Bonsai Builders Podcast

In this episode, we peek into the mind of a true bonsai builder, Peter Tea. After studying in Japan under Mr. Tanaka at Aichien Nursery, Peter now runs one of the premier bonsai practices in the U.S. out of Auburn, California. During our interview, he breaks down the thought processes that drive his daily practice and help him cultivate award-winning Pacific Bonsai Expo trees alongside his clients. We also explore his core inspirations in bonsai and how they continue to fuel his drive to create masterpiece trees.

In this episode, SoCal-based bonsai professional Julian Tsai dives into the deeper philosophy behind the bonsai ecosystem. We explore the main pillars of the art form, discussing why technique and cultivation are so deeply interconnected. Julian also shares his perspective on the concept of wabi-sabi and its significance to bonsai culture in Japan. Finally, we look back at Julian's early years as a professional and discuss the impact he's making on the Southern California bonsai scene.

In this episode, Randy takes us back 5+ decades to the start of his Bonsai journey and gives some illuminating advice for how to develop a niche and push the science of bonsai forward. He also lays out the ins and outs of collecting in the swamp was super fun to discuss. Randy wrote THE book on Cypress Bonsai and doesn't disappoint in this invigorating episode.

Mike Pistello comes on the show to talk about his path to a Pacific Bonsai Expo winning hobbyist and what his definition of true mastery is in bonsai.

In this episode, Bjorn and Addison dive into what the move back to Japan means for Bjorn's bonsai practice. They chat about how this change impacts his tree design as well as the structure of his business. It wouldn't be a bonsai builders episode if they didn't also talk about learning and how a targeted trip to Japan can help a hobbyist level up.