Episode
The Cult of Charity Scams
- Podcast
- Sounds Like A Cult
- Published
- Jul 21, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 3760
- Processing state
not_requested
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Summary
If you've ever donated to a GoFundMe after reading one heartbreaking Instagram caption... this episode is for you. This week, Chelsea and Iman are joined by bestselling author, speaker, and advocate Molly Burke (@mollyburkeofficial) to unpack The Cult of Charity Scams, where good intentions become the perfect recruiting tool. From fake fundraisers and disaster relief grifts to organizations that promise to change the world while exploiting the people behind the scenes, we're following the money and asking why doing good has become such good business. Molly shares her firsthand experience working for a charity that quickly turned from nonprofit to cult, complete with charismatic leadership, staff housing, company slogans, loyalty tests, and yes... workplace B12 butt shots. So before you Venmo, donate, or click "monthly recurring gift," give this episode a listen. Your wallet may thank you! Subscribe to Sounds Like A Cult on Youtube!Follow us on IG @soundslikeacultpod, @amanda_montell, @reesaronii, @chelseaxcharles, @imanharirikia. Pre-order Iman's new book, Once in a Timeline, here! Your pre-order helps make more books possible! Thank you to our sponsors! To Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain, Head to https://www.squarespace.com/CULT If your glasses are overdue for a refresh, now is the time. Use code PODCAST15 for fifteen percent off your first order at bit.ly/3OdtU5X Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices