The Black Pondo Podcast

Lee Bonsai
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An informal Podcast hosted by Jeremiah Lee, with the goal of satisfying an endless curiosity about all things Bonsai through chatting with and interviewing some incredible members of the Bonsai community.

  1. 30 APR

    #41 Todd Schlafer - First Branch Bonsai

    I sat down with Todd Schlafer of First Branch Bonsai at his studio and home in Lakewood, Colorado, for a conversation that explores both the technical and philosophical sides of bonsai in America. We discussed the influence of Jerry Morris and his contributions to dwarf conifers, along with how natural forces—like rock fissures, elevation, and microclimates—shape the growth of compact, character-rich trees in the wild. Todd also shared insights from collecting and propagating native and rare species across the U.S., emphasizing both practical techniques and responsible practices. The conversation touched on strategies for building and maintaining bonsai in severe climates, as well as the importance of legacy planning—ensuring collections are preserved and passed on thoughtfully. Todd reflected on his own career through stories of apprenticeships and collaborations, offering a glimpse into the path of a professional grower. We also explored how bonsai aesthetics continue to evolve, requiring deeper levels of appreciation as trees mature, and the vital role that community, competition, and ongoing learning play in advancing American bonsai. You can find more about Todd: Instagram: todd_schlafer_bonsai www.firstbranchbonsai.com  Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo Podcast: Your New Garden(00:02:46) - Spruce and birch in Montana(00:04:44) - Exploring a microclimate in the woods(00:08:47) - Some locals use native plants as accent plants(00:09:21) - Colorado Bonsai Background(00:12:04) - Bonsai instructor on going into the mountains(00:12:52) - Bands in the 90's(00:16:42) - Bob Dylan on Bonsai(00:17:45) - When Did You Start Studying With Ryan?(00:18:20) - How Is Your Time Divided Up?(00:19:57) - Bonsai Professional travel the world(00:24:51) - Francesco's Apprentice Tree(00:28:04) - Bonsai Garden Plans(00:32:44) - Isaiah Akigitsuni Bonsai(00:34:01) - Imagine a $200,000 greenhouse for your garden(00:38:02) - American Bonsai Champion Ryan Smith on Colorado's climate(00:41:26) - The Harder the Trees(00:45:52) - Do You Need a Dingo to Move Trees?(00:49:30) - How to Build a Dingo Stand(00:50:10) - Jerry Morris(00:55:45) - Bob Hoskins in the documentary(00:57:23) - Dwarf Conifers For Bonsai(01:01:49) - Tree collections in the Ponderosa Mountains(01:05:42) - The First Branch Bonsai(01:06:58) - Are There Any Other Environments That Dwarf Trees?(01:12:37) - Bonsai instructor talks about selling trees(01:16:22) - Jerry Morris Tree for Sale(01:18:59) - Bonsai Producers Talk About Legacy Trees

    1hr 24min

  2. 24 APR

    #40 Austin Heitzman

    I recently sat down with the incredibly talented bonsai stand and furniture maker Austin Heitzman for a conversation that I’ve been looking forward to for a while. We got into some of the exciting projects he has in the works, explored his approach to crafting those signature bonsai stands, and talked through his perspective on pairing stands with trees in a way that really elevates the composition. I also brought in a few listener questions, which led to some great insights. It’s a conversation I genuinely enjoyed, and I think you will too. Chapters (00:00:00) - How To Dry Wood(00:04:41) - Does the thickness of a board affect its stability?(00:11:10) - How To Get A Hernia Fixed(00:18:52) - Bonsai Stand for Frank Lloyd Wright House(00:22:44) - Frank Lloyd Wright Made a Mahogany Planter(00:25:51) - Walnut and Manzanita Stand(00:29:10) - Have Your Tree Been Accepted Into the PBE?(00:30:54) - The PBE National(00:34:23) - How To Design a Bonsai Stand(00:41:34) - A Woodworker's Paint(00:42:53) - Green Felt Table Coverings(00:45:44) - How To Store Bonsai Stands(00:52:00) - Woodworker's Secret Lives(00:53:05) - Bonsai Wood Fits Well(01:01:14) - Blending OSMO and Osmo Wax(01:03:41) - ASMR: First Coat(01:06:52) - What is Joinery in Bonsai?(01:10:38) - What is a Miter Joint?(01:18:24) - Do you ever bounce ideas off of other Bonsai Stand M(01:24:41) - Tell the Bonsai Stand Story(01:29:20) - Bonsai: Less Liberal Than Some Other Arts(01:31:45) - Pacific Bonsai Entrance(01:35:27) - Frank Lord Reich on Root Stands(01:43:52) - The Secret to Trees(01:44:19) - There is one American who makes root stands(01:46:00) - Would You Take An Apprenticeship?(01:48:48) - Woodshop instructor private lessons and advanced classes(01:53:43) - Tree Stand(01:57:52) - Wood Stand(02:02:19) - Bonsai Artist's Top 10(02:07:33) - Ranking Bonsai Trees(02:10:29) - Tony Bonsai On His Surgery

