Rebuilding from the Brink: Jason Harrelson’s Life of Innovation and Survival
In this episode, we speak with Jason Harrelson, founder of Harrelson Trumpets, about his controversial yet innovative approach to trumpet making, focusing on personalization and client-specific designs.
Jason shares his extensive history with serious health issues, including frequent strokes and heart attacks caused by a congenital heart defect (PFO) and only having one carotid artery. He details the struggles and triumphs of relearning life skills after a major stroke in 2012, the road to recovery, and the eventual successful heart surgery.
Despite a challenging journey, Jason’s passion for music and commitment to his craft have remained strong. He now aims to educate and inspire others through master classes and clinics, while also continuing to advance trumpet design through his company, Harrelson Trumpets.
Episode Highlights:
01:15 Early Days and Unique Trumpet Designs
02:40 Personalization and Client Reactions
05:55 Health Challenges and Musical Passion
08:55 Living with a Hidden Disability
09:55 Experiencing Heart Attacks and Strokes
13:30 The Major Health Event of 2012
19:15 Seeking Medical Help: The Importance of Finding the Right Doctor
20:40 Understanding PFO and Aura Migraines
23:15 The Role of Trumpet Playing in Health
25:40 The Road to Recovery: Overcoming Strokes and Surgery
31:10 Relearning Life Skills and Trumpet Playing
37:05 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
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