Bonsai Mirai: Asymmetry
182 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 16 hours ago - ★★★★★ - 166 ratingsBonsai Mirai is a company, a place, a practice, an ecosystem of creators. This is our outlet for discussion of all things bonsai and beyond.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Catching Up With David Cutchin
April 24, 2024 14:00 - 2 hours - 170 MBComing to you all the way from the sunny state of Florida—we are delighted to welcome back David Cutchin. Join us as we delve into the deeply personal aspects of our lives intertwined with our shared passion for bonsai. From the art of shaping miniature trees to the stories that shape us, this episode takes you on a heartfelt journey into the lives of two bonsai enthusiasts and friends catching up.
Community Questions: Bonsai Repotting
March 27, 2024 13:00 - 1 hour - 58.9 MBDive into bonsai cultivation with us as we tackle community questions head-on. Explore the intricacies of repotting as we delve into the "why" behind bonsai care. Join our exploration of collective queries, elevating your understanding of this ancient art form. This episode celebrates the passionate bonsai community and their curiosity-driven journey. Our upcoming community question segment is all about Bonsai Design! Submit your questions here to be answered and featured on the podcast....
Community Questions: Mirai Mobile
February 29, 2024 19:23 - 1 hour - 90.2 MBThis episode heralds the debut of our Mirai Community Questions segment, a much-anticipated addition straight from our forum. These questions, submitted by Mirai members, guide our discussion into the captivating realm of Mirai Mobile and its future. We're also joined by the ever-capable Mr. Josh Porter, a crucial figure in steering our ship through turbulent waters to help guide the conversation.
Mirai's Winter Recap 2024
February 14, 2024 15:00 - 52 minutes - 72.2 MBWe're diving back in after a brief hiatus to catch our breath in the whirlwind of 2024. We're thrilled to discuss the Mirai Mobile launch, our new personalized bonsai app you've all been waiting for. With a calendar of bonsai activities, tree cataloging features, informative academy courses, and exclusive access through your Mirai Live subscription, it's a game-changer for bonsai enthusiasts. Stay tuned as we recap the end of 2023, delve into the start of 2024, and discuss what's on the hori...
The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum with Curator—Michael James
January 17, 2024 13:00 - 1 hour - 120 MBDuring our engaging conversation with Michael James, the curator of The National Bonsai & Penjing Museum in Washington, D.C., we delved into a myriad of exciting and inspiring bonsai related topics. However, the paramount insight gained was the pivotal role that community support plays in sustaining these public collections, thereby ensuring their significance in Western bonsai culture.
Cosmic Bonsai with Laurent Darrieux
January 03, 2024 14:00 - 1 hour - 138 MBJoin us for an extraordinary conversation as David Degroot introduces us to Laurent Darrieux—the mastermind behind the Cosmic Bonsai approach. Delving into the captivating insights presented in Darrieux's two publications on Cosmic Bonsai, the much-anticipated conversation unfolds as a profound exploration of bonsai, providing an immersive experience of this timeless craft.
Mirai’s Evolutionary Odyssey
December 20, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 65.4 MBIn 1993, Ryan's passion for bonsai ignited the Mirai journey, spanning from Japan to the U.S. This artistic venture included cultivating gardens, building a community, and forming a skilled creative team. Despite challenges, the journey continues to yield positive outcomes. As the year ends, join Ryan in celebrating the community, expressing gratitude, and envisioning Mirai's future.
Preserving the Puglian Olives: With David Knaus Continued
December 06, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 79.2 MBContinuing our conversation with David Knaus of Apical Crop Science on preserving the Puglian olives, we delve into ancient tree conservation and explore the expanding understanding of nutrient balancing and its connection to the current trajectory of climate change and how we are fighting to make a positive impact. Help support our conservation contributions: https://bonsaimirai.com/blog/mirai-wild-puglian-olives-fundraiser
Preserving the Puglian Olives: With David Knaus
November 22, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 82.6 MBBack from our recent Puglia trip, joined by David Knaus of Apical Crop Science, we discuss Mirai's nutritional practices as we tackle the pressing issue of Xylella fastidiosa affecting Puglia's olive groves. The trip surpassed expectations in success but underscored the vast challenges ancient trees confront today. This episode marks a pivotal moment in exploring Apical's work and joining the effort to find solutions to the Xylella problem. Join us in understanding and contributing to this...
