Bluey vs. Elmo: a lovable debate

Summary

Smash Boom Best: Bluey vs. Elmo – A Lovable Debate

Episode Release Date: November 28, 2024
Host: Molly Bloom
Judge: Emma from Austin, Texas
Debaters: Katherine Van Arendonk (Team Bluey) and Margaret H. Willison (Team Elmo)

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Introduction

In this engaging episode of Smash Boom Best, the beloved Australian animated character Bluey faces off against the iconic Sesame Street monster Elmo. Hosted by Molly Bloom and judged by Emma, a passionate listener with a keen interest in pets and adventure, the debate promises to entertain both kids and families.

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Teams and Participants

• Team Bluey: Represented by Katherine Van Arendonk, author of the forthcoming book The Bluey Years. Katherine passionately advocates for Bluey's universal appeal and the show's ability to resonate with both children and adults.

• Team Elmo: Represented by Margaret H. Willison, a culture writer and podcaster. Margaret highlights Elmo's enduring popularity and educational impact on children.

Notable Quote:

"Blue heeler. Heart stealer. Go blue." — Katherine Van Arendonk [00:38]

"Elmo is red and losers are blue." — Margaret H. Willison [00:47]

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Round 1: Declaration of Greatness

Team Bluey makes a heartfelt case, emphasizing Bluey's realistic portrayal of childhood. Katherine underscores how Bluey learns through play, making the show relatable and educational without being preachy. She highlights Bluey's impact on family dynamics and her voice being voiced by real children, which adds authenticity.

Notable Quote:

"Bluey and all of the kid characters in her world are voiced by real kids. When we hear them, we hear real childhood." — Katherine Van Arendonk [06:15]

In contrast, Team Elmo presents Elmo as a lovable and educational figure. Margaret showcases Elmo's busy schedule filled with teaching, playing, and engaging with fans. She points out Elmo's superior communication skills and his role in fostering language development in children.

Notable Quote:

"Elmo is an especially gifted communicator. His way of speaking is sometimes called mother ease, making it easier for very young kids to understand and copy." — Margaret H. Willison [12:51]

Judge Emma's Reaction: Emma expresses her fascination with Bluey's authentic voices and the impressive viewership data.

Notable Quote:

"I didn't know kids voiced Bluey characters. I thought that was very interesting and how we all bring people together." — Emma [08:43]

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Round 2: Rebuttals

Team Bluey counters Elmo's legacy by questioning Elmo's current relevance and recent activities, pointing out that Bluey is currently dominating the market with widespread merchandise and popularity.

Notable Quote:

"Elmo is also no longer the character that speaks to the moment. That's not Elmo's fault. Elmo was not designed for this current media landscape." — Katherine Van Arendonk [16:07]

Team Elmo retorts by emphasizing Elmo’s longstanding influence and continued presence in educational settings, despite some outdated references in Katherine’s arguments.

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Round 3: Micro Round – Life Coach Speeches

Each team delivers a motivational speech inspired by their character.

Team Elmo uses a creative narrative featuring Frankenstein's monster, illustrating how Elmo's teachings transformed him from an outcast to a beloved mascot through self-love and kindness.

Notable Quote:

"Thanks to Elmo, I am now proud to call myself a monstar." — Margaret H. Willison [23:41]

Team Bluey shares insights from real children about the life lessons learned from Bluey. Topics include the importance of rules, overcoming fears, appreciating family time, and embracing individuality.

Notable Quote:

"It's alright if your car is messy and the backseat is full of crumbs. Your kids don't care. All they care about is spending time with you." — Katherine Van Arendonk [25:53]

Judge Emma's Feedback: Emma appreciates the blend of self-love in Elmo's approach and the practical life lessons from Bluey.

Notable Quote:

"I loved that you can have self love and love yourself like you're a Monster. And I loved hearing all the kids experiences about how they have learned from Bluey." — Emma [26:02]

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Round 4: Sneak Attack – Listing Characters

In a rapid-fire challenge, debaters list as many characters from their respective universes as possible. Katherine's team showcases Bluey’s diverse family and friends, while Margaret's team includes a wide array of Sesame Street characters.

Notable Quote:

"Big Bird, Bandit. Oscar the Grouch." — Margaret H. Willison [27:17]

Despite both teams' efforts, Margaret concedes the round to Katherine, acknowledging the depth of Sesame Street's character roster.

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Final Round: The Final Six

Each team sums up their character in six words.

