Episode 31: Musings with Milica Jelača Jovanović

What does it mean to live a life in tune—with yourself, your passions, and your wellbeing? In this episode of Musings on Wellbeing, host Charlie Bresler and his guest, internationally renowned pianist Milica Jelača Jovanović, explore how the pursuit of excellence can both shape and challenge our inner lives.

Raised in a family of classical musicians in Yugoslavia, Milica’s journey spans elite music schools, intense conservatory training in post-Soviet Moscow, and a new chapter of life in Michigan. Their conversation touches on the delicate balance between ambition and self-care, artistry and identity.

Her story is both deeply personal and universally resonant—a reflection on discipline, resilience, and finding meaning through music. Listeners will hear Milica’s candid take on how intensive training has shaped her mental and emotional wellbeing, the role of family in grounding her, and why she prioritizes self-improvement over competition. 

She also shares the guiding principles behind her teaching style and gives a sneak peek into exciting musical projects on the horizon. 

Links:

milicajelacajovanovic.com

Milica on YouTube @milicajj

Music from this episode:

Mozart concerto performance with bellinghamsymphony.org 

Musing on Wellbeing is sponsored by EH Walkers. Discover more and join EH Walkers at www.ehwalkers.org.

Charlie Bresler is a former business executive, co-founder of the nonprofit The Life You Can Save, and a self-described effective hedonist. As a psychologist, Charlie emphasizes the importance of aligning personal pleasure with doing good, rejecting the notion of self-sacrifice in favor of a fulfilling, values-driven life.