Bonsaigers' Conversations

lorisdiotti

Bonsaigers' Conversations is a podcast that explores the relationship between humans and nature through honest, creative conversations. Each episode connects with artists, experts, and thinkers from the world of bonsai and beyond, who dedicate their lives to understanding and interpreting the natural world. Together, we talk about growth, time, beauty, and the lessons nature teaches us when we truly listen. Born from our YouTube series, Life’s Apprentice now comes to Spotify as a space for slower stories, deeper reflections, and meaningful connections between culture, craft, and natu

  1. 6d ago

    #021 - Jake Hobson

    In this episode of Bonsaigers Conversations, we sit down with Jake Hobson—founder of Niwaki, entrepreneur, author, and a leading voice in Japanese garden culture outside Japan. Jake’s path is far from conventional. From his early experiences living in Japan to building Niwaki into a globally recognized brand, his work has been a major source of inspiration for our own approach to bonsai, tools, and aesthetics. We talk about his upbringing, how he first discovered Japanese gardening, the philosophy behind Niwaki, and what it means to reinterpret tradition in a modern, international context. This conversation goes beyond trees and tools—it’s about craft, observation, and building something meaningful over time. If you’re into bonsai, Japanese gardens, or creative entrepreneurship, this episode is for you. Follow the podcast to stay updated on future conversations.

    1h 2m

  2. May 21

    #020 - Dr. Anjana Khatwa

    In this episode of Bonsaigers Conversations, we sit down with geologist, storyteller, and author Dr. Anjana Khatwa, whose work bridges science, nature, and spirituality. Author of Whispers of Rock, Anjana shares her journey into geology and how landscapes can hold deeper stories of time, identity, and belonging. Together, we explore the connection between science and spirituality, and how these perspectives can coexist rather than conflict. Through personal experiences and stories from her book, Anjana invites us to see nature not just as something to study, but something to listen to. A conversation about curiosity, identity, and the quiet voice of the natural world. New episodes of Bonsaigers Conversations every Monday.

    1h 1m

  3. May 11

    #019 - Andrei "DAO" Darusenkov

    In this episode of Bonsaigers Conversations, we sit down with Russian bonsai artist Andrei “DAO” Darusenkov, whose work sits at the intersection of art, architecture, and spirituality. A longtime collaborator with Bonsaigers, Andrei has been a key figure in the Bonsaigers’ X exhibition — winning it twice before returning as a judge in 2024. His approach to bonsai goes beyond technique, rooted in symbolism, discipline, and a deeply personal artistic philosophy. We talk about his upbringing in Moscow, the thinking behind his course Architect of Trees, and the role religion and spiritual thought play in shaping both his creative process and exhibition work. For Andrei, bonsai becomes more than an art form — it’s a way to explore structure, meaning, and the human experience. A conversation about identity, faith, and finding purpose through bonsai. New episodes every Monday.

    1h 41m

  4. May 5

    #018 - Brightside Bonsai

    In this episode of Bonsaigers' Conversations, we sit down with the couple behind Brightside Bonsai, ceramic artists based in Atlanta, Georgia who have built a shared life around creating bonsai pottery together. Their work blends craftsmanship, intention, and a deep connection not only to the trees their pots will hold, but to each other.They open up about what it means to pursue art as a couple, navigating both the creative process and daily life side by side. From their early influences to how their individual paths came together, their story is one of collaboration, balance, and growth.We explore how their environment in Atlanta shapes their aesthetic, and how working together in the studio brings both challenges and rewards. Every piece they create reflects a dialogue, between form and function, tradition and personal expression.They also share insights into building a creative business as partners, including their journey working with platforms like Bonsaigers and connecting with a wider bonsai community.This conversation is about partnership: in art, in life, and in the quiet commitment it takes to create something meaningful together.New episodes of Bonsaigers Conversations drop every Monday.

