Rank #1: BW - EP101: Frontier Gentleman and The Saga of Belle Siddons (1958)
In Breaking Walls episode 101, we spotlight the career of John Dehner during 1958. In February of that year, Dehner was cast in the title role of J.B. Kendall in Antony Ellis’ short-lived western, Frontier Gentleman.
We’ll focus on four episodes of the series which had a recurring character named Belle Siddons, a beautiful gambler and ex-Confederate spy.
Although Frontier Gentleman only aired for nine months, it has left a lasting impression on listeners in the years since.
——————————
Highlights:
• John Dehner: Artist and Disney Animator
• How John Dehner Got Into Radio
• Breaking Into the Inner Circle of CBS West-Coast Character Actors
• Television Usurps Radio Drama in the 1950s
• How Gunsmoke Influenced the Western Drama
• Antony Ellis
• CBS Radio Turns a Profit in 1957
• Frontier Gentleman Is Launched
• The Radio Landscape in February of 1958
• The Travels of J.B. Kendall
• Who Is Belle Siddons?
• Love and Honor
• Have Gun Will Travel Replaces Frontier Gentleman
• Radio Drama Dies
• Looking Ahead to the Return of Johnny Dollar
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On The Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio - by John Dunning
• Radio Rides The Range: A Reference Guide to Western Drama on the Air, 1929 - 1967 by Jack French and David S. Siegel
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-1953 - by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• U.S. Radio, 2/1958, and Broadcasting Magazine 2/101958, and 12/8/1958
——————————
On the interview front:
• Harry Bartell, Lilian Buyeff, John Dehner, Lawrence Dobkin, Sam Edwards, Virginia Gregg, Jack Johnstone, and Vic Perrin were with SPERDVAC, the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety, and Comedy. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
• Virginia Gregg was also with Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chat at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• William Conrad, John Dehner, Norman Macdonnell, and William N. Robson were with John Hickman. Mr. Hickman was the longtime host of WAMU’s Recollections. Today, this program is heard each Sunday evening as The Big Broadcast. For more information, please go to WAMU.org
• John Dehner and Vic Perrin were also heard with Neil Ross for KMPC in 1982.
• Vincent Price and William N Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• And Roberta Goodwin was with John Dunning for his 71KNUS program from Denver on February 7th, 1982.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• Hog of The Forsaken - By Michael Hurley
• Ghost Bus Tours - By George Fenton for High Spirits
• Sligo Creek - By Al Petteway and Debi Smith for Ken Burns’ The National Parks—America’s Best Idea
• Get a Job - By The Silhouettes
• Someone to Watch Over Me - By Rosemary Squires & The Ken Thorne Orchestra
• Young at Heart - By Frank Sinatra
• Guess Things Happen That Way - By Johnny Cash
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
The Mutual Audio Network
https://www.mutualaudionetwork.com/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
We’ll focus on four episodes of the series which had a recurring character named Belle Siddons, a beautiful gambler and ex-Confederate spy.
Although Frontier Gentleman only aired for nine months, it has left a lasting impression on listeners in the years since.
——————————
Highlights:
• John Dehner: Artist and Disney Animator
• How John Dehner Got Into Radio
• Breaking Into the Inner Circle of CBS West-Coast Character Actors
• Television Usurps Radio Drama in the 1950s
• How Gunsmoke Influenced the Western Drama
• Antony Ellis
• CBS Radio Turns a Profit in 1957
• Frontier Gentleman Is Launched
• The Radio Landscape in February of 1958
• The Travels of J.B. Kendall
• Who Is Belle Siddons?
• Love and Honor
• Have Gun Will Travel Replaces Frontier Gentleman
• Radio Drama Dies
• Looking Ahead to the Return of Johnny Dollar
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On The Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio - by John Dunning
• Radio Rides The Range: A Reference Guide to Western Drama on the Air, 1929 - 1967 by Jack French and David S. Siegel
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-1953 - by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• U.S. Radio, 2/1958, and Broadcasting Magazine 2/101958, and 12/8/1958
——————————
On the interview front:
• Harry Bartell, Lilian Buyeff, John Dehner, Lawrence Dobkin, Sam Edwards, Virginia Gregg, Jack Johnstone, and Vic Perrin were with SPERDVAC, the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety, and Comedy. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
• Virginia Gregg was also with Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chat at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• William Conrad, John Dehner, Norman Macdonnell, and William N. Robson were with John Hickman. Mr. Hickman was the longtime host of WAMU’s Recollections. Today, this program is heard each Sunday evening as The Big Broadcast. For more information, please go to WAMU.org
• John Dehner and Vic Perrin were also heard with Neil Ross for KMPC in 1982.
• Vincent Price and William N Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• And Roberta Goodwin was with John Dunning for his 71KNUS program from Denver on February 7th, 1982.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• Hog of The Forsaken - By Michael Hurley
• Ghost Bus Tours - By George Fenton for High Spirits
• Sligo Creek - By Al Petteway and Debi Smith for Ken Burns’ The National Parks—America’s Best Idea
• Get a Job - By The Silhouettes
• Someone to Watch Over Me - By Rosemary Squires & The Ken Thorne Orchestra
• Young at Heart - By Frank Sinatra
• Guess Things Happen That Way - By Johnny Cash
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
The Mutual Audio Network
https://www.mutualaudionetwork.com/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Feb 25 2020
3hr 37mins
Play
Rank #2: BW - EP100: The Radio Career of Lucille Ball (1938 - 1952)
In Breaking Walls episode 100 we focus on the radio career of Lucille Ball, arguably the most famous comedienne of the twentieth century.
She rose through the ranks in New York as a model before a small role in Eddie Cantor’s Roman Scandals brought her to Hollywood in 1933 where she gained prominence.
When the 1940s began, Ball was a b-film actress known for playing the other woman. As she gained critical respect for both her dramatic and comedic ability, she insisted that her and Desi Arnaz made a perfect on-screen duo. It led to a revolution in the way TV was shot and produced in the 1950s, all under their company Desilu.
