Best Existential Literature Podcasts (2025)

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Humour as Social Critique - Let's keep LAUGHING at POWER! 15:48

3h ago15:48

15:48

Send us a text Humour can have real revolutionary force! Ask the philosopher Mikhail Bakhtin. Let's keep laughing at the powerful. It will work!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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The Dark Side of Fame and Success: Jerry Dale on Music, Porn, and Jesus and the Road of Redemption 31:06

2h ago31:06

31:06

In this episode, I have the great pleasure to speak to author, music industry leader, and storyteller Jerry Dale, also known as “JD” about his inspiring memoir “Music, Porn & Jesus: A Journey to Redemption” in which he talks about his personal experiences in the music industry and the dark side of fame. In the 90s, Jerry worked with a wide range of…

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Episode 305: Get in the Golem, Darcy [Cursed Objects] 1:25:04

2h ago1:25:04

1:25:04

Leonard, Dave, and Cameron discuss the the power of cursed artifacts for exacting revenge in the film, Oddity (2024). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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Miles Davis - Why LESS IS MORE! 14:21

2d ago14:21

14:21

Send us a text In our world of more and faster and louder, we might do well to remember that less is often more! Just ask Miles!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Heidegger - The death of the LOVE LETTER in the time of the digital message! 14:08

2d ago14:08

14:08

Send us a text The love letter has become an extinct species! This is a symptom of a much larger problem - at least according to Heidegger!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Tolstoy vs. Dostoevsky - Some major DIFFERENCES! 17:51

2d ago17:51

17:51

Send us a text These giants of literature, they're often viewed as similar from afar. But they're not. Especially when it comes to how they see the human soul and the road to salvation!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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2 Professors Discuss Whether Academic Philosophy is in Crisis 1:31:50

7d ago1:31:50

1:31:50

Send us a text There are growing concerns about the success and usefulness of academic philosophy. In this video, I am joined by two distinguished professors, Dr. Aaron Simmons and Dr. Bob Hanna to discuss the state of philosophy and how we can move it forward and change the field which means so much to us. Dr. Simmons is a professor of philosophy …

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Walking the Mystical Path: The Sephirot and a 49-Day Omer Counter toward Inner Balance with Rabbi Matthew Ponak 29:21

10d ago29:21

29:21

In this episode, I have (once again!) the great pleasure of speaking with Rabbi Matthew Ponak, Teacher of Jewish mysticism, spiritual counselor, and author of “The Path of the Sephirot: A 49-Day Omer Counter for Spiritual Growth and Inner Balance.” Rabbi Ponak explains how the Kabbalah is a living tradition that helps us understand the journey betw…

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Buddhism and NON-ATTACHMENT - Some Objections! 16:20

12d ago16:20

16:20

Send us a text Is human well-being and flourishing really all about detachment? I would argue, no!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 304: (Evil Voice) [Existential Horror/Old Gods] 1:23:46

14d ago1:23:46

1:23:46

Dave, Cameron, and Leonard, discuss the wisdom of digging up ancient artifacts in the film, Black Mountain Side (2014). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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An Oxford Philosophy Student Shares His Testimony 17:25

14d ago17:25

17:25

Send us a text An Oxford student shares why he is a Christian in 2025. Support the show -------------------------- If you would want to support the channel and what I am doing, please follow me on Patreon: www.patreon.com/christianityforall Where else to find Josh Yen: Philosophy YT: https://bit.ly/philforall Education: https://bit.ly/joshyen Buisn…

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What does it mean to be a GOOD FATHER? 14:15

16d ago14:15

14:15

Send us a text Inspired by Gabriel Marcel and Martin Buber, I argue that being a good father requires the invisible labor of presence.By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Byung-Chul Han and Plato on the POWER of BEAUTY! 11:20

16d ago11:20

11:20

Send us a text Modern beauty has become tepid and smooth. It lacks the depth and friction and power of genuine beauty! Or so say Han and Plato!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 303: Not MY Moleman [Subterranean Dwellers] 1:08:31

