The Big Fib
Common Sense Media Review
By Diana Baron-Moore , based on child development research. How do we rate?
Kids guess the expert from the imposter in goofy gameshow.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 7+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Listen
Parent and Kid Reviews
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
- Release date: March 1, 2018
- Genre: Games & Trivia
- Average Run Time: 18 minutes
- Website: https://gzmshows.com/shows/listing/the-big-fib/
- Hosts: Deborah Goldstein , Ethan Berlin
- Production Companies and Networks: Gen-Z Media , Wondery
- Pricing structure: Free (Episodes are free. Ad-free listening and early access episodes are available with channel subscription for $4.99 on Apple Podcasts.)
- Last updated: May 6, 2022
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