——————————
Highlights:
• Jack Haley, Phil Baker, and RKO
• Lucy Meets Gale Gordon
• How a Holiday Publicity Trip to New York changed Lucy’s Life
• Lucy meets Desi
• Too Many Girls
• Lucy and Desi Elope in November 1940
• Harold Lloyd’s A Girl, a Guy, and a Gob and The Old Gold Comedy Theater
• The Tragic Death of Carole Lombard and Lucy’s First Miscarriage
• Lucy Stars on Suspense
• Desi Strays and Lucy Files for Divorce
• The Couple Reconciles and Decides To Work in Radio
• Desi and Bob Hope
• CBS, My Sister Eileen, and My Friend Irma
• Lucy Guests with Jimmy Durante and Bob Hope
• Eve Arden and Our Miss Brooks
• Lucy Says "Yes" to Bill Paley and My Favorite Husband is Born
• Jess Oppenheimer, Bob Carroll Jr., and Madelyn Pugh Join The Team
• Lucy Wants to Work With Desi
• I Love Lucy is Developed and Philip Morris Signs On
• The I Love Lucy Radio Pilot
• Changing History and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• The I Love Lucy Book - By Bart Andrews
• Love Lucy - By Lucille Ball
• On the Air - By John Dunning
• Desilu - By Coyne Stevens Sanders and Tom Gilbert
• The Complete History of the Most Popular TV Show Ever - By Michael McClay
• Forever Lucy - By Joe Morella
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as several articles from:
Broadcasting Magazine and Radio Daily, from between 1938 and 1951
——————————
On the interview front:
• Lucille Ball was interviewed by Dick Cavett in 1970 and 1971; by Johnny Carson in 1974; and by Joan Rivers in 1984
• Desi Arnaz was interviewed with Bob Hope by Johnny Carson in 1976 and by David Letterman in 1983
• Jess Oppenheimer was interviewed in 1961. This interview came courtesy of Gregg Oppenheimer and I Love Lucy: The Untold Story. Gregg also provided My Favorite Husband outtakes.
• Chuck Schaden spoke to Gale Gordon, Jack Haley, and Herb Vigran. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• SPERDVAC was with Madeline Pugh Davis and Bob Carroll Jr. on March 12th, 1994
• Hans Conried was with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• William Paley gave a speech while receiving an award on November 20th, 1958, and spoke in memoriam of Lucille Ball in 1989.
• Lee Philip was with Connee Boswell.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• Black Coffee and Fly Me To The Moon - By Julie London
• The Look of Love - By Billy May
• Cuban Pete - By Desi Arnaz
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
Radio Drama Revival
https://www.radiodramarevival.com/
Twelve Chimes, It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
She rose through the ranks in New York as a model before a small role in Eddie Cantor’s Roman Scandals brought her to Hollywood in 1933 where she gained prominence.
When the 1940s began, Ball was a b-film actress known for playing the other woman. As she gained critical respect for both her dramatic and comedic ability, she insisted that her and Desi Arnaz made a perfect on-screen duo. It led to a revolution in the way TV was shot and produced in the 1950s, all under their company Desilu.
——————————
Highlights:
• Jack Haley, Phil Baker, and RKO
• Lucy Meets Gale Gordon
• How a Holiday Publicity Trip to New York changed Lucy’s Life
• Lucy meets Desi
• Too Many Girls
• Lucy and Desi Elope in November 1940
• Harold Lloyd’s A Girl, a Guy, and a Gob and The Old Gold Comedy Theater
• The Tragic Death of Carole Lombard and Lucy’s First Miscarriage
• Lucy Stars on Suspense
• Desi Strays and Lucy Files for Divorce
• The Couple Reconciles and Decides To Work in Radio
• Desi and Bob Hope
• CBS, My Sister Eileen, and My Friend Irma
• Lucy Guests with Jimmy Durante and Bob Hope
• Eve Arden and Our Miss Brooks
• Lucy Says "Yes" to Bill Paley and My Favorite Husband is Born
• Jess Oppenheimer, Bob Carroll Jr., and Madelyn Pugh Join The Team
• Lucy Wants to Work With Desi
• I Love Lucy is Developed and Philip Morris Signs On
• The I Love Lucy Radio Pilot
• Changing History and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• The I Love Lucy Book - By Bart Andrews
• Love Lucy - By Lucille Ball
• On the Air - By John Dunning
• Desilu - By Coyne Stevens Sanders and Tom Gilbert
• The Complete History of the Most Popular TV Show Ever - By Michael McClay
• Forever Lucy - By Joe Morella
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as several articles from:
Broadcasting Magazine and Radio Daily, from between 1938 and 1951
——————————
On the interview front:
• Lucille Ball was interviewed by Dick Cavett in 1970 and 1971; by Johnny Carson in 1974; and by Joan Rivers in 1984
• Desi Arnaz was interviewed with Bob Hope by Johnny Carson in 1976 and by David Letterman in 1983
• Jess Oppenheimer was interviewed in 1961. This interview came courtesy of Gregg Oppenheimer and I Love Lucy: The Untold Story. Gregg also provided My Favorite Husband outtakes.
• Chuck Schaden spoke to Gale Gordon, Jack Haley, and Herb Vigran. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• SPERDVAC was with Madeline Pugh Davis and Bob Carroll Jr. on March 12th, 1994
• Hans Conried was with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• William Paley gave a speech while receiving an award on November 20th, 1958, and spoke in memoriam of Lucille Ball in 1989.
• Lee Philip was with Connee Boswell.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• Black Coffee and Fly Me To The Moon - By Julie London
• The Look of Love - By Billy May
• Cuban Pete - By Desi Arnaz
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
Radio Drama Revival
https://www.radiodramarevival.com/
Twelve Chimes, It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
Jan 29 2020
2hr 45mins
Play
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All's Fair
Rank #3: BW - EP38: Steve Jobs, Milton Glaser, Paul Rand, Saul Bass, and Daniel Doherty—How to Grow
In Episode 38 of Breaking Walls we hear from Steve Jobs and Milton Glaser on getting over the fear of failure, Paul Rand and Saul Bass on the importance of creativity and knowing oneself, and from TEDxWandsworth's speaker Daniel Doherty on Engineering Serendipity.
For the full Daniel Doherty TEDxWandsworth talk, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ-sZIWRvqk
Follow The WallBreakers on soundcloud: @TheWallBreakers
Subscribe to Breaking Walls on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
For the full Daniel Doherty TEDxWandsworth talk, go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ-sZIWRvqk
Follow The WallBreakers on soundcloud: @TheWallBreakers
Subscribe to Breaking Walls on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
Apr 16 2016
37mins
Play
Rank #4: BW - EP46: How To Live, Laugh, and Love—Corporate Art and Design Consultant Elle Neale
In episode 46 of Breaking Walls, we sit down with corporate art & design consultant Elle Neale for a conversation about the ways she’s learned to live, laugh, and love by setting intentions and releasing herself from the burden of expectations. It’s a great chat for Thanksgiving week!
Highlights
• Elle’s upbringing in New York City
• What it’s like for Elle to be part of RareCulture, her family’s business
• A specific moment Elle learned—the hard way—to trust her intentions
• What Thanksgiving means to Elle
• What she truly is thankful for this time of year
• What those of us who feel stuck in position in life can do to grow
Sponsor Information - https://www.artfinder.com/for-you/
From now until midnight GMT 12.15.2016, Artfinder.com is accepting fast-tracked applications if you use the promo code
VRAJ1416. Sign up now a chance to be featured in the New and Notable Collection in January of 2017 and sell your art through Artfinder.
