Flowers Will Not Grow Well Enough For My Mom To Like Them/The Breakdancing Knight

Summary

Podcast Summary: Story Pirates – “Flowers Will Not Grow Well Enough For My Mom To Like Them / The Breakdancing Knight”

Date: May 28, 2026
Episode Theme: Season 8 Finale, Part 1 – Creative Kids’ Stories, Storyteller Con, and Evil Robot Story Pirates

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Episode Overview

This lively episode marks part one of the Story Pirates' big season eight finale, set at the whimsical “Storyteller Con”—a fictional convention celebrating storytellers of all kinds. The Story Pirates face off against their nefarious rivals, the Evil Robot Story Pirates, in a comedic narrative threaded throughout. The heart of the show is, as always, stories written by kids—performed as sketches and songs by the inventive cast—with fun interviews and the Story Love segment to round it out.

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Key Segments & Discussion Points

1. Arrival at Storyteller Con & Introductions (02:16 – 07:02)

• Story Pirates arrive at the grand Storyteller Con, greeted by Cornelius J. Story.
• Banter about the storied history of the convention, featuring legendary guests such as “Aesop and his fables, Mother Goose and her fairy tales...Spielberg”

  “No, Todd Spielberg. He does this shadow puppet storytelling show. That's really pretty neat, huh?” (06:16 – Peter)

• Surprise at being asked to perform a story from a kid before festivities begin.

2. Story 1: “Flowers Will Not Grow Well Enough For My Mom To Like Them” by Kendall, Age 9 (07:24 – 11:19)

• Summary: A young girl tries—and fails—to grow flowers for her mother before she returns from vacation. Panic ensues, replaced at the end by her parents’ understanding and support.
• Notable Quotes & Moments:
  • “[Singing] Don't want my mom to know these flowers will not grow. I'm cooked. I'm toast. I was a kid Mom trusted the most...” (08:32 – Nimini)
  • “Trying your best is all that we can ask for. Don't keep your chin up. Cause you never gave up.” (11:01 – Peter as Mom)
• Tone: Musical, earnest, and humorous—a heartfelt message about effort and parental love.

3. Conversations with Fans & Comic Relief (11:52 – 14:46)

• The Story Pirates meet excited fans at the convention, reflecting on the impact their podcast has had on kids and families.

  “At first, I was just excited that my kids could agree on something to listen to, but I didn't realize how much this mom would end up liking it, too.” (12:17 – Nimini as Fan)

• Comic misdirection with fans claiming to have grown up with Story Pirates.

4. Villainous Twist: The Evil Robot Story Pirates Appear (13:35 – 15:10)

• Evil Robot Story Pirates confront the regular crew, vowing to “defeat them with logic.”

  “Who else looks exactly like you but is better in every single way?” (13:51 – Evil Robot Lee),
  “We may not be as efficient or focused or logical...but we believe in the ideas and words of young people.” (14:29 – Lee)

• Sets up a classic “heroes vs. villains” dynamic for the finale.

5. Storyteller Con Fun & Convention Hijinks (16:25 – 19:00)

• Shadow puppet storytelling performance by “Todd Spielberg.”
• Light, meta-humor about convention snacks and backstage jitters.

  “Have you guys seen the snack bar? They have little cakes shaped like books and little cookbooks shaped like cakes.” (17:43 – Peter)

6. Evil Robot Plot Unfolds: Anti-Imagination Machine (19:01 – 22:47)

• Robot Pirates attempt to brainwash the convention-goers into rejecting imagination, deploying a comically described “machine.”
  • “It emits an incredibly specific frequency that goes deep into the brain. And if used a certain way, it could be used for brainwashing.” (20:15 – Nimini)
• Regular Pirates narrowly avoid doom and plot to save the day “by celebrating the words and ideas of young people.”

7. Cliffhanger – Trapdoor! (22:22 – 22:47)

• The real Story Pirates are dropped through a trapdoor by the robots, ending with a suspenseful, parody cliffhanger:

  “It looks like we're in quite a pickle.” (22:44 – Peter)

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8. Story 2: “The Breakdancing Knight” by Abel, Age 13 (23:02 – 29:57)

• Summary: In the merry town of Pastry, the brave Sir Robert Drake—magical armor and all—must defend the town in a breakdance battle against an invading king’s champion, Johnny The Awesome. Through dazzling dance moves (with detailed, playful narration), Robert triumphs, the villain is vanquished, and the townsfolk rejoice.
• Notable Quotes & Moments:
  • “Tis Sir Robert Drake, he's the breakdancing Knight!” (24:16 – Lee)
  • “My finishing move's called Ye Olde Reliable. A baby swipe flip with 360 rotation. There it is. I am done.” (28:56 – Peter as Robert)
  • “And they celebrate him with the funkiest grooves. We dance to remember our mightiest friend.” (29:57 – Nimini, closing narration)
• Tone: Rhyming, exuberant, filled with puns and genre-bending fun.

Author Interview with Abel (30:28 – 34:00)

• Key Points:
  • Abel’s love of history and medieval lore inspired the story.
  • Fascination with how knights trained—page, squire, knight (31:09 – Abel).
  • Discusses world-building, favorite book series (“Wing Feather Saga,” “The Hunger Games”) and interest in civil rights history, specifically Martin Luther King Jr.
  • Abel: “I love world building...If you want to write a book or make a movie, it has to take place in a world, right? Well, the world building is where you create your world. And with all of the lore and items and characters and heroes and bad guys.” (32:49)

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9. Story Love Segment (34:15 – 43:21)

Peter and Lee showcase three kid-written mini-stories, with humorous analysis and playful speculation.

a. “The Alien Who Decided to Visit Earth” by Penelope, Age 7 (34:41 – 37:52)

• An alien visits Earth, causes accidental chaos with living slime, but ultimately makes 11 new friends.
• “...any day that you make 11 new friends is a huge day. That's a lot of friends.” (36:55 – Lee)
• Speculation about whether the whirlpool is a black hole.

b. “We Aren't Good at Cooking” by Oliver, Age 10 (37:58 – 40:21)

• A backstage cooking contest with the hilariously doomed dish “salty fish spaghetti” versus “balsa wood with paprika.”
• “Just look at the title. We Aren't Good at Cooking.” (38:50 – Peter)
• Playful debate about food puns and the difference between macarons and macaroons.

c. “Bigfoot on the Moon” by Jolene, Age 8 (41:17 – 43:21)

• Bigfoot finds his lost grandma in space and brings her home.
• “These big feet are actually aliens from outer space. They come from Bigfoot planet and...travel through space all the time.” (42:36 – Lee)
• Discussion on interstellar Bigfoots (Bigfeet?).

