Best Swinging Flamingos Podcasts (2025)

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BONUS: MECCA Beauty Loop: Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know 12:38

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2M ago12:38

12:38

On this episode, we're taking you behind the scenes of one of the most iconic parts of the MECCA experience: MECCA Beauty Loop. Launched over a decade ago, MECCA Beauty Loop began as a bold reimagining of what a loyalty program could be - not just a reward system, but a community - one that celebrates discovery, surprise and a shared love of beauty…

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Oxygen-Infused Skincare is The Next Big Thing 35:35

2M ago35:35

35:35

We’ve been so lucky to host global skin pioneers on our podcast, from dermatologist-founder hybrids like Dr. Dennis Gross and Dr. Courtney Rubin, to groundbreaking luxury formulators such as Professor Augustinus Bader and most recently, pharmacist and Cosmetics 27 founder Michele Evrard. Today, we spotlight the latest gamechanger revolutionising th…

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A big update about Smash Boom Best and the Brains On Universe 2:56

3M ago2:56

2:56

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…

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Goats vs. Boa Constrictors: a curious debate 34:50

3M ago34:50

34:50

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…

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Gandalf vs. Snape: a hero debate 38:37

3M ago38:37

38:37

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 wi…

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: And that’s how a BLANK saved my family 1:42

3M ago1:42

1:42

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!…

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Forts vs. Puzzles: a constructive debate 37:28

4M ago37:28

37:28

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 YO…

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The Story Behind Every MECCA Skin Specialists’ Favourite Cream 54:39

4M ago54:39

54:39

In today’s episode, Kate is joined by French pharmacist and Cosmetics 27 founder Michèle Evrard. If you’ve ever walked into a MECCA store looking for something to soothe sensitive or irritated skin, it’s likely our team has shown you the Cosmetics 27 range. Since launching at MECCA over 10 years ago, the brand has earned cult status thanks to their…

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Jelly Beans vs. Beans: a flavorful debate 31:52

4M ago31:52

31:52

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 crow…

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Accordions vs. Bagpipes: a musical debate 41:18

4M ago41:18

41:18

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.o…

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Why ILIA’s Viral Skin Tint Almost Didn’t Happen 38:36

4M ago38:36

38:36

In today’s episode, Kate is joined by ILIA founder and beauty pioneer, Sasha Plavsic. Sasha was in her early 30’s when she launched ILIA from her grandmothers’ garage over 14 years ago. While working full-time as a branding executive, she took a closer look at the ingredient lists of her favourite beauty products and realised a gap for high-perform…

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Frankenstein’s Monster vs. Frosty the Snowman: a chilling debate 35:35

4M ago35:35

35:35

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…

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Forever Ago: The history and mystery of mayonnaise 30:35

5M ago30:35

30:35

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 f…

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Isamaya Is The Artist Of The Next Generation 44:24

5M ago44:24

44:24

British born makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench has spent more than a decade bringing her avant-garde looks to life on some of the most recognisable faces. From Kate Moss to Rihanna, Zendaya to Cher. Her distinctive style and non-conformist approach to beauty has also made her one of the most sought-after artists for fashion shows and editorial campaign…

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Smarty Pass Bonus: Mini-Mosties 1:41

5M ago1:41

1:41

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?By American Public Media

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Tag vs. Hide and Seek: an exhilarating debate 33:40

5M ago33:40

33:40

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…

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Eclipses vs. Aurora Borealis: a celestial debate 32:51

5M ago32:51

32:51

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 Northe…

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Jerrod Blandino Built a Beauty Icon. Now, He’s Doing It Again. 42:09

5M ago42:09

42:09

In today’s episode Kate is joined by Polite Society founder, Jerrod Blandino. If the name sounds familiar, you’d be right – before founding Polite Society with his husband Jeremy Johnson, the two were best known for creating Too Faced in the late ’90s and building it into the beauty juggernaut it is today. Less than two years ago, the duo launched …

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Ketchup vs. Ranch: a saucy debate 31:56

5M ago31:56

31:56

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 kid…

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Why Katie Jane Hughes Is Everyone’s Favourite Makeup Artist 41:01

