Tag vs. Hide and Seek: an exhilarating debate

Summary

Smash Boom Best: Tag vs. Hide and Seek - A Detailed Summary

Episode: Tag vs. Hide and Seek: an exhilarating debate
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host/Author: American Public Media
Duration: Approximately 35 minutes

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Introduction

In this lively episode of Smash Boom Best, the age-old playground favorites Tag and Hide and Seek go head-to-head in a spirited debate to determine which game reigns supreme. Hosted by Molly Bloom, the episode features Nick Kanellis championing Tag and Peter McNerney, the Story Pirate, advocating for Hide and Seek. The esteemed judge for the day is Truman, a multifaceted individual from Stillwater, Minnesota, with interests spanning professional musicals and aspirations to become a therapist.

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Round 1: Declaration of Greatness

Pro Tag: Nick Kanellis (00:34 - 07:08)

Nick kicks off the debate with enthusiasm for Tag, highlighting its global appeal and physical benefits. He emphasizes that Tag is not only fun but also excellent for cardiovascular health, agility, and quick reflexes.

Notable Quotes:

• "Tag is a worldwide phenomenon that people have been playing for centuries. Besides being super fun, tag is really good for you." (04:47)
• "You could even play on the moon." (05:55)
• "Tag is a go-to game for any occasion, anywhere." (06:13)

Nick also showcases various Tag variations, from Freeze Tag to World Chase Tag, illustrating the game's versatility and competitive spirit.

Pro Hide and Seek: Peter McNerney (08:15 - 12:37)

Peter counters by delving into the strategic depth and historical significance of Hide and Seek. He argues that the game taps into fundamental human instincts necessary for survival, such as stealth and resourcefulness.

Notable Quotes:

• "We as humans are hardwired to search for stuff, to seek for animals, for plants to eat, for shelter, for water." (09:12)
• "The urge to hide and seek is likely what helped humans survive and thrive." (09:12)
• "Hide and seek really is the universal game stretching from antiquity all the way to our modern age." (11:37)

Peter provides an immersive narrative, connecting the game to our Paleolithic ancestors and emphasizing its enduring relevance.

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Round 1: Rebuttals

Peter’s Rebuttal to Tag (07:34 - 08:04)

Peter playfully dismisses Tag by labeling it as mere running around without strategic depth. He humorously critiques the necessity of a gym for enduring Tag's physical demands, suggesting that Hide and Seek requires more mental agility.

Notable Quotes:

• "Tag. Tag? Really? That's a fun game. You know what I call tag? I call it running around." (07:34)
• "I need to be distracted in my exercise, and tag does not do the job." (07:58)

Nick’s Rebuttal to Hide and Seek (13:23 - 14:35)

Nick counters by highlighting the inconveniences of Hide and Seek, such as the physical discomfort of holding bathroom needs and the potential for players to fall asleep during the game. He also points out the extensive space requirements and the game's dependency on hiding spots.

Notable Quotes:

• "Hide and seek, the game where you can't go to the bathroom. You gotta hold it the entire time." (13:23)
• "Hide and go seek is the only game where you could fall asleep while you're playing it." (13:53)

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Round 2: Micro Round - Top of the Hour News

Peter’s Top of the Hour: Hide and Seek (21:26 - 23:01)

Peter presents a mock news report highlighting a small town's annual Hide and Seek festival. The narrative humorously portrays Devin, an overly competitive participant, as the best hider, showcasing the game's community and competitive aspects.

Notable Quotes:

• "Hide and seek rules the town's fall festival, and Devin is about to win." (21:51)
• "Hide and seek is not just a game; it's a tradition that brings the community together." (22:20)

Nick’s Top of the Hour: Tag (23:08 - 24:37)

Nick delivers an imaginative news segment about a new Tag sensation spreading nationwide. He humorously likens the urge to play Tag to a contagious condition, emphasizing the game's infectious fun and social dynamics.

Notable Quotes:

• "Tag is a brand new sensation sweeping through the nation known as it." (23:23)
• "Scientists aren't exactly sure what it is, but it's clear that it is a lot of fun." (23:08)

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Round 3: Sneak Attack - Sonic Stealth

Pro Tag: Nick Kanellis (26:23 - 27:44)

Nick introduces "Ta Tag", an audio-only version of Tag. In this game, players can only say "T" unless tagged with "ta," at which point the tagged player becomes "it." The game relies on auditory cues, making it suitable for a podcast format.