• Team Elmo: "Elmo is love. Love conquers all." — Margaret H. Willison [28:52]
• Team Bluey: "Elmo loves you. Kids love Bluey." — Katherine Van Arendonk [29:05]

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Conclusion and Winner

After tallying the points, Emma declares Bluey as the winner of the debate. Both teams express mutual respect and gratitude for each other's contributions.

Notable Quote:

"Emma crowned Bluey the Smashboom. But what about you?" — Molly Bloom [30:42]

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Special Segments

State of Debate: Hosted by Taylor Lincoln and Todd Douglas, this segment educates listeners on logical fallacies. In this episode, they explore the loaded question fallacy, using a playful example involving party activities to illustrate the concept.

Shout-Outs and Acknowledgments: Both debaters express heartfelt thanks to their friends, families, and supporters, highlighting the community aspect of the Smash Boom Best experience.

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Listener Engagement

Listeners are encouraged to participate by submitting debate ideas and voting for their favorite team at smashboom.org. A listener-submitted debate topic, Nikes vs. Adidas, is teased at the episode's end, with minor input from a young listener named Milo.

Notable Quote:

"If you're between the ages of 13 and 18 and you'd like to be a judge, or if you're any age and you have an idea for a knockdown drag out debate, head to smashboom.org contact and drop us a line." — Molly Bloom [34:01]

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Production Credits

Produced by Molly Bloom, Anna Weigel, and Aron Woldeselassi, with engineering by Jess Berg, Jacob Rocky, and Renee Chavez. The team extends gratitude to the Brains on Universe network and all contributors who make the show a delightful experience for listeners.

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Final Thoughts

This episode of Smash Boom Best successfully highlights the unique strengths of both Bluey and Elmo, ultimately celebrating the values of friendship, education, and family. Bluey's victory reflects the character's timely relevance and universal appeal, while Elmo's enduring legacy continues to inspire and educate young minds.

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For more episodes and to participate in future debates, visit smashboom.org. Stay tuned for the next season starting February 6th, and explore the Brains on Universe for a variety of family-friendly podcasts.

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Notable Final Quote:

"Well, that is it for today's debate battle. Emma crowned Bluey the Smashboom. But what about you?" — Molly Bloom [30:42]

Transcript

[Molly Bloom]

From the brains behind Brains on, it's.

[Emma]

Smash Boom Best, the show for people with big opinions.

[Molly Bloom]

Hi, I'm Molly Bloom, and this is Smash Boom Best, the show where we take two things, smash them together, and ask you to decide which one is best. 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 versus Elmo. For Team Bluey, we've got the writer of the forthcoming book the Bluey Years, It's Katherine Van Arendonk.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Blue heeler. Heart stealer. Go blue.

[Molly Bloom]

And representing team Elmo, it's culture writer and podcaster Margaret H. Willison.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Elmo is red and losers are blue.

[Molly Bloom]

And here to judge it all is Emma from Austin, Texas. Emma has three cats and a collection of freshwater fish, is an avid listener of Smashboom. Best with her two little brothers. Hi, guys. And has a passion for making her own earrings. Hi, Emma.

[Emma]

Hi.

How are you today?

[Molly Bloom]

I am great. I'm so happy that you're here. So, Emma, you clearly love pets. Last time we talked to you, you were hoping to procure a pet python. Did your dream come true?

[Emma]

Sadly, it did not. That is still in the making. But I have not gotten one yet.

[Molly Bloom]

It's only a matter of time, I'm sure. Can you please tell me the names of your cats?

[Emma]

I have Rex and Cinnamon and Flitwick.

[Molly Bloom]

Aw. Do you have a favorite, or do they all have their own spot in your heart?

[Emma]

They all are super special, but I think if I had to pick a favorite, I would go with my cat Flitwick because he reminds me of Harry Potter Fair.

[Molly Bloom]

And I know that you are a clarinet player in a very good marching band. Can you tell us a little bit about what it's like to be like in a competitive marching band?

[Emma]

It is pretty exciting. We get to go to all these different competitions throughout the years, and we actually just recently went to our first competition of this season, and we placed sixth at the most competitive marching contest in the U.S. that is so cool.

[Margaret H. Willison]

That's very cool.

[Emma]

Yes.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, so do you have any advice for our debaters today?

[Emma]

I love puns, and always try your best to have fun.