Elle’s Links
elle@elleneale.com
https://www.elleneale.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-lachow-b294861a http://rareculture.com
THE WALLBREAKERS LINKS
SIte - thewallbreakers.com
FB/Twitter/IG/Pinterest TheWallBreakers
Pixieset thewallbreakers.pixieset.com
Soundcloud thewallbreakers
iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
Highlights
• Elle’s upbringing in New York City
• What it’s like for Elle to be part of RareCulture, her family’s business
• A specific moment Elle learned—the hard way—to trust her intentions
• What Thanksgiving means to Elle
• What she truly is thankful for this time of year
• What those of us who feel stuck in position in life can do to grow
Sponsor Information - https://www.artfinder.com/for-you/
From now until midnight GMT 12.15.2016, Artfinder.com is accepting fast-tracked applications if you use the promo code
VRAJ1416. Sign up now a chance to be featured in the New and Notable Collection in January of 2017 and sell your art through Artfinder.
Elle’s Links
elle@elleneale.com
https://www.elleneale.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-lachow-b294861a http://rareculture.com
THE WALLBREAKERS LINKS
SIte - thewallbreakers.com
FB/Twitter/IG/Pinterest TheWallBreakers
Pixieset thewallbreakers.pixieset.com
Soundcloud thewallbreakers
iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
Nov 21 2016
1hr 10mins
Play
Most Popular Podcasts
Rank #5: BW - EP45: The League Of Creative Introverts—Designer Cat Rose
In episode 45 of Breaking Walls, we sit down with Brighton, UK-based designer Cat Rose for a conversation about The League of Creative Introverts—a creative community headed by Cat (http://www.thecreativeintrovert.com/lci/) and how Cat has used conscious gratitude to improve the way she sees the world.
Highlights Include:
What is The League of Creative Introverts and what gave Cat the inspiration to start it
How the league can help you if you’ve been feeling insecure about putting your art out there
How Cat managed to leave her agency job and strike out on her own as a full-time freelance graphic designer
How Cat’s been finding clients in her community
The benefit to writing down things we’re grateful for every day
Why Cat keeps a journal
How far ahead she plans and why she diversifies her interests
What’s next for Cat
http://www.thecreativeintrovert.com
Cat’s Social Media Links
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/creativeintro/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/creativeintro
Catilist - https://www.facebook.com/catillest
THE WALLBREAKERS LINKS
SIte
thewallbreakers.com
FB/Twitter/IG/Pinterest
@TheWallBreakers
Pixieset
thewallbreakers.pixieset.com
Soundcloud
@thewallbreakers
iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
Highlights Include:
What is The League of Creative Introverts and what gave Cat the inspiration to start it
How the league can help you if you’ve been feeling insecure about putting your art out there
How Cat managed to leave her agency job and strike out on her own as a full-time freelance graphic designer
How Cat’s been finding clients in her community
The benefit to writing down things we’re grateful for every day
Why Cat keeps a journal
How far ahead she plans and why she diversifies her interests
What’s next for Cat
http://www.thecreativeintrovert.com
Cat’s Social Media Links
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/creativeintro/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/creativeintro
Catilist - https://www.facebook.com/catillest
THE WALLBREAKERS LINKS
SIte
thewallbreakers.com
FB/Twitter/IG/Pinterest
@TheWallBreakers
Pixieset
thewallbreakers.pixieset.com
Soundcloud
@thewallbreakers
iTunes
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wallbreakers/id924086880?mt=2
Nov 15 2016
1hr 1min
Play
Rank #6: BW - EP59: Inside The Maggie Flanigan Acting Studio
On Breaking Walls Episode 59, we go inside the New York City-based Maggie Flanigan acting studio for an in-depth conversation with studio head and teacher Charlie Sandlan, and an exclusive listen in on Charlie and studio founder Maggie Flanigan teaching the Meisner technique to students.
Highlights:
• Why having humble confidence is so important
• The importance of going all the way when becoming a character
• What is the Meisner teaching method?
• The history of the studio
• The importance of mentorship
• Is an artist's life a full life?
• Why running from the truth has an expiration date
Links:
MF Studio site - http://www.maggieflaniganstudio.com
MF Studio Address -
153 W 27th St #803,
New York, NY 10001
MF Studio Phone Number & Email -
(917) 789-1599
info@maggieflanigan studio.com
The WallBreakers
www.TheWallBreakers.com
To subscribe on itunes search for Breaking Walls
To subscribe on soundcloud follow @TheWallBreakers
Highlights:
• Why having humble confidence is so important
• The importance of going all the way when becoming a character
• What is the Meisner teaching method?
• The history of the studio
• The importance of mentorship
• Is an artist's life a full life?
• Why running from the truth has an expiration date
Links:
MF Studio site - http://www.maggieflaniganstudio.com
MF Studio Address -
153 W 27th St #803,
New York, NY 10001
MF Studio Phone Number & Email -
(917) 789-1599
info@maggieflanigan studio.com
The WallBreakers
www.TheWallBreakers.com
To subscribe on itunes search for Breaking Walls
To subscribe on soundcloud follow @TheWallBreakers
Jun 15 2017
56mins
Play
Rank #7: BW - EP58: Subways Are For Sleeping—A History of New York Subway-based Radio Programming
On Breaking Walls EP58, we continue our Radio Chronicles series with a look at old-time radio plays that took place on, or around, the New York City Subway system.
The main story throughout is from the CBS Radio Workshop's August 3rd, 1956 episode, Subways Are For Sleeping, which comes from a short story of the same name that written by Edmund G. Love, and published by Harper's Magazine in their March 1956 issue - https://harpers.org/archive/1956/03/subways-are-for-sleeping/
Highlights:
• Who was Henry Shelby and how did he survive as a homeless man in New York in the 1950s
• June Havoc stars in a tale of murder and intrigue on #Suspense in 1947
• Dinah Shore sings for the troops overseas.
• A short profile on the Perry Mason show
• A stabbing in #timessquare on #Broadway is My Beat
• A subway #ghost!
June Havoc on the Dinah Shore show in 1979 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwuaH0FOMVo
To subscribe on itunes search for Breaking Walls
To subscribe on soundcloud follow @TheWallBreakers
The main story throughout is from the CBS Radio Workshop's August 3rd, 1956 episode, Subways Are For Sleeping, which comes from a short story of the same name that written by Edmund G. Love, and published by Harper's Magazine in their March 1956 issue - https://harpers.org/archive/1956/03/subways-are-for-sleeping/
Highlights:
• Who was Henry Shelby and how did he survive as a homeless man in New York in the 1950s
• June Havoc stars in a tale of murder and intrigue on #Suspense in 1947
• Dinah Shore sings for the troops overseas.
• A short profile on the Perry Mason show
• A stabbing in #timessquare on #Broadway is My Beat
• A subway #ghost!