Notable Quotes:

• "Ta Tag is a brand new version where you respond with 'T' and 'ta' to transfer the 'it' status." (26:23)
• "I taught it well." (27:38)

Pro Hide and Seek: Peter McNerney (27:56 - 28:53)

Peter presents an audio variant of Hide and Seek, where players describe their hiding spot silently, and the seeker guesses the location based solely on auditory clues. This version leverages imagination and listening skills.

Notable Quotes:

• "Guess where I'm hiding with just sound cues." (27:56)
• "It's very tough to guess where someone is hiding without visuals." (28:53)

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Final Round: The Super Six

Pro Hide and Seek: Peter McNerney (29:38 - 29:50)

Peter succinctly captures the essence of Hide and Seek in six words:

"Ready or not. Here comes fun."

Pro Tag: Nick Kanellis (30:04 - 30:11)

Nick counters with his own six-word summary:

"Why Hide. Have more fun. Run."

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Judgment and Conclusion

After an intense and closely contested debate, Truman announces Hide and Seek as the winner. He commends both debaters for their creativity and passion but ultimately favors Hide and Seek's strategic depth and historical significance.

Notable Quotes from Truman:

• "Hide and seek by a mile. Because you have to use your brain." (11:03)
• "I loved Peter's creativity. He deserves to win." (31:29)

Both debaters express sportsmanship, with Nick appreciating Peter's imaginative approach and Peter acknowledging Nick's enthusiasm for physical activity.

Truman’s Final Verdict:

• "It was very close." (30:42)
• "Hide and seek rules." (30:35)

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State of Debate: Logical Fallacies

Interspersed within the main debate is the State of Debate segment, where Nick Kanellis and Molly Bloom dissect a logical fallacy demonstrated through a humorous fishing scenario.

Featured Fallacy: Special Pleading

Example Highlighted:

• A fisherman argues for an exception to licensing rules based on personal expertise, despite lacking evidence to support the exemption.

Notable Quotes:

• "That's a special pleading fallacy. James should have gotten a permit like Jesse did before they hit the lake." (17:11)

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Engagement and Call to Action

The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to vote for their favorite team at smashboom.org and participate in future debates. Additionally, announcements about upcoming live shows and other podcasts within the Brainson Universe are briefly mentioned, encouraging family-friendly engagement.

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Conclusion

This episode of Smash Boom Best masterfully balances humor, creativity, and informative debate, making it both entertaining and educational for kids and families alike. By delving into the nuances of Tag and Hide and Seek, the show not only determines a winner but also imparts valuable lessons in argumentation and critical thinking.

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For more engaging debates and family-friendly content, tune into Smash Boom Best, where every debate is a blast!

Transcript

[Bryce Climb]

From the brains behind brains on, it's Smash Boom Best.

[Truman]

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 fun filled face off between two timeless playground favorites. It's tag versus hide and seek Story pirate, improviser and motion capture. Actor Nick Kanellis is here. Demonstrates speed and agility for team tag.

[Nick Kanellis]

No need to brag. It's the game that doesn't drag. It's more fun to play tag. Let's hear it for the tag team champions of the world.

[Molly Bloom]

And story pirate Peter McNerney is here with a heavy dose of stealth and strategy for team Hide and Seek.

[Bryce Climb]

Your long search has ended for you have found the greatest game in human history. It is hide and seek.

[Molly Bloom]

And here to jack judge it all is Truman from Stillwater, Minnesota. Truman is currently starring in his first professional musical, enjoys Dungeons and Dragons, and would one day love to be a Broadway actor who moonlights as a professional therapist. Hi, Truman. Hi. So what is it like to be in a professional musical?

[Truman]

It's so much fun. It's so cool being surrounded by like the people you want to grow up to be.

[Molly Bloom]

That sounds very, very cool. And what draws you in about being a therapist someday?

[Truman]

My mom's a therapist and I think it's just a really cool job cause you get to help people and I've always been like intrigued about mental health and I just think it's super interesting.

[Molly Bloom]

It's great. And you've judged Nashmoon best multiple times now.

[Truman]

Yeah.

[Molly Bloom]

Do you have any advice for our debaters today?

[Truman]

Make me laugh. And references.

[Molly Bloom]

References and laughs. Will Truman side with Nick or Peter? Only time will tell. But first, here are the rules. Every debate consists of four. The declaration of greatness, the micro round, the sneak attack, and the final six. After each round, our judge Truman 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 take one. Okay, Nick, Peter and Truman, are you ready?

[Bryce Climb]

Yeah, Born ready.

[Nick Kanellis]

Take the letter E, color it red.

[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 Nick, you're up first. Tell us what is so terrific about tag.

