Smash Boom Best: A funny, smart debate show for kids and family
Brains On Universe 224 episodes Nov 5, 2026
Smash Boom Best is a funny, smart debate show for kids and families from the Brains On Universe. Each episode pits two cool things against each other, like Pikachu vs. Mario or Lollipops vs. Popcorn, and lets listeners decide which is best. Star-studded debaters use facts and passion to make their case, teaching listeners how to defend their opinions. The show also includes a State of Debate segment that helps identify logical fallacies.
Episodes
Backpacks vs Pockets
Holding stuff is easier thanks to pockets and backpacks. One can fit a laptop and water bottle, the other keeps your keys and wallet with you at all times. Both are great, but this is Smash Boom Best, so only one can win! It’s Backpacks vs Pockets. Defending the pack on your back is actor and improviser Alsa Bruno. And speaking up for pockets is performer and improviser Morgan Bruno. Which keeper
American Robin vs Mourning Dove
Get ready for a Smash Boom Best bird bonanza. Tommy Siegel and Billy Libby have gone bananas for birds in the last few years. They’re real-life friends and musicians, who host the podcast Extremely Accurate Bird Songs. Today, however, friends become foes as they each rep a different bird. It’s Mourning Dove vs American Robin. Judging today’s debate is cat-lover, harpist and gymnast, Iva from New H
Sneak Peek: Molly debates Sanden in Sloths vs Cheetahs!
Molly Bloom as a debater? It’s true! This is a sneak peek at a bonus episode we just shared in our Smarty Pass feed. Molly debates Sanden in a Smash Boom Best showdown between Cheetahs and Sloths. To hear the full, ad-free episode, join Smarty Pass. You also get access to all the other Brains On Universe shows, online hangs with the crew, discounts on merch and fun surprises. Thanks for the su
Attics vs Basements
It’s a building battle from top to bottom. Attics sit high above the world, basements are cool lairs down below. Both can be fun, both can be creepy, but only one can win. Digging deep for basements is musician and one half of the band Koo Koo – Bryan Atchison! And unleashing some antics in support of attics is musician and the other half of the band Koo Koo – Neil Olstad! Which floor will triumph
MarioKart vs Candy Land
Get your game face on because in this episode we’ve got two colorful competitions. One is a board game that takes you to a sweet imaginary land. The other is a video game race that’ll get your adrenaline pumping. It’s Candy Land vs MarioKart! Saying sweet things for Team Candy Land is podcast producer Marcel Malekebu! And revving the engine for MarioKart is actor and comedian Brad Milison. Which g
Hiking vs Gardening
Grab your sunscreen and a bottle of water because we’ve a showdown between two outdoor activities. It’s Gardening vs Hiking! Making our love of gardening grow is performer, theatermaker and Story Pirate Mahayla Laurence! Showing us the sight and heights for team hiking is singer, actor and Story Pirate Alex Nader! Which will win? Listen and then vote for your favorite at www.smashboombest.org.Clic
Sneak peek: The history of pineapple pizza
This is a sneak peak of a bonus episode available to Smarty Pass members. It’s a follow up to our Forever Ago episode on the history of pizza. In this one, we look at the man who made pineapple on pizza a thing. Plus, we tell the story of how pineapple pizza created drama between two nations. To hear the whole, ad-free episode, sign up for Smarty Pass at smartypass.org.
Moana vs Elsa
Today’s debate is a royal rivalry between two regal leaders. One of them is the wayfinding chief of Motonui and the other a former queen who can control the ice and snow. It’s Moana vs Elsa. Repping the mighty Moana is writer, director and Molly’s brother, Mickey Bloom! And casting a spell for Elsa is writer, funny person and Molly’s sister Delia Bloom! Which Disney main character will come out on
Smash Boom Best Live + New Season Alert!!!
October is a big month for Smash Boom Best! We're coming back with new episodes October 1st and we're doing TWO live shows! We'll be in Toronto on Oct. 3rd -- it's part of the Just For Laughs Festival. And we'll be in Dallas Oct. 11th. Our Minneapolis sold out so if you've been waiting to get tickets, now is the time!