[Molly Bloom]

Will Emma side with Catherine or Margaret? Only time will tell. But first, here are the rules of the game. Every debate consists of four. The declaration of greatness, the micro round, the sneak attack, and the final six. After each round, our judge, Emma will award points to the team that impresses her the most. But she'll keep her Decisions top secret until the end of the debate. Listeners, we want you to judge too. Mark down your points as you listen. At the end of the show, head to our website, smashboom.org and vote for whichever team you think won. All right, Katherine, Margaret and Emma, are you ready?

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Oh, yes, absolutely. Let's go. Let's do it.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I can't wait to hear everyone's arguments.

[Molly Bloom]

Then it's time for the declaration of greatness. In this round, our debaters will present a well crafted, immersive argument in favor of their side. Then they'll each have 30 seconds to rebut their opponent's statements. We flipped a coin. And Katherine, you're up for first. Tell us what makes Bluey totally paw esome.

[Unknown]

Hey, friends, and welcome to this year's Disney D23 Expo. This mega convention happens once a year in California and it's where all the new movies and games are announced. Plus we get to celebrate the biggest and most exciting characters in the world.

[Molly Bloom]

Woo.

[Unknown]

And there are thousands of fans here waiting to meet their favorite characters. Oh, the energy is just incredible. Lets go. Oh, over here we've got an Avatar booth.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Whoa.

[Unknown]

It looks just like the movie.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Yeah.

[Unknown]

And over here we've got Baby Yoda.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Hi.

[Unknown]

Aw, those ears. So cute. Wait, hang on. Who's that there with the huge crowd lined up around them? Oh, my biscuits. It's Bluey and Bingo. We can meet them in person. Oh, and I get to see inside their house. Bluey, Bingo. Over here. Yeah. I'm your biggest fan. Oh, this is the best Expo ever.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

That was a dramatic reenactment of something that actually happened at this year's Disney D23 Expo. At a convention chock full of exciting attractions and big stars, huge crowds lined up for a chance to meet their two favorite pups, the boisterous blue heeler dog Bluey and her little sister, Bingo. The hit Australian animated show takes place in a world full of adorable dogs. In each episode, Bluey and her family play games and do normal family stuff in a way that reminds us that regular life can also be an adventure. Since it premiered in 2018, Bluey has soared to worldwide acclaim. But why is this little dog so universally adored? First, unlike a certain high pitched red Muppet I could name, Bluey sounds, acts and plays like a real kid. She's funny, she's happy, she can be sad, she misbehaves, she gets frustrated, she makes up silly games. She loves her parents and her friends. Her life is complex and multifaceted, just like all of us. And her voice matches her personality. Bluey and all of the kid characters in her world are voiced by real kids. When we hear them, we hear real childhood. Just listen to me saying a sentence. Hello, my name is Blueberries and I hate to eat blueberries. Now here's my seven year old.

[Emma]

Hello, my name is Blueberries and I hate to eat blueberries. Blah, blah, blah.

[Molly Bloom]

Bloop.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

So much more fun, right? And like a kid, Bluey learns by playing. It's how real kids learn. And it's a great way to teach viewers at home. Think about how annoying it is when someone just tells you a lesson.

[Unknown]

And that's why it's so important to share.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Compare that with how much more fun and meaningful it is when you learn something through experience.

[Margaret H. Willison]

And then I'll meet Mr. Argle Bargle. And then I can also be Captain Peanut Shorts. But I can also be Montessor Mustard Seed.

[Molly Bloom]

But I just need to hold them.

[Margaret H. Willison]

All together while also grabbing them.

[Molly Bloom]

Maybe if you'd let somebody else play with Mr. Argle Bargle, the imaginary continent would not be in such a risk of terrible destruction from your own elbows.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Maybe the coolest thing about Bluey is, is that she brings families together. Most kid TV characters have a limited age range, but adults, especially parents, legitimately love Bluey. Viewing data from the last year shows that Bluey is one of the most watched TV shows in the world. And it's the most watched show in the entire United States. Not just for kids TV. For everything over 35 billion minutes. I am a parent and I like Bluey. I like it so much that I decided to write an entire book about her for grown ups. A book for grownups. It's because the show is just as much about Bluey's parents, Bandit and Chilli. Bluey doesn't just show kids how to be great kids. It's a show about how families love each other. Reminding parents that their kids are people. Showing kids that their parents are people too. It's a show about humanity. Even though they're they're dogs. No other kid's character can so easily speak to 5 year olds, 10 year olds and parents. Bluey acts like a real kid. She learns by playing. And she understands the most important lesson. A kids TV character shouldn't just be for kids. She should be for everyone.