[Nick Kanellis]

I love tag. It's easily my favorite game. But lately I'm getting tagged way too often. So I decided to join my local gym to get in shape and up my game. By the way, did I mention this is a tag gym?

[Bryce Climb]

Yo, what's up, tagamaniacs? My name's Bryce Climb, owner of the Fountain, AKA the best tag gym Des Moines has to offer. Let me show you around. Over here we've got slopes, rails, and a wicked jumping wall. Everything you need to practice death defying escapes from an epic tagger. Isn't that right, Lexi?

[Molly Bloom]

For sure, Bryce.

[Bryce Climb]

Lexi's one of our best clients.

[Molly Bloom]

Before I joined the Fountain, I played like an amateur. Chasing taggers like a puppy chases her tail. But now I'm no puppy. I'm top dog. I used to be it, but now I'm killing it. Running it, flexing it, ownin it.

[Bryce Climb]

We're so happy you came by to check out the place, Nick. Sign up today and the first month's free. And if you catch me, the second month's free. But you won't.

[Nick Kanellis]

Wow, I can't wait to up my tag game. In case you've been living under a rock, which is, sadly, a winning hide and seek strategy, tag is a worldwide phenomenon that people have been playing for centuries. Besides being super fun, tag is really good for you. It gets your heart pumping. It requires speed, quick reflexes, and helps you master the art of watching several targets at once. And humans aren't the only ones who love playing tag. Scientists have noticed that young gorillas also play a version of this classic game. Tag is so beloved, it's even played by other species.

[Bryce Climb]

Hey, Jill, do you want to play tag like a silverback gorilla? Or would you rather play hide and seek like that? Turtle tag Tag.

[Truman]

I love gorillas.

[Nick Kanellis]

Not only is the game fun, but there are a ton of different ways to play tag. Like freeze tag, where you get tagged and stay still until someone unfreezes you. Or TV tag, where you can avoid getting tagged if you say the name of a TV show. Or my favorite, Smashboom Best tag. It's just like TV tag. But you share a fact about Molly Tag Yorit.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh wait.

[Truman]

Malia Bloom has a phobia of birds named Kevin. Aw, man, you're right.

[Nick Kanellis]

There's also octopus tag, hot dog tag, blob tag, Star wars tag, and more. And if you get really good you can play tag professionally. World Chase tag is a competitive sport where two teams race to tag each other in an arena filled with obstacles. It's played internationally and has killer rounds like chase offs and sudden death. Chase offs? That's for players who are really good at tag. You want to know what happens if you get good at hide and seek? You go missing. Hide and seek requires a lot of space. Dark and musty old places to hide. But you can play tag anywhere with anyone. You could even play on the moon.

[Bryce Climb]

That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind. Tag. You're it, Neil. Ah, you rascal. Get over here. Uh, Houston, we have a problem. Neil is never gonna catch me.

[Nick Kanellis]

Whether you're playing in a gym, a playground, or outer space, any place is a perfect space for our game of chase tag. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to catch Bryce, because you know I'm not gonna pay full price for that gym membership.

[Bryce Climb]

You're never gonna catch me, dude.

[Nick Kanellis]

Yes, I am. Come here, Bryce. He's really good at this. He's fast.

[Molly Bloom]

You just had to mention Kevin, My phobia of birds named Kevin. I don't know if I can go on in this taping. Oh, Nick, what an excellent job. Truman, what stood out to you about N. Nick's declaration of greatness?

[Truman]

I liked the switch of scenes. It was like the perfect amount of each scene where you, like, I could see it in my head. I loved it. The wording was great. And, you know, tag is a go to.

[Molly Bloom]

Mm. It's true. Peter, it is time for your rebuttal. Tell us why tag is just a red flag. You've got 30 seconds, and your time starts now.

[Bryce Climb]

Tag. Tag? Really? That's a fun game. You know what I call tag? I call it running around. Ooh, the strategy. Oh, guess what? I'm faster than you. You're it. Game's over. Yeah, you know, that gym thing was very apt. Cause you know what? Who wants to go to the gym? That's what tag is. Exercise. Just exercise. I need to be distracted in my exercise, and tag does not do the job. Tag? No one's it.

[Molly Bloom]

And I.

[Nick Kanellis]

I. I don't really understand why Peter doesn't like to exercise. I think exercising is fun, and I think tag is the perfect way to trick yourself into exercising.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, it is your turn, Peter. Tell us why hide and seek is so unique.