5M ago41:01

41:01

In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by one of the industry's most beloved makeup artists, Katie Jane Hughes. 10 years ago the UK-born artist started an Instagram account to showcase her work as a nail technician. After pivoting from manicures to makeup, Katie began to build a following of loyal beauty enthusiasts, thanks to her approach…

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Clowns vs. Magicians: a magical debate 37:15

5M ago37:15

37:15

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! T…

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Uni’s Alexandra Keating On Why The Best Body Care Is… Blue! 25:32

5M ago25:32

25:32

In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by tech-entrepreneur turned beauty founder, Uni’s Alexandra Keating. After starting not one, but two successful tech startups, Sydney born and LA-based Alexandra Keating (or as she prefers, AK) took a trip to the Great Barrier Reef with her husband Rupert. Realising how much the reef had changed since…

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Road Trip This or That! 1:45

6M ago1:45

1:45

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.By American Public Media

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Jump rope vs. Hula hoop: an energetic debate 35:19

6M ago35:19

35:19

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…

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Cake vs. Pie: a tasty debate 39:40

6M ago39:40

39:40

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 spon…

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Rae Morris Teaches Us How To Actually Apply Eyeliner 36:59

6M ago36:59

36:59

In today’s episode Kate is joined by one of Australia’s most acclaimed makeup artists and founder of her eponymous brand, Rae Morris. Rae’s work with international brands, countless celebrities and major magazines like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and I.D. has earned her the title of Australian Makeup Artist of the Year – four times. With a passion for t…

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Hamsters vs. Goldfish: an adorable debate 37:09

6M ago37:09

37:09

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 smashbo…

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Matilda vs. Alice in Wonderland: a whimsical debate 33:52

6M ago33:52

33:52

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 Be…

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Flamingo Estate’s Richard Christiansen On Living a Fuller Life 31:12

6M ago31:12

31:12

In today’s episode, Kate is joined in the MECCA Talks studio by Flamingo Estate founder Richard Christiansen. You may remember their first conversation in 2022, where they spoke about Richard’s journey from growing up in rural NSW to a career in fashion, publishing and advertising in New York – and finally to the COVID-induced ‘pivot’ that led him …

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Squeak Attack 1:39

6M ago1:39

1:39

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!By American Public Media

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Telescope vs. Microscope: a focused debate 35:16

7M ago35:16

35:16

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 battl…

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Viola vs. Keyboard: a musical debate 36:00

7M ago36:00

36:00

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 …

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Summer Fridays' Marianna Hewitt On Co-Creating The Internet's Favourite Beauty 38:00

7M ago38:00

38:00

In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by Summer Fridays co-founder Marianna Hewitt. After growing a loyal audience as a beauty blogger, Marianna (alongside co-founder and fellow content creator Lauren Ireland) noticed a gap in the skincare space for a range of efficacious products that combine aesthetically pleasing packaging and consciou…

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We're back on February 6th! 1:29

7M ago1:29

1:29

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…

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How Fig.1’s Approach To Retinol Changed The (Skin) Game 36:56

9M ago36:56

36:56

In today’s episode Kate is joined by US board-certified dermatologist and Fig.1 co-founder, Dr Courtney Rubin. In 2021, drawing on her degrees from Yale, Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania, as well her experience treating patients in her clinic, Dr Rubin co-founded skincare brand Fig.1 alongside entrepreneurial powerhouse Kimmy Scotti. With…

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Smash DOOM Best 1:41

9M ago1:41

1:41

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!By American Public Media

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Amy Liu Talks Tower 28, The Fastest-Growing Beauty Brand For Sensitive Skin 46:41

9M ago46:41

46:41

In today’s episode Kate is joined in the studio by Tower 28 founder Amy Liu. Having experienced chronic eczema for most of her adult life, the former beauty executive struggled to find makeup that didn’t worsen her skin sensitivities, often feeling confined to boring, uninspiring products. Leaning on her wealth of knowledge after 15-plus years of e…

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Bluey vs. Elmo: a lovable debate 35:20

9M ago35:20

35:20

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 c…

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Slides vs. Swings: a playground debate 38:24

