

The Nietzsche Podcast
Untimely Reflections
A podcast about Nietzsche's ideas, his influences, and those he influenced. Philosophy and cultural commentary through a Nietzschean lens.
Support the show at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/untimelyreflections
A few collected essays and thoughts: https://untimely-reflections.blogspot.com/
Support the show at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/untimelyreflections
A few collected essays and thoughts: https://untimely-reflections.blogspot.com/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 27, 2026 • 1h 28min
131: Daemonic, part 2 - Herder's Substantial Forces & Goethe's Flame of Genius
They trace how Herder introduced Goethe to Spinoza and a forces-based metaphysics that reshaped his taste and imagination. They follow the daemonic idea from Hamann through Herder to Goethe as a contradictory, boundary-breaking creative force. They connect that force to figures like Werther, Faust, Napoleon, and to moments of historical upheaval.

Jan 20, 2026 • 1h 19min
130: Daemonic, part 1 - Ancient Spirits & The Pantheism Controversy
Dive into the intriguing notion of 'the daemonic' as a vital life-force described by Goethe. Explore its roots in Plato's thoughts on Eros and Socrates' guiding daimonion. Discover how Spinoza's controversial pantheism sparked debates among Enlightenment thinkers. Encounter the tension between reason and faith as Jacobi challenges Lessing's views on religion. The episodes unfold a rich tapestry of philosophical discourse, bridging ancient beliefs with modern implications in a captivating journey through thought.

Jan 13, 2026 • 1h 32min
129: Ge Ling Shang - Liberation as Affirmation
Explore the intriguing parallels between Zhuangzi and Nietzsche, focusing on concepts of life-affirmation and moral critique. Discover how both thinkers employ flowing, metaphorical language to challenge rigid binaries. Delve into their differing views on relativism, illusion, and morality's role in cultural decline. Unpack the idea of the sage versus the overman, and the contrasting paths to selfhood. Ultimately, both philosophies converge on the idea of liberation through an affirmative embrace of fate, challenging conventional morality.

8 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 1h 49min
128: Zhuangzi - Free & Easy Wandering
Dive into the indeterminate nature of truth with Zhuangzi as the podcast explores the idea that identity is fluid. Discover the intriguing concept of 'uselessness' and how it can provide existential advantages. The conversation contrasts fixed identity with the freedom of carefree wandering. Listen to the fascinating dialogue between Zhuangzi and Huizi on language and perspective, and why seeking office may hinder true freedom. The discussion wraps up with insights on living without attachment, embracing both life's challenges and joys.

4 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 21min
New Year's Announcement
The host explores Nietzsche's intriguing concept of 'amor fati' and its connection to freedom. They reflect on philosophical thinking as a driving force and express gratitude for listener support. An exciting new course on Nietzsche's experimental approach to truth is announced, featuring discussions on Plato, the concept of truth, and more. Future plans include fresh comparisons between Eastern and Western philosophies, alongside expansions into literature and art. The host emphasizes continuity in the podcast and teases exclusive content for patrons.

Dec 23, 2025 • 2h 41min
Christmas Special 2025
Andrei Georgescu (Artexius), a philosophy contributor, unveils Nietzsche's complex relationship with Christmas and the influence of Wagner. Craig (Acid Horizon) shares intriguing dream interpretations, connecting them to Jung and Nietzschean themes of the eternal return. Neil (Gnostic Informant) explores the intertwining of Dionysian traditions with Epiphany celebrations and wine miracles. Tony (1Dime) argues for a Christian critique of capitalism, advocating for justice over market freedom. Together, they dive into the rich tapestry of philosophy and myth during the holiday season.

Dec 16, 2025 • 1h 55min
127: Where is the Dao?
Dive into the intriguing world of Dao, exploring its origins and meanings in Chinese philosophy. The discussion spans influential figures like Confucius, who champions humanistic virtues, and Laozi, who critiques established morality. Learn about the contrasting views of Mencius and Xunzi on human nature, goodness, and the role of ritual in society. Historical context from the Spring and Autumn period sets the stage for these philosophical debates, revealing how ancient insights continue to shape our understanding of the way.

Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 39min
126: The Sorrows of Young Werther
The podcast dives into Goethe's influential novel and its historical impact, revealing its peculiar connection to Napoleon. It examines the 'Werther fever' that swept through Europe and the controversies surrounding its publication. The discussion highlights Goethe's personal experiences that shaped Werther's character and the complex themes of love, longing, and social rejection. The hosts explore the philosophical depths of the protagonist's melancholic views and the modern relevance of this sensitive archetype, warning against its potential pitfalls in today's meme culture.

Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 17min
Ages of Discord by Peter Turchin #1 : Imperiopathosis & the Political Stress Index
Explore the concept of imperiopathosis and its implications for today's political climate. Delve into Turchin's Political Stress Index, which combines mass mobilization potential and fiscal distress to predict instability. Discover historical parallels with the Gilded Age and the political turbulence of the 2020s. Analyze factors driving discord, such as elite competition, social mistrust, and financial precarity. Ultimately, the discussion warns of potential future crises while drawing insights from Nietzsche on societal madness.

Nov 25, 2025 • 54min
Untimely Reflections #39: Weltgeist - Schopenhauer on History, Love, Life & Death
Weltgeist's Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WeltgeistYTIn Untimely Reflections #39, we discuss Schopenhauer's view of history, love of fate, and the meaning of life.


