In this Galena Farms Beekeeper Feature, we meet Emily Bondor.
Emily Bonder never planned on becoming a beekeeper. But after a chance encounter on a permaculture farm in Maui, her life took a sweet—and unexpected—turn.
In this in-depth conversation, Emily shares how she went from beginner lessons in Hawaii to running Santa Cruz Bee Company and becoming a leader in the national beekeeping community. Learn how mentorship, queen rearing, local clubs, and scientific curiosity shaped her approach to beekeeping and education.
Topics covered:
- Starting out with bees on a permaculture farm in Maui
- Her queen-rearing apprenticeship with Napa Valley Bee Co.
- Founding Santa Cruz Bee Company and teaching the next generation
- Tools, techniques, and seasonal tips for new beekeepers
- The importance of observation, patience, and thinking like a bee