Preserving the Puglian Olives: With Melissa Dotto
November 08, 2023 13:00 - 1 hour - 117 MBWe unveil a long-anticipated episode, taking you back to our January visit to the Puglian olives. Leading our journey is Melissa Dotto–an Italian producer, master connector, and skilled bonsai practitioner. With Melissa as our guide, we delve deep into the rich tapestry of Italian culture, unearthing hidden gems and acquiring essential insights. These revelations are crucial for us to fully grasp the essence of the Mirai in the Wild project and our dedicated efforts to preserve these magnifi...
Bonsai’s Boundless Potential with Chris Baker: Part 2
October 25, 2023 11:00 - 1 hour - 81.6 MBIn part two of our conversation with Chris Baker, we delve deeper into the Chicago Botanic Gardens' innovative use of bonsai to amplify the voices of native environments. We share our mutual dedication to preserving ancient trees within these ecosystems and reflect on the expanding influence of the bonsai community in shaping a brighter future.
Reconnecting with Mirai
October 11, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 84.1 MBJoin us for a catch-up session, where we dive deep into the latest happenings at Mirai. We share our insights, reflect on the lessons we've picked up along the way, and explore our growth over the past year. Plus, we share a sneak peek into the exciting future of Mirai and what's in store.
Bonsai’s Boundless Potential with Chris Baker: Part 1
September 20, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 67.8 MBJoin us for a captivating conversation with Chris Baker, the curator of the Chicago Botanical Gardens' bonsai collection—a true connoisseur of the bonsai world. Our discussion delves into the extraordinary possibilities of bonsai beyond its artistic expression, marking the beginning of numerous enlightening conversations to follow. Tune in as we explore the pivotal role of a bonsai curator.
Bonsai’s Boundless Potential with Chris Baker
September 20, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 67.8 MBJoin us for a captivating conversation with Chris Baker, the curator of the Chicago Botanical Gardens' bonsai collection—a true connoisseur of the bonsai world. Our discussion delves into the extraordinary possibilities of bonsai beyond its artistic expression, marking the beginning of numerous enlightening conversations to follow. Tune in as we explore the pivotal role of a bonsai curator.
Unlocking the Superpowers of Ancient Trees With Lucy Kerhoulas
September 06, 2023 20:09 - 1 hour - 73.9 MBWe're joined by Lucy Kerhoulas—a renowned canopy vascular researcher specializing in coastal redwoods. With a background in botany, a Master's in redwood physiology, and a Ph.D. in ponderosa pine eco-physiology, Lucy is an Associate Professor at Cal Poly Humboldt. We delve into the remarkable abilities of ancient trees like coastal redwoods, exploring their superpowers and incredible scale of existence.
Exploring North American Bonsai with Jack Sustic
August 16, 2023 21:02 - 1 hour - 60.8 MBWe had the privilege of sitting down with Jack Sustic—the former curator of the National Bonsai Collection in Washington, DC. Jack's impact on North American bonsai history is indelible, as his leadership marked a pivotal moment in the collection's story. With engaging stories and experiences, he takes us through the evolving landscape of bonsai in North America.
Top 5 Transformative Bonsai Books
July 26, 2023 22:31 - 1 hour - 72.8 MBEmbark on a captivating journey as we delve into the five most outstanding books that shatter conventional viewpoints on bonsai. Discover their profound insights, ignite your passion, and experience bonsai in a new light. Mirai Reading Recommendations: Gnarly Branches, Ancient Trees: The Life and Works of Dan Robinson Cosmic Bonsai - Laurent Darrieux Artisan Cup - Ryan Neil In Training, A Book of Bonsai Photos - Steven Voss The Best of Bonsai in Europe #5
Summer Solstice Reflections
July 12, 2023 23:26 - 1 hour - 61.8 MBWe embrace the arrival of the summer solstice and reflect on the passing of the longest day of the year—recapping springtime in the garden and discussing the evolving body of knowledge that fuels its growth. From nutrition discoveries to climbing giant sequoias, we share stories of thrilling adventures that will inspire and entertain.
Highlights from Mountain Film Festival
June 14, 2023 14:00 - 48 minutes - 110 MBJoin us as we recap our journey to Telluride, Colorado, for the renowned Mountain Film Festival to celebrate a documentary project's premiere featuring Mirai. We share our unforgettable experiences from the festival and offer an exclusive sneak peek into our insights on "Trees and Other Entanglements," an upcoming HBO documentary set to release this fall.
