Jung at Harp | Episode 214: When There's Discord – What's Missing? Why Listen?

What if discord isn't something to avoid, but something inviting us to pay closer attention? In this episode, Kathleen Wiley and Deborah Henson-Conant explore the idea that tension, conflict, and emotional dissonance may point toward something unseen, unheard, or missing beneath the surface. Through music, psychology, and personal reflection, they uncover how discord can become a doorway to deeper understanding, creativity, and connection.

Join Jungian Psychoanalyst Kathleen Wiley and Grammy-nominated composer/performer Deborah Henson-Conant for a thoughtful conversation about music, psychology, creativity, and life.

In this episode, Kathleen and Deborah explore the role of discord — not as something to instantly fix or silence, but as an important signal. Whether in relationships, music, creative work, or within ourselves, moments of tension often reveal unmet needs, missing perspectives, or parts of ourselves asking to be acknowledged.

Drawing connections between musical harmony and emotional life, they reflect on how curiosity and listening can transform discomfort into discovery. Rather than rushing toward resolution, this conversation invites us to stay present long enough to hear what the discord may be trying to communicate.

Topics explored include:

• The difference between eliminating discord and understanding it
• How tension can reveal what's missing beneath the surface
• Listening as a creative and emotional practice
• Musical dissonance as a metaphor for life and relationships
• Curiosity, reflection, and discovery through discomfort