June Havoc on the Dinah Shore show in 1979 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DwuaH0FOMVo
To subscribe on itunes search for Breaking Walls
To subscribe on soundcloud follow @TheWallBreakers
Jun 01 2017
53mins
Play
Rank #8: BW - EP99: New Year's 1948 On The Air
In Breaking Walls episode 99 we wrap up our trilogy on the most popular season in radio history with a look at the major network programming surrounding New Year’s 1948.
——————————
Highlights:
• Scenes from the Post-Christmas Blizzard Aftermath
• Breakfast in Hollywood
• Checking in on Lora Lawton
• Lois Lane Has Been Framed
• Staats Cotsworth’s Other Gig, and Dennis Day’s Old One
• Ringing in the New Year with The Mayor and Duffy
• Mr. District Attorney and The Big Story
• Bing Crosby’s Feeling Festive
• Jimmy Durante is Sick
• Happy New Year, 1948
• Truman’s Lack of Popularity and a Severe Labor Strike Issue
• The First Rose Bowl Telecast in Los Angeles
• Mel Allen
• Jack Benny, George Burns, Gracie Allen
• Al Jolson and Casey
• Radio Reader’s Digest, Mr. President, and Family Theater
• CBS Takes on Eddie Cantor with The First Nighter
• Wrapping Up The Holiday Season and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On the Air — By John Dunning
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• Radio Daily — December 1947 and January 1948.
• Broadcasting Magazine — May 31st, 1948
——————————
On the interview front:
• Mel Allen, Jackson Beck, John Gibson, Jackie Kelk, Tony Marvin, Jan Miner, Rosa Rio, and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Chuck Schaden spoke to Barbara Luddy, Gloria McMillan, Olan Soule, Rudy Vallée, and Harry Von Zell. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• William Paley gave a speech while receiving an award on November 20th, 1958.
• Arthur Godrey and Andy Rooney spoke for CBS’ 50th anniversary.
• George Burns and Jack Benny were interviewed for Great Radio Comedians.
• Bing Crosby was interviewed for Same Time, Same Station in 1972, while SPERDVAC was with Betty Lou Gerson in 1979 and Dennis Day was with John Dunning for 71KNUS on Easter Sunday, April 11th, 1982.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve? - By Margaret Whiting
• Campana Sobre Campana - By J.P. Torres
• Auld Lang Syne - By The Manhattan Strings and by Guy Lombardo
• Someone to Watch Over Me - By Rosemary Squires & The Ken Thorne Orchestra
• I’ll Be Seeing You - By The Harry James Band
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
Twelve Chimes, It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
——————————
Highlights:
• Scenes from the Post-Christmas Blizzard Aftermath
• Breakfast in Hollywood
• Checking in on Lora Lawton
• Lois Lane Has Been Framed
• Staats Cotsworth’s Other Gig, and Dennis Day’s Old One
• Ringing in the New Year with The Mayor and Duffy
• Mr. District Attorney and The Big Story
• Bing Crosby’s Feeling Festive
• Jimmy Durante is Sick
• Happy New Year, 1948
• Truman’s Lack of Popularity and a Severe Labor Strike Issue
• The First Rose Bowl Telecast in Los Angeles
• Mel Allen
• Jack Benny, George Burns, Gracie Allen
• Al Jolson and Casey
• Radio Reader’s Digest, Mr. President, and Family Theater
• CBS Takes on Eddie Cantor with The First Nighter
• Wrapping Up The Holiday Season and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On the Air — By John Dunning
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• Radio Daily — December 1947 and January 1948.
• Broadcasting Magazine — May 31st, 1948
——————————
On the interview front:
• Mel Allen, Jackson Beck, John Gibson, Jackie Kelk, Tony Marvin, Jan Miner, Rosa Rio, and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Chuck Schaden spoke to Barbara Luddy, Gloria McMillan, Olan Soule, Rudy Vallée, and Harry Von Zell. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• William Paley gave a speech while receiving an award on November 20th, 1958.
• Arthur Godrey and Andy Rooney spoke for CBS’ 50th anniversary.
• George Burns and Jack Benny were interviewed for Great Radio Comedians.
• Bing Crosby was interviewed for Same Time, Same Station in 1972, while SPERDVAC was with Betty Lou Gerson in 1979 and Dennis Day was with John Dunning for 71KNUS on Easter Sunday, April 11th, 1982.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
• What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve? - By Margaret Whiting
• Campana Sobre Campana - By J.P. Torres
• Auld Lang Syne - By The Manhattan Strings and by Guy Lombardo
• Someone to Watch Over Me - By Rosemary Squires & The Ken Thorne Orchestra
• I’ll Be Seeing You - By The Harry James Band
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
Twelve Chimes, It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Dec 26 2019
3hr 24mins
Play
Rank #9: BW - EP103: A Weekend at the Malt Shop with Fibber McGee and Molly (1955)
In Breaking Walls Episode 103 we visit the town of Wistful Vista to spend a weekend at Walt’s Malt Shop with Fibber McGee and Molly. While between 1938 and 1950, Jim and Marian Jordan’s comedy never finished lower than fifth in national radio ratings, in this episode, we’ll focus on the period after, when the show became a closed production and aired for fifteen minutes, five days per week.
——————————
Highlights:
Jim Jordan—Saver of Things
Who is this Fibber McGee and What does he do?
First Smackout, by way of Chicago
Marian Jordan—Molly McGee
Fibber and Molly join NBC
When Tuesday Night was Comedy Night
Television takes over as NBC’s Stars Jump Ship
Fibber and Molly Take a Ratings Hit
Marian’s Health Deteriorates
NBC’s plan for the 1950s
Fibber and Molly Becomes a Serial
Finding Success
Taking Over Walt’s Malt
After the Weekend
Winding Down
Looking Back to Look Forward
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
On the Air — By John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as several articles from Broadcasting Magazine, Radio & TV Mirror, and Sponsor Magazine.
——————————
On the interview front:
Parley Baer and Harry Bartell were with SPERDVAC, the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety, and Comedy. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
Elvia Allman, Jim Jordan, Jim Jordan Jr, Phil Leslie, Willard Waterman, and Don Wilson were with Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
Jim Jordan was with John Dunning for his 71KNUS program from Denver in 1982.
Don Quinn was interviewed in Hawaii by Owen Cunningham while on vacation in 1951.
And John Gibson and Jim Jordan were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. Hear their full chat at Goldenage—WTIC.org
——————————
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
Caravan — By Gordon Jenkins
Goodbye Montana, Pt. 1 — By George Winston
I Forgot to Remember to Forget — By Elvis Presley
Route 66 — By Nat King Cole
——————————
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Briana Isaac
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
——————————
Highlights:
Jim Jordan—Saver of Things
Who is this Fibber McGee and What does he do?
First Smackout, by way of Chicago
Marian Jordan—Molly McGee
Fibber and Molly join NBC
When Tuesday Night was Comedy Night
Television takes over as NBC’s Stars Jump Ship
Fibber and Molly Take a Ratings Hit
Marian’s Health Deteriorates
NBC’s plan for the 1950s
Fibber and Molly Becomes a Serial
Finding Success
Taking Over Walt’s Malt
After the Weekend
Winding Down
Looking Back to Look Forward
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
On the Air — By John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as several articles from Broadcasting Magazine, Radio & TV Mirror, and Sponsor Magazine.
