The Jimi Hendrix of the Cello (with Joshua Roman)

In this episode of The Happiness Lab, Dr. Laurie Santos interviews cellist Joshua Roman about how music has been a coping strategy throughout his life, especially during times of adversity. Joshua shares his early connection with the cello, the role of music in his childhood, and how it helped him connect with others despite frequent moves. The conversation shifts to the impact of long Covid on Joshua's life and career, detailing the debilitating fatigue and dysautonomia he experienced. He recounts the difficult decision to put his cello away and his eventual return to it, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and radical acceptance in his relationship with music. Joshua also discusses how he has integrated his experience with long Covid into his music, creating projects like "Healing with Music" and "Immunity" to connect with and advocate for others with the condition.