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10. Closing Remarks, Teasers & Credits (43:21 – End)

• Hosts encourage listeners to check out the extended Story Love segment on YouTube and learn more about Story Pirates’ programs.
• Warm thanks to kid authors Kendall and Abel:

  “Thanks to today's authors, Kendall and Abel. Tune in next week for part two of our big finale. Until then, stay creative and stay kind.” (44:18 – Lee)

• End-credit comedic banter as the cast jokingly discuss what to do during their “long fall” into the trapdoor.

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Notable Quotes and Moments with Timestamps

• “We may not be as efficient or focused or logical...but we believe in ourselves. And more importantly, we believe in the ideas and words of young people.” (14:29 – Lee)
• “Trying your best is all that we can ask for. Don't keep your chin up. Cause you never gave up.” (11:01 – Peter as Mom)
• “Tis Sir Robert Drake, he's the breakdancing knight!” (24:16 – Lee)
• “My finishing move's called Ye Olde Reliable. A baby swipe flip with 360 rotation.” (28:56 – Peter)
• “I love world building.” (32:47 – Abel)
• “Any day that you make 11 new friends is a huge day.” (36:55 – Lee)

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Important Segment Timestamps

• Storyteller Con Banter: 02:16 – 07:02
• Story 1 – Flowers/Parent Song: 07:24 – 11:19
• Robot Pirate Confrontation: 13:35 – 15:10, 19:01 – 22:47
• Story 2 – Breakdancing Knight: 23:02 – 29:57
• Abel Interview: 30:28 – 34:00
• Story Love Mini-stories: 34:15 – 43:21

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Tone, Style, and Takeaways

• Language and Tone: Zany, affectionate, supportive, and filled with puns and meta-commentary. Maintains a mix of musical, sketch, improvisational, and interview tones.
• Key Takeaway: The creative power of kids’ storytelling is celebrated as a force that can “overpower brainwashing” and spark imagination—for kids and adults alike.

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For Parents & Kids:
Skip to the timestamped sections for pure story enjoyment, or tune in for the full ride through convention fun, robot showdowns, and the celebration of creativity that defines the Story Pirates Podcast.

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[End of Summary]

Transcript

[Nimini]

Lemonade.

[Lee]

Hey, Story Pirates podcast listeners. Lee here. Guess what? We finally made it to Storyteller Con for part one of our big season eight finale. Will the Story Pirates defeat the evil robot Story Pirates? Or will the evil robot Story Pirates, you know, defeat the Story Pirates? And of course, we have two brand new stories for you written by kids and another edition of Story Love with Lee and Peter. You know, speaking of stories, before we start, I have a quick public service announcement for you. Have you ever heard of the podcast Circle Round? Yeah. It's one of the biggest podcasts for kids and families due to the brilliance of the people who who make it. Rebecca and Eric. Well, I wanted to let you know that Rebecca and Eric from Circle Round sadly had to leave Circle Round. But the good news is that they are starting a brand new podcast called Lions in Legends. Find [e-mail] and that link is in the show notes for today's episode. Help us support creators like Rebecca and Eric who make high quality content for kids and families. Secondly, as you may know, we've teamed up with Rhett and Link from Good Mythical Morning for a special story contest to celebrate their new book, Spaghetti, Head and Chicken Fingers, about two kids who wake up to discover that their favorite foods have kind of taken over their lives. We're asking kids to write us a story from their imagination about a character who discovers a new meaning behind the saying, you are what you eat. We'll pick one story to feature on a very special Spaghetti, Head and Chicken and Fingers themed bonus episode, but all stories will receive a personalized reply from the Story Pirates. So that's pretty cool. Grown ups can submit kids stories at the link in our show notes. Okay, onto today's episode. Coming up after a few words for the grown ups.

[Peter]

Hello, welcome to Storyteller Con. Checking in?

[Nimini]

Yes, I am.

[Peter]

Name please?

[Nimini]

Tabitha Longfellow, Storyteller author and motivational speaker.

[Peter]

Ah, yes. Welcome, Ms. Longfellow. So happy you could join us. Here is your lanyard and parking pass.

[Nimini]

How exciting. I've wanted to come to Storyteller Con for years now. I'm glad I made it. I thought I was going to be late.

[Peter]

You're just in time. The festivities are about to begin.

[Nimini]

Am I the last one? Has everyone else already arrived?

[Peter]

Yes, well, nearly.

[Nimini]

Oh no. Is someone missing?

[Peter]

Unfortunately, one of our keynote speakers hasn't arrived yet. In fact, we've been out of communication with them for months now. I can't even be sure they received my invitation.

[Nimini]

In today's modern day and age, why not?

[Peter]

Well, they're famously hard to track down. You see, they travel on a pirate ship that is sometimes traveling on the ocean and at other times through the sky. And once they even went into deep space.

[Nimini]

A flying pirate ship. Oh, I think I know who you're talking about. Oh, I certainly hope they make it.

[Peter]

Oh, as do I, Tabitha. As do I. But unfortunately, if they don't show up in the next five seconds, I'll have no choice but to give up all hope and close the gates.

[Nimini]

Oh, dear.

[Peter]

Here we go. In 5, 4, 3.

[Nimini]

Did you hear that?

[Peter]

Yes. Look down the road coming over the hill on the horizon.

[Nimini]

Is that a giant pirate ship on wheels?

[Peter]

Yes, it is. It's. It's.

[Nimini]

It's us.