——————————
On the interview front:
Parley Baer and Harry Bartell were with SPERDVAC, the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety, and Comedy. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
Elvia Allman, Jim Jordan, Jim Jordan Jr, Phil Leslie, Willard Waterman, and Don Wilson were with Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
Jim Jordan was with John Dunning for his 71KNUS program from Denver in 1982.
Don Quinn was interviewed in Hawaii by Owen Cunningham while on vacation in 1951.
And John Gibson and Jim Jordan were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. Hear their full chat at Goldenage—WTIC.org
——————————
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
Caravan — By Gordon Jenkins
Goodbye Montana, Pt. 1 — By George Winston
I Forgot to Remember to Forget — By Elvis Presley
Route 66 — By Nat King Cole
——————————
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
Hey It’s Jali Entertainment
https://www.heyitsjali.com/
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
——————————
A special thank you to Ted Davenport and Jerry Haendiges: two radio show collectors who helped supply material for this episode. They’re who the large retailers go to.
Ted’s got a Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/otrteddavenport/
For Jerry, please visit http://otrsite.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC - http://sperdvac.com/
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Briana Isaac
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Apr 19 2020
2hr 13mins
Play
Rank #10: BW - EP95: Radio And The Classroom (1939 - 1965)
In Breaking Walls Episode 95, we go back to school with radio’s teacher’s pets, class clowns, and perhaps the most iconic “Miss” in radio history.
——————————
Highlights:
• How William Paley used The Columbia Workshop to launch shows and careers.
• Suspense Moves to Hollywood and Gets Sponsorship
• The Radio Rise of Eve Arden and the Launch of Our Miss Brooks
• The NBC University Theater dramatizes a Washington Irving Classic
• The New Mr. and Mrs. Ronald and Benita Colman Show
• Johnny Dollar Investigates a Suspicious Schoolhouse Fire
• Theater Five saves a Nursery
• All Hallow’s Eve
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• The Who Is Johnny Dollar Matter — by John C. Abbott
• On The Air — By John Dunning
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• Broadcasting Magazine - April 27th, September 14th, and November 30th 1964, as well as January 4th, January 11th, and June 28th, 1965.
• Radio Daily - September 30th, 1949
• Sponsor Magazine - September 2nd, 1952
——————————
On the interview front:
• SPERDVAC was with Jack Johnstone, Al Lewis, Jeanette Nolan and Elliott Reid—For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com.
• Chuck Schaden interviewed Eve Arden, Parley Baer, Ken Carpenter, Norman Corwin, Gale Gordon, Jack Haley, Agnes Moorehead, Russell Thorson, and Willard Waterman. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Hans Conried, William N. Robson, and William Spier were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Eve Arden, Roberta Goodwin Bailey, and E. Jack Neuman were with John Dunning for 71KNUS.
• Elliott Reid was with Frank Bresee and Walden Hughes on October 14th, 2002 and Don Quinn was interviewed by Owen Cunningham in 1951.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
•I Wonder Why - by Dion and the Belmonts
• Pyramid of the Sun - by Les Baxter
• Moon - by George Winston
• The Look of Love - by Billy May and his Orchestra
• Young at Heart - by Frank Sinatra
• I’ll be Seeing You - by the Harry James Band
• Spooky - by Dusty Springfield
——————————
Special Thanks to our sponsors:
• Radio Drama Revival
https://www.radiodramarevival.com/
• The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
There are three other gentlemen who deserve my thanks: Jerry Haendiges, Ted Davenport, and Goodmond Danielson, who’s high quality audio recordings are available for purchase. Goodmond also has a facebook group and corresponding podcast. It’s called “The Radio Show Collector’s Group” and his most recent podcast features Yours Truly Johnny Dollar.
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
By the way, SPERDVAC - The Society To Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety and Comedy will be having their next convention this coming November 7th through 10th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 3131 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, CA.
For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
——————————
Highlights:
• How William Paley used The Columbia Workshop to launch shows and careers.
• Suspense Moves to Hollywood and Gets Sponsorship
• The Radio Rise of Eve Arden and the Launch of Our Miss Brooks
• The NBC University Theater dramatizes a Washington Irving Classic
• The New Mr. and Mrs. Ronald and Benita Colman Show
• Johnny Dollar Investigates a Suspicious Schoolhouse Fire
• Theater Five saves a Nursery
• All Hallow’s Eve
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• The Who Is Johnny Dollar Matter — by John C. Abbott
• On The Air — By John Dunning
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
• Broadcasting Magazine - April 27th, September 14th, and November 30th 1964, as well as January 4th, January 11th, and June 28th, 1965.
• Radio Daily - September 30th, 1949
• Sponsor Magazine - September 2nd, 1952
——————————
On the interview front:
• SPERDVAC was with Jack Johnstone, Al Lewis, Jeanette Nolan and Elliott Reid—For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com.
• Chuck Schaden interviewed Eve Arden, Parley Baer, Ken Carpenter, Norman Corwin, Gale Gordon, Jack Haley, Agnes Moorehead, Russell Thorson, and Willard Waterman. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Hans Conried, William N. Robson, and William Spier were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Eve Arden, Roberta Goodwin Bailey, and E. Jack Neuman were with John Dunning for 71KNUS.
• Elliott Reid was with Frank Bresee and Walden Hughes on October 14th, 2002 and Don Quinn was interviewed by Owen Cunningham in 1951.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
•I Wonder Why - by Dion and the Belmonts
• Pyramid of the Sun - by Les Baxter
• Moon - by George Winston
• The Look of Love - by Billy May and his Orchestra
• Young at Heart - by Frank Sinatra
• I’ll be Seeing You - by the Harry James Band
• Spooky - by Dusty Springfield
——————————
Special Thanks to our sponsors:
• Radio Drama Revival
https://www.radiodramarevival.com/
• The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society
https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
There are three other gentlemen who deserve my thanks: Jerry Haendiges, Ted Davenport, and Goodmond Danielson, who’s high quality audio recordings are available for purchase. Goodmond also has a facebook group and corresponding podcast. It’s called “The Radio Show Collector’s Group” and his most recent podcast features Yours Truly Johnny Dollar.
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
By the way, SPERDVAC - The Society To Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety and Comedy will be having their next convention this coming November 7th through 10th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 3131 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, CA.
For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Aug 30 2019
3hr 19mins
Play
Rank #11: Breaking Walls: The Eve Arden Collection
This two-act collection from Breaking Walls Episode 95 tells the story behind the rise of Eve Arden's radio career and her title role in Our Miss Brooks.