The Smash Boom live shows features Molly, three very funny debaters and two deb
Waterparks vs Trampoline Parks
This debate is park vs park. One is a splashy place with slides and waves. The other a bounce house with games and obstacles. Get ready for waterparks vs trampoline parks! Making a splash for the wonderful world of waterparks is actor Marina Squerciati. And leaping into action for Team Trampoline Parks, is lawyer and former competitive debater, Eli Kay-Oliphant. Which park will prevail? Listen the
Sneak Peek: Hoax Hunters explain the Pokemon Shock
This is a sneak peek of a bonus episode available to Smarty Pass subscribers. It’s a follow up to the Forever Ago episode about the history of Pokemon. This time, Marc and Sanden are back as the Hoax Hunters to investigate a phenomenon known as the Pokemon Shock. It was an event where a TV show apparently made thousands of people feel sick. To hear the full episode, sign up for Smarty Pass and sup
King Arthur vs Robin Hood
Today it’s a battle of iconic British folk heroes! One is a King who loves justice, peace and a little bit of magic. And on the other a hero who steals from the rich and gives to the poor. It’s King Arthur vs Robin Hood! Swinging his sword for Team King Arthur, is the host and creator of Greeking Out and History Snacks, Kenny Curtis! And bringing a quiver full of good arguments for Team Robin Hood
Vanilla vs Mint
Today two terrific tastes are here to mix it up. On one side we have a warming spice that comes from a seed pod and on the other a mean, green cooling leaf machine. It’s vanilla vs mint. Keeping things cool for mint is clown, actor and improviser Gregory Parks! And extracting all the winning points for team vanilla is writer, performer and lego builder extraordinaire Sam Suksiri! Which flavor
The Lorax vs The Cat in the Hat
Today’s debate is a bookish brawl featuring two classic characters created by Dr. Seuss. Improviser Nick Kanellis is arguing for The Lorax, that beloved and mustachioed defender of trees. And Story Pirate Peter McNerney is repping everyone’s favorite mischievous feline with stylish accessories: The Cat in the Hat! After you listen, head to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who you&n
Watermelon vs Cotton Candy
In today’s debate, we’ve got two sweet treats that are delights to eat. We have Forever Ago host Joy Dolo arguing for watermelon, the colorful fruit that’s hydrating to boot. And Brant Miller is repping cotton candy, magical confection that’s like an edible cloud! Which side will our judge crown the Smash Boom Best? After you listen, head to smashboom.org and vote for whichever side you think won!
Zippers vs Velcro
Today we have two fantastic fasteners facing off. It’s Zippers against Velcro. Both keep clothes closed, both combine form and function, but only one can seal the deal for the win. Representing Team Velcro we have actor, singer, writer and Story Pirate Emily Olcott. And for Team Zipper, it’s actor, comedian and musician Tim Platt! After you find out who won the debate, head to smashboom.org&n
SpongeBob vs Minions
They’re both yellow, they’re both goofy, and they both have signature outfits! It’s SpongeBob vs Minions! Which animated icon is the coolest? Tune in to find out! We’ve got host and reporter Jed Kim going bananas for Team Minions. And blowing bubbles for Team SpongeBob, it’s performance artist Jada Pulley! Find out who our judge picks and vote for your favorite funny yellow friend at smashboom.org
Dandelions vs Orchids
Today, we’re frolicking through the flowers. It’s Dandelions vs Orchids. One is butter yellow and grants wishes, the other is delicate and dazzling! We’ve got Smash Boom Best co-creator Sanden Totten for Team Orchids and filmmaker, writer and director Jun Sekiya for Team Dandelions. Which petal wins the medal? Find out and vote for your favourite at smashboombest.org.