    2h 13m

  3. 17 APR

    #39 Addison Galambos

    Join Addison Galambos, host of the Bonsai Builders Podcast, for a special collaboration episode of The Black Pondo Podcast as he shares his journey into bonsai, from early inspiration to deep involvement in the global community. Alongside Jeremiah Lee, he reflects on lessons from bonsai experts, highlights from a transformative trip to Japan, and the artistry behind age, design, and movement in trees. The conversation dives into technical skills, experimental approaches to soil and water, and the lasting influence of master potter Gyozon, while also exploring how strong clubs and shared knowledge help the bonsai community thrive. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights and fresh perspective on cultivating both trees and connection. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Ponda: To Baby Trees Podcast(00:00:59) - Bonsai Builders Podcast Intro(00:07:53) - Television Interview(00:09:28) - What is a Professional Bonsai Artist?(00:12:23) - Podcasters on Their Recent Guests(00:13:08) - Bonsai Podcast: Exploring the Trees(00:19:44) - Peter Bonsai's(00:21:22) - Bob Bonsai Just Got Back From... Japan(00:24:09) - Taste the Bonsai(00:26:33) - Bonsai and Koi Pond(00:28:54) - What separates high level Japanese Bonsai from U.S.(00:31:21) - Is Age the most important thing for high-level bonsai(00:38:30) - Grafting Yamadori Junipers(00:42:32) - How to Grow Unique Trunks(00:44:46) - A Famous Bonsai Potter Has Passed Away(00:51:04) - David Tennant's Pot Designs(00:52:09) - Gyozan Potting Dead(00:53:50) - Have You Been Thinking About Bonsai?(00:57:12) - How to Identify a Bonsai Pot Chop(01:00:38) - How Do You Get Feedback From Your Teachers on Your Junipers?(01:06:11) - Working with Peter Bonsai(01:08:05) - Peter's Tree Training(01:09:32) - Peter Glass on His Goals vs. Mine(01:17:53) - Bonsai Level 7 Goals(01:20:49) - Submit a Tree for the PBE(01:23:56) - The Science of Bonsai(01:27:47) - Lava to pumice: Does akadama hold water(01:33:39) - Bonsai Test Quality(01:37:18) - How to Tell Which Water Is Good or Bad?(01:41:43) - Water Quality in Bonsai(01:42:47) - Do RO Systems Make Better Water For Trees?(01:47:45) - Have You Tested Any of Your Trees With APical?(01:49:20) - What Would You Do If You Had Unlimited Funding?(01:52:52) - Shohin Bonsai: Twisted Junipers(02:00:08) - How to make junipers by hand(02:01:18) - How To Twist Junipers(02:07:47) - How to Cull Down Your Bonsai Trunks(02:10:48) - Bonsai Clubs(02:13:07) - Jiu-itsu Clubs and Bonsai(02:20:38) - Ideas for a Good Bonsai Club(02:26:57) - What Keeps You in the Bonsai Club?(02:31:47) - PODCAST: Jeremiah on Friendship

