The Black Pondo Podcast

#42 Peter Tea

Episode 42 of the Black Pondo Podcast features a deep and engaging conversation with bonsai professional Peter Tea. Following his recent trip to Japan, Peter shares his experience attending the historic Koku Fu 100 exhibition and visiting the renowned Aichi-en nursery. From there, the discussion dives into the technical side of bonsai design, with a detailed exploration of apex creation and how the apex influences the structure and development of an entire tree. The conversation also explores Peter’s growing study of Japanese aesthetics and why he personally feels it’s an important area of study for his own artistic development and understanding of bonsai. Along the way, we discuss oak bonsai, artistic philosophy, tree design, and much more. Whether you’re interested in advanced bonsai techniques or the broader artistic ideas behind the craft, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. You can find out more about Peter Tea at PTbonsai.com or on IG @peterteabonsai. 

#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

#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

#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

#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