Stitch vs Yoda

Summary

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Smash Boom Best: Stitch vs. Yoda

Podcast: Smash Boom Best (Brains On Universe)
Episode Air Date: February 19, 2026
Host: Molly Bloom
Debaters: Sam Sucseary (Team Stitch) vs. Peter McNerney (Team Yoda)
Judge: Frankie from Rockaway Queens

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Episode Overview

In this lively and hilarious installment of Smash Boom Best, family favorite debaters square off over two beloved "out of this world" characters: Stitch from Lilo & Stitch and Yoda from Star Wars. Through a series of fact-packed rounds—declarations, rebuts, quirky challenges, and final pitches—the team strives to win over Judge Frankie, who’s after “good logic” and “big laughs.” Who will come out on top: the blue Elvis-loving chaos-creator-turned-family-member or the iconic wise green Jedi Master?

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Meet the Debaters and Judge (00:49–03:58)

• Host Molly Bloom sets up the debate format: declaration of greatness, micro round (fact-offs), sneak attack (improv), and final six-words summation.
• Sam Sucseary (Team Stitch): “I’m going to leave the audience in stitches. And I’m going to leave Peter in stitches.” (01:28)
• Peter McNerney (Team Yoda): “Oh, mess with Yoda you shall not. Everyone’s favorite two-foot sorcerer’s in the house.” (01:44)
• Judge Frankie, a Marvel fan with a unique “freckle on his eye,” expects the debates to be “really funny” and grounded in solid logic. (02:53)

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Declaration of Greatness: Stitch (04:34–09:18)

Sam’s Argument Highlights:

• Stitch is genetically engineered to be nearly indestructible—but also “undeniably adorable,” resembling a koala.
• Powers: bulletproof, fireproof, shapeshifting, lifts objects over 3,000 times his weight, rapid learner (ukulele, hula, English).
• Comedic personality: “He basically invented rage baiting… shakes his butt at other aliens to mock them, and it’s hilarious.” (06:59)
• Emotional journey: Evolves from destructive to loving through Lilo and the lesson of “ohana”—family, found or chosen.
• Stitch is relatable because he’s flawed, tries to be better, and is “the under-alien pretending to be a dog.”

“He tries to be better, fails at times, but always tries again. So relatable.” – Sam Sucseary (08:38)

Frankie’s Feedback:

• Praises the “emotional moments” and “good points” for Stitch’s growth.
• Mild criticism: "Why didn't you include Elvis Stitch? I like Elvis Stitch." (09:36)

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Stitch Rebuttal from Yoda (Peter) (09:46–10:30)

Peter counters:

• Calls Stitch “an agent of chaos… like an army of toddlers destroying your house.”
• Elevates Yoda as “the universe’s most powerful and wise creature... a truly comedic character in his own right.” (09:58)

Sam fires back:

• Reminds everyone that Yoda, as Jedi Order head, failed to stop the Sith Lord from overthrowing the galaxy: “Who really brought chaos to the world?” (10:30)

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Declaration of Greatness: Yoda (11:27–16:23)

Peter’s Argument Highlights:

• Opens with humor: “The Farce… lets you tell a good joke,” channeling Yoda's comedic side. (11:27)
• Describes Yoda as a blend of “lovable grandpa, favorite teacher, and skilled warrior.”
• Yoda’s wisdom: “Judge a book by its cover, you must not.” (13:19)
• Powers: mind-lifting, battle scenes, yet prefers “solving problems with words,” never attacking first.
• Mentoring style: “He lets people make their own choices… because he knows that's how we learn.” (13:53)
• Yoda’s influence: inspired Grogu (Baby Yoda)—“Have you seen Grogu? He’s so cute.” (14:54)
• Pop culture juggernaut: Outshone Harrison Ford in Empire, popular among critics, and referenced in a Weird Al song.

“Yoda is super powerful, wise, a great teacher, and adorable. What more could you—” (Interrupted by "Darth Steven Vader" for a joke-laden bit)

Frankie’s Feedback:

• Enjoys the story-centric, funny approach.
• Appreciates Yoda's connections: “I definitely liked the reference to Grogu… it was very good and I’m torn, honestly.” (16:45)

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Yoda Rebuttal from Stitch (Sam) (17:02–17:44)

Sam’s points:

• Critiques Yoda’s real-life impact—galactic leadership style didn’t prevent disaster.
• Questions why Yoda trained “fire with fire” in Luke rather than the more peaceful Leia.