[Peter]

The Historical Pirate Ship Enthusiast Storytelling Club of South Boston.

[Nimini]

Yay.

[Peter]

You made it. You guys can park over there next to the Story Pirates. Oh, hey, look, Lee. There's another pirate ship on wheels.

[Lee]

What are the chances, huh?

[Nimini]

I love story piling.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

It just filled me up with joy.

[Peter]

My mom loves the jokes.

[Nimini]

Yo, yo, Matcha. It made me very proud about my sightings.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Like thinking about what it would have been like to live in ancient times. I definitely think I can be more creative now.

[Nimini]

I'm the champion. The Story Pirates. Hey, everyone, and welcome back to the Story Pirates podcast, where we take stories written by kids and turn them into sketch comedy and songs. And today, we've finally arrived at our season long destination, Storyteller Con.

[Lee]

I'm so excited, I can't even believe it.

[Peter]

Story Pirates, I'm so glad you could make it. We are honored to have you presenting.

[Lee]

The pleasure is all ours, mister. Sorry, I don't think we caught your name.

[Peter]

Oh, my goodness, where are my manners? I'm Cornelius J. Story, lead producer of the convention.

[Lee]

You're the Cornelius J. Story from the storied Story family?

[Nimini]

I'm sorry, but who's the Story Family?

[Peter]

Well, some say that my family is responsible for inventing stories.

[Nimini]

You invented stories? Wouldn't that have been tens or hundreds of thousands of years ago?

[Peter]

Yes. I don't know how true it is, but it certainly does make a good story.

[Lee]

We at least know that the Story Family started this convention centuries ago, and it has been host to all of the greatest storytellers of history.

[Peter]

Yes, we've had many incredible guests over the years. Aesop and his fables, Mother Goose and her fairy tales. Spielberg.

[Nimini]

Steven Spielberg.

[Peter]

No, Todd Spielberg. He does this shadow puppet storytelling show. That's really pretty neat, huh? But I'll tell you what, we've never Had.

[Lee]

What's that?

[Peter]

Storytellers that take stories written by kids and turn them into sketch comedy and songs. Oh, my goodness. You'll never believe this, but that's what we do. Yes, Peter, yes it is. We consider ourselves very lucky to finally host the story Pirates.

[Lee]

Gasp. Mr. Story. That means a lot.

[Peter]

Say, I don't want to put you on the spot, but do you think before the festivities begin, you could do one of your famous stories written by a kid?

[Lee]

A story by a kid. Well, what do you say, Story Pirates?

[Nimini]

Yeah.

[Peter]

Oh, goody.

[Lee]

Listeners, this first story was written by an amazing author whose school took part in our StoryQuest program. StoryQuest is a digital creative writing program where you get to listen to custom podcast episodes and learn the building blocks of writing a story. Anyway, here's the author to introduce their story.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Hi, my name's Kendall. I'm nine years old and I live in Indiana. This is my story. Flowers will not grow well enough for my mom to like them.

[Nimini]

My mom is taking a 10 day trip before she left on a big cruise ship she wrote a list of things for me to do. So while I'm gone, plant some flowers in the garden of course, mom. So I went out and planted all the flowers she could want but this morning was cold and gray and the flowers went away. Don't want my mom to know these flowers will not grow I'm cooked. I'm toast. I was a kid mom trusted the most I scared any trouble I need some flowers to grow on the double time now it's ticking. These flowers are missing. Only 9 days left til mom gets home from the Bahamas. Okay, I can figure this out. I just need a plan. I could buy them again and replant. It's not hard, but the charge would go to mom's credit card and I can't call her up cause she'll be mad. Da da da da Give them some water so they can grow back or how about some plant food? A little snack? Oh, now they're looking worse. Yeah, this is bad. Try a plant See them together don't have the time I'll leave them alone Baby, it'll be fine. Don't want my mom to know these flowers will not grow I'm cooked.

[Peter]

She's cooked.

[Nimini]

I'm toast. She's toast. I was a kid mom trusted the most I'm scared and it drove all the time I need some flowers to grow on the double time now is taking these flowers are missing Only three days left till mom gets home from the Bahamas from the Bahamas Two days left. Oh, dad, please don't tell mom this news.

[Lee]

So sorry, Kendall. But I told your mom when she called from the cruise one.

[Nimini]

Oh, dad, please take me to the store. We can try to buy some brand new flowers.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Sure.

[Nimini]

12 hours 9 hours 6 hours 3 hours 1 hours Kendall. Mom. Welcome home. I'm so sorry. Look, I tried to grow the flowers, I really did, but I couldn't. I'm sure you're mad you're not cooked. I'm not mad.

[Peter]

You're not?

[Nimini]

We're so very proud of you. Me and your dad really tried and tried some more. And trying your best is all that we can ask for. Don't keep your chin up. Cause you never gave up. And we'll plant them again now that

[Peter]

I am home we'll plant them again

[Nimini]

now that Mommy's home We'll plant them again now that Mommy's home from the Bahamas Now Mommy's home come from the Bahamas.

[Peter]

Wow.

[Lee]

That really was.

[Peter]

What a wonderful story. And as a story myself, it takes one to know one.

[Lee]

We're so glad you liked it, Mr. Story.

[Peter]

Please, call me Cornelius. Well, I wish we could do this all day, but we have to get this thing started. Please explore the convention floor and make yourself at home. The presentations will begin shortly on the main stage right over there. You're our closing act, so you can make your way backstage whenever you'd like.

[Lee]

Thank you so much, Mr. Story. I mean, Cornelius.

[Peter]

Ta da. Wow. This place is really something.

[Nimini]

You can really feel it. These are our people. Fellow storytellers. Are you the Story Pirates? Why, yes, we are. Oh, my gosh. I'm sorry. But I am a huge fan. My kids and I listen in the car whenever we go anywhere. At first, I was just excited that my kids could agree on something to listen to, but I didn't realize how much this mom would end up liking it, too. Honestly, sometimes I listen when the kids aren't in the car.

[Peter]

Aw, thanks. That's so nice of you.

[Nimini]

Can I get a selfie?

