Jung At Harp

Deborah Henson-Conant & Kathleen Wiley

Jung at Harp – Where Music and Psyche Meet Join us most Fridays at 9:15 AM ET for Jung at Harp—a weekly conversation between composer Deborah Henson-Conant and Jungian analyst Kathleen Wiley exploring the deep connection between music, psychology, and self-expression. This series isn't about teaching, selling, or proving anything. It's about curiosity, exploration, and the art of conversation. What happens when a psychoanalyst and a musician discuss creativity, freedom, and the human experience? New ideas unfold, perspectives shift, and deeper understanding emerges. Jung at Harp began as a simple car ride conversation—one that neither wanted to end. Now, it's an ongoing dialogue, shared with the world, about how music and the mind shape each other and transform our lives.

  1. [211] Jung at Harp | Episode 211: Adventures in Support

    APR 24

    [211] Jung at Harp | Episode 211: Adventures in Support

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d88705-fbc8-839e-bbc8-8c3385c04777-1" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Jung at Harp | Episode 211: Adventures in Support Why listen? What does it really mean to feel supported? And how do we recognize the kind of support that actually helps us grow—in music, in life, and in our relationships? In this episode, Kathleen Wiley and Deborah Henson-Conant explore the many forms of support we rely on—and sometimes overlook. From inner resilience to external encouragement, they unpack how support shapes our creativity, health, and sense of connection. Support isn't always obvious. Sometimes it looks like structure, sometimes like freedom. Sometimes it challenges us instead of comforting us. So how do we know what's truly helping us move forward? This conversation invites you to reflect on the systems, people, and inner resources that hold you—and to reconsider what kind of support you might need next. In this episode, you'll discover: The different forms support can take in music and life Why real support isn't always comfortable or easy How internal and external support systems work together The role of boundaries, structure, and community in growth How to identify what truly supports you right now Join two harp players—a Jungian psychoanalyst and a composer/performer—for a thoughtful conversation about music, psychology, and life. 🕘 Live at 9:15-ish EST on most Fridays 🎧 Watch and listen: JungAtHarp.com

    41 min
  2. [210] Jung at Harp | Episode 210: What Is the VALUE of Self-Expression?

    APR 24

    [210] Jung at Harp | Episode 210: What Is the VALUE of Self-Expression?

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d88705-fbc8-839e-bbc8-8c3385c04777-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Jung at Harp | Episode 210: What Is the VALUE of Self-Expression? Why listen? We spend years building skills—but at what point do those skills actually become self-expression? And how much skill do you really need to express something meaningful? In this episode, Kathleen Wiley and Deborah Henson-Conant explore the relationship between technique, creativity, and personal voice. Is skill the gateway to expression—or can it sometimes get in the way? Many people believe they're "not ready" to express themselves until they reach a certain level. But what if expression isn't something you earn later… what if it's available right now? Through a blend of psychology and musical insight, this conversation unpacks how values, identity, and inner permission shape the way we create—and share. This episode invites you to rethink what it means to be "good enough," and to discover how your unique voice can emerge at any stage of your journey. In this episode, you'll discover: The real relationship between skill and self-expression Why waiting to be "good enough" can block creativity How personal values influence the way you create The difference between technical mastery and authentic voice How to access self-expression at any level of experience Join two harp players—a Jungian psychoanalyst and a composer/performer—for a reflective conversation about music, psychology, and life. 🕘 Live at 9:15-ish EST on most Fridays 🎧 Watch and listen: JungAtHarp.com

    36 min
  3. [209] Jung at Harp_#209 Why does EASY feel WRONG?

    APR 10

    [209] Jung at Harp_#209 Why does EASY feel WRONG?

    Jung at Harp | Episode 209: Why Does EASY Feel WRONG? Why listen? Have you ever worked so hard to improve your skills… only to feel like something's off when things finally get easier? In this episode, we explore why ease can feel uncomfortable, even "wrong," and how that mindset might be holding back your creativity, confidence, and growth. What happens when mastery starts to feel natural? For many of us, there's a strange moment where ease triggers doubt. If it's not hard, is it still valuable? Did we skip something? Are we "cheating"? In this conversation, Kathleen Wiley and Deborah Henson-Conant unpack the psychology behind effort, identity, and the stories we attach to hard work. Drawing from Jungian insights and musical experience, they explore how we internalize struggle as proof of worth—and why letting go of that belief can open the door to deeper creativity and freedom. This episode looks at the hidden resistance to ease, the fear of outgrowing struggle, and how true mastery often feels lighter, not heavier. What if ease isn't a shortcut—but a sign that something is finally working? In this episode, you'll discover: Why we associate effort with value—and ease with doubt The psychology behind feeling "undeserving" when things flow How identity and past struggles shape our relationship with growth Why ease can actually signal mastery, not mediocrity How to embrace flow without losing depth or meaning Join two harp players—a Jungian psychoanalyst and a composer/performer—for a thoughtful, honest conversation about music, psychology, and life.