Texting vs Calling
Today we’ve got two cool ways of reaching out. One starts with a ring, the other, a ding. It’s calling vs texting. Defending the tradition of talking on the phone, it’s the host of the Heavyweight Podcast, Jonathan Goldstein. And here to talk up texting we have Kalila Holt, producer of the Heavyweight Podcast. Whether you like to type or talk, you’ll have a lot to say about this one! Find out who
Avocados vs Raspberries
Snack time! On one side it’s a creamy, dreamy, green fruit perfect for salads and dips. On the other side it’s a razzle-dazzle red berry that loves being in smoothies and parfaits. Avocados vs Raspberries! Here to cut it up for avocados is audio producer and editor Adwoa Gyimah-Brempong. And raving for raspberries, it’s voice actor Merk Nguyen. Which piece of produce will prevail? Listen to find o
Balloons vs Candles
Get ready for a debate worth celebrating! It’s balloons vs candles. One floats festively toward the sky, the other brightens the dark. Both are popular at parties. But which one is the best? We’re about to find out! We’ve got podcast producer Anna Weggel lifting spirits for Team Balloon. And actor and improvisor Alsa Bruno lighting the way for Team Candles. Listen to the debate and then tell us wh
Knitting vs Pottery
Get ready for a craft-tastic debate. One side serves up cuddly, cozy creations. The other, hardy, handy homeware. It’s knitting versus pottery! Both are fun, useful crafts that have been loved for centuries by countless people. So which will come out on top? Yearning for yarn, it’s comedian Katie McVay for Team Knitting. And craving the kiln, it’s science writer Menaka Wilhelm for Team Pottery. Fi
Onions vs Corn
I hope you are hungry, because today’s debate is serving up two staples of the dinner table. Grill ‘em, saute ‘em, mix ‘em in salads. They’ll both taste great. But only one can take the trophy. It’s Onions vs Corn. Here to slice and dice for Team Onions is Brian Kvitko. He’s an Associate Professor of Molecular Plant Bacteriology at the University of Georgia and an actual Onion researcher! Sounding
Alligators vs Otters
Get ready for a clash of critters! On one side we’ve got alligators, rowdy reptiles known for tough skin and a winning smile. On the other we’ve got otters, mischievous mammals with webbed feet and the cutest little smushy face. Which animal is the coolest? Arguing for alligators is writer, director and Story Pirate Lee Overtree! And making waves for otters is writer, comedian and improviser Andy
Slime vs Slinkies
Set out these two playthings on a table and see which one your kid grabs first. Is it the gooey, squishy, surprising slime? Or the springy, wiggly, wonderous slinky? Both are fun, one will triumph! Smooshing the competition for Team Slime, it’s RadioLab host Latif Nasser. And stretching toward victory for Team Slinky, it’s podcast producer Hans Buetow. Listen to see which terrific toy takes the to
Barbie vs Mr Potato Head
Today we’ve got two toys that spur creativity and imagination. One’s a fashion icon for the ages and the other one is a bulbous blank slate! That’s right, it’s Barbie vs Mr Potato Head. Story Pirate Alex Nader is boosting Barbie and comedian Comrade Tripp is a proponent for the potato! Who will win? Listen to see who our judge picks and head to smashboom.org to vote for the side that won you over!
Mermaids vs Bigfoot: A fan favorite encore
Two marvelous, mythical legends make an appearance in this week's episode. It's mermaids vs Bigfoot! Which elusive creature will win this smash boom battle? Mermaids, the mysterious sirens that haunt our oceans? Or Bigfoot, the sneaky creature that lurks in forests aound the world? Comedian Joy Dolo and "Adult ISH" podcast host Merk Nguyen go foot-to-fin in this knock-down, drag-out debate. Who do
Bikes vs Skateboards: A fan favorite encore
Get ready to kickflip out -- cuz this debate is off the chain. It's bikes vs. skateboards! Listen to radio journalist Daniel Alarcón and Brains On! star Sanden Totten drop some gear-grinding arguments and gnarly facts...then cruise over to smashboom.org to vote for the team YOU think won. You're in for a wheelie awesome debate!Want to support the show? Join Smarty Pass to listen to ad-free episo
Toilets vs Refrigerators: A fan favorite encore
Today, we’ve got a brawl between two things we’d hate to live without. It’s refrigerators vs. toilets! Terrible, Thanks for Asking creator Nora McInerny and reporter Jill Replogle duke it out in this feisty fixture face-off. But which team will claim the throne? Stone cold fridges? Or savvy lavvies? Shimmy over to smashboom.org, and vote for the team that YOU think won!
