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RAS #707 - Spade vs. Marlowe: Mean Streets Showdown! Sep 25, 2025

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This week on Ron's Amazing Stories we continue our journey into the shadowy world of hard-boiled detectives. Last week we walked the mean streets with Philip Marlowe. This week, it's Part 2 — and we're talking about his rival in grit and wit, Sam Spade. We'll compare Marlowe and Spade, and look at the men behind them — authors Raymond Chandler and Dashiell Hammett. You'll also hear about Howard Duff, who brought Sam Spade to life on the radio. Then it's time for not one but two episodes from The Adventures of Sam Spade. First up, The Death and Company Caper (August 9, 1946). Then, The Wheel of Life Caper (July 11, 1948). What You Will Hear: How Chandler's Philip Marlowe and Hammett's Sam Spade stack up. The backstory of their creators: Hammett the ex-Pinkerton, Chandler the literary craftsman. The wit and voice of Howard Duff as Sam Spade. The Death and Company Caper (1946). The Wheel of Life Caper (1948). A few laughs and wisecracks along the way. Two detectives. Two styles. One unforgettable showdown. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #706 - Philip Marlowe – Bullets Fly, Waldo Dies Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

This week on Ron's Amazing Stories we dive deep into the dark alleys and smoky bars of film noir with a Philip Marlowe double feature. First up, the pilot episode Who Shot Waldo? (aired June 12, 1947), starring Van Heflin as the hard-boiled detective. Then we jump ahead to January 8, 1949, when Gerald Mohr takes over in The Restless Day. Along the way, we'll explore the creation of Philip Marlowe by Raymond Chandler, talk about the world of hard-boiled detectives, and have a little fun with the grit and glamour of classic radio noir. Two cases, two Marlowes', one unforgettable ride. What You Will Hear: The origins of Philip Marlowe and how Raymond Chandler brought him to life. A look at the hard-boiled detective genre and its influence on radio and film. Who Shot Waldo? (1947) starring Van Heflin. The Restless Day (1949) starring Gerald Mohr. My commentary between the stories with a dash of humor, pulp style. So grab your trench coat, light up that imaginary cigarette, and join me for a trip down these mean streets. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #705 - Shane: The Western That Rode Into Legend Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Ron's Amazing Stories, we head west—way west—to the dusty Wyoming frontier with the Lux Radio Theater production of Shane. Originally aired on February 22, 1955, this broadcast stars Alan Ladd, who reprises his iconic role from the 1953 film of the same name. We'll take a look at the movie that redefined the western genre, talk about the incredible run of Lux Radio Theater, and explore why the 1950s were the golden age of cowboy storytelling. Along the way, we'll cover the film's massive box office success, its impact on the "adult western," and even how Hollywood managed to make Alan Ladd look larger-than-life—despite being five-foot-six. And as a bonus, stick around after the main goodbye for a little extra cowboy wisdom and humor. Because when it comes to Shane, you never want to leave the campfire too early. What You'll Hear This Week: The story behind the 1953 classic film Shane How Lux Radio Theater brought Hollywood to the airwaves Why westerns ruled the 1950s The surprising box office success of Shane And, of course, the full radio adaptation starring Alan Ladd So, tighten your saddle, pour yourself a black coffee (no lattes for Shane), and join me for a ride through one of the greatest westerns ever told. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #704 - Rails And Isles Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we're celebrating Labor Day with a special double feature. Our first tale comes from the series Escape and is titled Conquerer's Isle. Three Navy flyers, lost in the South China Sea, discover a secret underground civilization that sees them as little more than pets. It's a strange mix of survival, science fiction, and a chilling vision of humanity's "next stage." Then, we turn from fantasy to history with Cavalcade of America's Railroad Builders, which first aired on April 15th, 1936. It honors the men who laid steel tracks across mountains, plains, and rivers—building a pathway that connected a nation. Two very different stories—one imagined, one real—but both remind us of the courage, toil, and spirit of labor. So, fire up the grill, grab a cool drink, and settle in for this Labor Day adventure. Featured Stories: Escape – "Conquerer's Isle" (March 5, 1958) Cavalcade of America – "Railroad Builders" (April 15, 1936) Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #703 - A Shadow Of A Doubt Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

