{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/690b8ccb68ccec9b8efe9e3b/6a5149b5c2f78bb68976e3c3?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Was My Choir A Cult? w/ Amanda Montell","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/690b8ccb68ccec9b8efe9e3b/5f1021d3-b51a-4a6b-b195-e2a6dda02ed5.jpg?height=200","description":"Amanda Montell and caller Matt unpack the surprisingly blurry line between belonging and blind devotion, reflecting on a high school show choir that sometimes felt a little... cultish.<br><br>What You’ll Hear<br><br>The Charisma Factor: Matt revisits the magnetic show choir director who inspired fierce loyalty, unforgettable performances, and a few lingering questions about leadership and influence.<br><br>Rituals, Rivalries, and Red Flags: From pre-show traditions to intense competition and an \"us versus them\" mindset, Amanda explores how ordinary groups can take on surprisingly cult-like dynamics.<br><br>Finding Community Without Losing Yourself: Together they consider why close-knit groups can shape us for the better—and how to recognize the difference between healthy belonging and unhealthy control.<br><br>CHAPTERS<br><br>00:00 Amanda's sleep simplicity journey<br>03:00 Was high school show choir a cult?<br>09:48 Rituals that built belonging<br>12:35 Competition and us versus them<br>16:41 Amanda's cult rating","author_name":"Hatch Podcasts"}