Art and Business Convergence with Joe Robinson
May 31, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 84.6 MBJoe Robinson—the owner of East Creek Art, joins us to delve into our recent collaboration on firing the Triskele Collective ceramics in their Anagama wood-burning kiln. We reflect on our shared experiences cultivating and nurturing creative communities and the intriguing connection between trees, ceramics, art, and teaching. Learn more about East Creek Art: https://www.eastcreekart.org/
Creativity and Craftsmanship with Austin Heitzman
May 03, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 87.9 MBWe catch up with Austin Heitzman—a master craftsman and woodworker whose recent body of work we've had the luxury of experiencing and distributing at Mirai. With a deep understanding of his medium, Austin creates unique pieces and contextual woodworking representations that push the art form's boundaries. Shop his new bonsai stand collection on Mirai Goods.
Celebrating 13 Years of Mirai
April 19, 2023 13:00 - 57 minutes - 133 MBWe celebrate Mirai's 13th anniversary—by reflecting on our growth and the expansion of bonsai in North America and the Western world. It's been an incredible journey thus far, full of flops, follies, successes, and celebrations, and the voyage only continues; we are just warming up!
Winter Garden Recap 2023
March 22, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 218 MBWe take a moment to catch up on Mirai's busy winter season as we ascend into the spring of 2023—recapping the highlights of our bonsai repotting season and sharing new insight into recent nutritional discoveries that have helped advance our knowledge of the bonsai model and further influenced our tree care practices.
Ceramic Creation with Jan Rentenaar
March 08, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 204 MBJan Rentenaar—a local ceramicist and art legend, joins us to celebrate the release of her latest collection of ceramics in collaboration with Mirai. We chat about her introduction to art, her ceramic process, and what motivates her as an artist. Check out her new ceramic collection, available now on Mirai Goods: https://goods.bonsaimirai.com/collections/vendors?q=Jan%20Rentenaar
Iseli Nursery with Joe Harris: Part 2
February 22, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 100 MBIn the second part of our discussion with bonsai practitioner and nursery professional—Joe Harris, we continue our conversation on his transition from a bonsai apprenticeship into his nursery industry career. We dive into his work with high-level maple cultivation, how he's applied bonsai knowledge to large tree formation design, and his position at Iseli Nursery, one of the most famous specialty nurseries in the Willamette Valley. Learn more about Iseli Nursery: https://www.iselinursery.c...
Bonsai Apprenticeship with Joe Harris: Part 1
February 15, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 84.2 MBWe traveled down to Iseli Nursery to chat with Joe Harris—one of the original North American bonsai practitioners who apprenticed under Mr. Hashimoto at Kanuma Nature and Bonsai Park in Japan during the mid-1980s. We engage in an enlightening discussion on our shared apprenticeship experiences and educational lineage—touching on stories and memories from his time studying bonsai in Japan.
Sequoias, Seeds, and Conservation with Steen Christensen
January 11, 2023 23:28 - 1 hour - 168 MBWe are once again joined by co-founder of The Jonsteen Company—Steen Christensen, as we continue our deep dive into his insight on collecting seeds and preserving the genetics of the North American forests. His specialization on Giant Sequoias and his work in the Redwoods takes us on quite the journey as we catch up and explore all of the vast knowledge this individual has to offer. Learn more about The Jonsteen Company: https://www.jonsteen.com/
2022: A Year in Review
January 04, 2023 14:00 - 55 minutes - 102 MBDeep dive with us into a 2022 recap as we unravel the layers of Mirai throughout this past year. Celebrating the highlights and carefully working through the low points while simultaneously recognizing that as bonsai professionals, we have an innate ability to endure whatever life throws our way and remain grateful for the journey ahead.
Fungi and Bacteria with Karen O’Hanlon
December 14, 2022 18:50 - 1 hour - 138 MBFounder of Probio Carbon—Dr. Karen O'Hanlon joins us from Ireland to share her rigorous knowledge about fungi, bacteria, nutrition, and bonsai biology. Her new product Danú was developed in 2021 specifically for the bonsai community and has helped to increase plant health and cultivation for bonsai and beyond. Learn more about Probio Carbon: https://www.probiocarbon.ie/ The olive trees of Puglia need our help! Discover how you join us in our conservation efforts: https://bonsaimir...