“Why didn’t Yoda train up Leia instead of Luke? ...She’s wise, she’s also part of the Rebellion.” (17:22)

Peter responds:

• “Because Luke put in the effort… Yoda’s there to let people make their own choices.” (17:47)

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Micro Round: Fact-Off (21:51–25:28)

Peter (Yoda) Fact #1:

• “Yoda is literally a Muppet. The original puppet was made by Jim Henson’s team, and the legendary Frank Oz voices him.” (22:08)

Sam (Stitch) Fact #1:

• “Stitch was almost silent, but director Chris Sanders’ passion for the character led him to voice Stitch—no one could top his interpretation.” (22:42)

Peter (Yoda) Fact #2:

• “Yoda’s confusing and humble vibe was intentional—George Lucas wanted him to resemble a ‘little Dalai Lama’ so viewers respected even the smallest characters.” (23:06)

Sam (Stitch) Fact #2:

• “Stitch can play a record just by tapping it and opening his mouth—becomes a fuzzy Victrola!” (23:37)

Peter (Yoda) Fact #3:

• “Yoda is so iconic, Weird Al parodied him in the song ‘Yoda’ (based on ‘Lola’).” (23:53)

Sam (Stitch) Bonus Fact:

• “Grogu’s affinity for the Razor Crest’s knob connects back to American Graffiti, one of Lucas’ earliest movies…” (25:16)

Frankie’s Feedback:

• Loved the Yoda/Muppet/Frank Oz fact, appreciated the Stitch movie references, and found the American Graffiti connection “really cool and niche.” (25:19)

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Sneak Attack: “Running for Mayor” (26:38–29:19)

• Sam (as Stitch): Promotes “ohana politics”—no one left behind, “a rising tide lifts all floating spaceships,” ends with, “Stitch is gonna rest now.” (27:20)

  • Frankie: “We all love Stitch… you are cute and fluffy and everybody loves you.” (28:08)

• Peter (as Yoda): Delivers a classic Yoda-style mayoral speech on composting, environmentalism, and “childcare for three-year-olds.”

  • “Vote Yoda, you shall. Yes. These aren’t the droids you’re looking for. Goodbye.” (28:29)

• Dialogue follows: Debaters joke about “childcare for babies who are 80 years old” (a la Grogu) and Stitch’s penchant for chaos.

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Final Six: The Six-Word Summary (30:42–31:15)

• Peter (Yoda): “Nothing cooler, is there, than Jedi.” (30:56)
• Sam (Stitch): “Wise man say, vote for Stitch.” (31:06)
• Frankie: “Yeah, I like that.” (31:15)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

“He tries to be better, fails at times, but always tries again. So relatable.”
– Sam Sucseary (08:38)

“Absolute agent of chaos that’s gonna destroy your home, and you gotta take care of it like an army of toddlers destroying your house.”
– Peter McNerney (09:58)

“Yoda is literally a Muppet… voiced by Frank Oz, who did Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, and Grover!”
– Peter McNerney (22:08)

“A rising tide lifts all floating spaceships.”
– Sam Sucseary as Stitch (27:36)

“New leadership this small village needs. Elect me, you shall… composting, good for the environment, it is!”
– Peter McNerney as Yoda (28:29)

“I think I just liked Elvis Stitch singing more so…”
– Frankie (32:11)

“Stitch is an agent of chaos, but ultimately, he tears apart our expectations so that he can bring us all together. And that’s what you’ve done today here.”
– Peter McNerney (32:49)

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Episode Outcome: The Winner

Frankie crowns Stitch the Smash Boom Best! (31:36)

Frankie explains:
“It was really tied… and sometimes it was just really hard, and I had to pick one. I think I just liked Elvis Stitch singing more...” (32:09)

Both debaters demonstrate respect and camaraderie. Peter admits defeat graciously—“I’m shattered by the loss, but I’ve gained a new family, and for that, I am grateful.” (33:11) Sam celebrates teamwork and Ohana spirit.

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Intro & Setup: 00:49–03:58
• Declaration of Greatness - Stitch: 04:34–09:18
• Stitch Rebuttal by Yoda: 09:46–10:30
• Declaration of Greatness - Yoda: 11:27–16:23
• Yoda Rebuttal by Stitch: 17:02–17:44
• Micro Round (Fact-Off): 21:51–25:28
• Sneak Attack (“Running for Mayor”): 26:38–29:19
• Final Six Words: 30:42–31:15
• Winner Announcement: 31:36–32:23
• Debrief & Shoutouts: 32:23–34:32

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In Summary

This playful, fact-filled showdown delivered both heart and laughs, from Stitch’s transformation through family to Yoda’s eternal wisdom and cultural legacy. Both debaters brought out fascinating trivia and creative arguments, but in the end, it was Stitch’s relatability, underdog status, and ohana message that captured the judge’s (and likely listeners’) hearts.