This time on Ron's Amazing Stories, we're diving into one of Alfred Hitchcock's most celebrated thrillers—Shadow of a Doubt. Originally released as a film in 1943 and starring Joseph Cotten and Teresa Wright, the story gets a radio makeover in the Screen Director's Playhouse adaptation from November 1950. This time, none other than Cary Grant steps into the role of Uncle Charlie, bringing his trademark charm with an unsettling twist. What makes Shadow of a Doubt stand out in Hitchcock's catalog is its unique suspense style. We, the audience, know from the beginning that Uncle Charlie has a dark secret. The real tension comes from watching his niece slowly uncover the horrifying truth about the man she once adored. It's a masterclass in slow-burn suspense, set against the deceptively cozy backdrop of small-town America. On the podcast today, you'll hear: Background on Alfred Hitchcock's 1943 masterpiece. Cary Grant's turn as Uncle Charlie in the 1950 radio adaptation. A full presentation of the Screen Director's Playhouse episode of Shadow of a Doubt. So, grab your headphones, settle into your favorite chair, and prepare for a suspenseful ride into Hitchcock territory. As always, stay tuned after the play for my thoughts and a few laughs to lighten the mood. Helpful Links: More About Screen Director's Playhouse Details on Hitchcock's Shadow of a Doubt (1943) Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #702 - Islands In The Sky Aug 21, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of Ron's Amazing Stories, we take to the skies—and then make an emergency landing in the frozen wilderness! Our featured story comes from the Lux Radio Theater and is titled Island In The Sky. It stars Dick Powell as pilot John Dooley, who must lead his crew to survival after their plane is forced down in Labrador's icy barrens. Before it was a radio play, Island In The Sky was a 1953 film starring none other than John Wayne. And here's the real kicker—it's based on a true story from the pen (and cockpit) of Ernest K. Gann, who lived through similar events as a WWII pilot. This isn't just high drama—it's history in action. So, grab your headphones and maybe a warm blanket—because this tale is going to chill you to the bone. What you'll hear in this episode: A short background on the film, the radio play, and the true events that inspired it. Dick Powell stepping into the cockpit as John Dooley. A full broadcast of the Lux Radio Theater production Island In The Sky. Ron's commentary on survival, teamwork, and a few laughs along the way. Listening time: About 1 hour. Links & Extras: Learn more about Island In The Sky (1953 film) on IMDb. Read about Ernest K. Gann's aviation adventures in his classic memoir Fate Is The Hunter. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #701 - Voices from the Static Aug 14, 2025

Show notes

On Ron's Amazing stories this time, we drift deep into the crackle and hiss of late-night shortwave radio. What begins as idle tuning on a battered Zenith Trans-Oceanic turns into something much stranger: two complete old-time radio programs surfacing on a signal that shouldn't exist. First, from the hypnotic and unsettling world of Quiet, Please, we hear "Whence Came You?" (1948) — a slow-burn tale of an archaeologist in Egypt who discovers far more than ancient ruins. Then, without warning, the dial delivers us into the grim territory of Lights Out with "Knock at the Door" (1942), a short, shocking story that might have you keeping the lights on tonight. But the night has one more surprise: a fleeting, unexplained transmission — a whisper, a burst of Morse code, and a voice warning, "…don't let him open the door—" before vanishing into silence. Was it an atmospheric fluke? A hidden rebroadcast? Or did we stumble into a station that exists somewhere beyond the usual airwaves? Tune in, lean close, and decide for yourself. Featured Stories: Quiet, Please – "Whence Came You?" (Feb 16, 1948)| Lights Out – "Knock at the Door" (Dec 29, 1942) Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #700 - The Secrets of Scotland Yard Aug 07, 2025