21d ago1:08:31

1:08:31

Cameron, and Dave discuss the merits of living on a post apocalyptic farm in the film, Arcadian (2024). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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Why the Resurrection of Jesus Happened? (Dr Andrew Loke) 42:20

20d ago42:20

42:20

Send us a text The historical argument for the resurrection is an important aspect of Christian apologetics. In this Easter upload, I am joined by Dr. Andrew Loke to discuss the argument for the resurrection found in his works. We talk about the varying scientific and historical considerations, possible arguments against his position as well as how…

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Foucault and Kierkegaard - Where the heck has YOUTHFUL REBELLION gone? 19:22

23d ago19:22

19:22

Send us a text When I was growing up teenage rebellion seemed to be everywhere! Where is it now? At the heart of this decline: social media and technology!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Psychic Healers Assemble: Lisa Campion on Awakening Psychic Ability and the Art of Reiki 30:34

24d ago30:34

30:34

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking to Psychic Counselor and Reiki Master Teacher Lisa Campion, author of Awakening Your Psychic Ability and The Art of Psychic Reiki on spiritual development and the vital role of authenticity and self-compassion. As Lisa explains, the three gateways that can open our latent psychic ability tend t…

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Episode 302: Slowpocalypse [Demons] 54:11

28d ago54:11

54:11

Leonard, Dave, and Cameron, discuss the intricacies of demonic birth in the Argentinian film, When Evil Lurks (2023). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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What Catholics ACTUALLY Believe About Justification (Trent Sixth Session) 51:19

26d ago51:19

51:19

Send us a text In all these debates about sola fide, it is often easy to attack a strawman instead of discussing the heart of the matter. In this video, I read through the Sixth Session of the Council of Trent in order to unveil what we actually mean by justification, correcting potential errors in interpretation and understanding. Support the show…

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Socrates - Power and Stupidity: A Destructive Combination! 13:50

27d ago13:50

13:50

Send us a text Socrates argues that ignorance is the worst of all evils! Especially in the service of power! Ring any bells today?By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Simone De Beauvoir and Hannah Arendt - A Happiness of ENGAGEMENT! 13:15

27d ago13:15

13:15

Send us a text De Beauvoir and Arendt both argue against passive forms of happiness! Find out more!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Pascal and Kierkegaard on the SUPERFICIAL LIFE - Owning up to one's SELF! 14:42

1M ago14:42

14:42

Send us a text One could argue that we live more superficially than ever before. Pascal and Kierkegaard are particularly relevant here!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 301: Death Throws [Redcaps] 2:19:55

1M ago2:19:55

2:19:55

Dave, Leonard, and Cameron, discuss mischevous and bloodthirsty goblins in the film, Unwelcome (2023). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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Fyodor Dostoevsky: His Life and Ideas | Dr George Pattison 1:15:30

1M ago1:15:30

1:15:30

Send us a text In this interview, Dr George Pattison introduces the philosophy and life of Fyodor Dostoevsky. We cover all aspects of Dostoevsky's works from his Slavophilism to his Christianity. Dr George Pattison is a retired Professor of Divinity at the University of Glasgow and was the Lady Margret Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxf…

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Why Plato wrote dialogues - Let's bring back the power of real conversation! 13:35

1M ago13:35

13:35

Send us a text Plato chose not to write essays. He wrote dialogues instead. Why? And how is this relevant for us today? Find out more!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 4 - Dr Carissa Sharp: IAPR 2025 Conference Special Episode 21:29

1M ago21:29

21:29

In this special episode of the IAPR Podcast, host, Dr Sarah Charles, talks with Dr Carissa Sharp from the University of Birmingham about the upcoming 2025 IAPR Conference that will be held in Birmingham, UK in August of 2025. 0:00 Introduction 0:45 About Carissa Sharp 3:45 How Carissa found the IAPR 4:30 2025 IAPR Conference 9:10 Keynote Speakers 1…