Remember:

“Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten.” – Lilo & Stitch (07:54)

And next week—it’s Bass vs. Bass!

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Transcript

[A]

Lemonade.

[B]

Brains on Universe.

[A]

Have you heard the news? Smash Boom Best is now independent. We're so excited to be back with an epic new season. And it's all thanks to our Smartypass members. They're the big hearted helpers who power us by [e-mail] you can be one of them. Your support helps pay our debaters and sound designers so we can keep making the fun and fact filled shows your family loves. Plus you get ad free versions of all of our shows. Bonus stuff and access to virtual hangs with me, Molly Again, that's smartypass.org thank you, thank you, thank you. Now, on with the show. From the brains behind Brains on.

[B]

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

[A]

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 discuss decide which one is best. Today's debate pits two out of this world wonders against each other. One is small blue, an Elvis fan and a powerful force of destruction. The other is small green, a teacher and powerful with the force. It's Stitch versus Yoda. Surfing in on a wave of enthusiasm for Team Stitch is comedy writer and Lego master, Sam Sucseary.

[C]

I'm going to leave the audience in stitches. And I'm going to leave Peter in stitches.

[A]

And coming in hot from a galaxy far, far away, it's actor, comedian and story pirate Peter McNerney for Team Yoda.

[D]

Oh, mess with Yoda you shall not. Everyone's favorite two foot sorcerer's in the house.

[A]

And here to judge this extraterrestrial throwdown is Frankie from Rockaway Queens. Frankie loves sushi, Broadway, all things Marvel, and has a freckle on his eye. Welcome, Frankie.

[B]

Hello.

[A]

So, Frankie, will you tell us about your eye freckle?

[B]

My eye freckles. So one day my mom and dad took me to the doctor, the eye doctor, and they did like, scans of my eyes and things. And it turns out I had a freckle in my eye.

[A]

That's so cool. Can you see it from the outside?

[B]

No.

[A]

Ooh, so it's a secret freckle?

[B]

No, it's not secret because I tell it a lot.

[A]

It could be secret, but you choose it not to be. Very cool. How did you first get into Marvel?

[B]

When I was little, I liked Marvel and Lego sets and that's kind of all you need to know.

[A]

Okay. I love it. So you've listened to the show for a long time. What advice do you have for our debaters today?

[B]

Whenever I listen to podcasts, what gets me going is you guys gotta be really funny and I have to have logic that rounds up well with how your debate works. Just do have well written debates and, like, good logic compiled to them. And be funny because I want to laugh.

[A]

Okay, time to tickle Frankie's funny bone. Today.

[C]

There's nothing more intimidating for a comedian than make me laugh.

[A]

Now be funny. Let's find out which alien life form Frankie thinks is number one. 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, Frankie, will award points to the team that impresses him the most. But he'll keep his 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. Okay, Frankie, Peter and Sam, are you ready?

[B]

Yes. Yes. Indubitably.

[C]

I was genetically engineered in a lab by mad scientists to be ready.

[D]

I was not born ready because I was a baby and this show didn't exist. But I have become ready since then.

[A]

That 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 flip to coin and Sam, you're up first. Tell us why Stitch was genetically engineered to win our hearts.

[C]

Close your eyes and walk with me for a moment.

[A]

Oof.

[C]

Okay, okay. Sorry, sorry. I meant figuratively. Don't walk with your eyes closed. Picture this. One day, a super scientist creates a nearly indestructible alien in the lab. This alien has one goal. To destroy everything.

[D]

What kind of creature are you picturing? Something towering, scaly, ominous.

[C]

Well, what if I told you this alien is none of those things?

[D]

This alien is actually cute.

[B]

Aw.

[C]

That'S right. This is the origin of Stitch, the blue alien, hero of Lilo and Stitch. A bunch of aliens try to destroy him, but he escapes and lands on Earth. There, a young girl named Lilo mistakes him for a dog and adopts him. Fun and hijinks ensue. Now, as far as super powerful aliens go, Stitch might be the cutest. He's furry, blue, and he kinda resembles a koala. He's got wide eyes, giant ears, and a big old smile. He's just so cute and fluffy.

[D]

Oh, so cute and Fluffy Stitch might.

