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 Designs02:40 Personalization and Client Reactions05:55 Health Challenges and Musical Passion08:55 Living with a Hidden Disability09:55 Experiencing Heart Attacks and Strokes13:30 The Major Health Event of 201219:15 Seeking Medical Help: The Importance of Finding the Right Doctor20:40 Understanding PFO and Aura Migraines23:15 The Role of Trumpet Playing in Health25:40 The Road to Recovery: Overcoming Strokes and Surgery31:10 Relearning Life Skills and Trumpet Playing37:05 Future Aspirations and Final ThoughtsResources Mentioned:Harrelson TrumpetsConnect With the Guest:InstagramYouTubeYou've been listening to Trumpet Dynamics, telling the story of the trumpet, in the words of those who play it. To learn more about the show, and to join the Trumpet Dynamics tribe, visit us on the web at trumpetdynamics.com.And be sure to tap the subscribe button on your phone so you're always up to date with new episodes as they release.Thank you for listening!