[Molly Bloom]

Well, as the heeler family says. Hooray. That was delightful. Emma, what stood out to you about Catherine's declaration of greatness?

[Emma]

I didn't know kids voiced Bluey characters. I thought that was very interesting and how we all bring people together. And it is the most watched show in the US I didn't know that for real life.

[Molly Bloom]

All right, Margaret, it's time for your rebuttal. Tell us why Bluey should be renamed Booie. You've got 30 seconds and your time starts now.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I'm so thrilled to hear that Bluey was such a hit at D23. And when she's maintained that level of popularity for close to 45 years, you know, she can come and talk to Elmo and maybe get a little bit of advice about how to manage that degree of fame and popularity. I love Katherine had to say about how Bluey brings families together. And I do think that's really special. But I also think there's something incredibly special about characters who exist, particularly for toddlers, particularly for small, small children and time.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Well, I mean, I understand that Elmo has been around for 45 years. I mean, my question is, like, what has Elmo done for us lately? You know, I think I'm in Target a lot. I'm seeing a lot of Bluey toys out there. I'm seeing a lot of Bluey books. I'm telling you, the el Diapers, they're not going as fast as they used to.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I guess Elmo was just too busy being a announcer and commentator at the Olympics. When you were at Target, lost Catherine.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Oh, yeah. How's Elmo's recent late night show going? They canceled it after two seasons, didn't they?

[Margaret H. Willison]

Look, Rocko the Rock undermined that show, and it is not Elmo's fault.

[Molly Bloom]

All right, Margaret, it is your turn. Tell us what makes Elmo so tickle tastic.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I think the best way to start a debate about Elmo is by hearing from the monster himself. Which is why I've come to Sesame Street.

[Unknown]

Who are you? Wait, it doesn't matter. Mr. Elmo is far too busy meeting with fans today.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Oh, I'm not a fan. Well, I mean, I am, but. Wait, who are you?

[Unknown]

I'm Vicky Jive, Mr. Elmo's agent. Elmo is so busy teaching, playing, dancing, and learning that he simply doesn't have time for a meet and greet.

[Margaret H. Willison]

It'll only take a second.

[Unknown]

That's the thing. He doesn't have a second. From 7 to 11, he's taping Sesame Street. From 11 to 1, he's testifying before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services and Education. One to two, he's having a working lunch with Dorothy the Goldfish and Cookie Monster. Two to four, he's recording his cameos for Good Morning America. Four to six, he's posing for a new toy that's embargoed, by the way. Six, seven, he has a dinner meeting with Grover and Zendaya. And then by 8, he's tucked into bed with a book about himself.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Why is Elmo's schedule so tight?

[Unknown]

Because he's that lovable. But if it helps you, I'm, you know, willing to let you do an Elmo impression when he's not around like this. Yeah, that's fine. I mean, it's terrible, but it'll do. Anyway, thanks for coming by and thanks even more for leaving.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Wow, Elmo is really popular. If you didn't already know, he's a darling three and a half year old red monster who's been our friend since he first came on the scene in 1980. There are so many special things about Elmo. While other TV characters want to tell you what to do or what to think, he wants to show you new things and have fun. That's why Elmo makes such a good friend. And you don't have to take my word for it. Just ask Big Bird or the Count or Rosita. All of them will tell you that with Elmo by your side, you can learn anything.

[Emma]

Why are fractions so hard?

[Margaret H. Willison]

You can do it. You just have to take it step by step.

[Emma]

Divide and conquer. Thanks, Elmo. And since I have you, why is quantum mechanics so hard?

[Margaret H. Willison]

Because it explains the strange behavior of subatomic particles.

[Emma]

Thanks, Elmo. I'm going to ace this test for sure.

[Margaret H. Willison]