[C]

Only be around 3ft tall, but he really packs a punch. You want to talk about the force? Stitch is a force to be reckoned with. He's incredibly durable because he's bulletproof, fireproof, and can even shapeshift. Stitch is also certifiably jacked. He can move objects more than 3,000 times his size.

[D]

Little blue dude never skips leg day. My guy is absolutely yoed.

[C]

Stitch isn't just muscle, either. He's incredibly intelligent. He outsmarts the highest level of alien security in minutes. He learns the ukulele, hula dancing, and the English language in seconds.

[A]

That's cool and all, but didn't you say Stitch was designed to destroy everything in his sight?

[C]

Astute observation, human child who randomly walked into my studio session.

[A]

Hey, man.

[B]

The door was unlocked.

[C]

Yes. Stitch was specifically designed to obliterate everything in his path, like a true chaos demon. He basically invented rage baiting. He slobbers and drools. He snarls and scratches. He shakes his butt at other aliens to mock them, and it's hilarious. All respect to Yoda, but that wrinkly little green guy never had the riz or comedic genius of Stitch. So, yes, Stitch was initially extremely destructive, but he evolves. And that's what makes him so compelling. After Stitch Crash lands on Earth, he forms a bond with Lilo. She thinks he can be more than a monster. She's patient with him and challenges him to create instead of destroy. Lilo also teaches Stitch the importance of ohana.

[A]

Ohana means family. Family means family. Nobody gets left behind or forgotten.

[C]

Ohana is a Hawaiian term that means family of all kinds. Whether you share the same DNA, are adopted, or simply found each other. It's about showing care and support to everyone around you. Since Stitch was created in the lab, he has no family. He's just a lost, lonely creature. But through Ohana, he overcomes his biological need to destroy and inst. Finds a family in Lilo and her sister, Nani.

[A]

This is my family.

[D]

This little and broken.

[A]

But still good.

[C]

Yeah, still good. Stitch. Still good. Yoda is certainly impressive, but he sets a nearly impossible standard. Inspirational, sure, but hard to connect with. Stitch is powerful, too, but he's also deeply flawed. He tries to be better, fails at times, but always tries again. So relatable. He's an underdog. Well, an under alien pretending to be a dog. And who doesn't want to root for that? So I'll say it loud and I'll say it proud team. Cute and fluffy all the way.

[A]

A true blue argument there for Stitch. Frankie, what stood out to you about Sam's argument?

[B]

You were really good with the emotional moments. You made some good points towards the beginning, and it was a bit campy. Yeah, Stitch does look like a koala.

[A]

Yeah, it really does.

[B]

I liked it, especially around the emotional parts. I just. Why didn't you include Elvis Stitch? I like Elvis Stitch.

[A]

There might be time for Elvis Stitch later.

[C]

Yo.

[A]

Okay, Peter, it is time for your rebuttal. You get 30 seconds to tell us why we should ditch Stitch. And your time starts now. Oh.

[D]

Okay. Let's compare two things. Absolute agent of chaos that's gonna destroy your home, and you gotta take care of it like an army of toddlers destroying your house. Or the universe's most powerful and wise creature, who, by the way, also is introduced with a full slapstick routine. A truly comedic character who can turn it on and turn it off in the appropriate context. Ah. Flawless Yoda for the win and time.

[C]

Yeah, I mean, if you think Stitch is bringing chaos to the galaxy, I would like to remind everybody that Yoda was overseeing the Jedi order when a Sith Lord overthrew the entire galaxy. So Stitch was created as a monster and got loose and learned to be better. Yoda was at the wheel when the galaxy was taken over by the bad guys. So who really brought chaos to the world?

[A]

That's really good.

[D]

I blame Qui Gon Jinn.

[B]

How dare you.

[A]

How dare you? All right, this debate is off to a stellar start. We're going to hear more in a moment. Stick with us. Smash. Smash. Boom. All right, time to get back to Stitch versus Yoda. We've heard from Team Stitch. Now, Peter, it's your turn to tell us why the greatest Yoda is.

[D]

Now, before we begin, I'd like to tell you about a mystical power I'm mastering. It's an energy that binds the galaxy. It runs through all living things. It lets users do amazing feats with their mind, and it's called the Farce. Ha. You thought I was gonna say the Force? Sorry, that's way out of my league. The Farce is kind of like the Farce, only different in every single way. Instead of manipulating minds and moving things with your thoughts, the Farce lets you tell a good joke. Knock, knock. Who's there? Peter.

[A]

Peter who?

