
The Cult of Influencing: "The Algorithm Giveth, The Algorithm Taketh Away"
About this episode
What happens when your entire life revolves around likes, follows, and perfectly staged smoothie bowls?
For Lee Tilghman — better known as @leefromamerica — it meant rising to the top of Instagram's wellness world… and losing herself in the process.
This week, we explore what it means to devote yourself to the cult of social media: when every thought and action becomes about what to post, when friends are replaced by followers, and when your online identity becomes the only one you know.
From the outside, the influencer life looks aspirational. But Lee asks: at what cost?
____________
COME SEE US LIVE!!
Los Angeles • September 9, 2025
With special guest: comedian Moses Storm
VIP "Meet & Greet" tickets available!
Not in LA? No prob — livestream available too!
FOLLOW US for more culty content and behind-the-scenes chaos:
Instagram & TikTok → @wasiinacult
SUPPORT THE SHOW:
The average person spends over 2 hours a day on social media. If this episode resonated—or even made you rethink your daily doomscroll—share it, leave a review. Hug a friend IRL.
Huge thank you to our Patreon members—you keep this thing going.
Want ad-free episodes & exclusive content? → Join our Patreon.
Have a culty story? We wanna hear it.
Email us: [email protected]
And if you want more from today's guest, Lee from America:
Her brand-new book "If you Don't Like This, I Will Die" is out now
Find Lee → @leefromamerica
Get every episode summarized
Each time Was I In A Cult? publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Was I In A Cult?

Children of God PT1: Sex Cult Math
Was I In A Cult?

Amway: "Sleep is for Sissies... and Diamonds'
Was I In A Cult?

A Single-Family Cult: "Beyond The Front Door"
Was I In A Cult?

Gloriavale: "Gloria Fail" (UPDATE)
Was I In A Cult?