[Bryce Climb]

Oh, hi, everyone. Sorry to whisper, but I'm in the middle of playing the greatest game of all time. Hide and seek. And, well, things may have gotten a little out of hand. Peter, where are you? You've been hiding for four days. That's my friend Gary. We're very competitive. Neither one of us has slept since the game began. What was that? You're clearly right here in this cookie jar. What? You're not in here. This jar is full of delicious cookies in the shape of your face. Did you make these just to mock me? I did. You'll never defeat me, Peter. I'll find you.

[Molly Bloom]

Wow.

[Bryce Climb]

This game rules. But why? Why is the simple act of hiding or seeking so fun? To answer that question, here's me recorded earlier when I wasn't hiding in an incredibly cramped spot. Peter. Thanks, Peter. Hi, everyone. Now, you're probably wondering, what am I doing in this idyllic forest untouched by civilization? Is it to set the scene for what life was like for our Paleolithic hunter gatherer ancestors? Wow, good guess. It is. You see, we as humans are hardwired to search for stuff, to seek for animals, for plants to eat, for shelter, for water, or any other thing that you might file under needed to live. If your great, great greatest of great grandparents didn't have treasure hunting brains, you probably wouldn't be here. Hey, gurgs, are you coming? Time to hunt sabertooth tiger. Oh, shoot, that's today? Yeah. What? You have something else to do? Eh, I thought maybe I'd just relax and do some Minecraft. You mean dig for stones and minerals? Yeah, what else would I mean? I don't know. Well, good luck not eating. Bye. So the urge to hide and seek is likely what helped humans survive and thrive.

[Molly Bloom]

Whoa.

[Bryce Climb]

So you're saying it's not just for fun? It's important. Yes. I am inexplicable other Peter. This is so cool. I know. That's why even to this day, we love to play hide and seek. And to prove it, I interviewed the ultimate expert on games. A child. Hello there. Now, is it true that you are in fact, a real kid?

[Truman]

Yes.

[Bryce Climb]

And have you played hide and seek?

[Truman]

Yes.

[Bryce Climb]

And have you played tag?

[Truman]

Yes.

[Bryce Climb]

Tell me, which one is better?

[Truman]

Hide and seek by a mile.

[Bryce Climb]

Whoa, really? Why?

[Truman]

I like hide and seek a lot more. Because you actually have to use your brain. If you're playing tag with someone who's faster than you, then they'll just keep winning. What fun is that?

[Bryce Climb]

Indeed. Is there anything else you'd like to say?

[Truman]

Well, as a professional kid, I'd like to say that hide and seek rules and tag sadly, drools.

[Molly Bloom]

Wow.

[Bryce Climb]

An excellent point. Wouldn't you say? So Weird other Peter, I would. Hey, how come I never noticed that there are two of me? Where have you been this whole time? I was hiding.

[Molly Bloom]

Ho ho ho.

[Bryce Climb]

Nice. Anyway, hide and seek really is the universal game stretching from antiquity all the way to our modern age. Back to you, original Peter, still playing that game of hide and seek. Thanks, Peters. Wow, this really is a great game. And one that I refuse to stop playing until Gary admits defeat. I think he's close. Fine. I give up. You win, Peter. Are you happy? Come out, come out, wherever you are. Okay, here I go. I'm right here. Peter, were you hiding in the toilet? Yes. For four days. Didn't anyone have to use the bathroom in that time? Umm. Ahem. Well, I win. Ugh.

[Molly Bloom]

Wow. Peter really does love hide and seek. Going to amazing lakes to win.

[Truman]

It sounds like no way home. The amount of Peters that are there.

[Molly Bloom]

Absolutely. Now Truman, what stood out to you about Peter's declaration of greatness?

[Truman]

I really did like the Minecraft reference. I thought it was like a perfect, perfect timing and it was just very like immersive in a way. And then like the sprinkled in like extremes of hide and seek I really liked. Four days is a long time.

[Molly Bloom]

All right, Nick, it is time for your rebuttal. Tell us why hide and seek is super weak. You've got 30 seconds. And go.

[Nick Kanellis]

Great. Well, Peter said it himself. Hide and seek, the game where you can't go to the bathroom. You gotta hold it the entire time. What a wonderful way to just feel in pain. Also, that kid sounded an awful lot like Peter's child. I wonder if they're biased at all. I don't know. I hope Peter's taking care of him. Okay. And also the whole conversation about like you gotta find a saber toothed tiger, well then you gotta catch it. And that part would be tag. Hide and go seek is kind of the preamble and it is the only game where you could fall asleep while you're playing it.

[Molly Bloom]

And time.