[D]

Peter McNerney. Oh, that's. That's not a joke. That's literally just my name. Sorry, I'm still learning. Luckily, I've got the greatest teacher. Yoda. Punchlines. You must work on Master. The end before the beginning. You try. Mm. So wise Master Yoda. Yoda is a tiny, green, 900-year-old alien. Imagine if you took your lovable old grandpa and your favorite elementary school teacher and a skilled warrior and you put them all in a giant blender.

[A]

Yikes.

[D]

I don't know why you would have that. And actually, if you did that, you'd get arrested because that's dangerous. And actually, let's forget that. But if you combine them all together in a safe, non blendery way, you'd get Yoda. He first appeared in the movie the Empire Strikes Back. Luke Skywalker was on a swampy planet looking for a Jedi Master when he ran into a troublesome little goblin. Luke tries to shoo him away, but twist that goblin was the Jedi Master. Yoda. Judge a book by its cover. You must not.

[A]

Ah.

[D]

A valuable lesson. Yoda also teaches us that even the smallest can be super powerful. He lifts huge objects with his mind, does sick back flips, and takes on whole armies with his lightsaber. Haha. It's so fun to see a tiny old creature do all that. But Yoda would rather solve problems with words. A Jedi uses the Force for knowledge and defense, never for attack. Another lesson?

[C]

Yes, please.

[D]

It's exactly why I solve problems with humor. For example, why did the chicken cross the road?

[A]

Why?

[D]

Because he was at the crosswalk. Darn it. I forgot to come up with a punchline again. The greatest teacher failure is so true. That's another great thing about Yoda. He gives great advice, but then lets people make their own choices, even when he sees they are about to make a big mistake. Because he knows that's how we learn. Also, Yoda is lovable. When Empire came out, some critics said he was the best part. And they were right. And that movie had Harrison Ford. Stitch and Yoda are similar. Short, colorful, big ears. But guess what? Yoda came first. Stitch is just coasting off of Yoda's lovable style. And speaking of lovable, have you seen Grogu, AKA Baby Yoda?

[A]

He's so cute.

[B]

I love him so much, I want to hug the Force right out of him.

[D]

I know. Yoda is super powerful, wise, a great teacher, and adorable. What more could you. This debate ends now. Oh, no. Darth. Oh, Darth.

[A]

Whoa.

[D]

Actually, who are you? Darth? Steven Vader's my cousin, and I'm stopping this nonsense. Oh, all right. Well, in that case, Peter, use the farce.

[A]

Huh?

[D]

Oh, right. But I gotta think of the punchline first, like Yoda said.

[A]

Mmm.

[D]

Got it. Hey, Darth Steven, why Did the chicken cross the road? I don't know. Why? To get to the Dum Dum's house.

[A]

Huh?

[D]

Knock, knock. Who's there? It's me, the chicken. Huh? I didn't realize you lived here. Wait. Oh, does that mean I'm the Dum Dum? It's. Cause it's my house. Peter. That's funny. You got me.

[A]

Ah.

[D]

I'll leave peacefully. Dum Dum. I did it. Thanks to some help from the best teacher ever. Yoda. Yoda.

[A]

Incredible. A lovely, lovely declaration of greatness there for Yoda. Frankie, what stood out to you about Peter's argument?

[B]

I like how it was like, less of an argument and more of a story. That was really. That was really good. And it was really funny, especially with the farce. I felt like that was a Spaceballs reference.

[D]

The Schwartz.

[B]

The Schwartz. May the Schwartz be with you. And I definitely liked reference to Grogu. He's cool. And, yeah, it was very good. And I'm torn, honestly.

[A]

This is a tough one. All right, Sam, you get 30 seconds to say no duh to Yoda, and your time begins right now.

[C]

So what's always fascinating to me about the Star wars movies, especially after the prequels came out, is that we see Yoda try to fight evil. Power versus power. And it didn't work. But then, like you said, Yoda is very wise. So why didn't Yoda train up Leia instead of Luke? Because Leia doesn't fight fire with fire. She's using. She's a. She's also secretly part of the Rebellion. She's wise. She's using ways of influencing the good in people through words. So why didn't Yoda train Leia? She's also a Jedi. She's as much a Jedi as Luke. And Luke.

[A]

And lame.

[D]

Okay, yeah, I'll tell you why. Because Luke put in the effort. He took the X Wing to Dagobah and splashed in that water, and he showed up. And Yoda's there to let people make their own choices, be they good or bad.

[C]

Yes, Luke did crash his space plane. That's true.

[D]

It's true as undeniable.