See, Elmo is one of the best teachers on television. I'm not just saying that either. In one study, researchers found that Elmo did a better job teaching kids than other television characters. And there's a special reason. Elmo is an especially gifted communicator. His way of speaking is sometimes called mother ease. That's when you talk in a high pitched voice with elongated sounds. It makes it easier for very young kids to understand and copy, which helps them get better at language. And because of Elmo's excellent communication skills, being his friend is really easy. Which is why he has some impressive friends like Michelle Obama, Jimmy Fallon, Yo Yo Ma, Beyonce, and so many more. Plus, he's in over 100 books, several movies, and of course, toys. Elmo is the inspiration for one of the most popular toys of all time, Tikomi Elmo. Back in 1996, Tikomi Elmo was such a sensation that it made millions. It increased its company's sales numbers from 70 million to $350 million per year. That would be about $700 million in today's money. But besides all the great toys, games, and celebrity endorsements, there's a deeper reason why people are so into Elmo. He shows us how to love. He's kind to everyone. He's not shy about showing people when he likes them. And he's a kid himself. He's excited, curious, and filled with wonderment about the world around him. He makes everyone feel special, no matter who you are. Hi, Margaret. Elmo, your agent told me you were too busy to say hello. Ha ha. Elmo, never too busy for a friend. I love you, Elmo. I love how much you teach, how much you care, and how much you love others. And Elmo loves you too, because you're really special.

[Molly Bloom]

Haha. Aw. Elmo showering with education and love. So beautiful. All right, Emma, what stood out to you about Margaret's declaration of greatness?

[Emma]

I like how you brought up how you're able to learn new things as a kid. And he does it so much better with the mother. E's speaking.

[Molly Bloom]

All right, Catherine, it is time for your rebuttal. Tell us why Elmo is a no. No. You've got 30 seconds. And go, go.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Okay, so this study was done in 2015 before Bluey was out, so you can't even use that as a comparison. The congressional testimony that Elmo was so busy with was in 2010, so that's been a while since it's happened. Tickle Me Elmo, 1996. All of what I'm saying is that Elmo is a classic, sure, But Elmo is also no longer the character that speaks to the moment. That's not Elmo's fault. Elmo was not designed for this current media landscape, but it is so, so telling that Bluey is now everywhere because.

[Molly Bloom]

It speaks much more of Bluey's time.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

To the moment of parenting right now.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I mean, it's great that Bluey speaks to parents, and it's clear that Bluey speaks to 7 and 10 year olds. But sometimes 2 to 3 year olds need someone too, and that someone is usually still Elmo.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Yeah, it's a lovely, important, beautiful, short period of our lives.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, Emma, it's time to award some points. You've heard what Margaret and Katherine have to say, so you're gonna give one point to the declaration of greatness you liked best and one point to the rebuttal that won you over. You get to decide what makes a winning argument. Did one team's jokes make you giggle. Was another team's logic impeccable. Award your points, but don't tell us who they're going to. Have you made your decision?

[Emma]

I have.

[Molly Bloom]

Excellent. Margaret and Catherine, how are you two feeling so far?

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Feeling great. Feeling powerful.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I'm feeling great and I'm feeling happy for Emma because I feel like there's no wrong answer here. Yeah, there's a righter answer. There's no wrong answer.

[Molly Bloom]

Well, it is time for a quick break. Play a quick round of keepy uppy and do a happy hack happy dance dance.

[Emma]

And we'll be right back with more Smash Boom Best.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

You're listening to State of Debate. Home to raging rhetoric and awe inspiring argumentation.

[Taylor Lincoln]

I'm Taylor Lincoln.

[Todd Douglas]

And I'm Todd Douglas. And a little birdie told me it's someone's birthday. Happy birthday, Taylor.

[Taylor Lincoln]

Aw, shucks, you remembered.

[Todd Douglas]

Of course. Here, I got you this.

[Taylor Lincoln]

Ooh, I wonder what it is.

[Emma]

Whoa.

[Taylor Lincoln]

It's a logical fallacy. That's a poorly made argument.

[Todd Douglas]

Yep. It's not just any logical fallacy. This one is the loaded question fallacy.

[Taylor Lincoln]

Ooh, I needed that one for my collection. A loaded question is when you make an assumption about something and then ask a question based on that assumption.

[Todd Douglas]

Yeah, it's like you loaded an assumption into your question. This one comes with an example. Take a listen.

[Unknown]

Okay, Teddy, last thing to plan for the party. What activity should we have for the kids?

[Margaret H. Willison]

Oh, that's an easy one, Mervyn.

[Molly Bloom]

Definitely a bounce house.

[Todd Douglas]

They're so fun.

[Unknown]

What? No, we should get a face painter. Huh?

[Molly Bloom]

Yeah, but that involves waiting in line.

[Margaret H. Willison]

And it can be messy.

[Unknown]

Well, why do you support kids wrestling and throwing each other around in that bounce house? That's much more trouble.

[Molly Bloom]

Wait, I don't support that.

[Unknown]

So you don't think we should get a bounce house then?

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Hmm?

[Molly Bloom]

What? I meant yes.

