Little Things for Bonsai People
Little Things for Bonsai People is a great listen for those who are new to the art of bonsai. The show is hosted by Evan Pardue, Mike Lane, and Carmen Leskoviansky where they discuss topics pertaining to bonsai techniques in the southeast United States, as well as how they can be applied in other regions. Support us by becoming a Bonsai Friend! https://www.patreon.com/littlethingsforbonsaipeople
Episode 129, Kurt Dillow and Shortleaf Pines
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan speaks with Kurt Dillow about collecting developing shortleaf pines, pinus echinata.. Kurt's approach to collecting and working with a relatively understudied species is great information for those looking to experiment with their own native trees for bonsai. If you're looking for a good guide on how to start stewarding a new species that could make a difference in your local bonsai scene, this is the episode for you!
Check out Kurt's work in bonsai photography and his work on his own tree on Instagram, @kurtdillow
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Episode 128, The Plant Collections Network
Howdy do, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen discuss the Plant Collections Network. The PCN is an amazing resource for public gardens to find guidelines on how to improve public garden spaces and even get accredited. If you are a curator or an aspiring curator, this is the episode for you!
Check out the PCN here:
https://members.publicgardens.org/plant-collections-network/
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing...
Episode 127, Evan's Favorite Evergreen Species for Beginners
How's it, Bonsai Buds! Welcome to another episode of Little Things for Bonsai People. On this episode, Evan and Carmen discuss an amazing species that is great for beginners, the yaupon holly. The yaupon holly is native to the southeast United States and it is tough and forgiving. Listen as Evan breaks down all details that makes this an amazing species for beginners and advance bonsai practitioners alike.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode...
Episode 126, 9th National Bonsai Exhibition Review
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen talk about their experiences at the 9th National Bonsai Exhibition. They share their thoughts on what the show looked like a few years ago and where it may be heading in the future. There was a lot to take away from this year's show and there's a lot of insight and hot takes on this one, just what the Best Buds like!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt...
Episode 125 - On Location at The 9th US National Bonsai Exhibition
Hello, bonsai fanatics! On this episode, you’ll hear a series of short interviews that Evan conducted at the 9th US National Bonsai Exhibition, held in September 2025 from Rochester, NY. Hear from longtime cohorts of the show, a couple of best buds in the flesh, potters, vendors, and event organizers. Even Carmen makes a couple of appearances!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Ro...
Episode 124, Jamie Harrington
Howdy do, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan speak with Jamie Harrington about their mentorship and budding new bonsai business. Evan and Jamie get into some deeper dives about bonsai culture in the States and how younger bonsai practitioners are adapting. Check out the collaboration that Evan and Jamie put together on YouTube! Link below:
https://youtu.be/U-k8i97X2Po?si=UgwS1-t-IhHU6RZZ
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for...
Second Flush, Session 002
Music composed and engineered by Matt O'Donnell.
Episode 123.5, Bonsai Misconceptions Remaster
This one's for the long time listeners of our show! A remaster of Episode 2, Bonsai Misconceptions. The previous episode is a commentary on this remaster a much more recent conversation with Mark Coulon. Make sure to listen to Episode 123 before this one! Check it out - Mark
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:
underhillbonsaistore.com<...
Episode 123, Bonsai Southeast x Little Things
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this special episode of Little Things, we bring back Mark Coulon from when our podcast show was called Bonsai Southeast. Evan and Mark reminisce about the early days of recording and working on the show and where it is now. Listen as they breakdown the difficulties of hosting and editing a podcast and what it takes to bring the show to the next level and a boarder audience.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks...
Episode 122, Bonsai Lifestyles Response Pt 2
How's it, Bonsai Buds. On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen wrap up the questions for the bonsai lifestyles questionnaire. They also talk about all the other exciting things on the horizon for the end of this year and what the hopeful future in bonsai holds. The Little Things crew would like to thank our Bonsai Buds once again for being so amazing and supporting the show. These episodes are our favorites to record and share with the community.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also...
Episode 121, Bonsai Lifestyles Response Pt 1
WUD UP, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Carmen and Evan review the responses to the bonsai lifestyles questions and discuss them on air. There's a lot of deeper cuts on this episode and there was so much to discuss, it has been made into a two part episode!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:<...
Episode 120, The Essential Bonsai Book Review!
How ya goin', Bonsai Buds. We're thrilled to welcome Jonas Dupuich back onto the show once again! This time Jonas will talking about his newest book called The Essential Bonsai Book: Techniques for Making Beautiful Trees. This newest book truly does have amazing techniques to do just that. Listen as Evan goes through his favorite sections of the book with Jonas and gives a "critical" book review.
Make sure to pick up your own copy of Jonas's book today. This book, as well as his first book The Little Book of Bonsai, can be purchased on Amazon...
Episode 119, Bonsai as a Lifestyle
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Carmen and Evan discuss the concept of bonsai as a lifestyle. There will be questions for our patrons in the discord to give us feedback on this episode as well. Answering these questions honestly with yourself will tell you how much time you have for bonsai and how precious our free time is.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell...
