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 7, 2023 • 1h 19min
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 2min
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 • 39min
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 24min
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 7min
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 • 57min
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 • 35min
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.
19 snips
Sep 12, 2023 • 48min
The Cult of Life Coaches
This podcast explores the cult-like tendencies within the unregulated life coaching industry. The hosts share their experiences with finding a life coach and the confusion between coaches and therapists. They discuss the origins of life coaching and its lack of regulation, highlighting the pros and cons of the industry. The podcast also delves into the influence of Feng Shui and manifestation in achieving goals. The hosts reflect on the appeal of becoming a life coach and the potential risks involved.
23 snips
Sep 5, 2023 • 51min
The Cult of Burning Man
Join Amanda and Isa as they chat with Em and Christine about the cult-like allure of Burning Man. They unpack the eccentric rituals, controversies, and us vs. them dynamics of the countercultural carnival. The discussion explores the absence of leadership in the Burning Man community, characteristics of cults and personal tendencies in group environments, and the fascination with cults and Burning Man. They also touch on encounters with burners, experiences at Burning Man, and the relationship between Burning Man and capitalism.
Aug 29, 2023 • 1h 11min
The Cult of Disney Adults (With Bonus Q&A!)
The podcast explores the cult-like behavior of Disney adults and their adoration for Walt Disney. They discuss various Facebook groups and a Disney adult dating app called Mouse Mingle. The speakers also emphasize the importance of individual voices within the Disney adult community and explore power dynamics. They conclude that being a Disney adult is a harmless way to enjoy oneself. The Q&A session touches on their love lives and intimacy, and they discuss their approach to selecting topics and reacting to fan reactions.
