Thiemo Blank began practicing Zen in Germany in 1989, starting a path that would eventually lead him into full-time temple life. In 2008, he left his career in medical research and moved to Green Gulch Farm, where his commitment to practice deepened through years of service and leadership. He was ordained as a Soto Zen Priest in 2010 by Tenshin Reb Anderson and later served as Shuso, or Head Student, in Fall 2016.
Over time, Thiemo held a range of important roles at Green Gulch Farm, including Plant Manager, Guest Program Manager, and Director. He now serves as Tanto, the Head of Practice, supporting the community’s daily Zen life with experience, steadiness, and care. He lives at Green Gulch with his wife Stephanie and their two children, Miro and Lucia.