    1h 4m

  5. Apr 29

    #017 - Steve Ulrich

    In this episode of Bonsaigers Conversations, we sit down with Quebec-based artist Steve Ulrich, whose work is deeply shaped by the raw beauty of his natural surroundings. Each tree he creates carries the spirit of the wild landscapes he explores. Steve shares stories from his long collecting trips in the mountains, where patience, endurance, and intuition guide the search for material. For him, these journeys go beyond finding trees—they’re about understanding the land and its rhythm. We also explore the challenges of working through Quebec’s harsh winters, and how extreme conditions influence both his creative process and perspective. From protecting his trees to adapting his techniques, resilience becomes an essential part of his art. Finally, Steve offers a glimpse into his garden and studio—spaces where discipline meets creativity, and nature blends seamlessly with design. This episode is about connection: to place, to process, and to the quiet strength behind meaningful creation. New episodes of Bonsaigers Conversations drop every Monday.

    1h 7m

  6. Apr 20

    #016 - Jennifer Price

    In this episode of Bonsaigers Conversations, we sit down with Jennifer Price, a traveling bonsai artist with a truly unique path. Originally from Chicago, Jennifer has studied under some of the most respected bonsai masters in the world, including Ryan Neil, Walter Pall, and currently Michael Hagedorn.Before dedicating her life to bonsai, Jennifer was a professional dancer, a journey that demanded discipline, resilience, and years of refinement. In many ways, that same spirit lives on in her bonsai practice: shaping, patience, repetition, and the quiet pursuit of balance. From the stage to the studio, her story is one of transformation and dedication.We talk about her experience as one of the few women in the bonsai world, her travels across international conventions, and how learning from different masters has shaped her artistic voice. This conversation explores what it means to commit to a craft, evolve through challenges, and find your place in a deeply traditional art form.

    54 min

  7. Apr 13

    #015 - Master Matsusue & Jorge Sendra

    In this episode of Bonsaigers' Conversations, I sit down with Master Matsusue from the renowned Suishoen Garden, alongside his apprentice Joprge Sendra, for a deep and inspiring discussion on the true philosophy of bonsai. We explore how bonsai is far more than an art form, it’s a living tradition rooted in patience, respect, and time. Master Matsusue shares insights into how trees are often passed down through generations, becoming part of a family’s legacy rather than simply objects of cultivation. Together, we reflect on the relationship between humans and nature, the discipline required to shape and care for a tree over decades, and the quiet wisdom that bonsai teaches those who practice it. Joprge also offers a fresh perspective as an apprentice, bridging tradition with a new generation of enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned bonsai lover or just curious about this ancient practice, this conversation invites you to slow down and see trees, and time itself, in a completely different way.

    2h 4m

  8. Apr 8

    #014 - Darren George

    In this episode of Bonsaigers’ Conversations, I sit down with Darren George, the creator behind the popular YouTube channel Gro Bonsai. This was a conversation I had been looking forward to for a long time. Darren is someone I’ve followed for years—going back to his videos again and again for inspiration, learning, and simply because I’ve always been drawn to his unique style and way of approaching bonsai. We talk about bonsai not just as a practice, but as a form of expression—how to develop your own artistic voice, and how to present your work to the world in a meaningful way. Darren shares his perspective on creating content, the importance of visual storytelling, and how platforms like YouTube can become a bridge between artists and a global audience. This episode is about inspiration, creativity, and the power of sharing your work—an honest and personal conversation with one of the most recognizable voices in the online bonsai community.

    52 min
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About

Bonsaigers' Conversations is a podcast that explores the relationship between humans and nature through honest, creative conversations. Each episode connects with artists, experts, and thinkers from the world of bonsai and beyond, who dedicate their lives to understanding and interpreting the natural world. Together, we talk about growth, time, beauty, and the lessons nature teaches us when we truly listen. Born from our YouTube series, Life’s Apprentice now comes to Spotify as a space for slower stories, deeper reflections, and meaningful connections between culture, craft, and natu

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