In this episode of Bonsai Time, Kevin sits down with Mike Chapman and Zack Wheeler from Nature's Way Nursery in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Together, we explore their journeys into horticulture, what it's like balancing bonsai with the demands of working at a professional nursery, and how their experiences have shaped their perspectives on both plants and life.
We discuss the day-to-day realities of nursery work, landscaping, and bonsai, along with the dedication and horticultural knowledge required to succeed in each. Mike and Zack share stories from their careers, lessons they've learned along the way, and how working closely with plants has influenced their outlook on the world around them.
This conversation goes beyond bonsai, touching on personal growth, finding purpose through meaningful work, and the connections that develop through a shared passion for horticulture.
Whether you're a bonsai enthusiast, a plant lover, or simply curious about life behind the scenes at a working nursery, there's something in this episode for you.
Enjoy!
The video version is coming soon.
Show notes, relevant pictures, and links are coming soon.
See you in the next episode!
Guest Info:
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Sponsor Info:
This episode is sponsored by our co-host via the Kevin Faris moving sale of bonsai pottery, tools, and trees. View these items at In Vivo Bonsai of Columbus, Ohio, USA in-person, or online (shipping available) at invivobonsai.etsy.com, or go to www.InVivoBonsai.com and navigate to the consignment pottery and tree pages.
Mailbag submissions/Community:
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BT Facebook Group
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Anytime you listen, subscribe, rate us, or share us with friends, you help keep us motivated to keep making episodes for you all! If you want to take it to the next level, you can also help keep the podcast going by donating to us through Spotify subscriptions or by sponsoring an episode (contact us directly for that). All donations go back into the podcast such as for our web hosting, recording gear expenses, etc.
Podcast Info:
The Bonsai Time Podcast is hosted, edited, & produced by Kevin Faris, Ryan Huston, & Kelly Lui. We expect to post new interviews and reflections monthly! Find us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, our website, and our email BonsaiTimePodcast@gmail.com.
Submit questions or pictures for future Bonsai Brainstorm episodes to our email, social media DMs, or here.
Audio editing of this episode and music are by MIDICANCER. Find more music by them on SoundCloud and BandCamp.
Host info:
Ryan is a former bonsai apprentice of Elandan Gardens and current operator of In Vivo Bonsai nursery and educational operation in Columbus, OH. Kevin is a bonsai practitioner/teacher now living in Massachusetts. Kelly is a newer bonsai artist volunteering and studying especially in the Los Angeles area.
More Bonsai Projects by Ryan:
Read more about bonsai on his blog and learn more about his educational services here.
Find Ryan's online-available bonsai products, seeds, tools, etc. here. Each seed kit sold comes with my full 10-year bonsai-from-seed guide.
Find Ryan on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok as well if you need more bonsai in your feed.
Also, check out some of my video editing work for the Puget Sound Bonsai Association and Columbus Bonsai Society's demonstration archives.