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Smash Boom Best presents: Brains On - What's the deal with trends?
Hi Smash Boom Besties! We are currently working on the next season of Smash Boom Best, and we cannot wait for you to hear it. In the meantime, we have this episode of Brains On to share with you. I also host Brains On, it's a show where we answer our audience's questions.
This episode is all about something I'm guessing that lots of you are curious about, which is: What's the deal with trends? En
Smash Boom Presents: Forever Ago and the history of teddy bears
We're busy working on a way the next season of Smash Boom Best (coming back in May!) but until then we wanted to let you know that our history show Forever Ago is back with new episodes RIGHT NOW.Join fan favorite debater Joy Dolo and co-host Luke as they learn about the origins of the Teddy Bear and find out about a stuffed possum that should’ve been the next big toy craze, but never caught on.
Black Panther vs Wonder Woman
Saving the world is easy compared to winning this debate. We’re pitting two heavy hitting heroes against each other. It’s Black Panther vs Wonder Woman. Fighting for the Amazonian warrior with a golden lasso, it’s actress Tiffany Smith. Stepping up for the Wakandan King with the vibranium suit, it’s comedian Aron Woldeslassie. Which superhero will succeed? Listen to find out and head to smashboom.
Turtles vs Rabbits
One fast, one slow, both super cool. It’s Turtles vs Rabbits! This episode takes the famous story of The Tortoise and the Hare and turns it into a rollicking debate for the ages! Hopping in for Team Rabbit is comedian Tim Platt! And doing the slow walk for Team Turtles is comedian Fareeha Kahn! Which animal will win this time? Listen to see who our judge picks and head to smashboom.org to vote for
Soy Sauce vs Maple Syrup
Today we’re pitting two amazing condiments against each other. One is sweet, the other savory. Both are beloved. It’s Maple Syrup versus Soy Sauce. Pouring it on for Team Maple Syrup is host and reporter Jed Kim. Sharing his joy for soy is filmmaker, writer and vocalist, Jun Sekiya. Which side will win this dip-worthy debate? Listen to find out who our judge chooses and then head to smashboom.org
Seaweed vs Peanuts
Two savory snacks, one delicious debate. It’s Peanuts vs Seaweed! One grows on land and pairs perfectly with chocolate or jelly. The other is found in the sea and is key in soups and sushi. Which one will be deemed the best bite? We’ve got actress and Forever Ago host Joy Dolo sounding off for Team Peanuts. Actor and improviser Alsa Bruno is diving in for Team Seaweed. Tune in to see who wins and
Bass 🐟 vs Bass 🎸
Today we’ve got a real brain buster. It’s bass vs bass. What? Well, the names are spelled the same, but they couldn’t be more different. One is a slippery, shimmery fish. The other is a boppin’, booming, guitar. Both are cool in their own way, but only one will triumph. On the side of the bass guitar we have Zak Rosen, host of the podcasts Weirdly Helpful and Care and Feeding. And repping the bass
Stitch vs Yoda
Two creatures from a galaxy far, far away go head to head in this interstellar debate. One is a little blue force of destruction and the other is a little green font of wisdom. It’s Stitch vs Yoda! Surfing in on a wave of enthusiasm for Team Stitch is comedy writer and Lego Master Sam Suksiri. And the Force is strong with actor, comedian and Story Pirate Peter McNerney, for Team Yoda! Which alien
Rock Climbing vs Sledding
This debate has its ups and downs, literally! One side is all about scaling up mountains, boulders and walls. The other side goes down hills with a woosh. It’s Rock Climbing vs Sledding! This pulse pounding episode features writer, comedian, and podcaster Tim Barnes holding fast for Team Rock Climbing and host of NPR’s It’s Been A Minute, Brittany Luse for Team Sledding. Which side will come out o
Tyranosaurus Rex vs Triceratops
Get ready for an ancient throwdown of epic proportions. It’s Tyranosaurus vs Triceratops. One is a meat-eating, mega-predator and the other is a vegetarian with three horns for three times the protection. Dino experts Riley Black and Kallie Moore will duke it out to see which animal is crowned the Smash Boom Best. After the debate, head to smashboom.org to tell us who you think won.