[Bryce Climb]

Oh, you can't go to the bathroom. Did you listen to the argument, Nick? I hid in the toilet. I could go wherever I wanted to. That's the fun of hide and seek is that you can. You know, let's not get too specific. We already made a serious potty humor joke. But you know what? Let us not forget half of tag is seeking, AKA catching you. It's already in the game. More complex. That was a sound effect just to sound exciting.

[Truman]

Have you ever. Have you ever thought of hide and seek tag?

[Bryce Climb]

Oh, it is a variation of Hide and seek.

[Nick Kanellis]

I would call that a variation of tag because you have to finish with the tag.

[Bryce Climb]

The tag is becoming friends. Let's make up a game.

[Molly Bloom]

Truman, 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 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?

[Truman]

I have.

[Molly Bloom]

Wonderful. Peter and Nick. How are you two feeling so far?

[Bryce Climb]

I'm feeling pretty good. I do feel bad I've been yelling at Nick. I just want to pause and say that Nick is my best friend and I love you.

[Nick Kanellis]

I would echo what Peter has said. I would love to play either hide and go seek or tag with Peter. I feel like I should yell more.

[Molly Bloom]

It is time for a quick break. Stretch out your calves, close your eyes and count to 10.

[Truman]

And we'll be right back with more smashboom.

[Molly Bloom]

Best.

[Bryce Climb]

You're listening to State of Debate.

[Molly Bloom]

Home to raging rhetoric and awe inspiring argumentation.

[Bryce Climb]

Hello, debate fans.

[Nick Kanellis]

I'm Todd Douglas and I'm here with.

[Molly Bloom]

The one and only Taylor Lincoln. And lucky me, because I just hooked a big old logical fallacy.

[Nick Kanellis]

Logical fallacies are debate mistakes that make your argument weaker.

[Molly Bloom]

I just saw someone using the special pleading fallacy. That's when a person asks for an exception to be made for their side without any support to back it up.

[Nick Kanellis]

Let's take a listen. Thanks for fishing with me, Jesse.

[Bryce Climb]

I've been dying to test out this new bait I've been developing.

[Molly Bloom]

No problem, James. Besides, I've been dying to go fishing for months.

[Bryce Climb]

What's been keeping you?

[Molly Bloom]

It's really hard to get a fishing permit this year. Without a permit, you're not allowed to fish. But luckily I was able to get one yesterday.

[Bryce Climb]

Oh yeah, Those permits sure are important for conserving wildlife. Every angler should get one.

[Molly Bloom]

Exactly. Hey, when did you get your permit?

[Bryce Climb]

Oh, me? Oh no, I never got one. But I think we'll be okay. What?

[Molly Bloom]

But you just said people should have them.

[Bryce Climb]

Yeah, but I'm a really good fisherman. I think I'll be fine if I don't get one.

[Nick Kanellis]

You know what I mean?

[Bryce Climb]

Besides, what could go wrong if just one guy doesn't have a permit?

[Molly Bloom]

Woof. We're gonna need a bigger boat for a logical fallacy this large.

[Nick Kanellis]

James knows having a fishing permit is really important. So it's unfair that he didn't get one himself.

[Molly Bloom]

That's right. You're not allowed to fish without a permit. But he wants a special exception because he's good at fishing.

[Nick Kanellis]

That's a fishy excuse to me.

[Molly Bloom]

Exactly. James should have gotten a permit like Jesse did before they hit the lake.

[Nick Kanellis]

Wow, all this fishing talk has put me in the mood for some seafood.

[Bryce Climb]

How about you, Taylor?

[Molly Bloom]

Ooh, I'm always open for a fine filet of fish. We'll see you next time on State of Debate. Hey, friends. Molly Sandon and Mark here with some very big news. Drumroll, please.

[Nick Kanellis]

We're hitting the road in search of adventure, fresh air, and you.

[Bryce Climb]

That's right. We're gonna be live at the Boulder Theater in Boulder, Colorado on Sunday, April 27.

[Molly Bloom]

Our science themed live stage show takes the audience on an adventure through the brain, complete with magic tricks, dance moves, out of body experiences, mystery sounds, and a game show.

[Nick Kanellis]

Molly, you almost left out the most important part.

[Bryce Climb]

Yeah, Molly, don't forget the big party.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, right after the shows, we're throwing a Brain Tastic bash. Join us afterward for a VIP party where we'll play games, guest mystery sounds, pose for photos, and give as many high fives as humanly possible. Snag a spot by purchasing a VIP pass when you buy your show ticket.

[Nick Kanellis]

Oh, that reminds me, I've got to start training. These hands aren't gonna high five by themselves.