    44 min
  4. [208] Jung at Harp | Episode 208: A-B1-A-B2-A-B3-A

    MAR 31

    [208] Jung at Harp | Episode 208: A-B1-A-B2-A-B3-A

    Jung at Harp | Episode 208: A-B1-A-B2-A-B3-A The Powers of Form Form or structure is the second principle in the 7 principles of creative expression developed by Deborah Henson-Conant. But why is form such a powerful force in both creativity and freedom? In this episode of Jung at Harp, Deborah and Jungian psychoanalyst Kathleen Wiley explore how structure shapes, supports, and even expands creative possibility. Using the musical pattern A-B1-A-B2-A-B3-A as a starting point, they reflect on how repetition and variation work together to create both coherence and surprise. Rather than limiting creativity, form provides a foundation that allows expression to unfold with greater clarity and intention. From a Jungian perspective, structure can also mirror psychological patterns, offering a framework through which the psyche organizes experience and meaning. This conversation invites listeners to reconsider the role of form not as restriction, but as a dynamic partner in creativity. When we understand and engage with structure, we can move more freely within it, discovering new layers of expression and insight. This episode invites you to reflect on: • Why form is a core principle of creative expression • The meaning behind patterns like A-B1-A-B2-A-B3-A • How repetition and variation create both stability and surprise • The relationship between structure and creative freedom • Jungian perspectives on patterns within the psyche • How form can guide rather than limit expression • Recognizing patterns in music, thought, and behavior • Using structure to deepen creative exploration • Finding freedom through understanding form Why listen? If you're interested in creativity, music, or the deeper patterns that shape expression and experience, this episode offers a compelling look at the power of form. Deborah and Kathleen invite you to explore how structure can become a source of freedom, helping you create with more intention, confidence, and depth. Join Deborah Henson-Conant and Kathleen Wiley for their weekly-ish conversations on music, psychology and life, typically around 9:15 EST on most Fridays.

    40 min
  5. [207] Jung at Harp #207 The Thing about Beavers

    MAR 27

    [207] Jung at Harp #207 The Thing about Beavers

    Jung at Harp | Episode 207: The Thing about Beavers Beavers create entire ecosystems that support life far beyond themselves, shaping environments where many different forms of life can thrive. But within each of those living beings exists another kind of ecosystem — an inner world shaped by thoughts, emotions, reactions, and self talk. In this episode of Jung at Harp, Deborah Henson-Conant and Jungian psychoanalyst Kathleen Wiley explore the relationship between the outer environments we create and the inner environments we carry within us. Through a Jungian lens, they reflect on how our internal landscape influences not only our creative expression, but also how we interact with others and shape the world around us. When those "inner ecosystems" include self talk, emotional patterns, and unconscious responses, they become powerful forces that can either support or disrupt both personal and collective harmony. This conversation invites listeners to consider how awareness of their inner environment can lead to more intentional creation — in music, relationships, and life itself. Just as beavers shape the physical world, we are constantly shaping our psychological and creative ecosystems, often without realizing it. This episode invites you to reflect on: • The idea of ecosystems as both external and internal • How inner environments influence outer experiences • The role of self talk in shaping perception and behavior • Emotional reactions as part of a living inner system • Jungian perspectives on the psyche as an ecosystem • How awareness can transform internal patterns • The connection between inner balance and creative expression • Creating supportive environments within and around us • Living more intentionally through self awareness Why listen? If you're interested in how your inner world shapes your creativity, relationships, and daily experience, this episode offers a rich and thoughtful perspective. Deborah and Kathleen invite you to explore your own "inner ecosystem" and consider how cultivating awareness within can lead to more balanced, creative, and meaningful ways of living. Join Deborah Henson-Conant and Kathleen Wiley for their weekly-ish conversations on music, psychology and life, typically around 9:15 EST on most Fridays.

    44 min
  6. [206] Jung at Harp #206 Share What Speaks to You

    MAR 25

    [206] Jung at Harp #206 Share What Speaks to You

    Jung at Harp | Episode 206: What Speaks to You? What speaks to you and how does it speak? In this episode of Jung at Harp, Deborah Henson-Conant and Jungian psychoanalyst Kathleen Wiley explore the subtle, personal, and often surprising ways meaning, inspiration, and inner guidance make themselves known in our lives. Through a blend of musical insight and Jungian reflection, they consider how each person is attuned to different signals, whether through sound, emotion, image, intuition, or lived experience. What resonates with one person may be completely different for another, yet each form of "speaking" carries the potential to guide creativity, self understanding, and authentic expression. This conversation invites listeners to become more aware of the unique language through which life communicates with them and how learning to listen can deepen both artistic practice and personal growth. By recognizing what truly speaks to us, we open a pathway to more intentional, responsive, and meaningful living. This episode invites you to reflect on: • What it means for something to truly "speak" to you • The different ways inspiration and meaning show up • Listening beyond words through emotion, sound, and intuition • Jungian perspectives on symbols and inner communication • How personal resonance shapes creative expression • Recognizing your unique "language" of inspiration • Deepening awareness through attentive listening • Following what calls you in music and in life • Allowing meaning to emerge rather than forcing it Why listen? If you're curious about how inspiration, intuition, and meaning show up in your life, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of listening on a deeper level. Deborah and Kathleen invite you to discover how tuning into what truly speaks to you can enrich your creativity, strengthen your self awareness, and guide your path forward. Join Deborah Henson-Conant and Kathleen Wiley for their weekly-ish conversations on music, psychology and life, typically around 9:15 EST on most Fridays.

