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
6 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Cult of Cruise Ships
Ahoy, listeners! This week, dive into the quirky world of cruise ship culture, where devoted fans form emotional bonds that feel almost cult-like. Discover the recent controversies, including Carnival's new loyalty program and the wild tales from former employees. The hosts humorously navigate the dark underbelly of this floating community, revealing the stark contrasts in living conditions for staff. With personal anecdotes and listener stories, explore the unique rituals aboard these ships and the complexities of escapism, pairing fun with unsettling truths.
Jul 15, 2025 • 1h 11min
The Cult of Roller Derby
Rachel Rotten, a passionate roller derby player and member of USA Roller Derby, discusses the vibrant culture of roller derby. She reveals the intense bonds formed within this community, likening it to a cult of empowerment. The conversation explores the sport's feminist roots, initiation rituals, and the significance of alter egos, all while addressing deeper themes of identity and personal growth. Rachel highlights how roller derby transcends mere competition, fostering a unique sisterhood that challenges societal norms and celebrates individuality.
10 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 1h 22min
The Cult of America's Next Top Model
Join Sarah Hartshorne, a writer and comedian known for being the only plus-size contestant on Cycle 9 of America's Next Top Model, as she unveils the darker side of the modeling show. Discussing the emotional manipulation behind the glam, Sarah shares her experiences with forced makeovers and the unsettling power dynamics led by Tyra Banks. The conversation digs into the show’s cult-like atmosphere, the toll on mental health, and how its promises of empowerment often masked exploitation, all while offering a humorous critique of the modeling industry.
11 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Cult of Elon Musk (Part 2)
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian and expert on authoritarianism, joins the hosts to dissect the cult of personality surrounding Elon Musk. They delve into Musk's controversial upbringing and how it shapes his public image. The discussion contrasts his mythos with the founders of Tesla while unveiling the relationship between his utopian ambitions and historical cult figures. They also explore the toxic mindset of wealth and power, revealing how Musk's behavior and ideologies impact his followers. A humorous yet critical farewell rounds off this intriguing analysis.
Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 15min
The Cult of WWE
Join James Bryant, half of the YouTube duo Fundy Fridays and wrestling aficionado, as he unpacks WWE's cult-like allure. Discover why fans of all ages are emotionally invested in stars like John Cena and how the narrative dynamics create a shared experience. The conversation dives into WWE's intertwining with social media, character evolution, and the effects of Vince McMahon's controversial legacy. From toxic masculinity debates to unique wrestling lingo, this lively discussion reveals the fascinating and often bizarre world of professional wrestling.
Jun 17, 2025 • 53min
The Cult of Sleepaway Camp
Sleepaway camps might seem innocuous, but they can harbor surprisingly cult-like dynamics. Dive into bizarre initiation rituals and team-building exercises that reveal the darker side of summer fun. The hosts discuss how authority and isolation can create a dangerous sense of belonging among campers. From strict hierarchies to unique traditions, they trace the narrow line between community spirit and manipulation. Plus, reflections on how media portrays these camps as eerie sites of conformity add another layer of intrigue.
30 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Cult of Purity Culture
Kelsey McKinney, author of God Spare the Girls and host of Normal Gossip, joins to dissect the entanglements of purity culture. Growing up in Texas, she shares her experiences with purity rings as symbols of abstinence, exploring their cult-like implications. The conversation dives into the societal pressures and emotional fallout from evangelical teachings, the commercialization of chastity, and the urgent need for honest discussions about intimacy. Kelsey cleverly critiques the absurdity of these norms while shedding light on their lasting effects.
Jun 9, 2025 • 5min
NYC Mayoral Candidate Zohran Mamdani: Right or Wrong? Listen to the full interview with Isa Medina and Zohran below!
Dive into the world of NYC politics with a charismatic mayoral candidate. Hear about his vision for affordable living and how he inspires optimism in a seemingly hopeless landscape. Enjoy playful debates that blend personal anecdotes with serious issues, revealing the connections between individual experiences and political themes. A comedian adds a light touch, making for an entertaining yet thought-provoking exploration of right and wrong in the political arena.
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 18min
The Cult of Bachelorette Parties (New!)
Beth Montemurro, a distinguished sociology professor at Penn State, joins the conversation along with journalist Annie Atherton to dive into the intriguing world of bachelorette parties. They explore how these glitter-filled gatherings evolved from simple luncheons to elaborate weekend events. The discussion critiques their cult-like nature, examining themes of social pressure, consumerism, and the impact on friendships. Humor meets sociology as they tackle gender dynamics, emotional challenges, and the role of social media in transforming these celebrations into over-the-top experiences.
May 27, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Cult of Erewhon
This week, Raven-Symoné, renowned for her acting career, and Miranda Pearman-Maday, her podcast co-host, dive into the extravagant world of Erewhon, the celebrity-endorsed health food store. They explore the store's cult-like allure, dissecting its high-priced smoothies and marketing strategies. The discussion touches on the absurdity of food trends, like raw milk smoothies, and the accessibility of wellness culture. With humorous critiques and personal anecdotes, they raise questions about the true cost of health and the societal pressures surrounding it.