[Peter]

Yes.

[Nimini]

Excuse me. I meant, I suppose everyone say DJ Squirmalot. DJ Squirmalot. Oh, my gosh. That's amazing. My husband. I mean, my kids are going to love this. I can't wait for your presentation.

[Peter]

Bye.

[Nimini]

Oh, bye. Wow. How nice. Was that The Story Pirates? Uh, yes, hello.

[Peter]

I'm such a big fan.

[Nimini]

I've been listening to your podcast since I was a kid.

[Lee]

Really? But you're an adult.

[Peter]

How long have we been doing this?

[Nimini]

I used to be so scared of

[Lee]

writing, but then I heard your podcast

[Peter]

and it inspired me to write my own story.

[Nimini]

And in fact, I'm a writer now. And I have you to thank us. That's incredible.

[Lee]

Thank you so much for listening.

[Peter]

Can I get a selfie?

[Lee]

Of course.

[Peter]

Everyone say, cats sit on you. Cats sit on you.

[Nimini]

Bye Story Pirates. I can't wait for your presentation. Bye. Wow.

[Lee]

Can you believe all this?

[Nimini]

We've been off on that pirate ship for so long that it's easy to forget that there are real people out there listening to our little show.

[Peter]

I can't wait for a presentation.

[Nimini]

Now we're gonna bring the house down.

[Peter]

You said it, Nimini. Everyone seems to love the story Pirates.

[Lee]

Are you sure about that? Gasp. Evil robot story pirates.

[Peter]

It's you.

[Lee]

What do you mean it's you? Obviously it is us. What a useless statement. Who else looks exactly like you but is better in every single way?

[Peter]

We are. I mean. No, you. You are ent. Wait, no, I. I mean, we are not better than us. God, you're so evil. Nice comeback, Regular human Eric. Yes.

[Nimini]

Haha.

[Peter]

We are bullies. Nugget, my old friend, you're not a bully. Remember the day we spent together at the water park back at episode nine? Nugget? That is not my name. My name is. Is.

[Nimini]

Is.

[Lee]

Is Evil Robot Peter.

[Peter]

Yes, of course, Evil Robot Peter.

[Lee]

Silly humans. You might as well turn around and drive back to the sea. No, we're not afraid of you, Evil Robot Story Pirates. We may not be as efficient or focused or logical or coherent or focused as you are, but we believe in ourselves. And more importantly, we believe in the ideas and words of young people.

[Nimini]

Well, well, well. It looks as though Regular Humanly has found his confidence.

[Lee]

You'll need it after these people hear what we have to say. Come Evil Robot Story Pirates, let's get backstage and as we walk away, let's laugh to leave these humans with an eerie sense of unease. Yes.

[Peter]

Gah.

[Lee]

They're so evil.

[Nimini]

Lee, look. It's starting.

[Peter]

Fellow storytellers, writers, actors, poets, welcome. Welcome to StorytellerCon.

[Lee]

And so it begins.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

We'll be right back after a few words for the grown ups.

[Nimini]

Hey, grown ups. Mindy here from wow in the World and your family's next favorite game show, Podcast two. What's in a People who Wow Edition? In this Getting to Know youw game show, we are visited by some of the world's most interesting people to get the wows and the watts of their lives. Like this one from 300 time Guinness World Record breaker David Rush.

[Lee]

I had the Longest time balancing a running chainsaw on my chin.

[Nimini]

So is this a true wow record he broke or a big phony? What? Listen to two what's in a People who Wow edition. Wherever you get your podcast, just follow on the wow in the World feed and meet a new person who wows every Friday.

[Peter]

And that, my friends, is how Anne Bonny and Mary Reed convinced Captain Calico Jack to repaint their pirate ship to look like a Kraken. Thank you, wow. Let's hear it again for the Historical Pirate Ship Enthusiasts Storytelling Club of South Boston. Who knew? Say, it's been an incredible weekend of presentations. I can't believe we're already to the last night. Are you all having a great Storyteller con? Yeah, that's what I like to hear. Let's keep this party rolling with our next presenter. He's a convention favorite. Please put your hands together for your favorite shadow puppet storyteller and mine, Mr. Todd Spielberg. Hey, story people. Who's ready for some shadow puppets?

[Nimini]

Me. Me. I am. Boy, I can't believe how exciting this all is. It's even better than I even imagined. I agree, Rachel. I really didn't know what to expect all those weeks ago when we first decided to come here. But I'm so glad we came.

[Peter]

I, for one, had no idea how beautiful shadow puppets were.

[Nimini]

Are you. Are you crying, Eric?

[Peter]

Yes, I am, Nimini. Yes, I am. Have you guys seen the snack bar? They have little cakes shaped like books and little cookbooks shaped like cakes.

[Nimini]

Don't get them mixed up, Peter.

[Peter]

Oh, Rachel, I didn't eat one of those tiny little cookbooks. I ate four. And let's not act surprised. Excuse me.

[Lee]

I'm just happy to meet fans. I've had so many people tell me how much they like the secret little scenes that I record after the credits each episode.

[Nimini]

The secret little what?

[Lee]

Nothing. Say, should we head backstage to start getting ready?

[Nimini]

Sure. Say, it just occurred to me that I have no idea what we're doing. Lee, you have a plan, don't you?

[Lee]

Don't you worry, Megan. I will.

[Nimini]

Oh, great. Cause I. Wait, you will?

[Peter]

Yep.

[Lee]

Come on to backstage.

[Peter]

Let's hear it for Mr. Spielberg. I don't know if this guy convention has seen anything that moving since old Bill Shakespeare read his secret unreleased sequel, Much Ado About a Few Particular Things. Thank you, Todd. Now we've reached our penultimate presenters. They are newcomers to the scene, and frankly, I don't remember inviting them. But they're on the digital schedule, so who am I to question it? Please welcome to the stage, the Evil Robot Robot Story Pirates.

[Lee]

Hello, Storyteller Con. We are the Evil Robot Story Pirates. Who's ready to have their minds blown?