    2h 34m

  4. 14 FEB

    #38 Seth Nelson

    Episode #38 – Seth Nelson is a Nippon Bonsai Association Certified bonsai professional currently located in Birmingham, Alabama USA.  In Episode 38 of the Black Pondo Podcast, Jeremiah Lee and Seth Nelson take a deep dive into the layered world of bonsai—exploring everything from the subtle politics of exhibitions to the transformative power of photography in presenting trees at their highest level. They unpack the many subcategories within bonsai and how shows shape artistic standards, while also discussing the growing role of AI in refining technique, documentation, and creative process. Seth shares insights into his current work with a patron supporting his bonsai career, opening up about the realities of selling trees, building a sustainable practice, and navigating family dynamics alongside professional ambition. The conversation expands into innovation and tradition—examining experimental techniques, alternative materials, and the critical influence of soil mixes on tree health and development. Seth reflects on the meaning of “oyakata” and the cultural differences between bonsai in Japan and the United States, drawing from his apprenticeship experience and the personal growth it demanded. They also explore the emotional connection between artist and tree, and the story behind a massive trident maple with multi generational history currently being offered for sale at the Kokufu 100. This episode is an honest, thoughtful look at craft, culture, mentorship, and the evolving future of bonsai. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo: Austin Heitzman Bonsai Stand(00:02:48) - Tree Decorating With a Black Background(00:04:03) - Trees need backdrops(00:08:45) - Bonsai Expo 2017: Color and Lighting(00:11:50) - Bonsai: Key Categories and Subcategories(00:19:40) - How To Apply Fungicide To Tender Growth Trees(00:27:40) - Forbid.com on ChatGPT(00:28:51) - Japanese bonsai grower loses weight(00:33:04) - Do You Have To Spray Your Fruits?(00:38:40) - Seth on His Current Situation(00:46:29) - In the Elevator With Oprah(00:46:47) - The story of my patron's bonsai(00:52:47) - This Alabama Bonsai Guy Grows Massive Trees(00:55:42) - How To Work a Full Time Job(00:57:03) - The Art of Gardening(00:59:48) - How to Get Your Wife Her Residency(01:04:02) - Seth Nelson Bonsai: Selling Trees(01:09:58) - Tree Farming in the Future(01:10:19) - How to Put Together a Bonsai Auction(01:19:38) - Bonsai in the US(01:24:01) - Joint A(01:29:59) - Stainless Steel Wire For Trees(01:33:26) - What did the term oyakata mean to you?(01:40:23) - Was Mr. Tanaka Trying to Make You A Good Man?(01:44:38) - The Zen of Bonsai(01:50:44) - The Secret Life of Aichan Apprentices(01:54:54) - Is My Oikata A Real Japanese Person?(02:00:22) - What Is The Best Garden Hose?(02:04:34) - "I hate my nail polish"(02:04:50) - Q&A With Lil' Wayne(02:05:16) - The World's Coolest People(02:05:39) - Soil Mix(02:15:02) - Regarding akadama, for anybody that's really serious about b(02:16:06) - Tree growth in the US vs. Japan(02:18:20) - Do Arakawa Maples Need More Care?(02:21:16) - Does Culture Influeness Bonsai?(02:28:53) - Bonsai and Emotion(02:29:43) - Talking to myself(02:30:09) - Can Copper Wire Dust Be Harmful?(02:31:58) - Bonsai Teaching 101: Copper Wire(02:37:43) - Ichi Stood Next To A Giant Trident Maple(02:40:34) - Kokufu height limit(02:46:11) - In the Woods: Healing the Trunk(02:46:47) - Derek on Chatting About Bonsai

    2h 53m

  5. 21 JAN

    #37 Peter Tea- Part 2 - Deciduous Bonsai

    The legendary César Ordóñez of Cen Cal Bonsai once shared a simple but powerful truth: “It sucks to buy a tree and cut off all the branches, but it also sucks to have a s****y tree.” In this episode of the Black Pondo Podcast, we dive deep into all things deciduous bonsai. I got to pick Peter’s brain about César’s quote—discussing when it makes sense to completely restart a deciduous bonsai and when it’s better to continue refining the existing design. We explore what truly makes a great deciduous bonsai, common pitfalls seen in the U.S., Japanese aesthetics, and much more. I really appreciate you tuning in, and I hope you enjoy the conversation. Chapters (00:00:00) - Bonsai 101(00:00:11) - Deciduous Bonsai(00:03:51) - Bonsai is like putting money in your 401k(00:07:00) - What is a Good Deciduous Bonsai?(00:07:55) - The secret to good Bonsai(00:14:54) - Tree Decorating: Is it worth chopping off an old branch(00:19:08) - Bonsai Trees: Age Is Very Important(00:19:48) - What other things are you looking for in a deciduous tree(00:25:17) - Tree trunks change color(00:25:45) - What does good taper look like throughout the tree?(00:31:43) - Bonsai Basics: Taper and Reverse Taper(00:35:01) - Not dense enough(00:40:17) - Deciduous Trees(00:43:42) - Taper in trees--(00:45:14) - What's happening in the US with taper?(00:53:52) - Is it faster to grow a tree than to wire a bons(00:55:05) - Growing trees in the ground(00:55:29) - How to grow Umay Bonsai(00:58:41) - Developers' trees(00:59:58) - Bonsai 101: Density and Branch Length(01:06:05) - Open mind in the world of bonsai(01:10:03) - Bonsai Is Not Cookie Cutter(01:15:45) - Experiencing Japanese Bonsai(01:20:45) - Can a Japanese Maple Ever Look as Old as a Black Pine?(01:24:15) - How to grow a 1000 year old Japanese maple

