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
16 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.
35 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.
6 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 15min
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.
Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Cult of Labubu
Dive into the captivating world of Labubu, where cute meets cultish! Discover how this vinyl toy has taken over social media, reflecting deeper issues of connection and consumerism. The hosts explore the emotional ties collectors have with these figures and the nostalgia they evoke. From blind box rituals to the eerie charm of Labubu, the conversation meanders through themes of status, irony, and modern escapism. Join the discussion on how these tiny creatures mirror big societal trends in a chaotic world!
5 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Cult of Love Island
Em Miguel-Leigh, the charismatic winner of Season 6 of Love Island Australia, joins the conversation to reveal the cult-like nature of this reality show phenomenon. She shares her journey inside the villa and discusses the psychological pressures faced by contestants. The group examines why audiences treat the show like a sport, the impact of its production tactics, and the aesthetic pressures that weigh heavily on both participants and fans. They weave through themes of community, identity, and the allure of fame, urging caution in navigating reality TV's mesmerizing grip.
13 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 5min
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 9min
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 20min
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.