[Bryce Climb]

Five and four. Good idea. And remember, spots are limited, so grab your tickets [e-mail] events.

[Molly Bloom]

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

[Truman]

It's.

[Bryce Climb]

It's Alien Exercise hour.

[Molly Bloom]

Hi Yah hoo Ha.

[Bryce Climb]

While I stretch my snoodles and bounce on my trampolini, I'll listen to a new podcast.

[Molly Bloom]

I'm going to try Brain's Arm, the.

[Bryce Climb]

Best science podcast ever.

[Truman]

It's starting.

[Molly Bloom]

Yay.

[Bryce Climb]

Hello and welcome to Pop Planet, the.

[Nick Kanellis]

Only show that gets you up close.

[Bryce Climb]

And personal with space. I'm your host, Star Eden. Come back here. Podcast Must listen to Brains on. No.

[Molly Bloom]

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

[Bryce Climb]

Best.

[Molly Bloom]

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

[Truman]

And I'm your judge Truman.

[Molly Bloom]

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

[Truman]

Hello, my name is Isaiah and I'm from Europe.

[Molly Bloom]

Even though I live in New York.

[Truman]

City and my debate is Harry Potter versus Indiana Jones. Ooh, a battle of wands and whips.

[Molly Bloom]

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

[Truman]

And now it's back to our debate. Tag versus hide and seek.

[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 Nick and Peter, the prompt was top of the hour, where each debater has to fill us in on the latest breaking news about their side. Nick went first last time. So, Peter, you're up. Give us the breaking news on hide and seek.

[Bryce Climb]

And now we go to our reporter in the field. Trip, Graslig. Trip. Thanks, Ted. I'm here in a small town rocked by a not so small tragedy. A beloved part of their annual fall festival is a village wide game of hide and seek. And unfortunately, it seems the most obnoxious member of this community is about to win. Ma'am, how are the people feeling?

[Molly Bloom]

We're obviously devastated. We've been searching for days, but there's no sign of Devin.

[Bryce Climb]

Now, as I understand it, normally not finding Devin is a good thing.

[Molly Bloom]

Yes, he's incredibly annoying and he finds.

[Bryce Climb]

A way to gloat about literally everything.

[Molly Bloom]

If he won, he'd totally rub our faces in it. Frankly, we're heartbroken by the idea that he's about to win.

[Bryce Climb]

Wow. So despite all that, I guess you would have to say that Devin is officially the best hider in town.

[Molly Bloom]

I don't know how I came to this, but yes, I must admit he's very good at hiding. Just please don't tell him I said that.

[Bryce Climb]

Huh? Well, it's too late. What? Fake mustache.

[Molly Bloom]

Devon.

[Bryce Climb]

Ho ho, baby. You said it. I'm the best. Woo.

[Molly Bloom]

Ha.

[Bryce Climb]

I'm the lord of hiding. In your face. In your face.

[Molly Bloom]

You are so obnoxious.

[Bryce Climb]

I think you mean so good at hiding. Back to you in the studio. Wow. Annoying.

[Molly Bloom]

Wow. Nick, now it's your turn to give us your top of the hour on tag.

[Nick Kanellis]

Welcome back to the News at nine. I'm James Cranberry with tonight's top story. There's a brand new sensation sweeping through the nation known as it. Scientists aren't exactly sure what it is, but it's clear that it is a lot of fun. Those who come down with this curious condition are overcome with a sense of thrill and a primitive urge to pass it on. For more, here's Robert Laundrie in the field.

[Bryce Climb]

Robert.

[Nick Kanellis]

Hi, James. I'm here with Tabitha Woodpile, who claims that she was briefly it. Tabitha, tell us about your experience.

[Molly Bloom]

It was wild. I was myself. But then the next thing I knew, I felt this. This light touch on my shoulder, and then I knew I was it. And I had this powerful urge to pass it on. It was like I was a lioness or a cheetah.

[Nick Kanellis]

But what was it you were trying to pass on?

[Molly Bloom]

I don't know, but I know it was making me and everyone around me laugh and run around and yell like, wild. Uh, oh, I think that guy's it.

[Bryce Climb]

Gotta run.

[Molly Bloom]

I love tag so much.

[Bryce Climb]

Haha. You're it.

[Nick Kanellis]

Oh. It appears that now I am it. I don't know what to say other than I gotta go catch someone. Back to you, James.

[Truman]

Whee.

[Bryce Climb]

This is the best day of my life.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay. These games are so fun that even the newscasters have to to play. Truman, what did you like about Nick and Peter's micro rounds?