[A]

Okay, Frankie, it is time to award some points. Please give one point to the declaration of greatness that 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 laugh? Did another team bring stronger arguments? Award your points, but don't tell us who they're going to. Have you made your decision Yes, I have.

[B]

Oof.

[A]

Very good, Sam and Peter, how are you two feeling so far?

[D]

Boy, I'm amped up. I'm excited. It's electric.

[C]

Bazaap. Bazap. I feel the electricity through the cables.

[A]

All right, it's time for a quick break. Charge up your lightsaber or flip your Elvis record over and we'll be right.

[B]

Back with more smash. Boom. Best.

[D]

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

[A]

Hey, debate pals. This is Taylor Lincoln, and I'm here with my argument amigo, Todd Douglas.

[C]

Hey there, Taylor. Or should I say O?

[A]

Tod you good?

[D]

I sure am.

[C]

It's a full moon tonight, so I'm.

[D]

Getting into the spirit.

[A]

Oh, Todd, wolves don't actually howl at the full moon.

[D]

So I've been perfecting my howl for nothing. That's real rough. But your lunar know how has reminded me of a logical fallacy I overheard.

[A]

A logical fallacy is a weak argument that makes a debate easy to beat.

[D]

It sure is. Let's take a listen to the argument so we can spot the fallacy in motion. Wow, you can really see all the stars once you leave the city.

[A]

I know. And the moon looks so bright out here.

[D]

It's incredible. But that's the power of cheese for you.

[A]

What?

[D]

You didn't know the moon is made of cheese? Either munster or a white cheddar.

[A]

Dave, the moon isn't made of cheese. That's an old fairy tale.

[D]

Beth, I think I know what I'm talking about. I'm a cheesemonger. I make and sell cheese for a living.

[A]

Just because you're a cheese expert doesn't mean you know about the moon.

[D]

Yeah, but it does mean I know about cheese, which the moon is made of.

[C]

Wow.

[D]

When the moon hits your eye, that's a fallacy.

[A]

Yeah, specifically the appeal to authority fallacy. That's when you believe something must be true because an expert supports it.

[D]

Just because Dave knows a lot about cheese doesn't make him a moon expert. Now all this cheese talk is making me hungry.

[A]

Are you thinking what I'm thinking?

[D]

Oh, yeah. Let's fondue it.

[A]

And we'll see you next time on State of Debate.

[D]

Smash Boom.

[A]

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

[B]

And I'm your judge, Frankie.

[A]

And we love getting debate suggestions from our listeners. Like this one. Hi, my name's Harriet and I'm from Dunnsborough in Western Australia.

[B]

My debate idea is sea versus land. Nice. The debate of planetary proportions.

[A]

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

[B]

And now back to Stitch versus Yoda.

[A]

Get ready for round two. It's the micro round. Sam and Peter, you will each get three chances to make a micro argument backed by a cool fact. Sam started things off last round, so, Peter, you get to go first this time. Let's hear your first fact.

[D]

You know, it makes sense that Yoda is so lovable because he is literally a Muppet. Yes, a Muppet. Like Kermit Gonzo and Miss Piggy. The original Yoda puppet was made by Jim Henson and his team, the people who made Sesame street, the Muppet Show. And the actor who gave Yoda his voice is none other than Frank Oz. He did the voice of such incredible characters as Miss Piggy, Fuzzy Bear, and Grover. Heard of them.

[B]

He was the one who did Miss Piggy.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

Yes, he was. Oh, go, Kirby. So Yoda has the perfect puppet pedigree.

[C]

Oh, you want to talk about voices? Stitch was originally supposed to be a silent character, but the movie's director, Chris Sanders, did such a good job recording, like, a scratch version of Stitch's audio, which is basically what they just kind of use for storyboarding. And everybody loved it. And they couldn't find anything better than that because, you know, it was the director's own passion going into the character.

[D]

Uh. Oh, yeah. Well, guess what? Yoda's confusing vibe in that movie, Boy, it's on purpose. When they were designing the character, George Lucas, the guy who made Star wars, he wanted Yoda to come off less like all powerful big guy and more like a little Dalai Lama. You know, someone who you underestimate. He wore shabby clothes and he lived in a swamp. To teach Luke to pay attention and respect even the lowliest of people. More great life lessons from Master Yoda. Yes, please.

[C]

Stitch resonates with audiences. And Stitch literally resonates. Stitch can play a record just by putting one of his cute little claws onto the record groove and then opens up his mouth and bam. He's a Victrola.

