Rebuilding Peace, One Koi at a Time – Thank You, Josh
As we celebrate Kodama’s 25th Anniversary, we are deeply honored to recognize koi keepers like you—whose passion and perseverance breathe life into this beautiful hobby.
Your story, beginning as a 14-year-old dream and growing into a peaceful sanctuary shared with your children, reminds us why we do what we do. With just a shovel, a wheelbarrow, and unwavering determination, you built more than a pond—you built a space for healing, bonding, and joy.
We’re grateful to have played even a small part in your journey, and we’re thrilled to hear how your Showa koi have become the “mama” and “daddy” of your pond.
Customer Story By: Josh S.
“This story starts 20 years ago when I was a passionate 14 year old. I built my first koi pond by hand around 1500 gallons in my parents backyard. Fast forward 20 years, long moved out and long gone was the original pond, I found myself struggling with a demanding job as counselor in a maximum security juvenile prison, and being a father of 3 young kids. The demands took a toll on my mental health and I had no healthy hobbies to release the stress. It was then I remembered my passion for koi and the tranquility and joy it brought as a young teen. It was decided.
I was going to start digging. And digging. And digging. When it was all said and done I took the knowledge I had gained as a teen, a little research, some hard work, and a memorable experience with my kids and created a 2000 gallon koi pond which now houses 10 koi and 3 goldfish. I spend my days with my kids feeding the fish and enjoying the tranquility. Our most memorable experience was when I ordered 2 showa, 1 Doitsu and one wagoi from Kodama koi farm and didn’t tell the family. The box showed up and I surprised the family with 2 17” koi. The kids went crazy. They have grown and developed into our ponds champions. They are “mama” fish and “daddy” fish in our pond due to their size above the rest. Kodama did not disappoint!
Since building the pond with nothing but a shovel and a wheelbarrow and hand picking every rock from the surrounding Pocono mountains, I taught my children how a dream can become reality with a little hard work. We overcame challenges together and finished the project as a team. I now have a place to destress and focus on my mental health as the koi teach me patience and relaxation. I look forward to waking up every morning to feed the fish. I can’t imagine ever living without a koi pond again.“
CUSTOMER’S GALLERY : JOSH S.
VIDEO GALLERY : JOSH S.
Celebrating 25 Years of Kodama Koi Farm: A Legacy of Passion, Tradition, and Excellence
As we celebrate 25 years of Kodama Koi Farm, we extend our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, partners, and dedicated team.
Your trust and support have been the foundation of our success, and we are honored to have you as part of the Kodama family. Every koi we deliver carries our passion and commitment, but it is your dedication to this beautiful art that keeps the koi community thriving. Learn more.
Ginrin Soragoi – koi #y0714s030
Kohaku – koi #y0619s008-re
Doitsu Orange Ogon – koi #y0619s005-re
Taisho Sanke – koi #y0618s013
I liked how you role modeled for your kids the value of hard work. Your pond looks beautiful lit up at night! I have not built my own pond yet, but I’d like to copy some of the ways you made yours so beautiful especially picking out each rock on your own. That makes it feel extra personal.