Episode 118, Lessons Learned from Field Growing
How's it, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen speak with John Eads about how things are going at Left Coast Bonsai. Evan and John discuss the ins and outs of running a "bonsai farm" and what has worked and what hasn't worked in the trade.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:
<...Episode 117, ABS and the North American Bonsai Pottery Competition
How ya goin, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things for Bonsai People, Evan and Carmen speak with Angelica Ramirez and Karen Harkaway about the upcoming ABS Learning Seminars. Angelica is very excited to discuss the North American bonsai pottery competition with us this week! It's going to be a big event for the American bonsai scene as it is happening on the same weekend as the National Bonsai Exhibition. Listen to find out all the details!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a...
Episode 116, Listener Critiques and More!
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen go through listener submitted critiques on trees in development. Also, there's some hot takes on creative displays and a lot to consider when it comes to the impact it they will have in for the future of bonsai in North America. Listen to find out more!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell...
Episode 115, 3 Things We Teach Our Students
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this Episode of Little Things, Carmen and Evan discuss 3 things that they would like to emphasize when teaching and working with students. There's a lot of good discussion here about not only why these 3 things are important but how they should be taught in the proper setting within a bonsai collection. There's also a lot of deeper conversation in general about bonsai here to be had. Enjoy!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor...
Episode 114, Adam Lavigne and BSF Wrap-Up
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan sit down with Adam Lavigne to discuss the history of the Bonsai Societies of Florida state convention and what it takes to run a show with a rich history. This was an interesting show for the Florida scene this year, "Let's Do Something Different" was the theme. Listen to find out just how different this year's show was from the last!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to...
Episode 113, The Three Ages of Bonsai Trees
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things for Bonsai People, Evan and Carmen discuss what shows and conventions they have been at recently. Also, they get into a deeper conversation about the 3 ages of bonsai trees. What are the 3 ages and how can they help you with your practice in bonsai? Listen to find out!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com<...
Episode 112, The Value of Bonsai Trees
Howdy, Bonsai Buds. On this episode of Little Things, Carmen and Evan discuss what makes bonsai tree "expensive". Should you be paying tens to thousands of dollars for bonsai materials? Or is there another way to evaluate bonsai trees? Listen to hear Carmen and Evan's side of the debate.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's...
Second Flush, Session 001
Music composed and engineered by Matt O'Donnell.
Episode 111, C'est Bonsai 2025 Recap
Howdy Bonsai Friends! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen recount the weekend of C'est Bonsai 2025. It been a topic the crew keeps going back to but it's for a good reason. C'est Bonsai this year made a huge impact on the local scene in the southeast United States and even elevated the Little Things as well!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
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Episode 110, Little Things Live at C'est Bonsai 2025!
Howdy Bonsai Friends! On this very special episode of Little Things, Evan, Mike, and Carmen recorded in front of a live crowd at C'est Bonsai 2025. This is the first live take and won't be the last. Go to Underhill Bonsai's channel on YouTube to see the Little Things critique. You can actually see the Little Thing crew in person for the first time together!
Click the link to see our live critique:
https://youtu.be/nGNrASb83jQ?si=gZw4lK5wfailutAg
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville...
Episode 109, David De Groot and Bonsai Musicals
Hey Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen talk with David De Groot about how to relate bonsai to music and a little bit of New Orleans history. This is a great episode for a long laidback car ride or over a warm cup of coffee. David is always an amazing guest and has more incite than most when it comes to discussing bonsai.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks...
Episode 108, Big Leaves and Big Proportions!
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen dive into a deep conversation about proportions and leaf size. There is a little bit of debate and a little bit of back and forth on ideas and concepts on this episode. If you're up for a challenging conversation about bonsai, then this episode is for you!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, Greater Louisville Bonsai Society, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
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Episode 107, Science! Series, Flowers on Bonsai
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode Little Things, Evan and Carmen discuss the SCIENCE behind flowers and how they relate to new growth either in the spring or fall on our bonsai. Treat this episode as if it is a spring time check up!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:
underhillbonsaistore.com
Book...
Episode 106, Rob Kempinski and Creative Displays
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan talks with Rob Kempinski about the BSF (Bonsai Societies of Florida) Convention and "creative" displays. Rob has put together several unconventional displays in the past and also collaborated with Laurent Darrieux recently. Evan and Rob do a deep dive into art for art sake and how to cross over into bonsai art.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell...
Episode 105, Aarin Packard
Hey Bonsai Friends! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen speak with Aarin Packard. Aarin is the curator at the Pacific Bonsai Museum located in Federal Way, WA. The Pacific Bonsai Museum is brought up in many episode throughout the show and it is a real pleasure to have the curator featured on this episode to give us insight into what it takes to run a public collection and how to plan out high level exhibitions.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks...
Episode 104, Yamadori or "Nah"madori
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen discuss the ethics of collecting wild trees from nature for bonsai. This is a very hotly debated topic in the bonsai world and it's time for the Little Things to get on their soap boxes!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:
underhillbonsaistore.com<...
