Smash Boom Best: "Frankenstein’s Monster vs. Frosty the Snowman: A Chilling Debate"

Released on April 24, 2025

Introduction

In this exhilarating episode of Smash Boom Best, hosted by Molly Bloom from American Public Media, listeners are treated to a fantastical face-off between two iconic characters: Frankenstein’s Monster and Frosty the Snowman. The debate promises a clash of science versus snow, darkness versus joy, and ultimately, leaves the audience to decide which legend reigns supreme. Joining Molly are Shannon Custer, championing Frankenstein’s misunderstood creation, and Kate Wexler, advocating for the beloved Frosty the Snowman. Tiger, an enthusiastic trumpet and percussion player interning at a planetarium, serves as the impartial judge.

Debate Structure and Rules

Molly Bloom outlines the format of the debate, which consists of four distinct rounds:

1. Declaration of Greatness: Each debater presents a well-crafted argument highlighting why their side is superior.
2. Micro Round: Debaters respond creatively to a specific prompt—in this case, a babysitting job scenario.
3. Sneak Attack: An improvised challenge where debaters swap theme songs, adapting their character’s theme to the other’s style.
4. Final Six: Each team concisely sums up their side in six words.

After each segment, Tiger awards points based on the strength and creativity of the arguments, while keeping his decisions confidential until the end.

Round 1: Declaration of Greatness

Shannon Custer kicks off the debate by portraying Frankenstein’s Monster as a figure of immense strength, intelligence, and deep humanity. At [03:14], Shannon emphasizes the creature's enduring legacy in science fiction, stating:

"The book came out way back in 1818. It tells the tale of a monster who was persecuted just for existing. It's a touching story, but more than that, it's also the starting point for all science fiction, AKA the greatest genre of all time."

She highlights the monster's resilience and the universal theme of feeling misunderstood, drawing parallels to the human experience.

Kate Wexler responds by extolling the virtues of Frosty the Snowman, emphasizing his role as a beacon of joy and magic during winter. Referencing the 1950s song, Kate celebrates Frosty's ability to bring happiness without the dark undertones associated with Frankenstein’s creation. At [11:11], she notes:

"He shows us how to be in the moment. He's not worrying about how he's gonna melt one day. He's having fun."

This upbeat portrayal serves to contrast Frosty's lighter, more positive influence.

Notable Quote:

Shannon Custer [03:14]: "Mary Shelley combined wild fantasy with cutting edge scientific ideas from her time to make a new type of story."

Judge's Feedback: At [08:07], Tiger commends Shannon’s creative introduction, likening it to the origin of Wreck It Ralph:

"Well, the beginning with the monster support group was the beginning of Wreck It Ralph, and I absolutely loved it."

Round 2: Micro Round – Babysitter Scenario

In the Micro Round, debaters must convince parents why their character would make the ideal babysitter.

Kate Wexler presents Frosty as the perfect winter babysitter, blending fun activities with educational moments. At [23:29], she proclaims:

"I'm a jolly, happy babysitter who loves sledding, playing freeze tag, making snow angels, snow forts, and snow cones."

She underscores Frosty's ability to turn a snow day into a magical experience while subtly integrating lessons on climate change.

Shannon Custer attempts to pitch Frankenstein’s Monster as a caregiver but falters humorously. Her delivery, marked by playful stuttering and fragmented sentences, highlights the monster's physical prowess yet fails to convey genuine caregiving qualities. At [25:36], Shannon humorously lists skills:

"Skilled at stitching up cuts. Work experience. Been in over hundred movies."

Notable Quote:

Kate Wexler [23:29]: "I'll show you kids how to make the perfect snowball, how to skate, how to construct the coolest snow sculptures you'll ever see."

Judge's Feedback: Tiger humorously critiques Shannon's attempt, questioning the feasibility of the monster's typing abilities with his large fingers:

"How was Frank typing with those giant fingers?" at [28:09]

Round 3: Sneak Attack – Theme Song Swap

Debaters are challenged to adapt their character's theme song to the other’s style, testing their creativity and understanding of both characters.

Shannon Custer transforms Frankenstein’s Monster’s theme into a bouncy tune, infusing it with a lighter rhythm:

"Frank is a monster. He will never, never melt. He will have some fun and make Mac and cheese. Thumpity, thump, thump, thumpity thump, thump." [29:27]

Kate Wexler attempts a moody rendition of Frosty’s theme in the style of Michael Jackson’s "Thriller," resulting in a humorous and slightly offbeat performance:

"Frosty, Frosty the snowman He's a jolly, happy soul..." [30:00]

Notable Quote:

Shannon Custer [29:27]: "I'll never leave you with a traffic cop."

Judge's Feedback: At [31:07], Tiger awards points based on the originality and execution of the theme swaps, finding Shannon’s effort more compelling.

Round 4: Final Six Words

Each debater encapsulates their side's essence in six words.

Kate Wexler for Frosty the Snowman:

"We all have magic within us." [31:25]

Shannon Custer for Frankenstein’s Monster:

"Strong, tall, friend, always has back." [31:34]

Judge's Feedback: Tiger reflects on the emotional resonance and succinctness of the six-word summaries, ultimately favoring Shannon’s portrayal.

Conclusion of the Debate

After tallying the points, Frankenstein’s Monster is crowned the winner, much to Kate’s playful dismay. The debaters engage in lighthearted banter, reinforcing the friendly and familial atmosphere of the show.

Notable Quote:

Tiger [32:38]: "Frosty was making the children break the law."

State of Debate: Understanding Logical Fallacies

Transitioning to the educational segment, Smash Boom Best delves into the State of Debate, where Shannon and Molly dissect logical fallacies. They focus on the red herring fallacy, exemplified by an amusing skit of two adults derailing a debate over stadium food with irrelevant arguments about face paint.

Notable Quote:

Molly Bloom [17:14]: "Red herring fallacies make me so mad. That's when someone doesn't have any good points to make, so they change the topic to something easier to argue about."

Promotions and Upcoming Events

Molly and Shannon announce an upcoming live science-themed stage show at the Boulder Theater in Colorado, featuring interactive elements like magic tricks and dance moves, followed by a VIP party. They also promote other podcasts within the Brains on Universe family, encouraging listeners to explore more content.

Final Shout-Outs and Wrap-Up

The episode concludes with heartfelt shout-outs from participants, celebrating family connections and the collaborative spirit of the Smash Boom Best community. Tiger encourages listeners to participate in future debates, such as the suggested peanut butter versus almond butter showdown.

Notable Quote:

Kate Wexler [34:53]: "I'll give a shout out to our dog King because he is also going to be there for our movie nights watching Frankenstein. That's really true and Frosty."

Conclusion

This episode of Smash Boom Best masterfully balances entertaining debate with educational moments, all while fostering a sense of community and familial bonds. Whether you're a fan of the classic horror of Frankenstein or the joyous charm of Frosty the Snowman, the show ensures a fun and thought-provoking experience for listeners of all ages.

Don’t Forget to Vote!

As always, listeners are encouraged to visit smashboom.org to cast their votes on who they believe won the debate between Frankenstein’s Monster and Frosty the Snowman.