Ceramic Discussion with the Triskele Collective
December 07, 2022 13:00 - 2 hours - 276 MBThe Triskele Collective includes Tom Benda, Andrew Pearson, and Thor Holvila—a trio of exceptionally talented ceramicists in the bonsai realm. Each member brings unique skills and styles to every collaboration, creating one-of-a-kind works of art that are beautiful and functional. Tune in as we increase your understanding of the bonsai vessel during our ceramic discussion with these three incredibly talented and well-known bonsai ceramicists. The olive trees of Puglia need our help! Disc...
Pacific Bonsai Expo Recap with Hugh Grant and Randy Knight
November 30, 2022 14:00 - 1 hour - 237 MBWe gathered our good friends—Hugh Grant and Randy Knight, to delve deep into our Pacific Bonsai Expo takeaways and experiences. Enjoy a recap of our combined perspectives on a truly remarkable first-of-its-kind event for the western bonsai community and beyond. The olive trees of Puglia need our help! Discover how you join us in our conservation efforts: https://bonsaimirai.com/blog/mirai-wild-puglian-olives-fundraiser
Ancient Forest Society
November 16, 2022 20:28 - 1 hour - 238 MBThrough research, outreach, and exploration, founders of the Ancient Forest Society—Anthony Ambrose and Wendy Baxter, discuss their efforts to conserve the world's tallest and largest trees, the giant sequoias and coastal redwoods. Learn more about their organization: https://ancientforestsociety.org/
Bonsai Nutrition with David Knaus
November 02, 2022 17:00 - 1 hour - 272 MBProprietor of Apical Solutions—David Knaus enlightens us on the benefits of modifying and enhancing nutrition in the bonsai container to provide the best possible environment for your bonsai trees to thrive. Learn more about Apical Solutions: http://www.apical-ag.com/
Catching Up With Aarin Packard
October 19, 2022 17:00 - 1 hour - 268 MBIn celebration and preparation for the rapidly approaching Pacific Bonsai Expo, we circle back to talk with a pivotal figure in the public institutions of bonsai in North America–Aarin Packard, curator of the Pacific Bonsai Museum. We catch up on recent endeavors, all things bonsai, exploring his curatorial outlook and sharing our mutual anticipation for the upcoming exhibition.
End of Summer Recap
October 05, 2022 22:28 - 1 hour - 163 MBWe sit down to catch you up on our adventure-filled summer–covering Ryan's trip to Sweden, climbing the giant sequoias and exploring Yosemite National Park, and our recent Mirai in the Wild release. We also dive into the upcoming journey of the Covered Wagon and touch on the politics and science of trees. This end-of-summer recap will give you a sense of what's been happening, where we stand, and what to look forward to next.
Pacific Bonsai Expo with Jonas Dupuich & Eric Schrader
August 24, 2022 18:53 - 1 hour - 233 MBEric Schrader and Jonas Dupuich join us to discuss their co-creation of the upcoming Pacific Bonsai Expo in Oakland, California. A juried exhibition featuring 70 outstanding bonsai displays and a selection of the most reputable vendors in the community. In addition to learning more about the event, we explore their prolific field-growing methodologies, thought processes, and recent bonsai endeavors. The tickets are on sale now, as well as information on where to stay and how to get there: ...
Bonsai Evolution with Todd Schlafer
August 10, 2022 21:19 - 1 hour - 232 MBTodd Schlafer takes a break from his busy schedule to reconnect with us on all things bonsai. He updates us on his new garden build and his continued evolution as a bonsai professional. We touch on the upcoming Mirai in the Wild project, which Todd was a part of, as well as the loss of a bonsai legend in the community—Jerry Morris, an absolute pioneer of western bonsai. To learn more about Todd's work check out his website: https://www.firstbranchbonsai.com/
Tropical Commentary with David Cutchin
July 27, 2022 19:42 - 1 hour - 234 MBMirai's tropical instructor—David Cutchin, shares insight and perspective on some of the tropical content he's helped us create that we've released over the past few months on Mirai Live. We discuss the groundbreaking demonstration he recently performed, and we remember some of the iconic bonsai pioneers in North America who passed away this year. David is a wonderful human being, a talented artist, and a positive ambassador for bonsai.
Catching Up With Randy Knight
July 13, 2022 18:00 - 1 hour - 224 MBAdventure seeker and bonsai provider—Randy Knight, joins us again to catch up on all things life and bonsai. The conversation takes off as we dive into some of his recent and upcoming trips, exploring the topic of yamadori, reminiscing on past adventures, and even touching on the myth and legend of Sasquatch.
