

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

Sep 3, 2025 • 2h 9min
The Gay Science #17 (IV.289-298)
Dive into a philosophical journey where Nietzsche inspires the quest for new ideas and self-acceptance. Explore how traditional moral codes can hinder personal growth and the importance of embracing diverse perspectives. Discover the beauty in fleeting pleasures and how societal expectations shape identity. Delve into the complexities of self-perception and the liberating nature of personal struggles, emphasizing the necessity of creativity and self-critique in understanding one's truth.

Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 28min
Untimely Reflections #37: PF Jung - Enlightened Centrism
PF Jung, a political commentator and YouTuber famous for radical enlightened centrism, joins the discussion to unravel the complexities of modern politics. He explores the synthesis of left and right ideologies, emphasizing a nuanced understanding to bridge divisive gaps. The conversation addresses how memes and emotional appeals often overshadow logical debates, while also examining the evolutionary roots of human cooperation beyond kinship. Jung critiques traditional political categorizations and advocates for a transformative approach to societal challenges.

Aug 19, 2025 • 1h 56min
The Gay Science #16 (IV.276-288)
Delve into Nietzsche's call to 'live dangerously' as he champions transformation and renewal in life. Explore his profound thoughts on eternal return and the acceptance of fate, underscoring the beauty of existence amidst its burdens. Discover the critique of conventional churches that stifle true contemplation, and the necessity for sacred spaces in our pursuit of knowledge. Unpack the significance of impactful storytelling endings and the embrace of ignorance as a means to authentic discovery, pushing for a more heroic understanding of knowledge.

Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 45min
120: Erich Heller, The Disinherited Mind, pt 2 - Burckhardt, Nietzsche & History
Dive into the intriguing friendship between Nietzsche and Jacob Burckhardt, where their contrasting views on history take center stage. Discover how Goethe's insights on intellectual culture echo through Nietzsche's thoughts on European nihilism. Explore the depths of power and morality through Nietzsche's reflections, especially concerning figures like Napoleon. The dialogue on belief and rationalism highlights the complexities of values and aesthetics, leading to a vital discussion on the role of poetry in our lives today.

Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 39min
119: Erich Heller, The Disinherited Mind, pt 1 - Goethe, Schiller & The Symbol
Delve into the historical separation of reality and symbol in human thought, as art and science grapple with this divide. Explore the theological clash between Zwingli and Luther over the Eucharist, marking a significant cultural shift. Uncover Goethe's quest for unity in nature through his archetypal plant theory, critiquing Newtonian ideas. Finally, engage with the intricate themes of desire and tragedy in Goethe's 'Faust,' revealing the moral dilemmas faced by modern artists.

Jul 29, 2025 • 2h 25min
Q&A #12
Listener questions ignite a vibrant discussion on influential artists like Dostoevsky and Bob Dylan, spotlighting the artistry of lyricism. Alternative philosophies to Nietzsche, including Taoism and pre-Socratic thinkers, are explored along with critiques of modern figures like Elon Musk and Andrew Tate. The relationship between knowledge and power is dissected through the lens of capitalism, alongside reflections on philosophical engagement and community. The intersection of Nietzschean thought and doom metal music highlights the depth of artistic expression.

8 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 47min
118: Max Horkheimer & Theodore Adorno - Dialectic of Enlightenment, Part 2
Delve into the intricate connection between enlightenment and myth as explored through Homer's Odyssey. Discover how the sirens symbolize the tension between desire and danger in the journey of Odysseus, who uses his cunning to challenge fate. The podcast critiques the dark side of enlightenment morality, illustrating its potential for tyranny, as seen through Colonel Kurtz from Apocalypse Now. Reflect on the moral contradictions of Western civilization and the philosophical tensions between rationality and individual pleasure in our mechanized society.

21 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 2h 4min
117: Max Horkheimer & Theodore Adorno - Dialectic of Enlightenment, Part 1
The discussion dives into how Enlightenment ideals can lead to both freedom and oppression, highlighting the contradictions in modern values and political movements. It critiques the role of technology and how it shapes social dynamics, urging awareness of its philosophical implications. The podcast explores the commodification of culture in the age of mass media, raising alarms about the loss of individuality and the impact of mass production. It also contrasts the hopeful potential of the internet with the inequalities that still persist in artistic expression.

12 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 17min
Special Episode: Nietzsche Podcast Reading Guide
Discover how to approach Nietzsche's philosophy with confidence in this insightful guide. Learn about common misconceptions and the best entry points for beginners. The discussion emphasizes both challenges and rewards when engaging with key texts. Whether you're new to Nietzsche or looking to deepen your understanding, this roadmap will help tailor your exploration based on your interests and goals. Ideal for anyone curious about delving into the fascinating world of Nietzsche!

7 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 34min
116: Nietzsche’s Inaugural Address - Homer & Classical Philology
Delve into Nietzsche's inaugural lecture at Basel, revealing youthful insights that foreshadow his philosophical journey. Explore the debate over Homer's existence and its implications for classical philology. Uncover the tension between idealized and critical historical interpretations, with reflections on art, science, and culture. Examine the concept of collective genius in Greek epic poetry, challenging traditional notions of authorship. Discover how individuality and societal influences shape poetic expression, all while critiquing the effectiveness of philological studies.