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
Nov 28, 2023 • 58min
The Cult of Reddit
Isa welcomes Lydia Keating to discuss the Cult of Reddit. They explore the influence of Reddit in comedy, personal experiences, and potential dangers. They also discuss the positive power of Reddit's community and the importance of finding community offline, especially for LGBTQ youth.
Nov 21, 2023 • 1h 12min
The Cult of A.I.
Guest: Kate Lindsay is an internet reporter.
Topics:
- Is A.I. the newest SciFi cult?
- Our cultlike attitudes toward A.I.
- The fascination and obsession with AI
- Rise of generative AI in Silicon Valley
- Cautionary views of technology experts
- Developing intimate relationships with chatbots
- Irony of technology and cognitive biases in the Information Age
- The dangers of sharing personal health information
- Guessing game: Cult leader or Chat GPT?
- Categorizing the cult of AI
Nov 14, 2023 • 53min
The Cult of Podcasting
Join host Isa Medina and guest Kara Klenk as they delve into the phenomenon of podcasting, discussing para-social relationships, the cult-like following, and the lack of transparency. They also explore the influence of popular podcasters like Joe Rogan and the challenges of starting a podcast. Plus, they touch on the rise of celebrity-driven podcasts, the lack of payment for downloads, and their new podcast project with Lydia Keating.
Nov 7, 2023 • 1h 22min
The Cult of Taylor Swift, Part 2
This part 2 episode of the podcast explores the cult-like aspects of Taylor Swift's fandom. It discusses the intense devotion and religious-like following of Swifties, the aesthetic and rituals of the fanbase, and the parasocial codependency between Taylor Swift and her fans. The episode also explores Taylor Swift's impact on culture, her empowering influence on female figures, and the loyalty and defensive behavior of her fanbase.
Oct 31, 2023 • 1h 5min
The Cult of Military Wives
In this episode, Amanda and her dad discuss firsthand experiences with cult-like groups, focusing on military wives and comparing it to the dynamics of a '70s cult. They explore the challenges faced by military spouses, such as conformity pressures and the risks of MLM scams. The conversation also delves into cult-like behaviors in various industries, highlighting themes of exploitation and camaraderie.
Oct 24, 2023 • 42min
The Cult of Pickleball
In this episode, the podcast explores the cult-like aspects of pickleball, discussing its origins, rapid growth, and the differences that set it apart from other sports. They also delve into the role of a mother figure, the World Pickleball Federation, power struggles within the community, potential power abuse, and speculate on the future of pickleball.
Oct 17, 2023 • 1h 27min
The Cult of Momfluencers, Part 2
Ruby Franke, a YouTube momfluencer, is discussed in this podcast. Topics include her controversial parenting style, arrest for child abuse, and the exploitative practices of mom influencers. The hosts also talk about harmful birth ideals, dangerous claims made by momfluencers, and their own personal promotion.
8 snips
Oct 10, 2023 • 1h 10min
The Cult of Purity Rings
This podcast explores the controversial topic of purity rings, examining their cultural and business aspects, their impact on individuals' sexuality, and the power dynamics within the purity ring cult. It also discusses the challenges of navigating sex and consent in the context of purity culture and announces the release of a book about cognitive biases and irrationality.
Oct 3, 2023 • 60min
The Cult of Bachelorette Parties
Hannah Berner, a comedian and former bachelorette, joins the podcast to discuss the cult-like nature of bachelorette parties. They explore authoritarian control, societal pressures, and the dynamics of not having a maid of honor. They also share hilarious stories about dress mishaps and losing control at parties. The episode ends with a discussion on power dynamics and humor in relationships.
Sep 26, 2023 • 38min
The Cult of Gary Vee
Gary Vee, a serial entrepreneur with a cult of personality, is examined in this episode. The hosts discuss his impact as a motivational speaker, his unconventional methods, the allure of entrepreneurship for immigrant communities, and the cult-like aspects of his persona. They also analyze his marketing strategies and how he promotes his brand and establishes a following. The episode concludes with a discussion of upcoming episodes and promotions.
