#38 Seth Nelson
From The Black Pondo Podcast by Lee Bonsai
February 14, 2026 · 2h 53m · Season 3 · Episode 38
About this episode
The episode features a deep dive into the world of bonsai with Seth Nelson, discussing artistic standards, cultural differences, and the impact of AI on the craft.
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…
People in this episode
Host: Jeremiah Lee
Guest: Seth Nelson
Topics covered
- bonsai
- artistic standards
- AI in bonsai
- cultural differences
- mentorship
- innovation and tradition
Keywords
- bonsai
- Seth Nelson
- Jeremiah Lee
- artistic standards
- AI
- cultural differences
- mentorship
- Kokufu 100
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Nippon Bonsai Association
Books & works: Kokufu 100
Places: Birmingham, Alabama USA, Japan, United States
More episodes of The Black Pondo Podcast
- #42 Peter Tea · May 26, 2026 · 2h 51m
- #41 Todd Schlafer - First Branch Bonsai · April 30, 2026 · 1h 24m
- #40 Austin Heitzman · April 24, 2026 · 2h 13m
- #39 Addison Galambos · April 17, 2026 · 2h 34m
- #37 Peter Tea- Part 2 - Deciduous Bonsai · January 21, 2026 · 1h 26m
- #36 Peter Tea - Part 1 · January 20, 2026 · 1h 11m
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