SmartLess Presents ClueLess Episode 107: Tone Note (w/ Scotty Icenogle) Release Date: December 5, 2024

Introduction

In Episode 107 of SmartLess Presents ClueLess, host Elliott Kalan welcomes the ever-charming Sean Hayes, who surprises listeners by bringing along his husband, Scotty Icenogle, for the first time. This episode delves into the engaging puzzle game "Tone Note," where the trio challenges each other's wits through a series of anagram-based brainteasers.

Notable Quote:

Elliott Kalan [01:09]: "Hello, podcast friends, and welcome to this episode of SmartLess Presents Clueless, the only puzzle podcast that delivers the complete USDA recommended amount of Sean Hayes."

Welcome and Setup

Elliott sets a playful tone by introducing the dynamic between Sean and Scotty, highlighting Sean's growing affinity for the show's puzzles.

Notable Quotes:

Sean Hayes [01:28]: "I have to tell you, the more we play and the more episodes we do, I'm getting it. Like, my game brain part is turning on and I'm getting it more." [01:55]

Scotty Icenogle [02:08]: "Yep, let's see. Let's set him up only to disappoint."

Elliott explains the premise of the main game, "Tone Note," an anagram challenge where clues lead to two-word phrases with each word being an anagram of the other.

Main Puzzle: Tone Note

How It Works

Elliott introduces the rules of "Tone Note," emphasizing the importance of noting the first two letters of each correct answer to uncover a hidden theme—the game's "mega crew."

Notable Quote:

Elliott Kalan [05:58]: "That's fine. In addition to this main game, pay attention to the first two letters of each correct response. You might even want to write them down, because if you do, you may spot a theme in the first two letters of each response that I'll ask you about at the end of the game."

Clues and Solutions

1. Clue: A canine deity
   Solution: "Dog God"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [06:26]: "The first clue is a canine deity."
   Sean Hayes [06:07]: "A God dog."

2. Clue: Prize filled cabinet compartment
   Solution: "Reward Drawer"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [06:47]: "Prize filled cabinet compartment."
   Sean Hayes [07:32]: "Reward Drawer."

3. Clue: Rocket propelled weapon comparisons
   Solution: "Missile Simile"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [07:50]: "Number three, rocket propelled weapon is like comparisons."
   Sean Hayes [08:04]: "Missile simile."

4. Clue: Three Greek sisters of destiny having a big meal
   Solution: "Fates Feast"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [08:21]: "Three Greek sisters of destiny having a big meal."
   Sean Hayes [09:01]: "Fates Feast."

5. Clue: Serious, dignified citruses
   Solution: "Solemn Lemons"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [09:31]: "Serious, dignified citruses."
   Sean Hayes [09:50]: "Solemn."

6. Clue: A sheep soothing salve
   Solution: "Lamb Balm"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [10:03]: "A salve for soothing sheep."
   Sean Hayes [10:22]: "Lamb Balm."

7. Clue: A detergent pod eating plan
   Solution: "Tide Diet"
   Quote:

   Elliott Kalan [10:43]: "A detergent pod eating plan."
   Sean Hayes [11:00]: "Diet."
   Scotty Icenogle [11:03]: "Tide Diet."

Throughout the game, the camaraderie and friendly competition between Sean and Scotty add a lively atmosphere. Elliott guides them with hints when necessary, ensuring the game remains both challenging and entertaining.

Notable Interaction:

Sean Hayes [06:33]: "Are we playing against each other or with each other?"
Elliott Kalan [06:37]: "No, you are playing with each other. You are collaborating."

Mega Crew Reveal

After solving all the clues, Elliott prompts Sean and Scotty to identify the theme based on the first two letters of each answer: "Dog God, Reward Drawer, Missile Simile, Fates Feast, Solemn Lemons, Lamb Balm, Tide Diet." The initials spell out "Do Re Mi Fa Sol La Ti," the solfège syllables representing musical notes.

Notable Quotes:

Elliott Kalan [11:22]: "Now, were you able to keep track of the theme in the first two letters of each answer? It spells out the scale: Do Re Mi Fa Sol La Ti."
Sean Hayes [12:22]: "Do, re, mi, fa, so Lati do you?"

This revelation ties the puzzle game to a musical theme, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for the listeners who tracked along.

Cliffhanger Puzzle

Elliott concludes the episode with an "odd one out" puzzle to keep listeners engaged until the next episode. The puzzle list includes: a pie, an axe, a picnic basket, a broom, and a tail.

Quiz Prompt:

Elliott Kalan [13:11]: "Listen to the following list of objects and figure out which one doesn't belong and why. A pie, an axe, a picnic basket, a broom and a tail. Which of these items does not belong with the others and why not?"

Sean and Scotty humorously express their uncertainty, leaving listeners to ponder the solution until they return next week.

Notable Quote:

Elliott Kalan [13:57]: "This has been Clueless and I'm Eliot Kalin giving you official permission not to do any more thinking this week."

Conclusion

Elliott wraps up the episode with gratitude towards the audience, teasing the next episode's puzzle, and reiterating the fun and challenges presented by ClueLess. The interplay between Elliott, Sean, and Scotty provides both humor and insightful moments, making the episode both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.

Notable Quote:

Elliott Kalan [14:11]: "Clueless."

Final Thoughts

Episode 107 of SmartLess Presents ClueLess offers a delightful blend of puzzles, humor, and engaging interactions between the hosts and guests. "Tone Note" serves as a testament to the show's ability to entertain while challenging the minds of its listeners. With Scotty Icenogle's first appearance adding fresh dynamics, this episode stands out as a memorable installment in the series.