[Nimini]

The audience clearly isn't into this. I guess we had nothing to worry about.

[Lee]

Well, too bad, because we aren't giving you a choice. We have been planning this presentation for weeks with the sole purpose of using logic to convince you all that fiction is fantasy and all around weirdness serves no practical purpose.

[Nimini]

However, during our short time existing, we have learned much about you humans. The most important thing we've learned is that you are all broken. Broken? What are they talking about?

[Peter]

You suffer from a sickness known as imagination. What?

[Lee]

But do not worry, for we are here with a cure. Evil Robot Nimini, reveal the machine Machine.

[Nimini]

Reveal. Not convinced that imagination is bad. This machine might just help you change your mind. Literally. Oh no.

[Lee]

Nimini.

[Peter]

What is it?

[Nimini]

That machine looks just like my non linear oscillating speed inverting Car sickness killer or no sick machine.

[Peter]

That machine that gave us all weird car sicknesses.

[Nimini]

It emits an incredibly specific frequency that goes deep into the brain. And if used a certain way, it could be used for brainwashing.

[Lee]

That's right. Instead of trying to convince you of anything, the more efficient approach is to simply brainwash you into abandoning all imagination.

[Nimini]

Exactly.

[Lee]

We'll have to dinner.

[Nimini]

Laughter.

[Peter]

What do we do?

[Lee]

We can't be the story pirates without imagination. Evil Robot Nimini, turn on the machine in three.

[Nimini]

Everyone, quickly.

[Lee]

Two.

[Nimini]

Plug your ears. What?

[Lee]

One.

[Nimini]

Just do it. Now.

[Lee]

What happened?

[Nimini]

I think it's okay. The no sick affects the inner ear. But with our ears plugged, I think we're okay.

[Peter]

Phew. That was close. But what about everyone else?

[Lee]

Well, Storyteller Con, what do you think about imagination now?

[Peter]

We all agree that imagination is bad. We all agree that imagination is bad.

[Nimini]

Oh no. They're all brainwashed. And they're doing the least creative chant I've ever heard.

[Peter]

It really is so unpleasant. Lee, what are we gonna do?

[Lee]

I'll tell you what we're gonna do. We're gonna do what we do best. We're gonna go out there and celebrate the words and ideas of young people. Words and ideas so creative and imaginative that they will overpower these brainwashed minds. Who's with me?

[Peter]

I'm in. Me too.

[Nimini]

Me three. You can count me in. Of course. We're all in.

[Peter]

In deep trouble, you mean. Nugget. What are you doing here? I'm here in case you didn't immediately give up. At which point I was Going to pull this lever that will send you down that giant trapdoor you're standing on so that the evil robot Story pirates can then pretend to be you for your big presentation to concede defeat, thus ending the story Pirates podcast forever. But Nugget, my name is Evil Robot Peter. Lever pull.

[Nimini]

Ah.

[Lee]

I cut the edge of the trapdoor. My legs, they're dangling.

[Nimini]

I'm hanging on by one hand.

[Peter]

Wow. Good catch. Regular human Lee. Talk about a cliffhanger. You don't have to do this. I have no choice. Oh, no. I will now pull each of your five fingers off the ledge one at a time. One listeners, it looks like we're in quite a pickle. 2.

[Lee]

I guess this season finale's gonna have

[Peter]

to be a two parter. Three.

[Lee]

You know what? As we all fall down this trapdoor, why don't you listen to one last story?

[Peter]

4. And here to introduce it is the author.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Hi, my name is abel and I'm 13 and I live in Georgia. This is my story. The Breakdancing Knight.

[Nimini]

Ah, what a beautiful and bright spring morning Here in the town of Pastry. The children and doggies run round without cares and the vendors are out and are selling their wares. Armor for sale. I've got armor for sale. Fits on your back like the shell of a snail. Are you feeling hungry? Well, here's something nice. A brand new idea. It is bread that is slightly dragon's teeth.

[Peter]

Magic Swords plays by the Bard Sir Lancelot's autographed rookie night card the flags

[Nimini]

on the castle, they blow in the breeze and us the fine people do just what we please. For the great king of Pastry is on holiday and we're all in charge while that king is away. So everything's peachy in Pastry Town. What was that that just made that strange sound? It's coming from down the main road there. Methinks you hear how that metal sound. Clonkers and clinks. It can mean just one thing. Oh, what joy and delight. Tis Sir Robert Drake, he's the breakdancing Knight. It's him. Oh what joy. It's the Breakdancing knight. He travels the land setting all the wrongs.

[Lee]

Right?

[Peter]

I heard he's a part time ish breakdance instructor.

[Nimini]

And I heard his armor's a superconductor.

[Peter]

Yes, it is. I, I am Sir Robert Drake with the magical armor I found in the lake of my skills and technique. I do hope you approve. Would you all like to see how I bust a sweet move? Then stand back and give room. But don't go too far. For my breakdance will start with this surf rock guitar. Here I go.

[Nimini]

His moves are so graceful, so funky and.

[Lee]

And new.

[Peter]

Stop dancing this instant. Make way. Let me through. My twice removed cousin, Jackson Samuel iv. Tis I, and the king doth approach from the north. But not our own king. No, the king, that's our neighbor. Hear him come now by that trumpet and tabor. It is I, Mr. Salty, your neighboring king. An invincible foe here to do just one thing. Principally, I'm on a conquering tour in this town known as Pastries. My conquest azure. Oh, your king will be shocked when he makes his return and he finds that his court has been rudely adjourned. I shall rule the whole world. And oh yes, I am smarmy. You would be due with his breakdancing army. I suggest you surrender. It's hopeless. All right. I'm Ser Robert Drake. I'm the breakdancing knight. And I'm asking you nicely to please go away. Retreat with my army? Is that what you say? I couldst not and shouldst not and wouldst not dare think it, but that armor you're wearing would make a fine trinket. I'll depart these fair lands and I'll be on my way. If you can defeat my best soldier, okay.

[Nimini]

You'll never defeat him. Sir Drake, my good friend.

[Peter]

I'm sorry, remind me, what's your name again?

