Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Title: Big Guy 50-05-07 01 Unheard Voice
Release Date: June 11, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Description: Reliving the Golden Age of Radio with classic-style shows featuring beloved characters and thrilling adventures.

Introduction

Harold's Old Time Radio brings back the charm and suspense of classic radio dramas. In this episode, "The Big Guy: The Unheard Voice," listeners are transported into the mysterious and compelling world of detective Joshua Sharp, portrayed by Henry Calvin. The episode masterfully blends intrigue, emotion, and unexpected twists, reminiscent of the beloved radio shows from the pre-television era.

Plot Summary

Setting the Scene [01:04]

The story begins with an introduction to Joshua Sharp, also known as "The Big Guy," a dedicated detective who works strictly on a cash basis to support his two beloved children, Josh Jr. and Debbie. Sharp juggles his professional responsibilities with his role as both father and mother to his children, embodying the quintessential hero of old-time radio.

The Mystery Unfolds [02:14]

A sense of normalcy is established as the children, Josh and Debbie, develop an innocent crush on Mr. Dooley, the friendly carousel attendant. However, tragedy strikes when Mr. Dooley is implicated in a high-profile bank robbery at the Bond Avenue mansion. The butler, Anton Schindler, identifies Dooley as the culprit, leading to his arrest.

Notable Quote:
Detective Walt Reynolds [05:47]: "We contacted Janssen. He's in Bermuda. Do you really think Mr. Dooley did it?"

Quest for the Truth [07:03]

Detective Sharp, skeptical of the evidence against Dooley, decides to investigate further. His pursuit of the truth leads him to Mrs. Irma Dooley, Mr. Dooley's frantic wife, who expresses gratitude towards Sharp for his concern.

Notable Quote:
Mr. Sharp [07:14]: "Don't jump to any conclusions. You don't have to."

Unveiling the Conspiracy [08:34 - 10:33]

Sharp's investigation reveals inconsistencies in the case against Dooley. He uncovers that Detective Reynolds, who arrested Dooley, might have ulterior motives. Sharp discovers Reynolds' involvement in the framing of Dooley, leading to Reynolds' eventual demise.

Notable Quote:
Mr. Sharp [10:53]: "There is no further question in my mind, sir. He's my. The defendant, Mr. Willie Dooley."

Climactic Confrontation [20:44 - 27:52]

The tension reaches its peak when Sharp confronts Anton Schindler at the Bond Avenue mansion. The true antagonist is revealed to be Schindler, who, alongside Mrs. Dooley and Detective Reynolds, orchestrated the frame-up against Mr. Dooley. A gripping showdown ensues, culminating in Schindler's downfall and the exoneration of Dooley.

Notable Quote:
Mr. Sharp [25:51]: "You think you might be? I'm a little sore now. And I've got a gun to you. Look out, Mr. Sharp."

Resolution and Reflection [27:01 - 29:03]

With the case resolved, Sharp reflects on the impact of the events on his children, Josh Jr. and Debbie. He contemplates how to explain the truth about Mr. Dooley and the complexities of the adult world to them.

Notable Quote:
Mr. Sharp [28:24]: "And I thought about Debbie and Josh and how when they were older I'd tell them why Mr. Dooley never came back and all about the little man."

Key Characters

• Joshua Sharp (The Big Guy) (Henry Calvin): A dedicated and compassionate detective balancing his professional duties with raising his two children.
• Josh Jr. (David Anderson): Joshua's son, who idolizes Mr. Dooley.
• Debbie (Denise Alexander): Joshua's daughter, equally enamored with Mr. Dooley.
• Detective Walt Reynolds: The corrupt detective responsible for framing Mr. Dooley.
• Anton Schindler: The butler who collaborates with Reynolds to implicate Dooley.
• Mrs. Irma Dooley: Mr. Dooley's wife, who becomes a victim in the conspiracy.

Notable Quotes

1. Detective Walt Reynolds [05:47]:
   "Do you really think Mr. Dooley did it?"

2. Mrs. Irma Dooley [07:09]:
   "He's gone. You're not getting nervous, are you?"

3. Mr. Sharp [10:53]:
   "There is no further question in my mind, sir. He's my. The defendant, Mr. Willie Dooley."

4. Anton Schindler [24:50]:
   "No, no. Believe me, you're wrong."

5. Mr. Sharp [25:54]:
   "But then you don't think that I know you didn't kill her."

6. Mr. Sharp [27:52]:
   "You can hand it over now, Dooley. I wouldn't give an escaping convict a loaded gun."

Conclusion

"The Big Guy: The Unheard Voice" is a quintessential example of classic radio drama, weaving a tale of suspense, betrayal, and redemption. Through Joshua Sharp's unwavering pursuit of justice, the episode explores themes of integrity, the innocence of children, and the complexities of human relationships. The engaging narrative, combined with memorable dialogues and compelling characters, makes this episode a standout addition to Harold's Old Time Radio series.

Production Credits:

• Starring:

  • Henry Calvin as Joshua Sharp
  • David Anderson as Josh Jr.
  • Denise Alexander as Debbie

• Supporting Cast:

  • Joan Alexander
  • Roy Fant
  • Everett Sloan

• Crew:

  • Scriptwriter: Peter Barry
  • Director: Thomas Madigan
  • Music: George Wright
  • Announcer: Fred Collins

Upcoming Episodes:

Stay tuned for more thrilling adventures featuring Joshua Sharp on Harold's Old Time Radio. Upcoming episodes include beloved characters like Phil Harris, Sam Spade, and Petticoat Fever, continuing the legacy of the Golden Age of Radio.