Bonsai Builders Podcast

2d ago

In part 2 of this defining episode for the podcast, I sit down with Ryan Neil of Bonsai Mirai to talk about a myriad of topics, including the shokunin mentality in Japan, a continuation of our discussion on judging, and a blueprint for success as a hobbyist. If you have any feedback, please drop a comment or reach out to me @TeenyTrees on Instagram. If you haven't yet, please go check out Ryan's podcast, Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry - it inspired a lot of the conversations you hear on my own podcast and I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

2d ago

In part 1 of this defining episode for the podcast, I sit down with Ryan Neil of Bonsai Mirai to talk about a myriad of topics, including how bonsai is a tool for self development, how Japanese and US culture should combine to influence our design decisions, and how bonsai exhibition and judging influences our ecosystem. If you have any feedback, please drop a comment or reach out to me @TeenyTrees on Instagram. This episode is jointly published with Ryan's Podcast, Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry. If you haven't checked it out, please go listen to some of the amazing material on his channel. It inspired a lot of the conversations I have on my own show and I know you'll enjoy it.

Dec 10

In this special, dual-hosted episode, Jonas Dupuich and I interview Bob Potts of Rough Cut Pottery on his journey through life and bonsai. We then all discuss the North American Bonsai Pottery Competition and Jonas's experience judging it as well as the direction of bonsai pottery in the US.

Dec 3

In this episode, Addison catches up with certified bonsai professional, Kaya Mooney, who recently graduated from Kouka-en in Osaka, Japan. They talk about his decision to stay in Japan and what the true differentiation of a Japanese education is.

Nov 26

In this episode, the 2025 Joshua Roth Styling Competition contestants get back together to discuss what was going through their heads during this unique event. They dive into each person's perspective, share advice for future competitors, and talk about what's next for each of them!

Nov 19

In this episode, Addison and Eric walk through what it takes to grow bonsai at scale and what it has taken to turn bonsaify.com into a successful business. They also discuss Eric's dreams for the Pacific Bonsai Expo and the ecosystem that needs to exist in the US to allow bonsai to thrive.

Nov 5

In this episode, Addison sits down with the owner of Joshua Roth Limited, John Kim. They discuss John's purchase of the company 3 years ago, why he is so passionate about supporting American bonsai's most important events, and of course get into the nitty gritty of what makes a quality tool.

Oct 29

In this episode, Dave and Addison talk about how art and design principles apply to bonsai and what the fundamental components are for building trees and displays that evoke emotion. They also delve into Dave's time spent in Japan and at the Weyerhaeuser collection honing his abilities. They finish with a discussion on whether bonsai is an art or a craft that you won't want to miss!