May 09 2020
52mins
Play
Rank #12: BW - EP92: Radio And Coney Island (1906 - 1960)
In Breaking Walls episode 92 we open the summer season with a trip to Coney Island, Brooklyn. The New York city summer locale was frequented in radio programs and by radio performers. It was also, in the days of wireless telegraphy, an important station location for Guglielmo Marconi.
Highlights:
• Marconi’s last link
• André Baruch Gets His Radio Start at Coney Island
• Allen’s Alley Opens the Summer
• Connee Boswell Sings
• The Crime Club Uncovers a Coney Island Murder
• Irma and Jane Go To the Beach
• Broadway Is My Beat
• Vincent Price in Coney Island
• Jean Shepherd Stops By
• We Take the Subway Home
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
On The Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio - by John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 - by Jim Ramsburg
As well three tremendous internet resources:
Charles Denson's History Project at ConeyIslandHistory.org
David Sullivan’s Heart of ConeyIsland.com
Jeff Stanton’s research at Westland.net/ConeyIsland
On the interview front:
• André Baruch, Larry Dobkin, Lou Krugman, and Herb Vigran, were with SPERDVAC. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
• Hans Conried, June Havoc, Vincent Price, and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interview can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Elliott Lewis and E. Jack Neuman were with John Dunning for his 1980s 71KNUS program from Denver.
• Vincent Price and Allen Reed spoke to Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Fred Allen was a guest of Tex and Jinx on November 24th, 1954.
• Connee Boswell was interviewed by Lee Phillip in 1963.
• And Morton Fine was with Dan Haefele on August 9th, 1988.
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
• Under the Boardwalk - by the Drifters
• And Shine on Harvest Moon - by Joan Morris & William Bolcom
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com
Twelve Chimes It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
A Special Thank you to:
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Online Store - jamesthewallbreaker.com/shop/
Highlights:
• Marconi’s last link
• André Baruch Gets His Radio Start at Coney Island
• Allen’s Alley Opens the Summer
• Connee Boswell Sings
• The Crime Club Uncovers a Coney Island Murder
• Irma and Jane Go To the Beach
• Broadway Is My Beat
• Vincent Price in Coney Island
• Jean Shepherd Stops By
• We Take the Subway Home
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
On The Air: The Encyclopedia of Old-Time Radio - by John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 - by Jim Ramsburg
As well three tremendous internet resources:
Charles Denson's History Project at ConeyIslandHistory.org
David Sullivan’s Heart of ConeyIsland.com
Jeff Stanton’s research at Westland.net/ConeyIsland
On the interview front:
• André Baruch, Larry Dobkin, Lou Krugman, and Herb Vigran, were with SPERDVAC. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
• Hans Conried, June Havoc, Vincent Price, and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interview can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Elliott Lewis and E. Jack Neuman were with John Dunning for his 1980s 71KNUS program from Denver.
• Vincent Price and Allen Reed spoke to Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Fred Allen was a guest of Tex and Jinx on November 24th, 1954.
• Connee Boswell was interviewed by Lee Phillip in 1963.
• And Morton Fine was with Dan Haefele on August 9th, 1988.
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
• Under the Boardwalk - by the Drifters
• And Shine on Harvest Moon - by Joan Morris & William Bolcom
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
The Fireside Mystery Theatre
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com
Twelve Chimes It’s Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
A Special Thank you to:
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Online Store - jamesthewallbreaker.com/shop/
May 31 2019
2hr 25mins
Play
Rank #13: Duffy's Tavern: French Singer Jean Sablon Guest Stars—12/03/1947
On Wednesday, December 3rd, 1947, Jean Sablon guest-starred on Duffy's Tavern. The hilarious episode features Eddie Green and stars Ed Gardner.
Nov 21 2019
30mins
Play
Rank #14: BW - EP53: Fred Allen And The Feud of The Century
In Breaking Walls Episode 53 we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a look at some of the on-air St. Paddy’s Day shenanigans throughout the Golden Age of Radio.
Highlights:
• A profile on Fred Allen, born John Sullivan, and his feud with Jack Benny, which culminated (for the first time) at the Pierre Hotel in New York on March 14, 1937, and again three days later on Fred’s show on St. Patrick’s Day in 1937
• Irish-American tenor Dennis Day’s return from the Navy to the Jack Benny Program on March 17, 1946
• Why Gracie Allen loved the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City - From The George Burns and Gracie Allen show - March 17, 1941
• Beat the Band’s The Wearing of the Green - March 17, 1940
• Bill Stern, Notre Dame, Chauncey Olcott, and My Wild Irish Rose - March 17, 1944
• Fred Allen’s triumph’s, struggles and his untimely passing on March 17, 1956
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
Highlights:
• A profile on Fred Allen, born John Sullivan, and his feud with Jack Benny, which culminated (for the first time) at the Pierre Hotel in New York on March 14, 1937, and again three days later on Fred’s show on St. Patrick’s Day in 1937
• Irish-American tenor Dennis Day’s return from the Navy to the Jack Benny Program on March 17, 1946
• Why Gracie Allen loved the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York City - From The George Burns and Gracie Allen show - March 17, 1941
• Beat the Band’s The Wearing of the Green - March 17, 1940
• Bill Stern, Notre Dame, Chauncey Olcott, and My Wild Irish Rose - March 17, 1944
• Fred Allen’s triumph’s, struggles and his untimely passing on March 17, 1956
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
Mar 16 2017
52mins
Play
Rank #15: Jackie Kelk Tells a Funny Jimmy Olsen Superman Story
In April of 1971, radio child-actor legend Jackie Kelk, famous on both Superman and The Aldrich Family, sat down with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC's The Golden Age of Radio (full interview here - https://goldenage-wtic.org/gaor-13.html). During the course of the interview Dick asked Jackie Kelk about his time on The Adventures of Superman. Jackie had a funny story.
Dec 02 2019
1min
Play
Rank #16: BW - EP93: Radio And The New York City Subway (1941 - 1975)
In Breaking Walls episode 93 we ride the rails with some of the most famous stars in radio history.
During radio’s golden age, there were three main production hubs: New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. With so much daily content to produce, radio’s greatest minds developed programs and episodes centered around every recognizable theme, like the New York city subway.
While this episode will take place in or around New York’s public transportation system, we’ll focus just as much on the relationships forged by radio’s legends on both coasts.
Highlights:
• Mercedes McCambridge, Himan Brown, and Grand Central Station
• How Bill Spier influenced the careers of his wife June Havoc and his protégé Elliott Lewis
• From Suspense to Broadway is My Beat, Elliott Lewis shines
• Jack Benny stars on Suspense
• Cathy Lewis: Mrs Radio
• Mandel Kramer, Jan Miner, and Subway Soaps from New York
• Byron Kane and Subways Are For Sleeping
• William N. Robson, Shirley Mitchell, Virginia Gregg and Jack Kruschen on radio in the 1950s
• Bob and Ray head down into the Subway
• Himan Brown brings dramatic radio back to life in the 1970s
• Next Stop: The Soda Shop
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On The Air - By John Dunning
• The CBS Radio Mystery Theater Handbook - by Gordon Payton & Martin Grams Jr.
