Are Swifties in a Cult?

This week, Sophie (@joan.of.arca) and Caio (@punkrevolutionnow) explore the question that has been brewing in many of our minds: are Swifties in a cult? From the Swifties who have taken thousands from their savings to go to the Eras Tour, to the Swifites who danced at a theater in a scene straight out of Ari Aster's Midsommar, we wonder if Taylor Swift's influence has exceeded that of a typical popstar and into cult leader territory.  Examined under the framework of cult expert and former Harvard faculty Psychiatrist Robert Jay Lifton, our hosts try to decide whether or not Swifties are just hardcore devoted fans, or bonfide cult members. Plus, we read the testimonies of some recovering ex-Swifties in the r/SwiftlyNeutral subreddit, described as "a parasocial relationship recovery meeting."    Based on facts. Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/BasedNewsNetwork    NOTE: This episode contains criticism of Taylor Swift and fandom culture in general, and is in no way meant to be hateful. It is meant to be fun and tongue-in-cheek. If you're a Taylor Swift fan, we love you <3    Follow us on Instagram: Pod: @basednewsnetworkpod Sophie - @joan.of.arca Caio - @punkrevolutionnow   Follow us on Twitter/X:  Sophie - @soophieeb Caio - @punkrevnow   YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@BasedNewsNetworkPodcast   Reach out with questions at basednewsnetworkpod@gmail.com                       

Om Podcasten

Staying in the loop with what’s happening in the world can feel like a chore, a snooze-fest, or a real downer. But it doesn’t have to be. Instagram’s meme royalty, the one and only @joan.of.arca, also known as Sophie, and the hilarious multi-talented sensation Punk Revolution Now, AKA Caio are on a mission to make sure you get the news in a world rampant with misinformation. Think pop culture, politics, gossip, and every chronically-online tidbit you need to keep your finger on the pulse. From Instagram meme page beef to the suspense of the next presidential showdown, Sophie, Caio, and a vibrant array of guest stars bring the real tea every week. Check out Based News Network to get the news, based on facts.