9M ago38:24

38:24

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…

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Hunter Schafer Talks Euphoria’s Return, And Creating an Anime Short with Shiseido 22:18

9M ago22:18

22:18

In today’s episode, Kate is chatting with celebrated actor Hunter Schafer, best known for her roles in HBO’s Euphoria, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and in the near future, the epic mini-series that will be Blade Runner 2099. From her hotel room in Barcelona, Hunter filled us in on her role as Global Brand Ambassador for Shi…

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Molly’s super casual emergency 1:36

9M ago1:36

1:36

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.…

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Mars vs. Saturn: a celestial debate 35:13

10M ago35:13

35:13

Today’s debate features two powerful planets in a cosmic clash – it’s Mars vs. Saturn! Brains On Editor Sanden Totten will rep the red planet while astronomer Mark Popinchalk will glimmer for the gassy giant. Who will be crowned the most precious planet? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won! This week’s sponsor is: He…

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Jack and the Beanstalk vs. The Ugly Duckling: a storybook debate 33:14

10M ago33:14

33:14

Today’s debate throws two timeless tales into the ring for a clash of the classics. It’s Jack and the Beanstalk vs. The Ugly Duckling! In this epic showdown, author and “Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest” podcast host Adam Gidwitz climbs to the top for Jack and the Beanstalk, while author Soman Chainani helps The Ugly Duckling soar to new heights! Who will …

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Ariel Tejada Changed How We Do Makeup Forever 31:53

10M ago31:53

31:53

In today’s episode, Kate is joined by globally recognised makeup artist and Morphe collaborator, Ariel Tejada – or as he’s known by beauty lovers around the world, @makeupbyariel. In the mid-2010s, the self-taught artist started sharing his work on Instagram, quickly capturing the attention of the beauty world with his unique approach to soft glam.…

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Ghostbusters vs. Jurassic Park: a cinematic debate 32:55

10M ago32:55

32:55

Today’s debate is full of frights and delights. Grab your popcorn and watch your backs because it’s Ghostbusters vs. Jurassic Park! We’ve got podcast producer Tracy Mumford, ready to take the call for team Ghostbusters, and journalist and author Tom Weber is eager to roar for team Jurassic Park! Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who…

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Halloween Candy Grab Bag: a decadent debate 45:06

10M ago45:06

45:06

Sneak attack? Try snack attack! We’re going absolutely decadent with this special, king-sized episode that will pit a whopping SIX sweet treats head to head in a candy clash for glory. Forever Ago host Joy Dolo will battle Brains On Universe producer Aron Woldeslassie in the ultimate Halloween candy showdown! Get ready for some sweet, sticky, and s…

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Smarty Pass Presents: Sanden vs a Velociraptor 6:35

10M ago6:35

6:35

Can’t get enough Smash Boom Best? Here’s a bonus episode! Sign up for Smarty Pass and you’ll get a bonus episode like this every month. Usually, these episodes are just for Smarty Pass subscribers but today we’re sharing one with all of our listeners. To get more, sign up for Smarty Pass at smartypass.org How many times have you asked yourself: whi…

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Rollerblades vs. Scooters: a rolling debate 37:10

11M ago37:10

37:10

Grab your helmet and knee pads because it’s Rollerblades vs. Scooters! Listen as journalist and podcaster Jed Kim rolls out for team Scooters while singer, writer, and comedian Andrew Barbato slices through the competition for team Rollerblades! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think…

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Vampires vs. Werewolves: a spooky debate 32:22

11M ago32:22

32:22

Today, the ultimate immortal rivals go fang to claw in a blood-thirsty debate. It's vampires vs werewolves! Who will win? Pale, blood-sucking vampires? Or supernaturally speedy, howling werewolves? Anna Weggel and Tracy Mumford debate to see which terrifying tormentor will be crowned the Smash Boom Best. After you listen, tell us who you think won …

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Cheetahs vs. Sloths 1:49

11M ago1:49

1:49

Beloved host and sloth lover, Molly Bloom, takes on Brains On producer and cheetah enthusiast, Sanden Totten. Which team will triumph? Grab your Smarty Pass to hear and find out!By American Public Media