[Nimini]

Just a random bystander. Folks call me Lysander. And as good as you are with your breakdancing cred, Mr. Salty's dance champion should fill you with Drake.

[Peter]

Is it Milton of Mustard? Sir Perry of Possum? Much better than that. It is Johnny the Awesome.

[Nimini]

Here's Johnny.

[Peter]

Oh, please, please. Thank you. Good looking man. I have heard of his windmill. They say it's the best. And his head standing backspins the pride of the West. To make this more interesting, let's make a wager. The stakes should be hefty. Substantially. Major. Beat Johnny the night in a breakdancing face off. Die and my army will turn tail and race off. But if not and he wins, then your armor I'm taking. Then the doubts will no longer be all that is breaking. Sorry, you lost me there. What? I mean. Oh, I meant your heart would be breaking because you'd be sad because I'd have your armor, you know. Oh. Got it. Anyway, do you accept?

[Nimini]

Don't do it, Sir Robert. Your armor is magic. To lose it like this will would be all the more tragic.

[Peter]

But a knight swears an oath that he'll do what is right, even if he's unsure that he'll win in the fight. I accept your dance challenge then. To the arena.

[Nimini]

It's a breakdancing courtyard.

[Peter]

Yeah, that's what I mean.

[Nimini]

Looks like all of the town has come out for the battle. Old Farmer McGrath's brought his whole herd of cattle. We thank you, Sir Robert. Are you feeling ready?

[Peter]

As a piping hot bowl of my mom's sweet spaghetti. By divine right of autumnness, Johnny goes first. These formalities, are they not truly the worst? That armor's all mine when the battle is won, for Johnny shall win it and you shall be done.

[Nimini]

Sure thing, Mr. Salty. Now let's have some fun. Oh, his moves are so fast. His technique's an A.

[Peter]

Sir Robert won't last.

[Nimini]

It's a nuking for us.

[Peter]

Fear not, my even though he can groove, it shall all come on down to his finishing move. Yes. Why of course. What a timely reminder. The headstanding crab coffee grinder.

[Nimini]

Here I go. I'm done and I'm done and. Oh man, that was fun. Johnny the awesome is now number one.

[Peter]

Well, it looks like it's your turn, Sir Robert the Fake. And soon, like a selfie, your armor I'll take. All you will take is the road out of town. I'm the breakdancing knight. Now watch me get down. Hit it. Impossible. Wowie. His move's undeniable. My finishing move's called Ye Olde Reliable. A baby swipe flip with 360 rotation. There it is. I am done.

[Nimini]

That was quite a sensation. He did it. He's won. And he. He saved our great nation.

[Peter]

What? I have lost cause. Johnny's defeated. Well, my army's still here. Oh no, wait. They've retreated.

[Nimini]

And I, Johnny awesome, do recognize game. So I think that it's time that

[Peter]

I take a new name.

[Nimini]

And a job in the woods. This is just what I need. My new name shall be Mr. John Appleseed. I'll break dance no more. After such a big loss, it's time to grow apples. Good luck, Formrabar.

[Peter]

Your army has left. Perhaps you should too. I shall conquer you if it's the last thing I do. Hark, trumpets. Now play me out. Oh, they're gone too. Well, in that case. Toot toot. Toot Toot toot. Toodaloo.

[Nimini]

Sir Robert Drake. You've saved us. Now.

[Peter]

Any victory plans?

[Nimini]

Yes. What will you do now?

[Peter]

We should throw a big party. Invite the whole town. I shall teach you break dancing. Now let's all get down.

[Nimini]

Yay. And that's how the breakdancing night won the day. What became of him later, none truly can say. But the town still remembers his breakdancing moves. And they celebrate him with the funkiest grooves. We dance to remember our mightiest friend. Hey, the party is on. Gotta go. It's the end.

[Peter]

And now Lis speaks with the author.

[Lee]

So, Abel, you wrote the Breakdancing Night.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

I did.

[Lee]

Can you tell me how you got the idea for that story?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

I'm really into history and I love medieval times and I was learning about medieval nights and I thought, well, it would be funny if they were break dancing nights.

[Lee]

Do you have any like facts about that time period that you could share things that you enjoy learning about?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

So I know that when you become a knight, you go through three like you go through like three stages. So first you'd be a page and you'd start when you were like seven and you'd go to a house with another family to learn how to have nice manners. You'd practice swinging like a wooden sword. And then you become a squire who's an apprentice to like a real knight. And then when you were about 21, you would get knighted by your teacher knight and then you would get a squire of your own.

[Lee]

Have you thought about or reflected on what it is about that time period or these characters that are so compelling to you?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

I do like, like thinking about what it would have been like to live in ancient times.

[Lee]

What are your thoughts about what it would be like to be a regular person during that time?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

I think it might have been hard, but I don't think I would know because I wouldn't know what the future would have helped. I mean, there was no electricity and you had to have fires to have heat and light. You had to build your house. You couldn't just buy a house and you had to go collect water. There was no, there was no running water and there was like no heat or electricity. So I feel like that might have made it harder.

[Lee]

Definitely, definitely. It's like a non stop list of things that we take for granted, isn't it?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Yeah. Electricity, water, Plumbing. Plumbing, yes. The Romans invented plumbing. They were called aqueducts. They were the first people to invent flushing toilets and running water.

[Lee]

It sounds like learning about history has a lot to do with imagination for you.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Yeah, I guess it does. I never really thought about it.

[Lee]

Like you are creating pictures and mini movies and daydreams about what it was like to live back then in your own imagination.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

I love world building.

[Lee]

Can you explain what World building is.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

If you want to write a book or make a movie, it has to take place in a world, right? Well, the world building is where you create your world. And with all of the lore and, like, items and characters and heroes and bad guys.

[Lee]

Are you a big reader?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Oh, I am a huge reader. I am actually sitting right next to a huge bookshelf that covers the entire wall of our kitchen.

[Lee]

Is there a book that you've read that has really good world building in it that you love?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

This book series called the Wing Feather Saga by Andrew Peterson and the Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins are also have really good world building.