    1hr 26min

  6. 20 JAN

    #36 Peter Tea - Part 1

    I just got back from four days of working on trees up at Peter Tea’s place, PTBonsai.com. While I was there, after some long but really fun days working on a bunch of trees, we sat down one evening, grabbed a drink, and just talked. I got to pick Peter’s brain about what really goes into building a high-level bonsai collection—how to think about ranking your trees, the ideal number of trees to own, and his plans for attending Kokufu 100. We also talked about some of the questions he’s planning to ask his teacher, Mr. Tanaka, and a whole lot more. This is part one of a two-part conversation, so keep an eye out for part two coming soon. Chapters (00:00:00) - Black Pondo Podcast(00:01:50) - What is Cognac?(00:02:43) - Bonsai shows in Japan(00:04:12) - Bonsai Tour of Japan(00:07:09) - Bonsai instructor talks orchids(00:08:50) - Peter's Way of Learning(00:11:57) - Bonsai Professional: Open Minds(00:16:28) - Bonsai Master Tanaka(00:20:25) - Double Cheers in Japan(00:20:35) - Interview with Bonsai Legend Tanaka(00:24:21) - What is it that Japanese Bonsai Like?(00:30:24) - Bonsai Expert: Mr. Tanaka's Perspective(00:33:25) - How to Rank Your Bonsai Trees(00:37:35) - Have You Got Too Many Bonsai Trees?(00:40:57) - The Best Bonsai Trees(00:45:52) - Bigger Trees(00:50:03) - Tree Gardener: Do Trees Grow Well?(00:51:25) - How to Choose Good Water for Bonsai(00:54:49) - Choosing the right Korean hornbeam or Chinese elm(00:57:33) - Gardening 101: Deciduous Trees(01:01:00) - The Secret to Building a Bonsai Collection(01:04:49) - How Do You Grade a Tree?(01:08:01) - Louis XIII Drinking Remy Martin 1738 Accord Royale

    1hr 11min

  7. 26/12/2025

    #35 Randy Knight

    In this engaging episode, Jeremiah Lee interviews Randy Knight, a renowned bonsai collector, about his journey into the world of bonsai, the evolution of his customer base, and the intricacies of collecting diverse tree species. Randy shares valuable insights into the differences between Rocky Mountain Junipers and Sierra Junipers, the challenges of collecting Utah Junipers, and the importance of building strong relationships with customers. Randy also dives into the challenges of growing various tree species, the critical role of proper aftercare, and highlights from his personal collection. He emphasizes the importance of community within the bonsai world and reflects on his future aspirations, including mentorship and refining his techniques. The conversation rounds out with discussions on his interests outside of bonsai, fitness tips for outdoor work, and the joy of exploring and connecting with nature. Randy Knight's email address: Oregonbonsai@gmail.com  Chapters (00:00:00) - Peter T. Bonsai(00:02:19) - Bonsai Collecting in the Rocky Mountains(00:08:23) - John Eads on Bonsai(00:11:34) - What kind of trees are you selling?(00:19:24) - How to Buy a Bonsai Tree From Me(00:27:59) - Meet the Bonsai People(00:28:21) - How to care for an ancient juniper tree(00:32:08) - Rocky Mountain Junipers vs Sierra Junipers(00:38:03) - How to find yamadori trees in the Rocky Mountains(00:42:11) - Do Pines Have Corkscrew Trees?(00:46:09) - Sierra Junipers vs Utah Junipers(00:48:27) - Rocky Mountain, Utah junipers in bonsai(00:55:11) - Trees grow in sandstone and basalt(00:55:46) - Do You Know Every Tree in Oregon?(00:59:24) - Bonsai 101: Collecting Trees(01:05:04) - Mountain Mahogany and Manzanita Trees(01:10:55) - Bob Marai's Bonsai Trees(01:15:49) - Do You Have A Tree Collection?(01:17:33) - Keep a Tree or Sell It?(01:22:21) - Bonsai at the(01:24:20) - Bigger than a caribou(01:25:35) - Randy Hayworth on His Hobby Hunting(01:29:55) - Honoring the dead(01:34:50) - Sen. Rand Paul on His Dog(01:35:01) - Lodge Poles in the Sierras(01:38:55) - How to Get Prepared for the Mountains(01:43:06) - How long do you travel on a bonsai trip?(01:49:05) - Rocky Mountains Tree Recuperation(01:54:45) - How to screen pumice from trees(01:57:47) - Bob Yamadori on Leaving a Legacy(02:04:28) - Randy Knight on Tree Collection