    43 min
  7. [205] Jung at Harp #205 Why Write it Down

    MAR 24

    [205] Jung at Harp #205 Why Write it Down

    Jung at Harp | Episode 205:  Why Write it Down What does it mean to "go to the source" — and why does it matter? In this episode of Jung at Harp, Deborah Henson-Conant and Jungian psychoanalyst Kathleen Wiley explore the idea of source as the wellspring of creativity, meaning, and inner alignment. Whether in music, psychology, or daily life, returning to the source invites us to reconnect with what is most essential and alive within us. Through a reflective and exploratory conversation, they consider what "your source" might be — a place of inspiration, intuition, or deeper knowing — and how we can access it more consistently. From a Jungian perspective, this journey often involves turning inward, listening closely, and engaging with the unconscious as a partner in creative and personal growth. Rather than seeking answers solely from the outside world, this episode invites listeners to cultivate a relationship with their own inner origin — where ideas, music, and authentic expression begin. By learning how to return to that source, we can create with more clarity, purpose, and depth. This episode invites you to reflect on: • What it really means to "go to the source" • Identifying your personal source of creativity and insight • How to access deeper inspiration in music and life • Jungian perspectives on the unconscious as a creative wellspring • Practices for reconnecting with inner alignment • The difference between external validation and inner knowing • Why authentic expression begins from within • Listening as a pathway to creative clarity • Returning to source as an ongoing practice Why listen? If you're seeking deeper connection to your creativity, purpose, or inner life, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of where it all begins. Deborah and Kathleen invite you to consider how returning to your source — again and again — can transform not only your music, but the way you experience and engage with life. Join Deborah Henson-Conant and Kathleen Wiley for their weekly-ish conversations on music, psychology, and life — typically around 9:15 EST on most Fridays.

    42 min
  8. [204] Jung at Harp #204 Why Spiders Balloon on the Wind

    MAR 13

    [204] Jung at Harp #204 Why Spiders Balloon on the Wind

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:1431f0e7-1719-468f-93ab-96123d98422f-2" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Jung at Harp | Episode 204: Why Spiders Balloon on the Wind When spiders "balloon" into the air, releasing a thread of silk and allowing the wind to carry them to unknown places, they surrender to a force greater than themselves. In this episode of Jung at Harp, Deborah Henson-Conant explore this fascinating natural phenomenon as a metaphor for creativity, improvisation, and trust. Just as the spider releases control and lets the wind guide its journey, musicians — and creators of all kinds — often face a similar choice: to tightly control what unfolds, or to surrender to the rhythm, the pattern, and the living flow of the music. Through a Jungian lens, this conversation explores the tension between control and surrender, and how letting go can open the door to deeper creativity and authentic expression. Drawing parallels between nature, improvisation, and the psyche, Deborah and Kathleen reflect on how creative patterns can provide a structure that supports freedom rather than limiting it. When we allow ourselves to trust the process — whether in music or in life — unexpected discoveries often emerge. This episode invites you to reflect on: • The phenomenon of spiders "ballooning" and what it symbolizes • The balance between control and surrender in creativity • How improvisational patterns create space for freedom • Trusting rhythm, structure, and the unfolding moment • Jungian ideas about surrendering to forces beyond the ego • Why improvisation requires both skill and openness • The role of intuition in creative expression • Letting music guide rather than forcing outcomes • How surrender can lead to surprising creative discoveries Why listen? If you're fascinated by creativity, improvisation, or the deeper psychological dynamics behind artistic expression, this episode offers a powerful metaphor for the creative process. Deborah and Kathleen invite listeners to consider how learning to trust the "wind" — in music, creativity, and life — can open pathways to freedom, discovery, and transformation. 🕸️🎶

    45 min

About

Jung at Harp – Where Music and Psyche Meet Join us most Fridays at 9:15 AM ET for Jung at Harp—a weekly conversation between composer Deborah Henson-Conant and Jungian analyst Kathleen Wiley exploring the deep connection between music, psychology, and self-expression. This series isn't about teaching, selling, or proving anything. It's about curiosity, exploration, and the art of conversation. What happens when a psychoanalyst and a musician discuss creativity, freedom, and the human experience? New ideas unfold, perspectives shift, and deeper understanding emerges. Jung at Harp began as a simple car ride conversation—one that neither wanted to end. Now, it's an ongoing dialogue, shared with the world, about how music and the mind shape each other and transform our lives.