Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Chase And Sanborn Hour 43-05-02 Barbara Stanwyck Acts as Charlie's Agent
Release Date: August 9, 2025

Introduction and Cast Overview

The episode of "Chase And Sanborn Hour" opens with a vibrant introduction by Edgar Bergen at [00:03], presenting the ensemble cast:

• Edgar Bergen
• Bill Thompson
• Ray Noble and his orchestra
• Dale Evans, the Sportsman
• Barbara Stanwyck as the special guest
• Charlie McCarthy

This sets the stage for a blend of humor, music, and engaging dialogue typical of the Golden Age of Radio.

The Mustache Affair

A central comedic theme of the episode revolves around Charlie McCarthy's newfound mustache. The segment begins at [00:27] with Charlie greeting the audience and Dale Evans, quickly segueing into humor about his facial hair:

• Charlie McCarthy [00:31]: "I'd kiss you hello, but I'm afraid my mustache might tickle you."
• Barbara Stanwyck [00:37]: "Charlie, don't tell me you're growing a mustache."
• Charlie McCarthy [00:39]: "Yeah, that's the way it is. Yeah. Today I am a mess. I mean, a man. I decided to let it sprout. Haven't you noticed it?"

The playful banter continues as Barbara teases Charlie about his youthful appearance despite the mustache:

• Barbara Stanwyck [00:59]: "No, you look more about a boy about 12. Charlie, does Edgar know about this?"

Charlie’s attempts to appear more mature and sophisticated lead to further humorous exchanges:

• Charlie McCarthy [05:01]: "No, no. I'm getting. I'm getting interested in, you know, more sophisticated women. I see women about 14 or 15."

This segment highlights the witty interplay between characters, showcasing Charlie's mischievous charm and Barbara's sharp tongue.

News and Comedy Segments

Interwoven with the comedic dialogues are musical interludes and satirical news segments that add depth and variety to the episode.

Musical Performances:

• Ray Noble [02:11]: Performs the lively song “Canteen in our Town,” encouraging listeners to enjoy the festivities.
• Dale Evans [12:17]: Delivers a heartfelt love song, "Whenever She's in Love," adding a melodic respite from the humor.

Satirical News with Bill Thompson:

At [07:00], the show transitions to a mock news segment with Bill Thompson reporting from the fictional capital of Flageria:

• Bill Thompson [08:28]: "This happens to be Flageria's national holiday. Donkey Neck Monday, which occurs immediately three Tuesdays before Bus Stop Thursday."

The satire continues with whimsical descriptions of local events and absurd news items, such as:

• Bill Thompson [09:25]: "He was going to tell us about the main Flagerian industry which at the moment is going at full speed. In fact, their business is tops."
• Professor Scalpel Sulphonylimeds [10:01]: Attempts to make a beaver talk, only to be interrupted humorously by Charlie’s antics.

These segments blend absurdist humor with clever wordplay, reflecting the playful spirit of old-time radio.

Barbara Stanwyck as Charlie’s Agent

One of the pivotal moments in the episode features Barbara Stanwyck stepping into the role of Charlie McCarthy's agent, advocating for a raise in Charlie's allowance. This negotiation begins around [16:28] and unfolds with sharp comedic timing.

Initial Negotiation Attempt:

• Barbara Stanwyck [17:47]: "Charlie, what you need is a manager."
• Charlie McCarthy [17:54]: "A manager?"
• Barbara Stanwyck [17:55]: "Yes. Just place yourself in my hands and I'll put you on a solid basis."

Negotiation with Edgar Bergen (Ray Noble):

As Barbara confronts Ray Noble (portraying Edgar Bergen), the dialogue becomes increasingly humorous and assertive:

• Barbara Stanwyck [19:26]: "Mr. Bergen, as Charlie's manager, I demand an increase in our allowance. And we won't take no for an answer."
• Charlie McCarthy [19:57]: "What are we asking?"
• Barbara Stanwyck [19:52]: "We're asking for $10 a week."
• Ray Noble [19:54]: "$10 a week? Why, that's ridiculous."

Climax and Resolution:

Barbara employs exaggerated emotional appeals to secure the raise:

• Barbara Stanwyck [20:50]: "For want of the bare necessities of life, why, he may be forced to steal. So hungry to become a hardened criminal, an outcast. An enemy of society. Yes, yes, even a murderer."

Ultimately, Ray concedes to a partial raise:

• Ray Noble [22:05]: "I might consider a 25 cent raise, but no more."
• Charlie McCarthy [22:27]: "That's pretty good. Let's take it."

Barbara skillfully negotiates Charlie's new allowance, humorously highlighting the struggles of manageability and financial negotiations for Charlie.

Conclusion and Future Teasers

As the episode nears its end, Edgar Bergen wraps up with a teaser for the next show:

• Edgar Bergen [23:48]: "Be with us again next week when Charlie and all of us will be on hand to greet our special guests, Victor Moore and Billy Gaxton, and the eminent psychologist and author of 'Let's Explore Your Mind,' Dr. Albert Edward Wiggum."

This closure maintains listener engagement, promising future entertainment and continued comedic escapades.

Notable Quotes Overview

• Charlie McCarthy on Mustache Growth [00:39]: "Today I am a mess. I mean, a man. I decided to let it sprout. Haven't you noticed it?"
• Barbara Stanwyck on Charlie’s Appearance [00:59]: "No, you look more about a boy about 12."
• Charlie McCarthy on Sophisticated Interests [05:01]: "I'm getting interested in, you know, more sophisticated women. I see women about 14 or 15."
• Barbara Stanwyck Negotiating [19:52]: "We're asking for $10 a week."
• Ray Noble’s Reluctant Concession [22:05]: "I might consider a 25 cent raise, but no more."
• Barbara Stanwyck Emotional Appeal [20:50]: "For want of the bare necessities of life, why, he may be forced to steal."

Final Thoughts

This episode of "Chase And Sanborn Hour" masterfully blends humor, satire, and engaging character dynamics, particularly highlighting Barbara Stanwyck's role as a determined agent advocating for Charlie McCarthy. The interplay between characters, coupled with musical interludes and comedic news segments, provides a rich and entertaining experience that captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to these classic broadcasts, this episode offers a delightful journey into nostalgic radio entertainment.