[Lee]

That's amazing. Okay, before we go, are there any, like, real figures from history that you think are, like, fascinating that I should check out?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Martin Luther King Jr. He was a flat person who fought during the civil rights movement for black people not to be oppressed anymore.

[Lee]

Just one of the many figures in history that are, like, fascinating to learn about.

[Peter]

Right?

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Yeah.

[Lee]

Abel, thank you so much for letting us perform your story.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Yeah, no, thank you for. Thank you for choosing it, and thanks

[Lee]

for chatting with me today about history. I really enjoyed it.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

Yeah, it was great.

[Lee]

All right, bye.

[Story Author (e.g., Kendall or Abel)]

All right, bye, Lee. We'll be back after a few words for the grownup.

[Lee]

Welcome back to StoryLove, where we take stories written by kids and we talk about them.

[Peter]

I'm Lee. I'm Peter.

[Lee]

And together we are Peter and Lee. We get tens of thousands of stories a year. All of those stories we respond to.

[Peter]

Mm.

[Lee]

Some of them we get to put on the podcast we do, and some of them we talk about in this segment.

[Peter]

And I would love to do that now.

[Lee]

Let's do it. I'll read the first one.

[Peter]

Very good.

[Lee]

From Penelope, a 7 year old in New York. Here is the alien who decided to visit Earth. Once upon a time, there was an alien and he decided to visit Earth. So he had some training to do. So he asked his human friend so he can get some training. But when he went to Earth, he accidentally made a big swarm of slime that is alive. When he tried to make slime. Then his human friend got a big sponge to suck it up. Then he went to space to throw in the whirlpool. Bonus. And he made 11 new friends.

[Peter]

Hooray.

[Lee]

Yeah.

[Peter]

Now, here's what I love about this is a unique premise. We're all very familiar with the alien story where aliens come to Earth to invade and all of that, but this is an alien who, very specifically, doesn't want to fall into that stereotype. It seems. Which is, sure, I want to go to Earth. I don't want to scare people. So I'm gonna learn about the culture. You know, if you ever visit another country, it's good to learn about it.

[Lee]

That's what the training is.

[Peter]

Yeah. I think that he's saying, all right, you know, I wanna go to Earth. I wanna make friends. I need some training.

[Lee]

Okay.

[Peter]

It's like, tell me about Earth. What's polite? How do you tip?

[Lee]

Fork on the left, knife on the right.

[Peter]

Exactly.

[Lee]

Put the napkin in your lap. Great.

[Peter]

And the thing she didn't cover is don't make a swarm of slime that's alive. Right.

[Lee]

Cause I assume in the training they were like, oh, and here's the thing kids like to do. They like to make slime. It's like a fun thing. He's like, oh, great, I'll do that. As soon as they get to Earth, they go to Earth, they're making it. And yes, some kind of contamination from outer space got into the slime as he was making it. Next thing you know, big swarm, or

[Peter]

that's just how they do slime on his planet. But it's not a problem because all their buildings are slime proof. Now, here's. Here's what I like, though. The implication of this, that he's so eager to fit in. That's the thing I think we can all relate to.

[Lee]

Sure.

[Peter]

And then you go, oh, well, this is me trying to fit in. And it goes wrong. It goes so wrong.

[Lee]

Right.

[Peter]

And this is. I assume this swarm of slime is, like, planet wide.

[Lee]

However, he still made 11 new friends.

[Peter]

It's true.

[Lee]

And any day that you make 11 new friends is a huge day. That's a lot of friends.

[Peter]

When's the last time you made 11 new friends?

[Lee]

I don't think I even have 11 friends.

[Peter]

I got 11 old friends.

[Lee]

Yeah, they're old. Or your friends have used to.

[Peter]

Yeah. I go to the retirement home and I play checkers.

[Lee]

Well, as you should, because they have some amazing stories.

[Peter]

I know. They've taught me a lot about how to make friends.

[Lee]

Okay, great. Try mahjong next time. Better than checkers.

[Peter]

It is true.

[Lee]

Okay, let's talk about the whirlpool for a second.

[Peter]

Yes.

[Lee]

Because he takes the big swarm or the sponge that sucked it up, then he takes it to space and throws in the whirlpool. My theory is that the whirlpool is a black hole.

[Peter]

I mean, that's the ultimate whirlpool.

[Lee]

Right? And in space, they just call Them whirlpools. And on Earth we're like, oh, black hole. They're like, it's a whirlpool.

[Peter]

It's just.

[Lee]

Come on, dude.

[Peter]

You know, like if you think about it, an entire galaxy, just a whirlpool.

[Lee]

That's right.

[Peter]

Spins like that.

[Lee]

Exactly. Amazing work, Penelope. I love that story. Peter, would you read us our next one?

[Peter]

This story comes to us from a 10 year old from Colorado named Oliver. And Oliver's story is called We Aren't Good at Cooking.

[Lee]

I know, but would you read the story?

[Peter]

Oh, no. I was just saying we aren't good at cooking.

[Lee]

I know that time that we tried to make the Mac and cheese with little ham cubes in it was a disaster. But would you read the story?

[Peter]

Holy. I know We Aren't good at cooking. But we aren't Good at Cooking is the title of the story. Today we are on a cooking contest and we are against Mac hon. He is cooking balsa wood with paprika. And we're cooking salty fish spaghetti. Trust me. Salty. Oh, I see. Trust me. Salty. Yes. Exactly two hours later. And the winner is. Macaron.

[Nimini]

Yay.

[Peter]

Just look at the title. Title. We Aren't Good at Cooking.

[Lee]

I love this story. Macaron is what I was saying.

[Peter]

Yeah, macaron. But, well, I think it's a pun on macaron. Macron.

[Lee]

Is that how you say a macaron?

[Peter]

Well, there's. I've always been confused because only until recently did I realize that a macaron and a macaroon are two different things.

[Lee]

Yeah, but you say macron.

[Peter]

I was saying it French.

[Lee]

Have you ever said it out loud? Is this the first time you've ever said it out loud?

[Peter]

We might be in that situation.