Show notes

This is episode #700 of Ron's Amazing Stories! Can you believe it? Seven hundred episodes of time travel through tales, truth, and the occasional trench-coated raccoon. More on that in a bit. Today's journey starts deep in the heart of Secrets of Scotland Yard, the legendary radio drama that pulled back the curtain on some of Britain's most chilling cases. We'll share two classic episodes, each steeped in mystery, crime, and a touch of old-world British grit: Featured Stories: "The Man with the Violin: The Charles Peace Case" Meet Charles Peace—by day, a violinist and gentleman. By night, a rooftop-scaling, disguise-wearing, cold-blooded killer. His tale winds through 19th-century rooftops and courtrooms, ending, as many true crimes do, with a noose and a gasp. Bonus Ron Fact: Charles Peace inspired a 1949 British crime film, and every bit of his story—from obsession to execution—is documented history. "Just A Matchstick And A Duster" A peculiar little tale about two ordinary items and a rather extraordinary crime. Though no concrete history backs this one up, the mystery remains... and sometimes, that's the fun of it. Special Segment: Don's Astounding Stories Hits 700 In celebration of our 700th episode, we share the completely true and not-at-all embellished tale of Don's Astounding Stories, a podcast that defied logic, common sense, and multiple cease-and-desist letters to reach its own 700-episode milestone. From answering machines to AI co-hosts and spam busts, this satirical tribute reminds us all: you don't need polish to have persistence. You just need Don... and possibly a backup host made of kitchen appliances. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #699 - Ears That Betray, Eyes That See Jul 31, 2025

Show notes

On Ron's Amazing Stories this week, Ears That Betray, Eyes That See. We head into the murky world of eavesdropping, unspoken truths, and the heavy price of hearing too much. With two chilling tales from the golden age of radio, we explore how curiosity doesn't just kill the cat—it occasionally takes a few bystanders with it. Stories Featured: The Whistler – "The Witness" - Original Air Date: July 8, 1951 - A brilliant young architect sees his career implode—only to be offered a lifeline from a coworker with a price. When ambition mixes with manipulation, the cost of success may be far higher than anyone imagined. Suspense – "Sorry, Wrong Number" - Original Air Date: May 25, 1943 - Written by Lucille Fletcher. Starring Agnes Moorehead in her most legendary radio performance. An invalid woman, confined to her bed, overhears a phone call that pulls her into a deadly web. Frantic, powerless, and unheard—her night spirals into sheer terror. Host's Note: From architects of fate to victims of coincidence, both tales remind us that sometimes, hearing too much—or seeing too clearly—can be the beginning of the end. Evil doesn't knock. It whispers. And if you're unlucky enough to be listening... well, you've already invited it in. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

RAS #698 - The Scarlet Pimpernel – The Original Superhero? Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

In this week's episode of Ron's Amazing Stories, we're stepping back into the 1930s for a swashbuckling adventure of daring disguises and heroic deeds. Before Batman or Superman, there was The Scarlet Pimpernel — the masked avenger who saved innocents from the guillotine under the very noses of the French Revolution's fiercest villains. Is he the first superhero? You decide. Join Ron as he explores the origins of Baroness Orczy's legendary character, the history behind the novel and film, and the Lux Radio Theater's adaptation featuring Leslie Howard himself — reprising his iconic role as Sir Percy Blakeney. First aired in 1938, this classic radio drama brings high adventure to life through the power of sound. What You'll Hear: A nostalgic introduction to the world of The Scarlet Pimpernel Background on Baroness Orczy's 1905 novel and its impact The 1934 film adaptation starring Leslie Howard A full presentation of the Lux Radio Theater adaptation the Scarlet Pimpernel - Originally aired December 12, 1938 Starring: Leslie Howard Reflections on the Pimpernel's legacy as the "original superhero" Closing thoughts on the power of old-time radio storytelling Thank you for listening. Ron's Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible - You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories. Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you're from. I will read it if I can. Links are below. Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron's Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin. Program Info: Ron's Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

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