The Black Pondo Podcast

In this episode, Jeremiah Lee sits down with Sergio of M5 Bonsai Works for a wide-ranging conversation about bonsai, art, garden design, and the journey of becoming a serious practitioner.

Sergio shares how his early fascination with plants eventually developed into a lifelong practice, how he taught himself bonsai through books, magazines, online resources, and working alongside other American bonsai artists, and how his background in art continues to influence his approach.

They dive into Sergio’s personal style, designing and building his bonsai garden, creating a dedicated studio, managing light and shade, working with local stone, rock plantings, root grafting, and selecting Japanese maple cultivars that are well suited for bonsai.

The conversation also explores the challenges and failures that come with experimentation, the difference between being a plant collector and a bonsai practitioner, developing trees for the long term, and knowing when it’s time to let a tree go.

Jeremiah and Sergio also discuss the future of American bonsai, the importance of regional shows, display standards, workshops, and Sergio’s involvement with Bonsai Central.

A thoughtful conversation about craft, creativity, horticulture, and what it takes to keep pushing bonsai forward in the U.S.

️ Featuring Sergio of M5 Bonsai Works
Bonsai • Garden Design • Rock Plantings • Root Grafting • Japanese Maples • American Bonsai

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work with a professional bonsai artist—and what that client/professional relationship actually looks like?

For Episode 46 of The Black Pondo Podcast, I sat down with bonsai professional Julian Tsai his client, Geoff Martin, a high-level bonsai collector and enthusiast from Southern California. We talked about the benefits of working with a professional, things to consider, favorite trees in our collections, and plenty more.

An interesting conversation about bonsai, collecting, and the relationships that help us grow as artists and enthusiasts.

 Episode 46 — now available! 

Julian Tsai- Instagram: bontsai_

Geoff Martin- Instagram: geoff_martin_

After a quick bathroom break, Jeremiah and Peter return to a deep-dive Q&A that shifts from practical bonsai technique into the bigger picture of the craft. Peter answers listener questions on ramification, branch structure, cut paste, and grafting, while also sharing his broader philosophy on patience, refinement, and the long game of developing trees. A major focus of the conversation is apprenticeship: Peter compares the apprenticeship model in the United States and Japan, reflects on the value of learning from skilled professionals, and talks candidly about his own apprentice Travis. He also shares that he is open to taking on a second apprentice, making this second half both highly educational and especially relevant for anyone serious about bonsai as a craft or career.

Episode #44 & upcoming #45 is a two-part conversation with Peter Tea of PTBonsai.com. In Part 1, we dig into one of the biggest challenges in deciduous bonsai: building fine ramification when internode length isn't cooperating, with a particular focus on Japanese maples. Peter shares the techniques, thought process, and long-term strategies that have helped him become one of the country's most accomplished deciduous bonsai artists.

We recorded this one over a pour of scotch and a slice of what we both agreed might be the nation's best pie, so the conversation is relaxed, wide-ranging, and full of practical takeaways. In Part 2, Peter returns to answer listener-submitted questions in a dedicated Q&A.

This episode is a little different from our usual bonsai conversations—but I think many of the ideas we explore will resonate far beyond bonsai.

I sat down with Avram Dalton, an American garden craftsman who studied the Japanese language and spent years training in Japan. Today, he designs and builds authentic Japanese gardens throughout the United States. Based in the San Diego area, Avram has devoted his career to understanding the principles, aesthetics, and philosophy behind the Japanese approach to craftsmanship.

Our conversation goes far beyond trees and stone. We discuss Avram’s approach to designing Japanese gardens, how the principles of Japanese landscape design translate from Japan to projects throughout the United States, and what distinguishes truly exceptional Japanese gardens. Along the way, we explore concepts like shokunin and several other uniquely Japanese ideas surrounding craftsmanship, beauty, discipline, and the lifelong pursuit of excellence. Whether your passion is bonsai, woodworking, gardening, martial arts, or any other craft, I think you’ll find something meaningful in this conversation. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for the Japanese way of thinking about craftsmanship, and I think you will too.

Instagram: @daltonlandscape

Website: daltonlandscape.com

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. 

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 

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.

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.

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.