You can find
Moss vs. Moths
We’ve got a showdown between two wonders of nature. One is a patch of perfect greenery, the other is a fluttery friend. It’s Moss vs Moths. Here to tell us why moss is boss we have actor, writer, singer and comedian Emily Olcott. And flying in for Team Moths we have comedian, writer and musician Tiz Irie. Tune in to see which one is deemed the Smash Boom Best. Then head to smashboom.org to tell us
Spaghetti vs Ravioli
I hope you’re hungry, because we’ve got a heaping plate of debate for you. It’s spaghetti vs ravioli. Chef and cookbook author Julia Turshen is cooking up some arguments for Team Spaghetti. Science communicator and host Niba is boiling a pot of cool facts for Team Ravioli. Which tasty treat will take the crown? Listen to see who our judge picks and then surf over to smashboom.org to tell us who yo
Camping vs Hotels
It’s vacation time and you have to decide where to sleep - under the stars or in a suite? Today we’re arguing Camping vs Hotels. Two prime destinations for travellers but only one can win. Taking us to the woods for Team Camping, we’ve got artist Andy DuCett. Checking in for Team Hotel it’s doctor and actor, Stuart Bloom. To make this even more interesting, both debaters are close to our host Moll
Wizard of Oz vs Mary Poppins
Get ready for magic, wonder, and whimsy! We’re pitting two beloved children’s franchises against each other. Both come from popular books and were made into even more popular movies. But only one will triumph. It’s Wizard of Oz vs Marry Poppins! Casting a spell for Oz is singer, writer, actor, and comedian Andrew Barbato! And floating in on the breeze for Mary Poppins is actor and singer Alex Nade
Smash Boom Best presents: Story Pirates
We're taking a little break for the holidays so instead we want to share one of our favorite shows with you: StoryPirates! In this first episode of their newest season, the Story Pirates receive an intriguing invitation and meet a new adversary. Featuring two new stories: ‘The Bed’, a song about an exhausted doctor just looking for somewhere to nap, written by Bentley, a 9 year old from New York,
Smash Boom Best Presents: Brains On - Why do we laugh?
We're on a little winter break and we're gonna be back with a new smash boom battle on January 8th. Today we have an episode of the other show that Molly hosts: Brains On. This is an episode about something near and dear to every fan of Smash. Boom, best laughter.
Laughter is like a language and humans are really good at understanding it.
In this episode, Molly and co-host Milla decode differen
Brains On is coming to a city near you!
The Brains On crew is hitting the road in 2026, and our first shows have just been announced. If you like fun, games, dancing, optical illusions and... Mystery Sounds, check out Your Brain is Magic.
Head to brainson.org/events to get tickets for the following shows:
1/17 Newark, NJ Victoria Theater
1/18 Red Bank, NJ The Vogel
1/23 San Diego, CA The Observitory
1/24 Aneheim, CA House of Blues
Pigs vs. Frogs
One’s a happy hopper and the other is a fine swine. Get ready for Pigs vs Frogs! Both animals are popular in books and movies. Both have cool features. But which is the coolest critter? Writer and archeologist Anna Goldfield will argue for Team Pig and actor, voice artist, and improviser Billy Soco will debate for Team Frogs. Listen to see which animal our judge crowns the Smash Boom Best, and hea
Harmonica vs Glockenspiel
This debate is sure to be sweet music to your ears. It’s Harmonica vs Glockenspiel! Two harmonious instruments but only one can win! Wailin’ away for Team Harmonica, it’s comedian Aron Woldeslassie! Making melody for Team Glockenspiel, it’s voice actor Merk Nguyen! Which tune-maker will triumph? Listen to see who our judge picks and head to smashboom.org to vote for your favorite.
