Joshua and Ryan speak with Amanda Montell, author of Cultish, about what makes a cult a cult, and they answer the following questions:

Who decides whether a cult is a cult? (00:00)

Are cults strictly negative? (02:08)

Is CrossFit a cult? (04:33)

How do otherwise reasonable people fall susceptible to cults? (11:58)

What are the characteristics of a cult? (13:55)

What is the “thought-terminating cliche”? (15:47)

What are the “exit costs” of cults? (21:29)

What are some red flags to look for regarding cults? (22:25)

Can you explain the US-centric terms being used regarding cults? (32:08)

Why does it seem the US is replete with cults? (32:35)

How do cults start? (34:30)

What is the “cult of consumerism”? (36:43)

How do cult members not see how it’s hurting them when it’s so obvious to everyone else? (39:37)

Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

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