    2h 9m
  8. #34 Michael McTeague & Seth Nelson

    14/12/2025

    #34 Michael McTeague & Seth Nelson

    Seth and Michael chat with Jeremiah about their paths in the bonsai world and what life’s been like since finishing their apprenticeships. They talk about cultural differences—especially food and daily life—as Seth adjusts to living in Alabama after spending time in Japan. Along the way, they get into what it takes to start and grow a bonsai business. They also share some personal thoughts about family, future goals, and where they hope to take their bonsai work, showing just how committed they are to learning, growing, and teaching others. The conversation also dives into the hands-on side of bonsai. They talk about why passion and real experience matter, how community shapes the craft, and some of the technical details like leaf size, quality, and overall tree health. They touch on current trends in the bonsai world too, including globalization and how regulations affect the market. Overall, it’s a mix of practical advice, personal stories, and a shared belief that strong horticulture skills, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment are key to creating great bonsai. Seth Nelson- Instagram: seth.nelson.bonsai Michael McTeague  Instagram: bonsaiharmony Chapters (00:00:00) - Peter T. Bonsai(00:01:56) - Bonsai in my Garage(00:04:20) - Canada's first week in Alabama(00:07:37) - Back to American Food in Japan(00:11:20) - Michael and I Both Graduate Our Apprenticeships(00:12:45) - Jeremiah's Traveling To St. Louis(00:13:51) - Interviewing a Bonsai Guy(00:15:15) - Japanese tree trimmers talk(00:16:27) - Podcast Star Seth on His Life in Japan(00:20:24) - Bonsai Champion Jeremiah and His Family(00:23:41) - Seth and Michael: The Japanese Friendship(00:27:32) - How To Rest Your Back(00:31:33) - Alabama Bonsai Artist Seth on His Journey(00:36:26) - Birmingham Bonsai Nursery(00:42:54) - Looking for a house to buy in Japan(00:44:09) - Looking for an Abandoned Home in Japan(00:48:58) - Tree Wires in the US(00:52:25) - Japan is where everything's happening(00:53:45) - The Real Life of Bonsai(00:56:45) - Getting Better at Bonsai With A Professional Experience(01:01:58) - R.I.P. To ""(01:02:11) - Did Ien and Fujikawa Koka interact with their bons(01:06:18) - Bonsai community is small(01:09:33) - Japanese bonsai:(01:10:59) - Bonsai: The Science of Bonsai(01:15:50) - Meet Avram, the Niwaki Guy(01:16:43) - Bonsai: The Art of Horticulture(01:21:23) - "Shuhari" in Bonsai(01:24:50) - Box vs ceramic pot(01:30:06) - Do You Need To Repot Your Bonsai?(01:34:16) - Tommy Lee on Working With Seth Seth(01:36:04) - Leaf Size and Bonsai Trees(01:41:16) - Chinese Quints and Twigging Quality(01:49:03) - Michael Jackson meets Bjorn Oakley

    1hr 51min
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About

An informal Podcast hosted by Jeremiah Lee, with the goal of satisfying an endless curiosity about all things Bonsai through chatting with and interviewing some incredible members of the Bonsai community.

Information

  • Creator
    Lee Bonsai
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 Lee Bonsai
  • Show Website
    The Black Pondo Podcast

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