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Babies vs. Puppies
They’re both cute, they’re both cuddly, they both can be a handful. It’s Babies vs Puppies! Which adorable newborn will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Cooing for Team Babies is Smash Boom producer Anna Weggel and barking it up for Team Puppies is actor and animator Brant Miller! Who will win? Listen to see who our judge crowns champion of cuteness, then head over to smashboom.org to vote!
Want t
Monster Trucks vs. Hot Wheels
Whether you like your wheels big or small, this debate is for you! It’s Monster Trucks vs Hot Wheels. It’s a battle between Brains On besties Marc Sanchez and Sanden Totten. Marc goes full throttle for Team Monster Trucks and Sanden speeds toward victory for Team Hot Wheels. Who will win? Head over to smashboom.org to vote and listen to see who our judge crowns the king of cars.
Want to support t
New episodes of Smash Boom Best!
Get ready for Smash Boom Best season 10! We promise more facts than you can shake a stick at (that's a lot, right?). Declarations of Greatness? We got 'em. Sneak Attacks? Ha-ha-who-YEAH! Arguments about ridiculous things judged by teenagers? You bet your Doja Cat!Make sure you're subscribed, because the first episode drops on November 27th.
Do you want to see all the debates we have planned for t
See Smash Boom Best live in Princeton, NJ!
Get tickets for Smash Boom Best live!
Nothing’s better than a good debate. Except maybe a good debate -- LIVE!
That’s why we’re bringing Smash Boom Best to Princeton, New Jersey. It’s gonna be a knock down, drag out brawl of words, jokes and probably some impromptu dance moves. Oh, and guess who’s judging this time? You! The audience!
So join us Sunday, October 26th at the McCarter Theater in P
We’re back! Brains On Universe has a new headquarters
We’re back! We’ve officially moved into our new headquarters! Come unpack with us and get a tour while we fill you in on some big news. Plus, new episodes of Brains On coming later this month and new Smash Boom and Forever Ago after that. If you want to support the show or drop us a line, head to brainson.org. The best way to keep us going is to join Smarty Pass or donate here: https://brainson.su
A big update about Smash Boom Best and the Brains On Universe
We're moving the Brains On Universe Headquarters, and that means we have to stop putting out new episodes until we get settled. We know: not cool. But, our new home is going to be bigger and better and the absolute BEST. We can't wait until it's ready for you to visit.
In the meantime, we still have some live shows planned this fall. Brains On Live will be in Dallas, TX on September 13. And Smash
Goats vs. Boa Constrictors: a curious debate
Today’s debate pairs a nimble climber with a silent slitherer – it’s Goats vs. Boa Constrictors! Radiolab co-host and science historian Latif Nasser is here to give us the goods for Team Goats and writer, podcast host and TV personality Alie Ward will bring the squeeze for Team Boa Constrictors. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU thin
Gandalf vs. Snape: a hero debate
Today’s debate is a magical matchup between two wizards - one lives on Middle Earth, the other at Hogwarts. One’s got a pointy hat, the other’s got a pointy attitude. It’s Gandalf vs. Snape! Comedy writer and LEGO Master Sam Suksiri will wield the staff for Team Gandalf and Brains On Editor Shahla Farzan will take up her wand for Team Snape. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: And that’s how a BLANK saved my family
Molly, Aron and Anna W. are grabbing ice cream after a live show and having a nice, cozy chat. Aron and Anna W.’s families have been through a LOT. In fact, there were several times their families were saved by one odd object/animal/place! Who’s got the better tale of danger and salvation? Only a sneak attack will decide!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Forts vs. Puzzles: a constructive debate
Today’s debate requires a little concentration and is seen across the nation. Put your hands together for Forts vs. Puzzles! We’ve got Forever Ago host Joy Dolo ready to rumble for team Forts, and comedian Comrade Tripp is eager to defend team Puzzles. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
This week’s sponsor is:
Experience Di
Jelly Beans vs. Beans: a flavorful debate