[Unknown]

So, Teddy, you are okay with kids roughhousing in an inflatable rubber room?

[Molly Bloom]

I. I mean, wait.

[Todd Douglas]

Party foul. Mervin is using a loaded question here. Big time.

[Taylor Lincoln]

Yeah, Mervin is making an assumption that kids will fight and wrestle in a bounce house, but we don't know that at all. That assumption could be wrong.

[Todd Douglas]

Yeah, most kids just want to bounce. Let em bounce.

[Molly Bloom]

Wow.

[Taylor Lincoln]

What a horrible, no good, terrible fallacy.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I love it.

[Taylor Lincoln]

Thank you, Todd.

[Todd Douglas]

You're welcome, pal.

[Taylor Lincoln]

We'll see you next time on State of Debate.

[Molly Bloom]

Brains on Universe is a family of podcasts for kids and their adults. Since you're a fan of Smash Boom Best we know you'll love the other shows in our universe. Come on, let's explore.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Smashboom Best. I'm their biggest fan. I also love Brains On, a fun science podcast for kids. Listen, I will play you Brains On. You will love.

[Molly Bloom]

Today, we're going to turn our attention to bloodsuckers that do exist.

[Emma]

Some of them you've probably heard of, like mosquitoes, ticks, and lice.

[Molly Bloom]

But others might surprise you. Like, did you know that some birds drink blood?

[Unknown]

Zorp.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Where did the signal go? Must find Brains On. Now.

[Molly Bloom]

Listen to Brains on. Wherever you get your podcasts. Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom. Smash.

[Unknown]

Boom.

[Molly Bloom]

You're listening to smashboom Best. I'm your host, Molly Bloom.

[Emma]

And I'm your judge, Emma.

[Molly Bloom]

And we love getting debate suggestions from our listeners. Take a listen to this athletic debate idea from Milo.

[Emma]

My name is Milo, and I'm from Brooklyn, New York, usa. My debate idea is Nikes versus Adidas.

[Molly Bloom]

Shoot.

[Emma]

How will I. Shoes.

[Molly Bloom]

We'll check back in at the end of this episode to see which side Milo thinks should win.

[Emma]

And now it's back to our debate, Bluey versus Elmo.

[Molly Bloom]

That's right. And it's time for round two, the Micro round. For the micro round challenge, each team has prepared a creative response to a prompt they received in advance. For Katherine and Margaret, the prompt was Life Coach, where they had to dream up a motivational speech inspired by their side. Katherine went first last time. So, Margaret, you're up. Give us some Elmo inspired motivation.

[Unknown]

Hello, smashboom besties. I'm the creature known as Frankenstein. Or worse, Frankenstein's monster. Monster. It's a name you get called a lot when you're a brute hastily assembled from other people's body parts by a mad scientist. But no matter how often I heard it, I never got used to it. Just because my heart was snatched from someone else's chest doesn't mean it can't break, you know. I would rage and rampage, becoming the monster everyone thought I was. That is, until I found Life Coach Elmo's groundbreaking video course, Love youe Monster. Love the World. Elmo, a fellow monster, showed me that I did not have to be what everyone expected. I could imagine something better. Through Elmo's sweetness and warmth, I learned that if I greeted the world with curiosity and kindness, the world would learn to love me. And I could love myself with Love youe Monster. I began to look at my monstrous form in a whole new way. Was my massive Frankenstein body destined to wreak havoc upon townspeople's homes? Or was it perfect for giving group piggyback rides. Would villagers mind that my long arms were stolen property if I used them to clear out their gutters? If I applied my freakish strength to opening stubborn pickle jars instead of fracturing delicate bones, might people smile when they saw me coming? Rather than fleeing with life coach Elmo's teachings, I went from social outcast to beloved town mascot in a matter of weeks. Thanks to Elmo, I am now proud to call myself a monstar.

[Molly Bloom]

Beautiful Elmo helping monsters with their self love. All right, Katherine, now it is your turn. Teach us some life lessons, Bluey style.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Bluey is an incredible guide to life and I can prove it. Here are my very real kids talking about the things that they have learned while watching Bluey.