[D]

Speaking of records, Yoda has been honored with maybe the most incredible prize in pop culture. No, it's not an Oscar. Parodied by Weird Al Yankovic. That's right. Weird Al wrote a song about Yoda to the tune of the King's Lola Yoda. O I o D a E o dah. It does not get cooler than that.

[B]

I didn't listen to that, but now I want to.

[C]

Oh, it's so good. You gotta Listen to it. That one got me. Okay, I gotta go out of left field here. I don't to come back to that one. All right.

[D]

Okay.

[C]

This is really maybe just some more Yoda trivia than Stitch trivia, but okay, so you know how George Lucas directed Star Wars? George Lucas earliest, like, his second movie ever was American Graffiti, which is about a bunch of teens in Modesto, California, driving cars around. So you know how Grogu loves playing with that little metal ball inside of the razor crest. And Mando's always like, don't play with that. Give me back that little metal ball. Because it goes on like the stick shift of the Razor crest. So in American Graffiti, when. What's his name? Milo. The guy who drives the really fast red hot rod, when he picks up this little girl by accident, she is also like, I want to play with the little stick shift knob. And he's like, don't play with that kid. And by the end of the movie when they become friends, he gives her the stick shift knob. And I think that's where they got that thing for Grogu.

[B]

I actually really like that. That's really cool and niche.

[D]

Yeah, that's a great argument for Yoda.

[C]

Yeah, it's a great argument for American Graffiti or Mel's Diner.

[B]

So you both get one.

[A]

Yay. Okay, I was into all of those facts. I learned a lot. I don't know about you, Frankie, but, Frankie, which facts were your favorite?

[B]

I liked Frank, Oz, and Jim Henson and how they worked on Yoda on Stitch's side. You made some good references to the movie, which I feel really sold me over, but what really? I did. But also Yoda's design. I liked Yoda's design, the reference to the director.

[A]

So, yeah, okay, a lot of good facts there to sift through, but Frankie, only one of them can get a point. Did it. Whoa.

[D]

That was so fast.

[A]

Okay, hold tight. We'll be right back with more debate after this. Want smashboom? Best without the ad breaks. Join Smarty Pass and get an ad free feed of this and all the other brains on Universe plus, you'll get to do virtual hangs with me and the crew and discounts on merch. Sign [e-mail] thanks. Boom.

[D]

Boom, boom, boom.

[A]

Smash. We are back, and 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 attack is called Running for Mayor. Your side is delivering a speech to a city or town of Your choosing about why they should elect your side mayor. You could choose to embody Yoda or Stitch or someone else campaigning on their behalf. It is Sam's turn to start us off. You're gonna have 60 seconds, max. You can go shorter than that if you want. Let's hear your rousing campaign speech for Stitch.

[C]

Ladies and gentlemen, I come to you with my proposition that we are all ohana. And as ohana, this city must work together. And that will be very nice for everyone. And that means that if somebody isn't feeling good, we all take care of them. Because ohana means no one gets left behind or forgotten. And if somebody is doing really well, they help everybody else out. Because a rising tide lifts all floating spaceships. This voice is getting a little hard to do. Has it been six?

[A]

You can stop whenever you want.

[C]

Ok. Stitch is gonna rest now.

[A]

Aw, Stitch, that was beautiful.

[B]

Stitch. Just so you know, we all love Stitch, so. Stitch, you are cute and fluffy and everybody loves you.

[A]

I didn't see the campaign posters. They say ohana with a, you know, graphic silhouette of Stitch on top.

[C]

Yeah.

[A]

All right, Peter, it's your turn. Please try to win our votes for Yoda's mayoral candidacy.

[D]

New leadership this small village needs. Elect me, you shall. There is a dark force creeping through the village, and it is the distinct lack of composting.

[A]

Yes.

[D]

Little green bins we need to put in food scraps. Methane gas is released when buried in landfills. You should compost. Good for the environment. It is. I also believe in childcare for 3 year olds. Vote Yoda. You shall. Yes.

[B]

Wow.

[D]

These aren't the droids you're looking for. Goodbye.

[C]

Wow.

[B]

I really liked both of them. And I drew a little drawing of a guy sitting down with his hands up. That's a meme called Absolute Cinema. And I did that for both of your voices, which I thoroughly enjoy.

[A]

Wow. Highest praise. The Absolute cinema meme.

[C]

All right, reporter from the Star Wars Daily News. Can I ask a follow up question to Yoda?

[A]

Sure.

[D]

Yes.

[C]

Do you support childcare for children who may be still babies, but also 80 years old?

[A]

Hmm.