Today’s debate is a mouthwatering showdown between a colorful sweet treat and the goon of legumes. Put your hands together because it’s Jelly Beans vs. Beans! We’ve got actor and writer Mike Cabellon here to fight for Team Beans and comedian and photographer Ali Horman is here to defend the colorful confection for Team Jelly Beans! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom
Accordions vs. Bagpipes: a musical debate
Today’s debate is a majestic musical showdown – it’s accordions vs. bagpipes! Singing the praises of the squeezebox is comedian, voice actor and writer Mary Mack, while Brains On Universe Producer Aron Woldeslassie will try to snag a win for the windy warbler. Which instrument will strike the right chord and win the day? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
Also… do
Frankenstein’s Monster vs. Frosty the Snowman: a chilling debate
Today’s debate is a battle between two legendary characters: Frankenstein's Monster vs. Frosty the Snowman! Theater-maker Shanan Custer will champion the misunderstood monster, while student and actor Kate Wexler will fight for everyone’s favorite frosty fellow. Will science or snow win the day? Take a listen, and then head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
Also… do y
Forever Ago: The history and mystery of mayonnaise
Hey Smash Boom Besties! Today we're bringing you an extra special episode from our sister podcast Forever Ago! You’ll remember debater Joy Dolo from so many debates including the spooky Ghosts vs. Zombies and the hilarious Halloween Candy Grab Bag. Turns out, Joy also made an entire Forever Ago episode about her one true nemesis – MAYONNAISE! Joy faces down her least favorite food to learn about t
Smarty Pass Bonus: Mini-Mosties
Molly is paging through piles of maps, trying to pick the ideal spots to visit during the Brains On Spring Break Road Trip. Marc and Shahla both have fabulous and funky destinations in mind – who will be the one to convince Molly that their roadside attraction reigns supreme?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tag vs. Hide and Seek: an exhilarating debate
Today’s debate is a fun-filled face-off between two timeless playground favorites. It’s Tag vs. Hide and Seek! Story Pirate, improviser and motion capture actor Nick Kanellis will demonstrate speed and agility for Team Tag while Story Pirate Peter McNerney will use stealth and strategy for Team Hide and Seek. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell u
Eclipses vs. Aurora Borealis: a celestial debate
Today’s debate is an out-of-this-world throwdown between two dazzling sky spectacles – Eclipses vs. Aurora Borealis! Improviser, writer, and podcast host Meghan Wolff will rep the mighty, moon-shadowed mystery of Team Eclipses while improviser, content creator, and podcast host Maria Bartholdi will help the swirling, shimmering colors of the Northern Lights shine for Team Aurora Borealis. Who will
Ketchup vs. Ranch: a saucy debate
Today’s debate is a captivating clash of two condiments. It’s Ketchup vs. Ranch! We’ve got comedian and writer Devohn Bland here to defend team Ranch and voice actor Merk Nguyen ready to fight for Ketchup! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
This week’s sponsor:
Help your kids learn to earn, save, spend wisely, and invest wi
Clowns vs. Magicians: a magical debate
Today’s debate is a real showstopper! It’s Clowns vs. Magicians! Actor and professional clown Gregory Parks puts the whoop in whoopie cushion for Team Clowns, while Brains On co-creator and editor Sanden Totten dazzles for Team Magicians! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
This week’s sponsor is:
Experience Disney's Snow Wh
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Road Trip This or That!
Let’s celebrate Spring Break! Rosie and Marc are getting ready to take a long drive to their favorite destination – The Troll Hole Museum in Alliance, Ohio. But in a terrible twist they need to play 3 new road trip games to see who gets to sit up front.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jump rope vs. Hula hoop: an energetic debate
Today’s debate is a high-energy showdown between two classic playground pastimes – Jump Rope vs. Hula Hoop! Will journalist Jed Kim bounce his way to victory for Team Jump Rope? Or will writer and comedian Andrew Barbato spin circles around the competition for Team Hula Hoop? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think should be crowned the Smash Boom Best!