[Emma]

In Shadowlands. Bluey tells you that the rules are what make a game fun and also so much more satisfying to win. That's why it's really important to play by the rules. In sleepy time, Bingo is afraid of sleeping in her own bed. But she has a dream about outer space and her mom is her son. Her mom tells her, I'll always love you, even when I'm not right next to you. There's an episode called Butterflies and it's all about how it's not nice to leave a kid behind no matter what they can or can't do. The episode pool is about how sometimes you have to do boring things before you can do fun things. Because sometimes boring things are important. There's a really good episode called Camping and in that one mom talks about how we don't always know how long people we love will be in our lives, but we can be grateful for them while we have them. Bluey's dad teaches bingo and Bluey that ice cream tastes better when you earn it.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

And because Bluey's not just a show for kids, it's also great at giving advice for parents. Like remind your kids to pee before they leave for a car trip. In Bluey, this is called a tactical wee. Try not to compare your kids to other kids in their class. Parents just need to help kids be the best possible versions of themselves. And my personal favorite, it's alright if your car is messy and the backseat is full of crumbs. Your kids don't care. All they care about is spending time with you.

[Molly Bloom]

Aww. Bluey helping all of us be our own life coaches. So good. All right, Emma, what did you like about Catherine and Margaret's micro rounds?

[Emma]

I loved that you can have self love and love yourself like you're a Monster. And I loved hearing all the kids experiences about how they have learned from Bluey.

[Molly Bloom]

Both excellent micro rounds. But I am sorry to say, Emma, that only one of them can get a point.

[Emma]

Aw.

[Molly Bloom]

The criteria are totally subjective and totally up to you. It's time to award a point. But don't tell us who it's going to. Have you made your decision?

[Emma]

Yes.

[Molly Bloom]

Fantastic. Then it's time for our third round, the super stealthy sneak attack. This is our improvised round where debaters have to respond to a challenge on the spot. Today's sneak attack is called 3, 2, 1. List off. You and your opponent will go back and forth listing characters within your side's universe until one person runs out of names. Debaters, that make sense to you?

[Margaret H. Willison]

Yes, I understand. I understand.

[Molly Bloom]

All right, we're gonna start with Catherine, then Margaret. Then back and forth as long as you can go. So, Katherine, take it away.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

All right. Bluey.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Elmo.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Bingo.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Big Bird, Bandit. Oscar the Grouch.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Chilli, Snuffleuphagus. Snickers, Guy Smiley.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Leela the Count.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Lucky's dad, Kermit the Frog.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Okay, Lucky, I think Katherine has psyched me out and won successfully.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

But I didn't even get to Lucky's little brother.

[Margaret H. Willison]

No, I know.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Whose name is Chucky.

[Margaret H. Willison]

This is. I can. I was prepared for something so different. I brought my creative mind. I didn't bring my trivia mind. But this is really beautiful because Katherine and I have played trivia together, and usually she is the one who has this response.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

It's so true.

[Molly Bloom]

I always freak out.

[Margaret H. Willison]

And the scales were really tilted in my favor because Sesame street is such a deep bench. That's true.

[Molly Bloom]

So many good characters in both of these wonderful shows. And for those listening at home, Katherine and Margaret have been friends for 20 years, so they have a lot of experience playing games and doing trivia together.

[Margaret H. Willison]

That's true.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, Emma, it's time to award a point. You can award the point to the team that won, or you can award the point to the team that impressed you the most. Have you made your decision?

[Emma]

Yes, I have.

[Molly Bloom]

Wonderful. Then it's time for our final round.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

The final six.

[Molly Bloom]

In this round, each team will have just six words to sum up the glory of their side. Margaret, let's hear your six words for the enthusiastic Elmo.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Elmo is love. Love conquers all.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, very nice. All right, Catherine, it's your turn. Give us six words on why Bluey is best.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Elmo loves you. Kids love Bluey.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, very good. All right, Emma, it is time to award a final point for this final six. Have you made your decision?

[Emma]

I believe so.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, my goodness. Tally up those points. Are you ready to crown one team to smash Boom Best?

[Emma]

Yes, I am.

[Molly Bloom]

Drumroll, please. And the winner is.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Bluey.

[Unknown]

Yes.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Fair. As soon as I heard Katherine's kids voices, I knew I was toast.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

I know. I really. It was a low blow, but I had to do it.

[Margaret H. Willison]

And unfortunately, the biggest Elmo fan in my life right now is mostly preverbal. But I could have sent you a really compelling picture of my best friend's one year old holding her little Elmo doll like her life depends on it.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

That's Elmo for you. It's one year olds.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Well, I'm sorry that my brilliant children's character speaks more to pre and early verbal. No, it does put him at a disadvantage. But I hope that you love and acknowledge his work and how it shaped a world that made Bluey possible.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

It is. It's so, so important. Bluey would never have existed without a character like Elmo first, like Elmo is this radical, revolutionary figure for children's television. I'm deeply grateful to Elmo.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Good.