[Truman]

Ooh. I. I liked that both of them were like, everybody's involved.

[Molly Bloom]

Absolutely.

[Truman]

And like, I'd love to know more about this. It, like, it's. Is there like. Like, did it start with like one person in every country? Is it? And like, if one person is it and they tag another person, does the person who tagged the other person stay it?

[Molly Bloom]

We need a 12 part investigative podcast series, I think. All right, Truman, it is time to award a point. Have you made your decision?

[Truman]

I have.

[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 Sonic Stealth. For this challenge, we want you to come up with a version of your game that could be played with just sound. Again, your game should be audio only, as this is a podcast. We want you to name your sound game inspired by your side. Explain it, then let's play it. Debaters, does this make sense?

[Nick Kanellis]

I believe it does, yes.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, we're gonna start with Nick.

[Nick Kanellis]

I would like to play a brand new version of tag called T. Tag. The way that it works is one person is it, and they're trying to listen for the ta. Everybody else says T. Whenever you say T, you can't be T. But as soon as somebody says ta, the person who's it has to say TA before they can say T again, and then that person becomes it. All right, so great. I'll be it to start. So everyone else can only say T. As soon as I hear somebody say ta, I can tag them. If I say ta before somebody else says T again.

[Molly Bloom]

Whoa. Okay, do we take turns saying T?

[Nick Kanellis]

You can all say T as many times as you want. But if I hear a TA and I say Ta, that person who ta'd, is it.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay, I'm ready.

[Truman]

I'm partially ready.

[Molly Bloom]

Yes. Set, go.

[Bryce Climb]

I sort of get it. T, T, T. I Ta.

[Nick Kanellis]

I T. No, no, I taught a TA.

[Bryce Climb]

I'm pretty sure you didn't tie I Ta. I Ta. Peter, stop, stop, stop, stop. I can't stop saying Todd. Peter's.

[Nick Kanellis]

Peter's the new tar. Peter's it. I taught his I Todd. Your Todd.

[Bryce Climb]

Peter.

[Nick Kanellis]

You Todd early and I Todd it. All right.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay. You taught it.

[Nick Kanellis]

Todd is it? It is Todd. Todd is it T taughtie.

[Bryce Climb]

Yeah. And you taught it well.

[Nick Kanellis]

I'm glad that I taught you well. Good.

[Molly Bloom]

That was really good.

[Nick Kanellis]

I taught it well.

[Truman]

Thank you.

[Molly Bloom]

Excellent work. That was fun. I want to play that again. All right, Peter, it is your turn. Let's hear about your new audio only version of Hide and Seek.

[Bryce Climb]

My audio only version of Hide and seek is very simple. We all close our eyes, and in your mind, if you're the hider, you decide where you want to hide. And then you say, guess where I'm hiding, but in a voice that makes it sound like you're in that space. And then you have to guess what kind of space I'm in. For example, I'm gonna pick in my mind a suitcase. And then we go, all right, ready? Go. I'm hiding. And then you say, are you in a box? No.

[Nick Kanellis]

All right, great. I got. I'm ready. I'm ready.

[Molly Bloom]

Okay.

[Bryce Climb]

Yeah.

[Nick Kanellis]

You guys.

[Bryce Climb]

All right.

[Nick Kanellis]

Ready? All right, all right. Are you ready?

[Bryce Climb]

Are you hiding?

[Nick Kanellis]

Guess what I'm hiding.

[Bryce Climb]

In. A turkey?

[Nick Kanellis]

No, I was underwater. Underwater. Underwater. Yes. Yes. Truman was correct.

[Truman]

I was right.

[Nick Kanellis]

Points for Truman. Truman's. Truman's the seeker.

[Molly Bloom]

Truman, found you.

[Bryce Climb]

I'm trusting a suitcase and I can't get in.

[Nick Kanellis]

Are you in a suitcase? And you can't get out.

[Molly Bloom]

Are you. Oh, my gosh. These are both so fun. So we've got two excellent games here. We've got ta tag Ti Ta and the audio version of hide and seek. Guess where I'm hiding. It is very tough.

[Bryce Climb]

I'm going to call the game. Can you hear where I'm hiding?

[Molly Bloom]

Ooh. Love it. Okay, so we've got ta tag. Can you hear where I'm hiding? I need you, Truman, to award a point to Your favorite game.

[Truman]

I'm awarding.

[Molly Bloom]

It is time for our final round.

[Bryce Climb]

The final six.

[Molly Bloom]

In this round, each team will have just six words to sum up the glory of their side. Peter, let's hear your six words for the heart pounding. Hide and seek.

