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
Jul 23, 2024 • 60min
The Cult of Wine Moms
Delving into the culture of 'wine moms' and the glorification of alcohol in motherhood. Special guest shares her recovery journey as a former wine mom and MLM survivor. Exploring societal challenges, debunking myths, and analyzing the damaging effects of wine mom culture.
Jul 16, 2024 • 56min
The Cult of Hollywood
Unpacking the dark side of Hollywood, from abuse on sets to Scientology's control. Host delves into personal stories with Maria Bamford, exploring the cult-like behaviors in the industry. Discussing exploitation, isolation, and the destructive nature of fame in the entertainment business.
Jul 16, 2024 • 49min
Botox & Filler: Right or Wrong?
Former host Isa and Lydia discuss the ethics of Botox and fillers, questioning beauty standards and surviving patriarchy. They explore the extremes of altering appearance, the evolution of fillers, and the emotional impacts of cosmetic procedures, challenging societal norms and promoting self-love.
Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Cult of The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
Coordinator of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Reese Oliver, joins the host to dissect the cult-like environment of the cheerleading squad. They delve into the intense training, exploitation, and patriarchal dynamics within the organization. The discussion uncovers the demanding physical and mental toll faced by the cheerleaders, including issues of conformity, lack of diversity, and challenges faced by women of color.
Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 10min
The Cult of Teachers
Explore the cult-like aspects of the teaching profession with insights from guest Charlyn, covering stress, manipulation, financial struggles. Dive into the allure of teaching, gender bias, overworking culture, and dynamics of pressure and people-pleasing. Unpack abuse in education, euphemistic language, teacher lingo, and challenges faced by teachers. Reflect on underfunding in the education system and prioritize well-being for a supportive work environment.
23 snips
Jun 18, 2024 • 58min
The Cult of Family Vloggers
Discover the controversial world of family vloggers exploiting their children for clicks and earnings. Dive into the intricate dynamics, ethical concerns, and cult-like behavior of these influencers. Explore the impact on children, parental consent, and the dark side of fan behavior.
Jun 18, 2024 • 26min
Right or Wrong? Nepo Babies (Preview of Isa's New Podcast!)
Former host Isa Medina and Lydia Keating debate nepo babies' ethical implications. They discuss privileges, creativity, and personal experiences. They question innate creativity, nepotism tiers, and fairness in society. The episode explores dating dynamics and setting boundaries in relationships.
Jun 11, 2024 • 58min
The Cult of Jam Bands
Join host Amanda and music journalist Melissa Locker in a comedic examination of the cult of jam bands. Delve into the captivating world of freewheeling guitar solos, LSD, and endless noodling that define this musical religion. Explore topics like fan loyalty, festival culture, and the intense devotion of jam band fanatics. Discover the allure and complexities of jam band culture, with humorous anecdotes and reflections on avoiding cult-like behavior. Tune in for a lighthearted chat that questions the destructive nature of jam bands.
Jun 4, 2024 • 1h 9min
The Cult of Glossier
Exploring the cult-like status of Glossier, the beauty brand that became a lifestyle. Discussing its impact on identity, community, and controversies. Dive into the rise of Glossier from a beauty blog to a billion-dollar company with devoted followers. Examining Glossier's brand values and recruitment dynamics within its community. Playful banter and quiz on personalities and cult categories.
18 snips
May 28, 2024 • 1h 18min
The Cult of Tradwives
The podcast delves into the 'cult' of tradwives with guests Anne Helen Petersen and Reese Oliver. They discuss the disturbing trend of traditional wife culture blending biblical womanhood with social media aesthetics. The conversation explores the racist and sexist ideologies of tradwives in a modern context, dissecting the allure and dangers of this regressive movement.