Today’s sponsor:
Exp
Cake vs. Pie: a tasty debate
Today’s debate is a boisterous bake-off between two desserts. It’s cake vs. pie! Writer and dog enthusiast Delia Bloom claims cake is the coolest, while writer and producer Mickey Bloom keeps his eye on the prize for team pie. Who will be crowned the Smash BLOOM Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
Today’s sponsor:
Experience Disney's Snow White, only in theat
Hamsters vs. Goldfish: an adorable debate
Today’s debate is all pet and no peeve. We’ve got the titan of the tank vs. the rage in the cage. It’s Hamsters vs. Goldfish! We’ve got author and podcaster Nora McInerny ready to give it her all for team Hamsters and podcaster producer Marcel Malekebu is here to defend team Goldfish. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
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Matilda vs. Alice in Wonderland: a whimsical debate
Today’s debate is a showdown between two beloved stories — Matilda vs. Alice in Wonderland! Author and “Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest” podcast host Adam Gidwitz defends Roald Dahl’s tale of brainpower and rebellion, while filmmaker and rapper Jun Sekiya sings the praises of Lewis Carroll’s whimsical world of wonder. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Squeak Attack
We’ve all heard of a sneak attack, but have you heard of a “Squeak Attack”? Well, Brains On Producer Marc Sanchez has and he’s ready to dish it out! Grab your Smarty Pass to hear how Producer Aron Woldeslassie fares against the squeak attack!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Telescope vs. Microscope: a focused debate
Today’s debate zooms out to the farthest reaches of space then back in to the tiniest details of life on Earth. It’s Telescope vs. Microscope! Astronomer Mark Popinchalk will leave you starry-eyed for Team Telescope, while writer and producer Menaka Wilhelm will fill you with marvel for Team Microscope. Who will reign supreme in this ultimate battle of magnification? Head on over to smashboom.org
Viola vs. Keyboard: a musical debate
Today’s debate is a matchup between two musical marvels. It’s viola vs. keyboard! Vying for the viola’s rich, velvety tones it’s violist Sam Bergman, and repping the keyboard’s versatility and funky beats is musician Katie Drahos! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
Also… do you have your Smarty Pass yet? Get yours today for
We're back on February 6th!
Smash Boom Best is back on Thursday, February 1st with 16 new epic episodes! And we’re kicking it all off with our 100th episode!
We've got a whole new pile of exciting matches coming up such as Hippopotamus vs. Dragonfly, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. My Little Pony and Pegasus vs. Centaur.
Which sides do YOU think will come out on top? There’s only one way to find out! Tune in on February 1
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Smash DOOM Best
Molly and Aron love horror movies! So to entertain them, Ruby plays small clips from some of the spookiest episodes of Smash Boom Best: We’re talking snakes! Spiders! Dragons! Vampires! Godzilla! Zombies! Then Ruby asks Aron and Molly a trivia question about each topic. Let the spooky fun commence!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bluey vs. Elmo: a lovable debate
Today's debate is a showdown between two lovable characters. One is a playful pup from down under, and one is a giggling, ticklish monster. It’s Bluey vs. Elmo! Writer Kathryn VanArendonk will fight for family fun with team Bluey while culture writer and podcaster Margaret H. Willison will charm you with Elmo’s curiosity and cuteness. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashb
Slides vs. Swings: a playground debate
Today’s debate is a beastly battle between two playground legends. It’s Slides vs. Swings! Comedian Tim Platt zooms towards glory for team slides while comedian, actor and writer Fareeha Khan soars through the sky for team swings. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won!
This week’s sponsor is:
Help your kids learn to earn, save,
Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Molly’s super casual emergency
Brains On HQ is riddled with emergencies! A bowl of pudding is chasing Sanden. Marc’s piano has challenged him to a rap battle. And Rosie is out of mustard. Anna and Ruby need Molly’s help to solve these problems, but Molly is in her favorite chair so she can’t be bothered. Hopefully, a sneak attack can get her on her feet.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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