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 Support The Minimalists: minimalists.com/support

317 | The Consumer Cult

The Minimalists are Emmy-nominated Netflix stars and New York Times–bestselling authors Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. Alongside cohost T.K. Coleman, they help millions of people live meaningful lives with less.

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The Minimalists sit down with the founder of Patreon, Jack Conte, to discuss the death of the follower, earning a living from creative work, why the joy of creating is often ruined by the demands of revenue, and more.  Discussed in this episode: What’s the minimalist-approved way to ethically promote my creative work? (1:57) If you could earn a living doing anything in the world, what would it be? (21:56) What two new segments are coming to The Minimalists Private Podcast? (43:50) Listener insight: a poem about decluttering. (45:41) Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast  

444 | The Algorithm

The Minimalists discuss space hoarding, reification, the key to freedom, generosity, and more. Discussed in this episode: Is my landlord a space hoarder if they won’t let me use their empty garage for storage? (1:55) What’s one thing you’re unwilling to share? (21:55) What are Thursday Konversations with T.K. Coleman? (40:09) Listener insight: Using OCD as a superpower. (40:51) Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

443 | The Presence of Absence

The Minimalists speak with Lisa Ann about the benefits of renting clothes, homes, cars, books, tools, and more. They also talk about when it’s best to own a thing instead of renting it. Discussed in this episode: What should I do with my wardrobe if my style preferences constantly change? (2:21) What’s one thing you’d rather rent than own? And what’s one thing you’d rather own than rent? (21:37) How does letting go of things help people let go of resentment? (46:55) Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

442 | Rental Culture

The Minimalists talk about life after simplifying, decluttering slowly over time, processing loss after letting go, and more. Discussed in this episode: Should I get rid of everything while simplifying? (2:29) What’s the most difficult thing you’ve ever let go of? (18:36) When is the next Zoom call with The Minimalists? (37:54) Listener tip about quitting social media. (38:44) Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

441 | Simplify Simplify Simplify

The Minimalists discuss letting go of memories, creating an uncluttered home, three new series from The Minimalists, and more. Discussed in this episode: How do I let go of memories? (3:51) How can I curate a beautiful, uncluttered home? (17:52) What are the three new series coming soon from The Minimalists? (25:12) What’s the best way to create a functional wardrobe with items that last? (24:35) Listen to the full Maximal episode on Patreon: patreon.com/theminimalists Detailed show notes: minimalists.com/podcast

317 | The Consumer Cult

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