The Common Cult

This week we're talking about the cult following that Paleo and Whole30, a brand of Paleo, has developed. What started as a tiny corner on the internet has now ballooned into a multi million dollar organization, Whole30 has helped thousands of people lose weight, heal their bodies, discover food intolerances, and find food freedom. But has it become too dogmatic? Is it just another crash diet that has short term gains only for participants to pack back on the pounds? Join us as we discuss our thought as well as the experience of our listeners!

The enneagram has developed a cult like following over the last several years. Is it worthy of all the buzz? Why do people love it and why are some over it? Did you know the enneagram is controversial in some religious circles? Listen in as we discuss all this and more plus BONUS: our husbands weigh in on why they think people wanted and show on this topics and how their number might operate in a cult.

In today's episode we are talking about the personal finance plan that has developed a cult following, Dave Ramsey and Financial Peace University. Hold on to your hats though because this conversation not only covers Dave Ramsey enthusiasts, but we also discuss how his company itself has been accused of being a cult.

This week on this installment of "Popcults" we're discussing all things "Fangirl." What is a fangirl? Are fangirls susceptible to getting involved in cult like behavior? We also share some of our own moments of fangirling both in childhood and adulthood, and we share some hilarious listener stories as well. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas! Today we have a culty + festive treat for you. Buckle us as Heather, Eryn and special guest and friend of the show Leigh Ann discuss the Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas. Who are these men when they're not shaking their bellies like a bowl full of jelly? What is The Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas and how does one become a member? Buckle up as we break it down.

In today's episode we are taking a deep dive into one of the characteristics of a cult; Us vs. Them mentality. Join us as we discuss how this mentality not only affects extreme cults but also shows up in politics, religion, and self help circles. Yes, we are talking about all the things you are NOT supposed to talk about at Christmas dinner in one of our most vulnerable episodes yet. Enjoy!

Is homeschooling a cult? Join Eryn, Heather and guest Tanya from Project Happy Home as they discuss their experiences and whether or not the homeschooling community can be culty.

Join us this week as we talk Cults in the news. Today we're sharing our thoughts on the recent E-bay cult that made national news as well as the recent Keith Raniere sentencing.

In today's show we are trying out a new series called "Popcults" where talk about things in pop culture with cult like followings. Today's topic is Royals Fans. Why are people so obsessed with The Royals? Who is the most dedicated Royals fans? Are the Royals themselves in a cult? We answer all these burning questions in today's episode.

In our first episode we talked about all the characteristics of a cult. Every now and then we're going to shine a spotlight on one of those characteristics. In this episode, we're going to be talking about charismatic leaders. Every true cult has one, and many common cults have them too, but maybe their leaders haven't done anything illegal (or at least haven't been convicted) OR they've surpassed they're leader. Join us this week as we talk about charismatic cult leaders.