David Crust
June 15, 2022 19:01 - 1 hour - 192 MBThe self-proclaimed punk rocker of bonsai–David Crust, sat down with us to share in a wonderful conversation that touched on life, art, bonsai, and connection. With over 45 years of experience, he has shifted the rules of bonsai and won international acclaim with his unique approach and style.
Dan Robinson: Part 2
June 01, 2022 17:56 - 1 hour - 62.6 MBIn part 2 of our interview with Dan Robinson, we explore his personal history and approach to bonsai compared to traditional methods. Dan, who is the artist and owner of Elandan Gardens in Bremerton, Washington, has significantly influenced the world of bonsai with his unique perspective. Tune into this verbal telling of history to learn more about his fascinating approach to bonsai.
Dan Robinson: Part 1
May 18, 2022 18:41 - 1 hour - 67.9 MBDan Robinson owns and operates Elandan Gardens in Bremerton, Washington. His seminars and workshops on bonsai carving and sculptural processes present a unique perspective–emphasizing natural forms and rejecting prescribed rules that he feels restrict artistic expression. During a recent trip to his garden, the Mirai team spent one-on-one time with Dan, exploring his unique perspective and horticultural approach to the bonsai art form over his prolonged and illustrious career.
Steen Christensen
May 04, 2022 20:49 - 1 hour - 150 MBTeaching, growing, and cultivating trees for over 30 years–Steen Christensen walks us through one of the most cutting-edge landscaping projects in reforestation history. He shares personal insight on collecting seeds, preserving the genetics of the North American forests, and his focused attempts at curbing climate change.
Spring Garden Updates
April 20, 2022 18:14 - 48 minutes - 111 MBRyan and Ira recount the most recent bonsai shuffle caused by an unexpected (and unprecedented) April snowstorm, and take a trip down memory lane in honor of Mirai's 12th anniversary.
Eli Akins: Waldo Street Pottery
April 06, 2022 18:45 - 1 hour - 251 MBIn this episode of Asymmetry, we sit down with Eli Akins—the proprietor of Waldo Street Pottery. Eli has a growing ceramic presence in the North American community. His work has taken on significant levels of evolution, which highlight his dedication to mastering the craft. Join us for a tremendous discussion of ceramics, the interaction and overlapping of music as a medium, and practicing bonsai. To see more of Eli's work, check out his website www.waldostreetpottery.com/
Jan Culek: The Quiet Rockstar
March 30, 2022 17:04 - 2 hours - 291 MBJan Culek's lightweight stone slabs have unleashed the imagination at Mirai, bringing compositions to life that would otherwise not be possible. In a recent, long-anticipated visit to Mirai from his native Czech Republic, Jan takes a break from styling in the workshop to have a conversation with Ryan and Ira about his journey into stone, why he doesn't like pots, and what's next in the journey of one of the most innovative bonsai professionals working in Europe today. For more of Jan Cul...
Kate Brelje
March 09, 2022 20:30 - 1 hour - 250 MBIn this episode of Asymmetry, we deviate away from our standard bonsai geekery to share in an engaging conversation with Kate Brelje, a doctoral candidate at Temple University. Tune in this week as Kate walks us through her thesis study on plant care and the ethics that surround our relationships with plants.
Jonathan Cross - Return of the Soda Fire
February 23, 2022 23:54 - 1 hour - 211 MBIn this episode of Asymmetry, we celebrate the release of a new soda fired ceramics collection from Jonathan Cross. Travel back in time, and into the future of his soda firing journey, and see these incredible geometric vessels, now available only on Mirai Goods.
Adam Jones - Tree House Bonsai
January 26, 2022 22:55 - 2 hours - 275 MBIn this episode we get to sit down with Adam Jones of Tree House Bonsai. Adam not only broke the mold by apprenticing at the highly coveted Mansei-en bonsai gardens, but also has established himself as a functioning professional in the Japanese bonsai community. A deep thinker, talented artist and a person in the sphere of bonsai who is sure to leave a significant and positive imprint on the relationship between east and west.
Looking forward to 2022
January 12, 2022 20:49 - 1 hour - 217 MBIn this episode Ryan sits down with long-time resident bonsai practitioner and newly minted Project Manager for Mirai, Ira Sisson, to talk through what is to come in 2022.