Houston – This Military Appreciation Month, we’re taking the time to highlight and thank those who have served overseas and within our borders. One of them is Michael Kaltenbach, a Pennsylvania native who now calls Houston, home. Kaltenbach served in the U.S. Army in a combat arms unit deploying to Iraq from 2007 to 2011. After returning home from active duty, he was grasping for a hobby while also trying to navigate the revolving doors of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It wasn’t until he stumbled upon a YouTube video about beekeeping that he found himself embarking on a new mission.
Kaltenbach eventually bought his first set of hives and said he “instantly felt the noise and depression disappear.” The COVID-19 Pandemic took the world by storm, so he decided to leave his corporate manager position and use his retirement savings to begin his journey.
What began as a personal endeavor to find peace and purpose has now blossomed into a thriving business and community service project known as Soldiers of Wax.
Soldiers of Wax is located on Pinemont Drive in The Heights but it is way more than just a store with honey to sell. Michael’s journey of transformation through beekeeping inspired him to create a space where other veterans could also benefit. Inside is a fully operational space equipped with state-of-the-art honey extractors and other beekeeping supplies that he offers the community to use for free, providing them with an opportunity to learn about beekeeping and honey production.
This space is also where Michael crafts his infused raw honeys using whole and natural ingredients. They also offer beeswax products, candles, and beekeeping equipment crafted by Michael himself. The busy bees responsible for his delicious honey come from several of his local apiaries. There, he shows the benefits of backyard beekeeping to the community members and veterans he mentors.
Marine veteran, Jason Lewis served from 1992 to 1997 he picked up beekeeping following years of struggling with his mental health and addiction. Lewis tells us he’s been trying to receive help from the VA for over 20 years. He was finally approved in 2023. Now, six years sober, Lewis turned to beekeeping and says he feels more comfortable talking and opening up to people.
Michael is a regular presence at local farmers markets, where he not only sells their products but creates a conversation about the importance of beekeeping, especially for veterans. You can find him at the Smith Street Farmers Market on the first Wednesday of the month and on the 2nd Wednesday of the month he’s at the McKinney Street Farmers Market. His full schedule is on his website.
To learn more about Soldiers of Wax, their products, and services, you can visit their website or follow them on Instagram. Through these platforms, Michael shares insights into beekeeping, updates on their latest products, and information about upcoming events at local farmers markets.
Kaltenbach’s journey from the battlefield to the beehive is a testament to the healing power of nature and the importance of community. Through Soldiers of Wax, he has created a supportive environment where veterans can find therapy, mentorship, and a sense of purpose. Whether you’re a veteran looking for support or a honey enthusiast, Soldiers of Wax is another unique and local small business to support. “Bee” sure to watch his full package in the video player above.
Thanks for letting us share your story, Michael. The buzz around town is your honey is delicious!