The Big Fib

Podcast review by Diana Baron-Moore, Common Sense Media
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Common Sense says

age 7+

Kids guess the expert from the imposter in goofy gameshow.

Games & Trivia Deborah Goldstein, Ethan Berlin 2018
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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this podcast.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that The Big Fib -- formally known as Pants on Fire -- is a fast-paced game show that asks kid contestants to spot the phony between two supposed experts each week. The show challenges players to listen carefully and strategically question the guest experts to decide who they believe is trustworthy. It walks the thin line between striking a lighthearted tone while discussing dishonesty and implying that lying is a fun way to play. Younger listeners may find it hard to see this distinction. Kids who are learning about honesty and trustworthiness may enjoy the opportunity to explore these important values in a playful way. Though fun facts are given about the highlighted topic each week, the show isn't explicitly educational.

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What’s It About?

In THE BIG FIB one child contestant questions two adult "experts" on a specific topic in the hopes of successfully figuring out which of them is an impostor. Contestants pose questions on the theme in two rounds, first longer, complex questions and then a rapid fire round with each expert. Once the player makes their guess and the fibber is revealed, hosts Deborah Goldstein and L.I.S.A. voiced by Ethan Berlin, lead the cast in a "fact check." At this point, the impostor owns up to their lies and we hear how the player decided who to trust. The show has been a fan favorite from Gen Z media and, in 2020, Disney+ launched a tv version, also titled The Big Fib.

Is It Any Good?

This unique gameshow is an entertaining listen, particularly for observant kids who have already caught on to the white lies that adults around them tell. They will appreciate the clear eyed way that The Big Fib addresses dishonesty, while also enjoying the sweet and silly banter of the hosts. Indeed, the real star of the show is L.I.S.A., the sound effect robot, who brings both dad jokes and mischievous antics to the table. Occasionally the impostor guests are too obvious or the facts too obscure, but the production is engaging, the kid contestants are fun to root for, and the episode topics have something to offer for just about anyone–from black holes to the circus.

The Big Fib is an excellent choice for families to listen together, in large part because the format allows listeners to play along from home. It offers many opportunities for discussion and kid listeners will enjoy making their own guesses. Thankfully, the show is sophisticated enough to be an entertaining ride for parents as well as kids, with chuckle-worthy songs throughout and surprising discussions of the week's topic.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how The Big Fib contestants decide which expert on they think is telling the truth. What did you notice about the expert who was telling the truth? What did you notice about the fibber?

  • Why is it important to fact check information we read and hear?

  • What are some ways to check whether something you read or hear is actually true?

  • Have you every lied? Have you ever been lied to? How did it feel?

Podcast Details

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