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
25 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Cult of Incels
Join cult comedy kings Henry Zebrowski and Ed Larson as they delve into the eerie world of incels, a community steeped in loneliness and twisted ideologies. They explore how this bizarre subculture evolved from simple online forums into a full-fledged belief system. Expect discussions on their unique vocabulary, the dark roots of incel violence, and the societal implications of their narratives. With humor and insight, Henry and Ed critique the dangers of misogynistic beliefs and challenge traditional notions of masculinity in a light-hearted yet thought-provoking manner.
May 19, 2025 • 2min
Is it Wrong to Buy vs. Adopt a Dog? Ft. SNL's Ceara Jane O'Sullivan | Link Below for Full Episode!
Dive into the ethical dilemmas of pet ownership! The conversation navigates the hot debate of buying versus adopting pets. Hear fascinating insights on emotional bonds between humans and their furry companions. They also touch on the societal perceptions of various animal breeds and what it means to be a responsible pet owner. This engaging dialogue challenges listeners to reflect on their choices when it comes to welcoming a new dog into their lives.
5 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Cult of Plant Parents
Maria Failla, host of Growing Joy with Plants, joins the conversation as a plant wisdom arbiter. She dives into the rise of plant parenthood, sharing how caring for plants can foster community and personal meaning, especially during the pandemic. The discussion exposes ethical concerns like exploitation in the plant market, while humorously debating if plant parenting is culty or cringe. Maria also reveals the emotional connections people form with their leafy friends, questioning if nurturing plants is really a coping mechanism in today's chaotic world.
12 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Cult of Mark Zuckerberg
Join Robert Evans, a journalist and host of Behind the Bastards, as he delves into the cult-like control of Mark Zuckerberg. They explore Zuckerberg's paradoxical journey from Harvard dropout to tech mogul, revealing how his obsession with efficiency and surveillance shaped Meta. With anecdotes of bizarre office rituals and employee discord, they highlight the dissonance of a leader professing connection while creating a suppressive culture. The discussion also touches on the unsettling similarities between Zuckerberg's tactics and traditional cult dynamics.
13 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 12min
The Cult of Ikea
Joining the discussion is Morgan Absher, host of the Two Hot Takes podcast, known for reading outrageous Reddit stories. They dive into the cult-like devotion people exhibit towards IKEA, exploring how its immersive shopping experience and nostalgic connections create a unique community. The conversation humorously examines the psychological impact of assembling furniture and the emotional ties to beloved products. Listeners share personal anecdotes, revealing the quirky allure and occasional absurdities of the IKEA experience while contemplating its cultural significance.
Apr 22, 2025 • 60min
The Cult of Horse Girls
In this fun-filled discussion, comedian Jamie Loftus, known for her sharp wit and love for all things quirky, joins the hosts to gallop through the vibrant subculture of horse girls. They explore the spectrum of horse girl identities and how this passion can mirror cult-like behavior. From the coveted dream of owning a pony to the playful world of Briar collectibles, they tackle stereotypes, the bond between humans and horses, and the creativity sparked within this community. Saddle up for a whimsical ride through nostalgia and insights!
Apr 21, 2025 • 2min
Are Dating Apps Right or Wrong? | Link Below for I'm Right You're Wrong!
Dive into a lively debate about dating apps and their cult-like qualities. The hosts weigh the pros and cons, sharing personal stories that bring humor to the ethical dilemmas of modern dating. They explore how society views attraction today, unearthing the complexities of online relationships. Tune in for relatable anecdotes and a fresh perspective on navigating love in the digital era!
Apr 15, 2025 • 59min
The Cult of Playboy
In this discussion, journalist Amy Rose Spiegel analyzes the Playboy phenomenon, exposing its blend of empowerment and exploitation. She dives into the power dynamics at play, unraveling the complexities behind Playboy's glamorous image versus its troubling reality. The talk touches on Hugh Hefner's controversial legacy, the roles women played within the brand, and the cult-like environment surrounding the mansion. Spiegel emphasizes how nostalgia colors the perception of Playboy, inviting listeners to rethink its impact on sexuality and media.
8 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 39min
The Cult of Kundalini Yoga
Join journalist Hayley Phelan, known for her probing work on wellness culture, and Carol Merchasin, a dedicated lawyer for survivors of spiritual abuse, as they unpack the darker truths behind Kundalini Yoga. From the questionable pasts of its founders to the cult-like practices embedded in its community, they explore how devotion can spiral into manipulative dogma. The conversation sheds light on financial exploitation, emotional manipulation, and the complex dynamics that blur the lines between spirituality and control.
Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Cult of The Duggars
This episode features Jill Dillard and her husband Derick Dillard, both former members of the Duggar family from TLC's reality series. They share their personal journeys escaping the pressures of a highly scrutinized upbringing in a religious, cult-like environment. The couple discusses the psychological toll of reality TV fame, their struggles with identity and independence, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the exploitation of child stars. Their memoir, 'Counting the Cost,' offers deeper insights into their experiences and the impact on their lives.