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The Myth of Icarus and Daedalus - Melting the wings of our children! 19:26

1M ago19:26

19:26

Send us a text I think this ancient myth is more relevant today than ever before! Find out more!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Psychoanalysis of the Soul: Exploring Depth Psychology, Narcissism, and Authenticity with Professor and Psychotherapist Donald Carveth 38:56

1M ago38:56

38:56

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with psychoanalyst, professor, and scholar Donald Carveth on his findings and insights on psychoanalysis, authenticity, and personal growth. We also explored various philosophical, existential, and psychological concepts, including narcissism, faith and doubt, instinct and intuition, and the im…

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Nietzsche - DECADENT Culture! 12:23

1M ago12:23

12:23

Send us a text According to Nietzsche, cultures can be healthy or decadent. How do we see the culture today?By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 300: Anniversary Episode: Don't Trust That Twink [Shadow of the Erdtree] 1:33:07

2M ago1:33:07

1:33:07

Cameron, Dave, and Leonard, wrap up discussion of the Elden Ring DLC. In this final episode we meet a returning boss, and Miquella the Kind. Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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Dr Liz Jackson Talks EVERYTHING Faith and Pascal's Wager 1:06:03

2M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Send us a text Faith is an important concept in both the realm of religious belief as well as the philosophy of religion. What is the relationship between faith and reason? Credence and acceptance? Belief and action? All of these questions are influenced by one's conception of faith in philosophy. We are privileged to discuss these questions and th…

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Erich Fromm - Submission to Authoritarianism! 19:20

2M ago19:20

19:20

Send us a text The psychologist Erich Fromm argues that we tend to willingly submit to authoritarianism! Relevant today?By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Carl Jung - UFOs and their PSYCHIC SIGNIFICANCE! 13:32

2M ago13:32

13:32

Send us a text Carl Jung believed that UFOs have their basis in a vital psychic need! Find out more!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 299: Bazelgeuse the Dread [Elden Ring] 1:06:52

2M ago1:06:52

1:06:52

Dave, Cameron, and Leonard, continue discussion of the Elden Ring DLC. In this penultimate episode, we meet Igon, the shining star of this DLC. Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @senplus.bsky.social @drfaustisdead.bsky.social @theuglymachine.bsky.social @swarbie.bsky.socialBy Dave Cox

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Hope is a Good Thing: From Tarot Cards, Signposts, and Spirituality to Guidance from the Universe with Jill Amy Sager 51:25

2M ago51:25

51:25

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Jill Amy Sager, Tarot Reader, channeler, and author of “Guidance from the Universe: Hopeful Messages for Everyday Challenges” about reading Tarot, channeling and receiving messages from the universe and the importance of intuition and hope in our everyday lives. Jill has been a life-long T…

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Camus's The Rebel - Helping us to find MEASURE in a time of EXTREMES! 14:47

2M ago14:47

14:47

Send us a text What Camus has to say in The Rebel is very relevant to our current trend towards absolutist and binary thinking!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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The Philosophy and Faith of Tolkien (w/ Dr. Holly Ordway) 55:18

2M ago55:18

55:18

Send us a text We are joined by Dr. Holly Ordway, the world's prominent scholar on J.R.R. Tolkien to talk about the philosophy, theology and life of the 20th century's greatest novelist J.R.R. Tolkien. Dr. Ordway is the Cardinal Francis George Professor of Faith and Culture at the the Word on Fire Institute and Visiting Professor of Apologetics at …

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The Cult of Personality and CEO worship! 15:08

2M ago15:08

15:08

Send us a text Scary times...By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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The Philosophy of Immanuel Kant: An Introduction (w/ Dr. Bob Hanna) 1:18:55

