In this insightful episode of the Beekeeping Today Podcast, hosts Jeff Ott and Becky Masterman welcome Master Beekeeper David Burns. David, a well-known figure in the beekeeping community, shares his extensive knowledge and experiences, offering invaluable advice for beekeepers of all levels. From his early, adventurous beginnings to becoming an EAS Master Beekeeper, David’s journey is both inspiring and educational. David discusses his initial, challenging experience of cutting bees out of a fallen tree, which led him to a lifelong passion for beekeeping. His story is a testament to perseverance and self-education in the world of beekeeping. David also talks about his contributions to beekeeping education through his YouTube channel, classes, and mentorship programs, emphasizing the importance of combining practical experience with formal education for successful beekeeping. David addresses the misconceptions about YouTube beekeepers and underscores the importance of using multiple resources, including local clubs and conferences, to become a well-rounded beekeeper. He also shares his innovative approach to winter bee feeding with the Winter Bee Kind, which has helped his colonies emerge strong and healthy in the spring. Finally, David talks about the challenges and strategies of running a successful beekeeping business, highlighting the critical role his wife plays in managing the business side of their operations. He discusses the importance of balancing business and beekeeping, and how collaboration with others has been key to his success. Join us for this engaging conversation and gain practical insights from one of the leading educators in the beekeeping community. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned beekeeper, David Burns’ advice and stories will enhance your beekeeping journey. Listen Today! Links and websites mentioned in this episode: David's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beek David's Book, "Backyard Beekeeping - Everything You Need to Know to Get You Through the First Year": https://www.amazon.com/Backyard-Beekeeping-Everything-Start-First/dp/1647395143/ Honey Bee Health Coalition: https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org Honey Bee Obscura Podcast: https://honeybeeobscura.com   ______________   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!  Thanks to Bee Smart Designs as a sponsor of this podcast! Bee Smart Designs is the creator of innovative, modular and interchangeable hive systems made in the USA using recycled and American sourced materials. Bee Smart Designs - Simply better beekeeping for the modern beekeeper. Thanks to Strong Microbials for their support of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Find out more about heir line of probiotics in our Season 3, Episode 12 episode and from their website: https://www.strongmicrobials.com 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 Da