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 - by Jim Ramsburg
• The Museum of Broadcast Communications Encyclopedia of Radio - by Christopher H. Sterling
as well as articles from:
• Broadcasting Magazine - November 3rd, 1947
• And Billboard Magazine - May 1st, 1948
On the interview front:
• Himan Brown, June Havoc, Mandel Kramer, Elliott Lewis, E.G. Marshall, Jan Miner, William Spier and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interview can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Ralph Bell, Himan Brown, Lawrence Dobkin, Betty Lou Gerson and Byron Kane, were with SPERDVAC. For more information, please go to S-P-E-R-D-V-A-C.com.
• Himan Brown, Virginia Gregg, Elliott Lewis, Mercedees McCambridge, Shirley Mitchell and Alan Reed were interviewed by Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats and many others from Chuck’s over thirty-nine year career and SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Ellott Lewis was with John Dunning on May 23rd, 1982.
• Jack Kruschen, Shirley Mitchell, and George Walsh were with Jim Bohannon on September 12, 1987.
• And Morton Fine was with Dan Haefele on August 9th, 1988.
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
• It’s been a Long, Long Time - by Keely Smith
• Smoke Gets in Your Eyes - by the Mallet Men
• The Big Heist and Salute to Charlie Christian - by Barney Kessel
• Atlantis and Roller Coaster - by Les Baxter
• I’ll Take Manhattan - by Blossom Dearie
• And Fly Me To the Moon - by Julie London
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
• The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society - https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
• The Fireside Mystery Theater - https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
A Special Thank you to:
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Online Store - jamesthewallbreaker.com/shop/
During radio’s golden age, there were three main production hubs: New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. With so much daily content to produce, radio’s greatest minds developed programs and episodes centered around every recognizable theme, like the New York city subway.
While this episode will take place in or around New York’s public transportation system, we’ll focus just as much on the relationships forged by radio’s legends on both coasts.
Highlights:
• Mercedes McCambridge, Himan Brown, and Grand Central Station
• How Bill Spier influenced the careers of his wife June Havoc and his protégé Elliott Lewis
• From Suspense to Broadway is My Beat, Elliott Lewis shines
• Jack Benny stars on Suspense
• Cathy Lewis: Mrs Radio
• Mandel Kramer, Jan Miner, and Subway Soaps from New York
• Byron Kane and Subways Are For Sleeping
• William N. Robson, Shirley Mitchell, Virginia Gregg and Jack Kruschen on radio in the 1950s
• Bob and Ray head down into the Subway
• Himan Brown brings dramatic radio back to life in the 1970s
• Next Stop: The Soda Shop
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
• On The Air - By John Dunning
• The CBS Radio Mystery Theater Handbook - by Gordon Payton & Martin Grams Jr.
• Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 - by Jim Ramsburg
• The Museum of Broadcast Communications Encyclopedia of Radio - by Christopher H. Sterling
as well as articles from:
• Broadcasting Magazine - November 3rd, 1947
• And Billboard Magazine - May 1st, 1948
On the interview front:
• Himan Brown, June Havoc, Mandel Kramer, Elliott Lewis, E.G. Marshall, Jan Miner, William Spier and William N. Robson were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interview can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
• Ralph Bell, Himan Brown, Lawrence Dobkin, Betty Lou Gerson and Byron Kane, were with SPERDVAC. For more information, please go to S-P-E-R-D-V-A-C.com.
• Himan Brown, Virginia Gregg, Elliott Lewis, Mercedees McCambridge, Shirley Mitchell and Alan Reed were interviewed by Chuck Schaden. Hear their full chats and many others from Chuck’s over thirty-nine year career and SpeakingofRadio.com.
• Ellott Lewis was with John Dunning on May 23rd, 1982.
• Jack Kruschen, Shirley Mitchell, and George Walsh were with Jim Bohannon on September 12, 1987.
• And Morton Fine was with Dan Haefele on August 9th, 1988.
Selected music featured in today’s episode was:
• It’s been a Long, Long Time - by Keely Smith
• Smoke Gets in Your Eyes - by the Mallet Men
• The Big Heist and Salute to Charlie Christian - by Barney Kessel
• Atlantis and Roller Coaster - by Les Baxter
• I’ll Take Manhattan - by Blossom Dearie
• And Fly Me To the Moon - by Julie London
Special thanks to our Sponsors:
• The Mysterious Old Radio Listening Society - https://www.ghoulishdelights.com/series/themorls/
• The Fireside Mystery Theater - https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
A Special Thank you to:
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Online Store - jamesthewallbreaker.com/shop/
Jun 29 2019
3hr 5mins
Play
Rank #17: Herb Vigran on What Happened to Radio Actors during the 1960s after TV Killed Dramatic Radio
In March of 1983 radio actors Herb Vigran and Herb Ellis were guests of SPERDVAC (http://www.sperdvac.com) to talk about their radio careers. During the course of the conversation, Herb Vigran shed some much needed light on what exactly happened to most radio actors and actresses after TV killed the dramatic radio industry. It's a story that very few Americans today know.
May 02 2020
4mins
Play
Rank #18: Les Miserables Part I: The Bishop with Orson Welles—07/23/1937
On Friday, July 23rd, 1937 at 10PM eastern time from the Mutual Broadcasting System’s flagship station WOR in New York, a seven-part adaptation of Victor Hugo’s famed novel Les Misérables debuted.
It was written, directed, and starred a twenty-two year-old Orson Welles. The production also marked the radio debut of the Mercury Theatre troupe It co-starred Martin Gabel as Javert, Alice Frost as Fantine, Virginia Nicolson Welles as the adult Cosette, and Ray Collins, Agnes Moorehead, Everett Sloane, Betty Garde, Hiram Sherman, Frank Readick, and Richard Widmark.
Welles' Les Miserables adaptation was considered to be one of the finest dramatic anthologies ever broadcast. It cemented Welles as a very rare "quadruple threat." He could write, produce, direct, and act. The humanizing way in which he played Jean Valjean, emphasized both the tones of the story, and the ability of the actor.
Les Miserables increased the cache of the Mutual Broadcasting System, and soon landed Welles another role of a lifetime. On Sunday September 26th, 1937, Three weeks after the broadcast of the final chapter of Les Miserables from WOR, Orson Welles debuted as a new crime-fighting hero, The Shadow, on the same network.
It was written, directed, and starred a twenty-two year-old Orson Welles. The production also marked the radio debut of the Mercury Theatre troupe It co-starred Martin Gabel as Javert, Alice Frost as Fantine, Virginia Nicolson Welles as the adult Cosette, and Ray Collins, Agnes Moorehead, Everett Sloane, Betty Garde, Hiram Sherman, Frank Readick, and Richard Widmark.