[Bryce Climb]

Ready or not. Here comes fun.

[Truman]

I applaud you.

[Molly Bloom]

Excellent. Okay, Nick, it's your turn. Give us six words that will help you brag about tag.

[Nick Kanellis]

Why Hide. Have more fun. Run.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, man. Two really good final sixes there. But, Truman, only one of them can receive your final point. Have you made your decision?

[Truman]

Yes.

[Molly Bloom]

Are you ready to crown one team the smashboom Best?

[Truman]

I am.

[Molly Bloom]

All right. Drumroll, please. And the winner is.

[Truman]

It is. Hide and seek.

[Bryce Climb]

Fair. Fair.

[Nick Kanellis]

Fair enough.

[Bryce Climb]

I'll take it.

[Truman]

It was very close.

[Bryce Climb]

Take it.

[Nick Kanellis]

Congrats.

[Truman]

Came down to the final six. And ready or not, here I come is such a classic. But adding the fun, it was just. It was.

[Bryce Climb]

Here comes perfect.

[Truman]

I loved it. And I forgot that that was six words, so I thought it was really clever.

[Molly Bloom]

Nicely done, both of you.

[Bryce Climb]

What I enjoyed about Nick's performance was, besides every single second of it, thinking about it later, I also loved Nick. You did make me want to run around. And for that, thank you. And your presence makes everything better. Aw, thanks, Peter.

[Nick Kanellis]

I feel like I won even though I lost. Wow. I'm blown away by Peter's creativity. Just hearing him do all the different voices was so fun. I think that game, Guess Where I'm Hiding Now Is brilliant. I think we're gonna hopefully play it constantly on road trips. I just want to keep playing that game I could play all day. It sounds so fun. You know, I found Peter's performance of it very impressive. So I get it. I get it. I think he deserves to win.

[Molly Bloom]

Well, that's it for today's debate battle. Truman crowned Hide and seek the Smashboom Best. But what about you?

[Truman]

Head 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 Molly Bloom, Anna Wegel, and Aron Woldeselassi. We had engineering help from Alex Simpson and Gary O'Keefe, with sound design by Anna Wegel. Our editors are Shayla Farzan and Sandon Totten, with fact checking by Rebecca Rand. And we had production help from the rest of the BrainZone Universe team. Rosie Dupont, Rachel Breese, Anna Goldfield, Nico Gonzalez Whistler, Ruby Guthrie, Lauren Humpert, Joshua Ray, Mark Sanchez, and Charlotte Traver. Our executive producers Beth Pearlman. And the APM Studios executives in charge are Chandra Kabaddi and Joanne Griffith. Our announcer is Marlee Feuer worker Otto. And we want to give a special thanks to Austin Cross and Taylor Kaufman. Nick, is there anyone you'd like to give a shout out to today?

[Nick Kanellis]

I'd like to give a shout out to my kids, RJ and Nico. And to the kids at PS 145 and 154.

[Molly Bloom]

Woohoo. And how about you, Peter? Any special shout outs?

[Bryce Climb]

My kids, Bryn and Maven and their school, BS 11 across the street. Now you know where I live.

[Molly Bloom]

Oh, we love the story. Pirates. Truman, do you want to give any special thanks?

[Truman]

I want to give a special thanks to my mom, my dad and everybody who's helped me throughout my life.

[Molly Bloom]

That is a beautiful thing.

[Truman]

Smashboom Best is a non profit public radio program.

[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 while you're at it, join Smarty Pass for bonus episodes and ad free versions of all four shows in the Brainz universe. We'll be back with a new smashboom Best debate battle next week. Frankenstein's Monster versus Frosty the Snowman. Goodbye.

[Truman]

See you later, alligator.

[Bryce Climb]

You're it. You're it.

[Molly Bloom]

You're it.

[Bryce Climb]

Gotcha.

[Nick Kanellis]

I was gonna say this same thing, Peter. That's hilarious. It's natural.

[Molly Bloom]

When.

[Nick Kanellis]

Can you hear where I'm hiding?

[Molly Bloom]

Yeah, go ahead.

[Nick Kanellis]

You're gonna find me.

[Bryce Climb]

Are you hiding inside the dream of an alien, Klaus?

[Nick Kanellis]

No.

[Truman]

Are you a free elf, Dobby?

[Nick Kanellis]

Not quite.

[Molly Bloom]

Are you inside a fan?

[Bryce Climb]

Yes.

[Nick Kanellis]

I was in a fan. Yeah, How'd you know.