Sounds Like A Cult
Studio71
Putting the “cult” in culture… Do you think SoulCycle is a cult? What about the Royal Family? What about Disney Adults? Or spiritual influencers? Is Instagram itself a cult? We’re Sounds Like A Cult, an iHeart Radio Award-winning podcast that analyzes a different fanatical group every week to try and answer the big question: This ~sounds~ like a cult, but is it really? Created and hosted by New York Times-bestselling author Amanda Montell, co-hosted and produced by Chelsea Charles and Reese Oliver.For advertising opportunities please email PodcastPartnerships@Studio71us.com We want to make the podcast even better, help us learn how we can: https://bit.ly/2EcYbu4 Privacy Policy: https://www.studio71.com/terms-and-conditions-use/#Privacy%20Policy
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Cult of Marching Band
Chelsea McFarland, a seasoned music educator and marching band veteran, explores the hidden dynamics of marching band culture. She shares shocking hazing tales, including a jaw-dropping incident on a drum corps bus. The conversation dives into the ritualistic and hierarchical aspects that make these bands feel cult-like, discussing everything from communal living to intense competition. Chelsea also highlights the positives, such as community and teamwork, while advocating for improvements in accessibility and safety within this spirited subculture.
Sep 30, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Cult of Chick-fil-A
Join Carys Kolb, a former Chick-fil-A employee and aspiring music industry professional, as she shares intriguing insights about the fast-food chain's cult-like culture. She discusses the bizarre aspects of orientation, like priest blessings and the overt religious atmosphere. From the addictive chicken and signature sauce to the company’s controversial LGBTQ+ stance, Carys reveals how employees grapple with their branding. With a mix of humor and critical reflection, she invites listeners to consider why people defend this beloved brand despite its complexities.
Sep 29, 2025 • 2min
I’m Right You’re Wrong Is Back! ft. Jamie Loftus, Kendahl Landreth + more
In this lively discussion, the impact of appearance on workplace success is debated, revealing the hidden pressures of looking polished. The conversation dives into the nuances of blending in for safety and social ease, highlighting the lengths people go to feel secure. Quick takes on summer vibes, vocal influences, and algorithm-driven feeds add a fast-paced twist. Issa boldly critiques child acting as harmful and questions the authority of grief experts. It's a fascinating mix of humor and thought-provoking commentary!
12 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 18min
The Cult of Anti-Vaxxers
Dr. Peter Hotez, a leading vaccine scientist and pediatrician, teams up with journalist Jane Borden to unpack the anti-vax movement's cult-like characteristics. They explore how misinformation proliferates and why people gravitate towards false narratives over scientific evidence. Hotez busts myths surrounding vaccine safety, while Borden analyzes the sociocultural dynamics that shape anti-vaccine beliefs, revealing the dangers of deep indoctrination and offering insights on how to combat this pressing issue.
Sep 16, 2025 • 58min
The Cult of American Girl Doll
KC Hysmith and Justine Orlovsky-Schnitzler, culture writers and co-editors of An American Girl Anthology, dive deep into the world of American Girl Dolls. They discuss how these dolls shaped the perception of American identity and exceptionalism, while critiquing their limited representation. The conversation explores the tension between nostalgia and commercialism, revealing the emotional impact on children's identity. They also reflect on the brand’s evolution towards inclusivity and the surprising engagement from both millennials and Gen Z collectors.
10 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 22min
The Cult of Van Life
In this engaging discussion, Bella Janssen, a full-time van lifer and content creator, shares her journey living on the road. She highlights the allure of van life as an escape from conventional norms, while revealing the stark contrast between idealized social media portrayals and gritty realities. Bella also dives into the community dynamics, emphasizing the importance of resilience and preparation for this nomadic lifestyle. From humorous anecdotes to candid insights, this conversation explores whether van life truly offers the freedom it promises.
37 snips
Sep 2, 2025 • 57min
The Cult of MAGA Wives
E. Jean Carroll, a renowned journalist and advice columnist who famously took Donald Trump to court, dives into the peculiar world of MAGA Wives. She discusses how these women embody a loyalty that's often at odds with their own rights. From their fervent support of Trump amidst his legal woes to the humorous complexities of femininity within a patriarchal framework, the conversation explores the unique sisterhood of conservative women. Carroll sheds light on how humor can critique political absurdities while advocating for a shift in traditional gender roles.
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 16min
The Cult of Christian Pop Music
Join former Christian pop singer Julianna Glasse, now a philanthropist, and author Joelle Kidd as they navigate the complex world of Christian pop music. They explore the genre's surprising resurgence in mainstream culture, unveiling the clever tactics behind its success. The conversation covers the emotional toll on artists, especially women, and the cult-like dynamics of the industry. Personal anecdotes reveal a blend of nostalgia and critical reflection on the messages and identity found within 2000s Christian tunes, promising a thought-provoking listen!
27 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 56min
The Cult of Duolingo
Zaria Parvez, the global social media manager at Duolingo, dives into the whimsical yet cult-like dynamics of the language-learning app. She reveals how push notifications can create a blend of emotional engagement and anxiety among users. The discussion explores how Duolingo fosters a sense of community while also evoking shame through its gamified features. Zaria examines the sentimental connection many users have developed with Duo, the app's mascot, making the learning experience feel more like a ritual than a chore.
8 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Cult of Digital Marketing Scams (The New MLM)
Join Maggie Patterson, a marketer advocating for consumer awareness, and Michelle Mazur, a PhD in Communications and marketing expert, as they dive into the murky waters of digital marketing scams. They dissect the cult-like tactics employed by influencers and online courses that promise financial freedom but often lead to deception and financial distress. With personal anecdotes and critical insights, they reveal the red flags in this deceptive landscape and stress the importance of consumer education to combat these predatory practices.
