colonies.

AJ shares how observing bee behavior—and listening closely to what the bees "tell you"—shaped his management philosophy. Rather than focusing on maximizing honey yields, AJ emphasizes nutrition, gentle genetics, low mite pressure, and allowing colonies to overwinter on their own terms. That mindset has led to remarkable overwintering success and strong, resilient colonies.

Chryssa adds an important perspective on food systems, honey authenticity, and why knowing the beekeeper behind the honey matters. Together, they explain how REBEL44 produces hyper-local, varietal honeys, harvested in short nectar windows that capture the unique character of specific plants, locations, and seasons. From blackberry to Japanese knotweed, each harvest tells a story.

The conversation also explores their immersive educational experiences, where families, beginners, and even corporate groups suit up, step into the apiary, and reconnect with nature. AJ describes how these hands-on visits often change how people think about bees, food, and stewardship.

This episode is a reminder that when beekeepers slow down, observe, and put bees first, the rewards—healthy colonies, meaningful education, and exceptional honey—follow naturally.

Websites from the episode and others we recommend:

• Rebel44 Website: https://rebel44.com

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

This episode is brought to you by Globa