[D]

Yes. We all know the dangers of training children. Too old, but, yeah, 50 for one of whatever species I am, that's like, fresh out of the oven.

[A]

Yeah. Peter, as a reporter, do you have any questions you'd like to ask Stitch over there?

[D]

Yes, Stitch. While Yoda was speaking, how many things did you destroy?

[C]

I'll do. Well, you know, if I just stuffed it into my mouth and I can still regurgitate it in mostly One piece. Is it destroyed?

[D]

That is the question.

[A]

Deep thoughts here. All right, Frankie, it is time for you to vote. In a sense, you're gonna choose which side is gonna get a point, but please keep it a secret.

[B]

Should it be this difficult?

[A]

It is very difficult. Who is gonna. Have you made your decision?

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Wonderful. Then it's time for the the final six. In this round, each team will have just six words to sum up the glory of their side. Peter, please tell us why we should side with the little green guy.

[D]

Nothing cooler, is there, than Jedi.

[A]

Very nice. Sam, you are up. Please make your final pitch for Stitch.

[D]

Wise man say, vote for Stitch.

[B]

Yeah, I like that.

[A]

Incredible work. All right, Frankie, it is time to award a final point for the final six. Have you made your decision?

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Frankie, are you ready to declared one side the smashboomba? Yes. Okay. Drumroll, please. And the winner is.

[B]

Stitch.

[C]

Cowabunga.

[D]

My career is over. I've never been so heartbroken in my whole life.

[A]

Oh, man. Well, Frankie, please tell us, what was the thing that pushed it over the edge for you?

[B]

It was really tied between the first and last one because they were both really good, and it was just, honestly, like the flip of a coin for me, and sometimes it was just really hard, and I had to pick one.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I think I was struggling a lot with the sneak attack because I like both of your voices a lot, and I think I just liked Elvis Stitch singing more, so.

[C]

This was so much fun debating with you, Peter. Yes. Your Yoda was fantastic, and I. I was terrified when you brought out the Weird Al Yoda song, because I just. I had no counter for that, and I didn't know if you were gonna bring it up. And you did, and, really, that shook me. That shook me like a photon torpedo going into a ventilation shaft.

[D]

Serious design flaw.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

Sam, I am humbled. Incredible work. I must say, the thing that really got me is. Yes. You know, Stitch is an agent of chaos, but ultimately, he tears apart our expectations so that he can bring us all together. And that's what you've done today here. I'm shattered by the loss, but I've gained a new family, and for that, I am grateful.

[A]

Aww. That's ohana. Beautiful ohana. Well, that is it for today's debate battle. Frankie Crown stitched the smashboom best, but what about you?

[B]

Head to Smashroom best and vote to tell us who you think won.

[A]

This episode was produced by me, Molly Bloom, Sandon Totten, and Mark Sanchez. We had sound design by Rachel Breese. And Mark Sanchez. We had engineering help for Mitch Rackin. Our announcer is Marley Foyer worker Otto. And we want to give a special thanks to Austin Cross and Taylor Kaufman. Peter, is there anyone you'd like to give a shout out to today?

[D]

I would like to give a shout out to Mr. Olson, Molly, and my band director from high school and. And also the story Pirates, as always.

[A]

And how about you, Sam? Any special shout outs?

[C]

Yeah, I'm gonna give a special shout out to my favorite Yoda sized creatures out there. Calvin, Casper, Phoebe and Gus.

[A]

Aw. And how about you, Frankie?

[B]

Any special thanks my dad for picking me up from school early to come here and record it. My sister, who really loves Stitch and is really amazing and she made me happy to come to this debate and she'll be very happy to see that stitch one. My friend Nate, who's a Star wars fan, is going to kill me when I tell him it's Yoda 1.

[A]

Oh, yeah, Daddy.

[B]

I like to thank my family. Danny, thumbs up and John and James Brown.

[A]

Before we go, let's check in and see who Harriet thinks should win the land versus Sea debate.

[B]

I think sea should win because there's parts of the sea humans haven't discovered yet.

[A]

And there's animals of the sea humans haven't discovered. 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 if you're a fan of the show and want to keep it going, head to smart partypass.org to subscribe. We'll be back next week with a new smashboom Best episode. Bass versus Bass. Bye.

[D]

May the force be with you.

[B]

Toodles.

[A]

Better than the rest. It's smash the west. It's smash the west.

[D]

Well, I just want to say, fun fact, I also have a freckle in the back of my eye. Team eye freckles. Yes.

[C]

I also have a freckle in my eye. The camera's off right.