SmartLess Presents ClueLess: Episode 146 - Top Tension (w/ Scotty Icenogle and Carrie Aizley)
Release Date: April 21, 2025
Introduction to the Episode
In Episode 146 of SmartLess Presents ClueLess, host Elliott Kalan teams up once again with his seasoned contestant, Sean Hayes, along with Sean's husband, Scotty Icenogle, and their close friend, Carrie Aizley. This episode, titled "Top Tension," delves into the nostalgic realm of 1920s America by challenging the trio with puzzles centered around popular baby names from that era.
Recap of the Last Puzzle
The episode opens with a brief recap of the previous episode's cliffhanger puzzle. Elliott introduces a multiple-choice riddle where Sean Hayes was to choose the safest exit from a labyrinth:
- Exit A: Leads to an inferno.
- Exit B: Leads to an assassin.
- Exit C: Leads to a lion that hasn't eaten in three years.
Sean, along with Scotty and Carrie, analyze the options, humorously deducing that a lion who hasn't eaten in three years would be dead, making Exit C the logical choice. Sean successfully navigates the puzzle, earning applause from Scotty and Carrie.
Sean Hayes [03:03]: "So Sean, if you're in that situation, just step over that lion skeleton to freedom."
Main Puzzle: Top Tension – Top 10 Most Popular Baby Girl Names in 1925
The heart of the episode revolves around the "Top Tension" game, a competitive list knowledge challenge. The rules are straightforward:
- Objective: Guess the top 10 most popular baby girl names in America from 1925.
- Scoring: Start with three points. Correct guesses earn a point, while incorrect ones deduct a point.
- Elimination: Players are out of the round if they lose all points.
- Victory: The player with the most points at the end wins the round.
Carrie kicks off the game with the name "Esther," which is incorrect, leading to a loss of a point. Scotty follows with "Catherine," also missing the mark. Sean steps up with "Mary," correctly identifying it as the number one name on the list.
Sean Hayes [07:55]: "Yeah. Wow, Scott, I'm surprised you didn't say that. That's Scotty's mom's name and my mom's name."
As the game progresses, Carrie and Scotty attempt various traditional names like "Sarah," "Elizabeth," and "Jennifer," but many miss the top 10 list. Sean maintains his lead, ultimately securing victory as both Carrie and Scotty are eliminated.
Carrie Aisley [06:23]: "That's a good one."
List of Top 10 Most Popular Baby Girl Names in 1925:
- Mary
- Dorothy
- Betty
- Helen
- Margaret
- Ruth
- Virginia
- Doris
- Mildred
- Elizabeth
Mega Clue: Top Tension – Top 10 Most Popular Baby Boy Names in 1925
Following the main game, the episode transitions to the "Mega Clue," an intensified version of "Top Tension." This round focuses on the top 10 most popular baby boy names in America from 1925, with the twist of no penalties for incorrect guesses and a time limit of 30 seconds.
Sean leads the charge, correctly naming "George," "John," "Robert," and "James." Scotty and Carrie also contribute, identifying names like "Jonathan," "Michael," and "Charles." Despite the rapid-fire nature, Sean emerges victorious once again with the highest score.
Scotty Eisenachel [13:26]: "James."
List of Top 10 Most Popular Baby Boy Names in 1925:
- Robert
- John
- William
- James
- Charles
- George
- Joseph
- Richard
- Edward
- Donald
Will Arnett [14:18]: "Henry. And that's."
Sean humorously observes the traditional influence on naming conventions, noting the prevalence of English kings' names.
Sean Hayes [14:31]: "Yes, totally."
Cliffhanger Puzzle: Missing Element in Movie Titles
As the episode draws to a close, Elliott presents the cliffhanger puzzle for the next episode:
Elliott Kalan [15:38]: "All of these titles are missing one thing. What is it?"
Titles: Carly, All That Got Mail, Are the World, and Dupree.
Sean quickly figures out the missing element but holds onto the answer, teasing listeners to tune in next time for the reveal.
Will Arnett [15:53]: "And Dupree. What is missing from these titles?"
Closing Remarks
Elliott wraps up the episode by thanking Scotty, Carrie, and Sean for their participation. He also encourages listeners to engage with the podcast by following, subscribing, and leaving reviews, ensuring they stay tuned for more intriguing puzzles in future episodes.
Elliott Kalan [16:12]: "Until next episode, this has been SmartLess presents Clueless."
Notable Quotes:
- Sean Hayes [03:03]: "So Sean, if you're in that situation, just step over that lion skeleton to freedom."
- Carrie Aisley [06:23]: "That's a good one."
- Sean Hayes [07:55]: "Yeah. Wow, Scott, I'm surprised you didn't say that. That's Scotty's mom's name and my mom's name."
- Sean Hayes [14:31]: "Yes, totally."
Conclusion
Episode 146 of SmartLess Presents ClueLess offers a delightful blend of nostalgia, humor, and friendly competition. Through engaging discussions and spirited gameplay, Elliott, Sean, Scotty, and Carrie navigate the intricacies of 1920s baby names, providing listeners with both entertainment and a touch of historical insight. The episode sets the stage for future challenges, leaving audiences eager for the next installment.