Wednesday, November 26, 2025

In this episode of the Bonsai Time Podcast, Kevin and Ryan sit down with Robert Baran, one of the world’s most respected bonsai historians and researchers. Robert shares the stories behind decades of archived bonsai knowledge and how he built Magiminiland.com into a global resource for miniature tree history. The conversation explores how bonsai traveled across cultures, how early masters shaped the art, and why preserving bonsai history is more important than ever. You’ll hear Robert reflect on his personal journey, his passion for research, and the untold stories that shaped the bonsai world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves bonsai, history, and the deeper meaning behind miniature trees.

Youtube version coming soon

 The podcast version of Episode 51 is here!⁠

Sponsor Info:

            This episode is sponsored by (me!) In Vivo Bonsai of Columbus, Ohio, USA. Find me in person, online offerings at ⁠⁠invivobonsai.etsy.com⁠, or go to ⁠⁠www.InVivoBonsai.com⁠ 
⁠to see upcoming events, educational materials, and more.

*Note: We have a variety of pots for sale through In Vivo Bonsai on behalf of our own Kevin Faris. See here and contact Ryan directly for shipping or local pickup in Columbus, OH. They are also on ⁠⁠invivobonsai.etsy.com, but contacting directly will get you the cheapest price.

Mailbag submissions/Community:

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See the relevant images and links from this episode below.

II. Show Notes / Pictures

  • Award winning trees from the US National Bonsai Exhibit 2025 can be seen in Bill Valvanis's blog here.
  • A walkthrough the US National Bonsai Exhibit can be seen here
  • Pictures of the American Pottery Competition (part of the American Bonsai Society learning seminars that were uniquely paired with the USNBE this year) can be seen on Angelica Ramirez's website here
  • Jonas Dupuich also posted a article on "Highlights from the US National Pottery Show"

III. Episode Credits

Podcast Info:

The Bonsai Time Podcast is hosted, edited, & produced by Kevin Faris, Ryan Huston, & Kelly Lui. Learn more about the podcast at the links below. We expect to post new interviews and reflections monthly!

Submit questions or pictures for future Bonsai Brainstorm episodes to our email, social media DMs, or at the links below.

Your hosts can be found below:

Music by MIDICANCER. Find more music by them at the links below.

More Bonsai Projects by Ryan:

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