A candid conversation with Dr. Larissa Fedoryka-Kuplak

What if beauty isn’t just something we see—but something that changes us?

In this deeply reflective and soul-stirring episode, Michelle sits down with concert cellist Dr. Larissa Kuplak to explore how beauty—especially through music and nature—has the power to awaken our hearts, heal what’s broken, and draw us closer to God.

From the difference between analog and digital sound to the lost art of truly seeing, this conversation invites you to slow down, become childlike again, and rediscover the wonder that makes you feel fully alive.

When was the last time you:

• Sat outside and truly noticed a tree?
• Listened to music without multitasking?
• Allowed yourself to be moved… without rushing on to the next thing?

Beauty requires attention. And attention opens the door to transformation.

• Step outside and linger - notice details you’d normally miss
• Listen to a piece of music (start with “The Swan”) without distractions
• Ask your kids (or yourself): “What do you see?”
• Create small moments of beauty in your home
• Let go of perfection - and embrace playful curiosity

We don’t need more noise—we need more wonder.

As Larissa shares, when we open ourselves to beauty, we allow it to:

• soften our hearts
• restore what’s been dulled
• and draw us back to the One who created it all

Dr. Larissa Fedoryka-Kuplak is a concert cellist who began performing with her family ensemble at venues like the Kennedy Center and Wolf Trap. She holds a Doctorate in Cello Performance from UC Santa Barbara and has performed with orchestras, recorded as a session musician, and toured with artists including Marco Antonio Solis, Gloria Trevi, and Scythian. She now shares her passion for beauty and music through performances and her concert series Painting with Music.

• Email: lfedoryka@gmail.com

• Sadie Hoyt's classical music listening guides for families: sadiehoyt.com
• Bach Unaccompanied Cello Suites (as interpreted by Pablo Casals)
• Saint-Saëns: The Swan (performed live by Larissa during the episode)