Podcast Summary: Sounds Like A Cult – Episode: The Cult of Labubu

Release Date: August 5, 2025
Host: Amanda Montell
Co-Hosts: Chelsea Charles & Reese Oliver
Producer: Chelsea Charles and Reese Oliver
Created by: Amanda Montell

Introduction

In the August 5, 2025 episode of Sounds Like A Cult, Amanda Montell, alongside co-hosts Chelsea Charles and Reese Oliver, delves into the phenomenon surrounding Labubu—a trendy vinyl toy that has captured the attention of a diverse, often fanatic, audience. The episode explores whether Labubu transcends mere consumer culture to embody characteristics of a modern-day cult.

What is Labubu? Origins and Rise to Fame

The episode begins with an exploration of Labubu’s origins and rapid rise in popularity. Reese Oliver explains how Labubu functions within the blind box culture, comparing its emergence to iconic toy crazes like Beanie Babies and Furbies.

[13:01] Reese Oliver: "Labubu didn't just pop out of a mystery box one day. This little gremlin has a lore."

Amanda Montell adds context by highlighting the creator, Hong Kong artist Ka Sing Long, whose background in Nordic fairy tales and folklore influenced Labubu's design.

[13:23] Amanda Montell: "They are giving slightly like, where the wild things are vibes."

Cult-Like Characteristics of Labubu

The discussion shifts to what makes Labubu potentially "culty." The hosts analyze aspects such as exclusivity, scarcity, and the emotional investment of collectors.

[20:18] Chelsea Charles: "I think the cultiest thing about Labubus is that they are so high in demand at Popmart stores that they are valued more than the working conditions of Popmart employees."

Listener testimonials further illustrate the fervor surrounding Labubu, with many expressing obsessive behaviors akin to those seen in traditional cults.

[46:01] Reese Oliver: "Or packages and they get a new Labubu. I've seen hysterics, tears, screaming, and you don't get that kind of response from just anything."

Psychological Appeal and Consumerism

Amanda Montell and Reese Oliver delve into the psychological aspects that make Labubu appealing, particularly in the context of modern loneliness and the search for community.

[24:22] Reese Oliver: "I would say there is some sort of... I don't know. I don't know what to say."

Montell comments on the American consumerist promise that buying products like Labubu can solve deeper emotional voids.

[23:28] Amanda Montel: "We keep telling this promise with new products and new aesthetics and new trends, that you can buy your way to happiness."

Labubu vs. Other Cult-Like Phenomena

In a playful "lightning round," the hosts compare Labubu to other cult-like toys and trends, assessing which is "cultier." Comparisons include American Girl dolls, troll dolls, Cabbage Patch Kids, and reborn dolls.

[56:07] Reese Oliver: "Labubu."
[56:13] Chelsea Charles: "Troll. Troll was so expansive. Labubu is just getting its feet off the ground. Troll was everywhere."

These comparisons highlight Labubu’s unique position as a modern phenomenon distinct from past toy crazes, emphasizing its integration with adult consumerism and social media influence.

Conspiracy Theories and Dark Associations

The episode doesn't shy away from the darker side of Labubu's popularity. Chelsea Charles introduces conspiracy theories alleging Labubu dolls are cursed or part of sinister rituals, reflecting the intersection of consumerism and modern myth-making.

[48:44] Amanda Montel: "I know Chelsea already has some thoughts about the voodoo slander."

The hosts humorously dissect these theories, recognizing them as part of a broader trend where consumer products become the subject of paranormal speculation.

Economic and Social Implications

The discussion extends to the economic impact of Labubu, including resale markets and the role of influencers in perpetuating the trend. The scarcity and exclusivity of Labubu contribute to its status as a coveted item, further deepening its cult-like allure.

[38:46] Chelsea Charles: "I think in part because the trend is so fleeting, you don't know, like, how long your Labubu is going to be relevant for."

Conclusion: Verdict on Labubu's Cult Status

After thorough analysis, the hosts categorize Labubu within their established cult typologies: Live Your Life, Watch Your Back, or Get the F* Out**.

[59:09] Reese Oliver: "I'd say watch your back."
[59:26] Amanda Montel: "Get the f*** out. It reminds me of Stanley Cups because it's just like, so all-consuming."

Ultimately, the consensus leans towards Labubu fitting into the "Get the F*** Out" category, highlighting its all-consuming nature devoid of substantial positive impact.

[60:38] Amanda Montel: "A Labubu in a vacuum delight. A Labubu in context. Live your life, but also just don't do it."

The episode concludes with a reflection on the ephemeral nature of such trends and their reflection of broader societal issues like consumerism and the quest for identity.

Notable Quotes

• [13:27] Reese Oliver: "It's the same thing as the Sunny Angel. I do partake in Sunny Angel culture."

• [24:22] Reese Oliver: "Everything is about money in America."

• [36:03] Chelsea Charles: "Urban giggles froze their Labo and you sleep with it."

• [50:22] Amanda Montel: "If you combine the word possessed and the word Labubu, you get possessed."

• [58:03] Reese Oliver: "Reborn."

Final Thoughts

Sounds Like A Cult provides an incisive look into the Labubu phenomenon, balancing humorous banter with critical analysis. While Labubu may not pose the same level of societal impact as traditional cults, its intense consumer-driven fervor showcases the evolving nature of modern-day cultural obsessions.

For those unfamiliar with Labubu, this episode serves as a comprehensive introduction to understanding how contemporary trends can mirror the dynamics of cultish behavior, driven by scarcity, community, and the relentless pursuit of identity through consumerism.

Stay Culty, But Not Too Culty!
Sounds Like A Cult encourages listeners to critically engage with the cultural phenomena they encounter, fostering awareness of the fine line between fandom and fanaticism.