[Lee]

In your head, you've always said a French accent.

[Peter]

Mac, Mac, macaron, Mac macaron. I got.

[Lee]

I love this here.

[Peter]

Yeah.

[Lee]

And we're cooking salty fish spaghetti. Trust me, salty.

[Peter]

Salty.

[Lee]

Sounds good.

[Peter]

I love. At the end, it's seemingly the character, you know, it says the winner is macaron. Yeah. And then in my mind, the main character just looks right at the reader and says, what'd you expect? Look at the title. We Aren't Good at Cooking. You're surprised by this ending. Yeah, silly.

[Lee]

Yeah, it is as advertised, Oliver. Balsa wood and paprika. Sounds like I know what I'm having for lunch.

[Peter]

Woo.

[Lee]

Thanks, Oliver.

[Peter]

That spaghetti's gotta be way too salty for me to prefer balsa wood with paprika. With paprika.

[Lee]

Paprika. Can fix anything. Honestly. It is the Swiss army knife of spices.

[Peter]

Just a little. Just a little.

[Nimini]

Boop.

[Lee]

What is paprika? Is it a little pepper? It is a little pepper that they made into dust.

[Peter]

Yeah.

[Lee]

How they dried it and then they

[Peter]

were like, dried it and they. No, no, they go. There's one guy in a room and he goes, oh, next one he goes. And then another guy has to catch it.

[Lee]

Oh, that's strong hands McDougal.

[Nimini]

Yeah.

[Lee]

Growing up, he was like, what am I gonna do for a. And then luckily, he really lucked into this pepper squeezing job.

[Peter]

Strong hand, you. I don't have enough room in my recycling can bin. Give me your can. Hey, strong hands. This walnut is a tough one to crack. Give it to me. Hey, strong hands. We need to recycle this boat.

[Lee]

Can you recycle boats?

[Peter]

He can.

[Lee]

Good work, strong hands McDougal. And great job, Oliver. All right, we got one more story here, Peter. This one is from an 8 year old in Texas named Jolene. And Jolene's story is called Bigfoot on the moon. Bigfoot was tired of bigfoot City, so he went to the international space station, and he went to space, and he found his great, great grandma just floating in space. Bigfoot said, you've been trapped in space this whole time? Then grandma says. Then Graham said, I didn't choose to stay here. I was accidentally left behind. Bigfoot said, why don't you call them on your space phone? Never mind. Just get in my space. Bigfoot got her home.

[Peter]

The end.

[Lee]

Let's talk for a moment about this grandma now. Now, do you have any theories as to how she got into space? She says she was left behind, but what does that mean exactly?

[Peter]

I think she was a pioneer of the Bigfoot astronaut community. She went out early. She was the first one to say, hey, not just people can go to space, Big feet can go to space. That is the plural of Bigfoot. Big feet.

[Lee]

Okay, well, here is my theory.

[Peter]

Okay?

[Lee]

These big feet are actually aliens from outer space.

[Nimini]

Whoa.

[Lee]

They come from Bigfoot planet and where Bigfoot city is. Right. And they travel through space all the time because they're interstellar beings, I guess.

[Peter]

Much smarter than us.

[Lee]

Much smarter than us. So it's easy to get left behind on one of these trips. And additionally, the reason why we never see big feet on Earth is because there's really only one.

[Peter]

So what I love is grandma's been trapped in space this whole time. And then the bigfoot comes up, and it's like, grandma, I'm gonna Say you have a phone.

[Lee]

Why didn't you just call them in your space phone? Nevermind. She's like, huh? Just get on the ship.

[Peter]

How does is that what this is like? She's brilliant. She's an astronaut, but she doesn't own these newfangled phones.

[Lee]

That's right, Jolene, your story is perfection. Thank you so much for sending it in and thanks to all of you for listening. Watching this has been storylived. If you want to read these stories for yourself, you know, get on the old Internet and go to storypirates.com and guess what, grown ups. You can find an even longer version of today's story love on YouTube. And you get to see me and Peter. We look really great. And while you're there, subscribe to our channel so you can see new videos when they pop up. And StoryLove isn't just the name of a segment on our show. It's the name also the name of our incredible corporate volunteer program. To find out more about StoryLove, our digital creative writing program, StoryQuest, or our nonprofit arm, Story Pirates Changemakers. Check the show notes for links. That's it for today's episode. Thanks to today's authors, Kendall and Abel. Tune in next week for part two of our big finale. Until then, stay creative and stay kind.

[Nimini]

Bye.

[Lee]

The Story Pirates podcast is a production of Story Pirates Studios, executive produced by Lee Overtree and Benjamin Salka. Co executive producers are Holly and Rizwan Kasim, Manya, Lissi, Aaron Moore, Murray Sampson, Jack Schaefer and Jacob Vaughn. This episode was produced by Isabel Auricchio, Sam Baer, Peter McNerney, Lee Overtree and Brittany Stahl. Recording sound design and mixing by Sam Baer at the Relic Room in New York City. Additional production by Brett Toobin. Theme song by Bobby Lord. Musical scoring by Eric Erson and Jack Mitchell. Our head writer is Peter McNerney. Staff writers are Megan O' Neil and Alexis Simpson. Contributing writers are Lee Overtree and Matt Zimbrano. Episode artwork by Camilla Franklin. This episode features performances by Eric Austin, Evan Barden, Megan Dwinnell, Chris Ferry, Eric Gerson, Christina Gross, Beach, Allie Haas, Justin Linville, Caroline Lux, Peter McNerney, Josh Nassar, Emily Olcott, Megan O', Neill, Lee Overtree, Sam Rogel, Jamie Watson, Rachel Winiski, Addie Weyrich and Nimini Ware. Flowers Will not grow well Enough for My mom to Like Them was written and produced by Jack Mitchell.

[Nimini]

I'm still falling. It's a really long fall.

[Lee]

I might even read a book while

[Peter]

I'm falling to pass the time. Oh, look. I have one in my back pocket.

[Lee]

I love this book.

[Nimini]

It's very funny. You can read anywhere, even the folly.