Welles' Les Miserables adaptation was considered to be one of the finest dramatic anthologies ever broadcast. It cemented Welles as a very rare "quadruple threat." He could write, produce, direct, and act. The humanizing way in which he played Jean Valjean, emphasized both the tones of the story, and the ability of the actor.
Les Miserables increased the cache of the Mutual Broadcasting System, and soon landed Welles another role of a lifetime. On Sunday September 26th, 1937, Three weeks after the broadcast of the final chapter of Les Miserables from WOR, Orson Welles debuted as a new crime-fighting hero, The Shadow, on the same network.
May 09 2020
29mins
Play
Rank #19: John Dehner On Playing Paladin in Have Gun Will Travel
John Dehner speaking with John Hickman for Mr. Hickman's "History of Gunsmoke" documentary on the character Paladin in Have Gun, Will Travel. John Dehner played Paladin in the radio version of the series from November of 1958 through November of 1960.
Mr. Hickman was the longtime host of WAMU’s Recollections. Today, this program is heard each Sunday evening as The Big Broadcast.
Mr. Hickman was the longtime host of WAMU’s Recollections. Today, this program is heard each Sunday evening as The Big Broadcast.
Feb 27 2020
Play
Rank #20: BW - EP97: Thanksgiving 1947—The Most Popular Season in Radio History
In Breaking Walls Episode 97 we usher in the holiday season with the first of a three-part mini-series on the 1947-48 radio season. The 1947-48 season had the largest radio audience in history. Homes with radios jumped 6%, car radios 29%.
The major networks—NBC, CBS, ABC, and the Mutual Broadcasting System added 147 new affiliates. 97% of the nation’s AM stations were now linked to one of the big four. Network revenue topped $200 Million.
——————————
Highlights:
Famine in Europe; Anti-Communism at Home—The World is Changing
Boomer Babes Fuel a Ratings Increase
The Annual Hollywood Santa Parade
Happy Thanksgiving 1947
Breakfast with the Couples
Prepping With the Soaps
The Answer Man Takes to the Air
The Annual Elgin Thanksgiving Special
Juvenile Adventure At Dusk
Settling Into Prime Time
George Burns: French Crooner
Casey Gets His Turkey
Home is Where the Heart Is
Eddie Cantor Has Been Kidnapped
Late Night and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
Frank and Anne Hummert’s Radio Factory - By Jim Cox
On the Air - By John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
Broadcasting Magazine: January 20th, 1947; October 27th, 1947; December 1st, 1947
——————————
On the interview front:
Jackson Beck, Hans Conried, Staats Cotsworth, John Gibson, Tony Marvin, and Jan Miner were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
Chuck Schaden interviewed Ken Carpenter and Les Tremayne. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
While SPERDVAC was with Betty Lou Gerson and Jack Johnstone. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com.
And Barbara Walters interviewed George Burns for 20/20.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
“Over the River and Through The Woods” — by the US Airforce Band
“Holiday On Skis” - by Al Caiola & Riz Ortolani
“Joy” - by George Winston
and
“Star of Bethlehem” - by John Williams
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Fireside Mystery Theater
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
Twelve Chimes, It's Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
The Fireside Mystery Theater will be taping their next podcast on Sunday November 17th at the Slipper Room at 167 Orchard Street in New York City.
The theme is: Holiday Haunts. Doors open at 4:30PM and yours truly will be a member of the cast. Come out and support great, new audio drama.
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
By the way, SPERDVAC - The Society To Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety and Comedy will be having their next convention this coming November 7th through 10th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 3131 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, CA.
For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
The major networks—NBC, CBS, ABC, and the Mutual Broadcasting System added 147 new affiliates. 97% of the nation’s AM stations were now linked to one of the big four. Network revenue topped $200 Million.
——————————
Highlights:
Famine in Europe; Anti-Communism at Home—The World is Changing
Boomer Babes Fuel a Ratings Increase
The Annual Hollywood Santa Parade
Happy Thanksgiving 1947
Breakfast with the Couples
Prepping With the Soaps
The Answer Man Takes to the Air
The Annual Elgin Thanksgiving Special
Juvenile Adventure At Dusk
Settling Into Prime Time
George Burns: French Crooner
Casey Gets His Turkey
Home is Where the Heart Is
Eddie Cantor Has Been Kidnapped
Late Night and Looking Ahead
——————————
The WallBreakers:
http://thewallbreakers.com
Subscribe to Breaking Walls everywhere you get your podcasts.
To support the show:
http://patreon.com/TheWallBreakers
——————————
The reading material used in today’s episode was:
Frank and Anne Hummert’s Radio Factory - By Jim Cox
On the Air - By John Dunning
Network Radio Ratings, 1932-53 — by Jim Ramsburg
As well as articles from:
Broadcasting Magazine: January 20th, 1947; October 27th, 1947; December 1st, 1947
——————————
On the interview front:
Jackson Beck, Hans Conried, Staats Cotsworth, John Gibson, Tony Marvin, and Jan Miner were with Dick Bertel and Ed Corcoran for WTIC’s The Golden Age of Radio. These interviews can be heard at GoldenAge-WTIC.org.
Chuck Schaden interviewed Ken Carpenter and Les Tremayne. Hear their full chats at SpeakingofRadio.com.
While SPERDVAC was with Betty Lou Gerson and Jack Johnstone. For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com.
And Barbara Walters interviewed George Burns for 20/20.
——————————
Selected Music featured in today’s episode was:
“Over the River and Through The Woods” — by the US Airforce Band
“Holiday On Skis” - by Al Caiola & Riz Ortolani
“Joy” - by George Winston
and
“Star of Bethlehem” - by John Williams
——————————
Special thanks to our sponsors!
The Fireside Mystery Theater
https://www.firesidemysterytheatre.com/
Twelve Chimes, It's Midnight
https://www.twelvechimesradio.com/
The Fireside Mystery Theater will be taping their next podcast on Sunday November 17th at the Slipper Room at 167 Orchard Street in New York City.
The theme is: Holiday Haunts. Doors open at 4:30PM and yours truly will be a member of the cast. Come out and support great, new audio drama.
I’d also like to thank Walden Hughes and John and Larry Gassman of SPERDVAC. Listen to their shows on the Yesterday USA radio network.
By the way, SPERDVAC - The Society To Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety and Comedy will be having their next convention this coming November 7th through 10th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at 3131 Bristol St. in Costa Mesa, CA.
For more information, please go to SPERDVAC.com
——————————
A Special Thank you to:
Tony Adams
Ryan Kramer
Barry Nadler
Christian Neuhaus
Aimee Pavy
Terry Wallace
——————————
WallBreakers Links:
Patreon - patreon.com/thewallbreakers
Social Media - @TheWallBreakers
URL - thewallbreakers.com
Oct 30 2019
2hr 23mins
Play