[Emma]

Elmo's the best.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I'm glad we all agree.

[Molly Bloom]

Well, that is it for today's debate battle. Emma crowned Bluey the Smashboom. But what about you?

[Emma]

Head over to smashboom.org and vote to tell us who you think won.

[Molly Bloom]

Smashboom Best is brought to you by Brains on and APM Studios. It's produced by me, Molly Bloom, Anna Weigel and Aron Woldeselassi. We had engineering help from Jess Berg, Jacob Rocky and Renee Chavez with sound design by Anna Wegel. Our editors are Shayla Farzan and Sandon Totten. And we had pretty help from the rest of the BrainZone Universe team. Rosie Dupont, Rachel Brees, Anna Goldfield, Nico Gonzalez Whistler, Ruby Guthrie, Lauren Humphert, Jess.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Miller, Joshua Ray, Mark Sanchez and Charlotte Traver.

[Molly Bloom]

Our executive producers, Beth Pearlman and the APM Studios executives in charge are Chandra Kavati and Joanne Griffith. Our announcer is Marley foyer worker Otto. And we want to give a special thanks to Austin Cross, Taylor Kaufman, Phoebe Bowers, Evelyn and T. Tatum. Katherine, is there anyone you'd like to give a shout out to today?

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Yes. I first, of course need to give a shout out to Margaret, who has been one of the best friends in my life for a very, very, very long time. And I'm so grateful that she is here to do this with me today. It makes it so special for me and for my Kids also who love Margaret very dearly. I also need to shout out to our friend Andrew, who wrote the line blue Heeler, Heartsteeler. To my nieces Caroline and Phoebe, who are my kids muffin and socks. And we love them so much. I need to shout out to Andrew's son Henry, whose love of Bluey is deeply, deeply inspiring, to my husband. And then of course to my kids Claire and Alice, who they're just. I mean, they did such great work for this episode. They helped me so much and. And their love of Bluey is why I'm here right now.

[Molly Bloom]

That is wonderful. Margaret, any special shout outs you want to give?

[Margaret H. Willison]

I would love to give a shout out also to Alice and Claire. I just want them to know that even though they've betrayed me on the public stage this way, they're still two of my favorite children in the entire world and nothing will ever change that. And then I want to give a shout out to my other best friend Carrie and her wonderful daughter Eleanor. And I just. Eleanor, I need you to know when you're old enough to listen to this podcast and understand the crushing defeat we've suffered here that I fought bravely for you and I always will.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

I love you too, Eleanor.

[Margaret H. Willison]

And I love Catherine. Katherine, thank you for getting me involved in this and introducing me to smashboom Best. It's a terrific fictional universe and I'm delighted to have participated.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh my gosh. Thank you for being here, both of you. Emma, any special thanks you want to give?

[Emma]

I would like to give a special thanks to all my besties who've helped support me. Evelyn, Will, Kavya, Chloe, the list goes on and on. Meredith, also Westlake for supporting me. And I would also like to give a mini shout out to Kathryn, Marget and Molly for being able to have a great debate today.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Aww. Emma.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Thanks Emma.

[Molly Bloom]

Before we go, let's check in and see who Milo thinks should win the Nike versus Adidas debate.

[Emma]

I think Nikes would win because Nikes has Air Jordans and they are really cool shoes and it is named after a Greek goddess.

[Molly Bloom]

If you're between the ages of 13 and 18 and you'd like to be a judge, or if you're any age and you have an idea for a knockdown drag out debate, head to smashboom.org contact and drop us a line and make sure to subscribe to Brains on Universe on YouTube where you can watch animated versions of some of your favorite episodes. That's it for this season of Smash. Boom. Best. We'll be back with a brand new season February 6th. In the meantime, you can enjoy episodes from all the shows in the Brains on universe, including Brains on Forever Ago and Moment of. Um. Bye.

[Margaret H. Willison]

Bye.

[Emma]

Bye.

[Margaret H. Willison]

See everyone later, Alfiederstein.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

Bye.

[Margaret H. Willison]

I guess raising your children and having them be such delightful humans is, like, a lot of work. And I can't pretend it isn't. But also, it does feel a little bit like cheating.

[Katherine Van Arendonk]

No, I know. That's fair. That's fine. I accept that.