![[Get to know personal stories] How I became a bee-mama: A story of love, loss and rebirth part 1](https://images.beamly.com/fetch/https%3A%2F%2Fd3t3ozftmdmh3i.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2Fpodcast_uploaded_episode%2F44464617%2F44464617-1761695012028-2f30653efbe3e.jpg?w=365)
What if one small colony of bees could transform the way we see our connection to nature?
Theme: Get to know personal stories
Topic: Science, nature & biodiversity
Language: English
In this episode, Dimitra shares the enchanting story of how a tiny colony of bees made their home on her rooftop in the heart of Athens, forever changing her relationship with the natural world. She reflects on becoming a “bee mama,” the ancient tradition of telling the bees, and the sense of wonder and responsibility that came with caring for them. Through her story, we’re reminded that even in the city, nature is always reaching out to connect—one bee, one flower, one rooftop at a time.
You’ll learn:
How living alongside bees can deepen our awareness of interconnection and care
What the ancient ritual of “telling the bees” teaches about grief, gratitude, and continuity
Why small acts of stewardship can help us rediscover belonging in the natural world
Key Quotes:
“It was an almost metaphysical experience.The hive and I were co-existing harmoniously, sharing space, sharing rhythm, sharing trust, sharing love.”
“Would you call the bees feminists? I’m not sure. Definitely wise though. And in tune with balance, survival, and service to the whole.”
“There is a Western European tradition called "telling the bees". Beekeepers would go to the hives and inform the bees of significant events. The bees were not only considered important members of the household, but also messengers to the spiritual world—guiding souls to the afterlife.”
“It was as if the bees had always been there, taking their place naturally in our little family.”
Host Bio:
Dimitra Zakynthinou, Writer, Storyteller
Dimitra Zakynthinou is a writer, communication maven, brand weaver, and habitual storyteller who discovered her deepest purpose when a colony of bees took refuge on her rooftop in the heart of Athens. What began as a love affair with the bees blossomed into passionate advocacy for pollinators, urban gardening, and the delicate interconnection between humans and nature. Today, she weaves stories that celebrate the hidden worlds around us, inspiring others to listen, protect, and reconnect.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beesinthecities/