Best Two Clowns And A Goat Podcasts (2025)

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

Play Pause

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

4M 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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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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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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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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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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Clowns vs. Magicians: a magical debate 37:15

6M 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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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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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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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Squeak Attack 1:39

7M 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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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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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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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

10M 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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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Molly’s super casual emergency 1:36

10M 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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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

11M 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

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Surfing vs. Ice Skating: an Olympic debate 33:52

11M ago33:52

33:52

Today’s debate is a sporty showdown between two playful pastimes. It’s Surfing vs. Ice Skating! Actor, writer and comedian Allison Reese is here to ride the waves for team surfing, and editor Nancy Yang will glide across the ice for team ice skating. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU …

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Broccoli vs. Carrots: a veggie debate 36:27

11M ago36:27

36:27

Today’s debate pairs perfectly with dip and is better than any chip. It’s Broccoli vs. Carrots! Listen as comedian, voice actor, and writer Mary Mack battles for team Broccoli while actor and improviser Jada Pulley charges for team Carrots! 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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Dungeons & Dragons vs. Monopoly: a strategic debate 36:54

12M ago36:54

36:54

Today’s debate has lots of dice and is very nice. Get ready for a game night delight, because it’s Dungeons & Dragons vs. Monopoly! We’ve got Smash Boom Best Producer Anna Weggel ready to pass Go for team Monopoly and comedy writer Sam Suksiri is here to dominate for team Dungeons & Dragons! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Vote below for t…

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Parrots vs. Gorillas: an intelligent debate 37:07

12M ago37:07

37:07

Today’s debate is a smackdown of the smartest. It’s Parrots vs. Gorillas! Brains On Editor Shahla Farzan is ready to win parrots the prize and Brains On Producer Marc Sanchez is ready to GET IT for gorillas. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won! This episode’s sponsor: Help you…

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Weekends vs. Vacation: an escape debate 32:03

1y ago32:03

32:03

Today’s debate is a break from all of life’s troubles. It’s Weekends vs. Vacations! Actor and comedian Brad Milison wows us with weekend wonder, while actor, writer and comedian Melanie Johnson vies for vacations! 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 Sma…

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Eyebrows vs. Thumbs: a bodily debate 34:02

1y ago34:02

34:02

They come in pairs, they both wiggle and they’re going up against each other in today’s debate! It’s Eyebrows vs. Thumbs! Listen as producer and writer Menaka Wilhelm raises eyebrows for team eyebrows while comedian Katie McVay declares a thumb war for team thumbs. Who will be crowned the fiercest physical feature? Head on over to smashboom.org and…

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Seashells vs. Ferns: an intricate debate 37:55

1y ago37:55

37:55

Today’s debate is a showdown of natural wonder. It’s a beachy beauty vs. a fabulous frond. Polish up your camera and get ready to hear all about the magic of Seashells vs. Ferns! Listen as actor and podcaster Michael Stevens sings his praise for seashells while comedian and composer Justin LoBasso fawns over ferns. Who will be crowned the Smash Boo…

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Analog vs. Digital 1:40

1y ago1:40

1:40

Screens are amazing tools. We use them to watch shows, send messages, get directions, and more! But they’re also good at distracting us and can get in the way of having fun IRL! So this August, we’re launching an initiative called ANALOG AUGUST. It’s a challenge to step away from your screens and spend more time device-free! In honor of the cause, …

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Donuts vs. Bagels: a circular debate 32:46

1y ago32:46

32:46

Today’s debate features two delicious and delectable delicacies. It’s Donuts vs. Bagels! Listen as comedian Comrade Tripp dishes on donuts while actor and animator Brant Miller boasts the beauty of bagels. Who will be crowned the tastiest treat? Head on over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who YOU think won! Also… do you have your Smarty Pass …

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Smash TUNE Best 1:44

1y ago1:44

1:44

Everybody loves a good theme song! And thanks to Molly’s new game, producers Anna Goldfield and Anna Weggel will be challenged to come up with theme songs for some of our proposed new shows! So grab your smarty passes to hear the brand new game, Smash TUNE Best!By American Public Media

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Elevator Hostage 1:42

1y ago1:42

1:42

Uh oh, Molly is late to a Smash Boom Best taping of Elevators vs. Escalators! But things get worse when she runs into the all-knowing elevator at Brains On HQ, who demands she play a special sneak attack! Will Molly make it to the taping on time?By American Public Media

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Pegasus vs. Centaur: a mythological debate 37:29

1+ y ago37:29

37:29

Today’s legendary debate features two mighty, mythological horses. It’s Pegasus vs. Centaur! In a never-before-seen matchup between father and daughter, we’ve got Greeking Out creator and host Kenny Curtis here to defend Centaurs and Greeking Out writer Jillian Hughes ready to fight for the Pegasus. Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on …

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. My Little Pony: a friendly debate 37:05

1+ y ago37:05

37:05

Today’s debate is a friendly debate between two groups of special besties. It’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. My Little Pony! Putting on the bandana for team Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is actor and improviser Alsa Bruno, while playwright and performer Heather Meyer is ready to sparkle for team My Little Pony. Which buddy bunch will be crowned …

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Smarty Pass Sneak Peek: Sanden vs. a Velociraptor 1:42

1+ y ago1:42

1:42

How many times have you asked yourself: which is better, Sanden or a Velociraptor? On the one hand, Velociraptors hunt in packs, but on the other hand, Sanden Totten is funny. Sanden has great hair, but Velociraptors have been featured in several movies. It’s impossible to decide. Well, grab your Smarty Pass because with the help of a fun game we’l…

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Stripes vs. Polka Dots: a stylish debate 33:50

1+ y ago33:50

33:50

Today’s debate is a charming challenge between two patterned phenoms. It’s Stripes vs. Polka Dots! Voice actor and podcaster Merk Nguyen is ready to straighten the record for team Stripes, and actor, playwright and improviser Shanan Custer is ready to round out the story for team Polka Dots! Who will be crowned the Smash Boom Best? Head on over to …