2M ago1:18:55

1:18:55

Send us a text Join us for an in-depth discussion with Dr. Robert Hanna on Immanuel Kant's philosophy, covering transcendental idealism, the transcendental deduction, and free will. We explore key concepts from Critique of Pure Reason, including synthetic a priori knowledge, causality, and the limits of human understanding, as well as the distincti…

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Episode 298: The Vourdalak [Vampires] 1:18:26

2M ago1:18:26

1:18:26

Cameron, and Leonard discuss more blood sucking puppets, and the film, The Vourdalak (2023). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @Drfaustisdead @night_twitten @sentionaut_plusBy Dave Cox

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Kierkegaard - We've forgotten how to exist! Passion in the age of apathy! 13:09

2M ago13:09

13:09

Send us a text Kierkegaard spends a lot of time talking about the connection between existence and passion! We'd do well to listen to him!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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How My Oxford Philosophy Degree Transformed My Faith 11:11

3M ago11:11

11:11

Send us a text Does learning philosophy weaken or strengthen your faith? In this video, I share four ways in which my faith has been transformed by my studies in Philosophy and Theology at the University of Oxford. Support the show -------------------------- If you would want to support the channel and what I am doing, please follow me on Patreon: …

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Seeking Spirit and Personal Identity: The Interconnectedness between Spirituality, Writing, and a Fulfilling Life with Linda Trinh 30:03

3M ago30:03

30:03

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Linda Trinh, Vietnamese Canadian author of “Seeking Spirit: A Vietnamese (Non) Buddhist Memoir” on the role and influence of spirituality in her personal life. Linda discusses some of the difficulties and challenges of forging her own identity while juggling her Vietnamese culture with its…

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The Philosophy and Life of Edith Stein (Dr. Sarah Borden) 1:11:52

3M ago1:11:52

1:11:52

Send us a text Edith Stein is a notable philosopher in the 20th century being most influential in attempting to synthesise the boundaries and movements of Thomistic philosophy with Husserlian phenomenology. In this video, we are joined by Dr Sarah Borden Sharkey to introduce Edith Stein's key ideas and help you get into the works of Edith Stein. We…

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Dostoevsky - Kiss the earth! Why the soil matters! 15:09

3M ago15:09

15:09

Send us a text The archetype of the earth is crucial for understanding Dostoevsky's view! Find out more!By Kristian Urstad and Stephen Webb

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Episode 297: Saloum [Djinn] 1:30:56

3M ago1:30:56

1:30:56

Cameron, and Leonard return to discuss Djinn from another region of the globe, in the Senegalese film, Saloum (2021). Music by Jake Lionheart Contact: www.monsterdear.monster @Drfaustisdead @night_twitten @sentionaut_plusBy Dave Cox

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The WORST Protestant Argument: Response to @NeedGodnet 28:50

3M ago28:50

28:50

Send us a text There are many arguments for protestantism and many of them are powerful and ought to be taken seriously. However, some arguments have just such weird implications which are just flat out ridiculous. In this video, I respond to one such argument which intends to make the argument that Catholics are not Christian. This is plainly inco…

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Feel, Process, and Cleanse: Just Ask Spirit and Feeling Emotions, Enhancing Intuition, and Finding Purpose with Sherianna Boyle 34:51

3M ago34:51

34:51

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Sherianna Boyle, founder of Emotional Detox Coaching and author of Just Ask Spirit: Free your Emotions to Energize Intuition and Discover Purpose on the intimate links and connections between emotions, intuition, and spirituality. We discuss how emotions are important and vital to our exis…

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Do the Unevangelised go to Hell? Views in Soteriology (Dr. John Sanders) 1:10:22

3M ago1:10:22

1:10:22

Send us a text Renowned scholar Dr. John Sanders joins us to talk about the fate of the unevangelised. Do they go to heaven? Hell? What happens to them after they die? These are pressing questions in Christianity. We talk about the different positions in this debate and their historical precedent. This video hopefully introduces you to some of the …