Episode 103, Greenhouses and Cold Frames
How's it, Bonsai Buds. On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen discuss the ins and outs of greenhouses and cold frames. Evan relays his experiences with a commercial greenhouse and Carmen discusses the cold frame at the public collection she maintains.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell.com
Buy Joshua Roth tools on Underhill's online store:
underhillbonsaistore.com
...
Episode 102, Red Maples with Jonas
Howdy Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Thing, Evan and Carmen speak with Jonas Dupuich working with red maple, acer rubrum. The crew takes a deep dive into the development of the species for bonsai and an even deeper dive into deciduous bonsai care. It's always a great episode to tune in to when we have Jonas joining us!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools, Underhill Bonsai, and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
mattodonnell...
Episode 101, Sylvia Smith
Welcome to the new year, Best Buds! To kick the new year off, Evan and Carmen talk with Sylvia Smith. She has many years of bonsai experiences in Dallas, Tx, as a leading bonsai professional. Sylvia will also be one of our spotlight guest artists at C'est Bonsai 2025! Tune in to learn more about Sylvia on this week's episode.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode and meeting deadlines!
Episode 100, Little Things Pizza Party!
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! We are pleased to present the 100th episode of Little Things for Bonsai People. We are honored to have so many dedicated listeners and patrons out there that have kept us chugging along. On this episode Evan, Mike, Carmen, Nate, Matt, and John talk about the show's highlights throughout the past 2 years. Also, at the end of the episode, our scholarship winner is announced. Listen to find out who the was awarded the first ever Little Things scholarship give away!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools and Bonsai Bar
Also...
Episode 99, Let's Chat about the Scholarship!
How's it Bonsai Buds! Drumroll everyone, this is your last chance to submit your Bonsai Story to the Little Things to get a chance to be awarded the Little Things Bonsai Scholarship. Listen as Evan, Carmen, and Nate talk about the details of the scholarship and all the new goodies added on. Also, there is a discussion on how to submit your first tree to an exhibition that is aimed at beginners!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing...
Episode 98, New Projects and Bonsai Empire Course Review!
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things for Bonsai People, Evan talks about new plans for his blog posting site and why recording bonsai history is important. Also, Oscar Jonker of Bonsai Empire has returned to talk with Evan about his latest bonsai online course about bonsai garden design. Evan critiques the course and gives a consumers review.
Check out bonsaiempire.com for more online courses!
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks for editing every episode...
Episode 97, The Elusive Twister
Howdy, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan speaks with Guy Guidry and Robert Pressler about the "missing" bald cypress bonsai known as 'Twister'. 'Twister' has a very interesting history has a bonsai and had a literal huge impact on the North American bonsai scene. Guy and Robert talk through the collection and creation of 'Twister', the sale of the tree after the first National show, and where the might be today.
Again thanks to our sponsors: Joshua Roth Tools and Bonsai Bar
Also, a massive thanks to our editor Matt O'Donnell. Thanks...
Episode 96, Carmen's Departure
How's it going, Bonsai Buds. This episode of Little Things, Evan speaks with Carmen about her departure from the Crataegus garden and her graduation from Michael Hagedorn's apprenticeship. This is a very touching and personal episode showcasing the dreams and worries of a fresh bonsai professional stepping out on their own. A career in bonsai does not have a direction path or obvious ways to success but the Little Things believe in Carmen Leskoviansky's success! We believe she has the skills and knowledge to continue to flourish and grow in the ever evolving North American bonsai scene.
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Episode 95, Jonas Dupuich and the Pacific Bonsai Expo
How's it, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan, Carmen, and Mike talk with Jonas Dupuich. Jonas has been on our show before but this time around the Pacific Bonsai Expo, 2025, is topic. Jonas talks about how the PBE has evolved since 2022 and the challenges of how to improve the show with the years to come.
Become a patron and get your name shouted out!
patreon.com/littlethingsforbonsaipeople
Thank you Bonsai Bar for sponsoring our show!
https://bonsaibar.com/
Check out Evan as the current guest on...
Episode 94, Indoor Bonsai
How's it, Bonsai Buds! On this week's episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen discuss the controversial topic of indoor bonsai. Is there a way to grow and raise bonsai inside your home? What challenges are we faced with and is there a future in an indoor bonsai scene? Listen to the Little Things hash it out!
Become a patron and get your name shouted out!
patreon.com/littlethingsforbonsaipeople
Thank you Bonsai Bar for sponsoring our show!
https://bonsaibar.com/
Check out Evan as the current guest on Matt's...
Episode 93, Julian Tsai
Howdy do, Bonsai Buds! On this episode of Little Things, Evan and Carmen talk with Julian Tsai about his career thus far in bonsai. Julian is an up and coming bonsai artist with formal training from Japan and from his local professionals in his homebase in California. Julian will be one of the visiting guest artists at the upcoming C'est Bonsai 2025 as well! Hope to see y'all there and enjoy the episode.
Become a patron and get your name shouted out!
patreon.com/littlethingsforbonsaipeople
Thank you Bonsai Bar for sponsoring our show!
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