Joe Kaufman: Beekeeping, Honey, and Community Buzz

What are the unique challenges and rewards of urban beekeeping, and how does Joe Coffman navigate issues like limited space and natural threats such as varroa mites? 

Today on Tangled Taproot, hosts John Cowan, Christin Jameson, and Jackson welcome Joe Coffman of Birch Creek Apiary. Joe is a former corporate professional who transitioned to a life of urban beekeeping, managing over 50 thriving colonies. Tune in to hear about some of the challenges and rewards of beekeeping in urban settings, including the diverse flavors of honey and its culinary benefits. The conversation dispels common myths about bees, highlights the environmental benefits of beekeeping, and encourages listeners, particularly urbanites in places like St. Louis, to consider beekeeping as an accessible and rewarding hobby. Joe’s story is a testament to the fulfilling vocation that beekeeping can be, benefiting both the community and the environment. Whether you're an aspiring beekeeper or simply curious about the craft, Joe's experiences and expertise provide valuable insights and inspiration. 

Founded in 2020 by John Cowan, Mylk and Hummus makes on-the-go, chickpea-based snacks that focus on flavorful hummus varieties and ready-to-drink plant-based lattes. Mylk and Hummus products nourish the physical and mental endurance needs of today while considering environmental goals for the future. At Mylk and Hummus, plant-based food is made with ingredients proudly sourced through sustainable and regenerative agriculture where farming principles and practices enrich soils, restore watersheds, and lead to healthy ecosystems. The company operates on these principles to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the reversal of global trends in climate instability, habitat loss, and the vitality of the natural world. 

Discussion Points: 

• Taproot team discusses small-scale Midwest beekeeping 
• The world of beekeeping according to Joe, from simple beginnings to over 50 hives, social structure, misconceptions, challenges, diverse honey, and rewarding contributions 
• Beekeeping intricacies, locations, types of beekeepers, and honey production process, including commercial pollination and artisanal methods 
• Seasonal variations, threats and pathogens, Langstroth hives, queen's productivity, hive evolution, brood box and honey super configurations 
• From the corporate world, Joe the ‘outdoorsman’ shifts to yoga, then to beekeeping 
• Urban beekeeping, pollination, and sustainable agriculture, and the importance of passing this appreciation to the next generation 

Resources: 

Email Joe Coffman 
Mylk and Hummus  
Email Tangled Taproot with show ideas and comments 
Tangled Taproot Podcast 
Mylk and Hummus Instagram 
Mylk and Hummus YouTube 
Mylk and Hummus Facebook