In this conversation, Cynthia interviews Wendy Gonzalez, a female beekeeper, about her journey into beekeeping and her connection to her ancestors. Wendy shares the story of her grandmother, who was a beekeeper in Mexico, and how she was inspired to follow in her footsteps. She discusses the emotional and healing power of beekeeping and the importance of connecting with nature and one’s cultural heritage. Wendy also highlights the historical and cultural significance of bees and the impact of urban beekeeping on communities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of noticing and embracing the signs and connections with ancestors. In this conversation, Wendy shares her deep connection with her ancestors and nature, emphasizing the importance of finding solace in non-human elements. She discusses how her grandmother’s presence is felt in nature, particularly in beekeeping. Wendy also highlights the soothing and calming effects of the sounds of bees, which promote relaxation and mindfulness. She expresses her emotional connection to beekeeping and the impact it has had on her relationship with her daughter. Wendy hopes to be remembered as someone who cared about the world and formed connections with others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Wendy’s Background
02:03 Wendy’s Grandmother’s Story
04:20 Wendy’s Journey into Beekeeping
08:01 Connecting with Ancestors and Finding Joy in Beekeeping
11:22 The Metaphorical and Healing Power of Bees
14:24 The Historical and Cultural Significance of Bees
17:01 The Colonization of Bees and the Importance of Native Bees
19:36 Finding Empowerment and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
23:12 Beekeeping as Rebellion and Connection to Ancestors
25:33 The Impact of Urban Beekeeping on Communities
27:37 The Collective Suffering in Food Production
29:43 Connecting with Ancestors and the Importance of Noticing
32:18 The Healing Power of Herbs and Connecting with Ancestors
34:43 The Emotional Connection with Bees and Ancestors
37:11 Connecting with Ancestors through Meditation and Hammocks
38:36 Dancing with Ancestors and Feeling their Presence
40:07 Connecting with Ancestors and Nature
45:21 The Magic of Nature
48:15 The Soothing Sounds of Bees
53:56 The Emotional Connection to Beekeeping
54:42 Legacy and Remembering
56:16 Favorite Ways to Enjoy Honey
56:51 Where to Find and Support Wendy
