Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "I Got A Million Of Em 1952-11-22 Jimmy Durante"

Episode Information:

• Title: I Got A Million Of Em
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Release Date: April 4, 2025
• Description: A captivating episode featuring Jimmy Durante in a special broadcast celebrating American ideals, particularly the brotherhood of man, in collaboration with the B'nai Brith organization.

1. Introduction and Overview

The episode begins with an introduction by Frank Goldman, setting the stage for Jimmy Durante’s special broadcast titled "I Got A Million Of Them." Highlighting the 109th anniversary of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) in cooperation with B'nai Brith, the episode promises an engaging half-hour tribute filled with humor, heartfelt moments, and significant acknowledgments of American values.

Notable Quote:

• Frank Goldman [00:31]: "The National Broadcasting Company, in cooperation with Benet Britt, on the occasion of its 109th anniversary, presents this transcribed half hour of laughing, touching tribute from a great comedian, Jimmy Durante, to the greatest of American ideals, the brotherhood of man."

2. The Story: I Got A Million Of Them

a. Jimmy Durante’s Introduction

Jimmy Durante opens the broadcast with his signature charm, delving into a contemplative monologue about self-awareness and the influence of conscience. Through humorous and witty dialogue, he sets a reflective tone for the narrative to follow.

Notable Quote:

• Jimmy Durante [01:15]: "Durani, I was thinking, you're the undisputed champ. ... Durani, you're nothing but an ordinary mortal. Who's that? It's me. On which end of the wire are you? ... I'm the voice of your conscience."

b. The Interaction Between Ms. Taylor and Tommy

The narrative unfolds with a heartfelt interaction between Ms. Taylor, a school teacher, and Tommy, a diligent student facing familial responsibilities. Ms. Taylor introduces Tommy to Ms. Benjamin from the B'nai Brith Women organization, aiming to secure a scholarship for him. However, Tommy reveals his dilemma of needing to support his ailing mother and sister, highlighting the struggle between education and family obligations.

Notable Quotes:

• Ms. Taylor [02:54]: "We were driving through the red clay landscape... How she'd react to the Watkins place."
• Tommy [04:20]: "If me and the mule rented out after school and on weekends. Will they pay more for a man and a mule than they do for a man alone?"
• Ms. Taylor [06:11]: "I understand, ma'am."

c. The Challenge About Scholarship and Mule

Tommy proposes a creative yet heartfelt solution to his predicament by suggesting that the scholarship money be transformed into a mule, enabling him to work and support his family while continuing his education. This unconventional request underscores the depth of his commitment to both his education and familial responsibilities.

Notable Quote:

• Tommy [05:29]: "If I had a mule. Just any kind of a plug mule."

3. Jimmy Durante’s Commentary

Jimmy Durante interjects with his characteristic humor and insightful commentary, reflecting on the themes of conscience, education, and community support. He emphasizes the importance of organizations like B'nai Brith in fostering brotherhood and assisting individuals in need.

Notable Quotes:

• Jimmy Durante [08:13]: "Conscience. Believe me, I've been touched. ... Renee Brit is the champ on that score."
• Jimmy Durante [09:06]: "Do you hear that? Not so long ago, the only sounds I heard all day long were these."

4. The Story of B'nai Brith and Music Composition

The narrative shifts to Earl Jordan, a composer struggling to balance his passion for music with the practicalities of making a living. With the support of Bob Kaufman from the B'nai Brith Service Committee, Earl finds renewed hope and inspiration, leading to his unexpected victory in the George Gershwin Memorial Contest. This segment highlights the transformative impact of community support and recognition.

Notable Quotes:

• Earl Jordan [09:06]: "Even after the war, the Veterans Hospital saw a good deal of me."
• Bob Kaufman [12:00]: "When you came to me and thanked me for our help and told me you were giving up music, ... you won, Earl."

5. The Thanksgiving Story: The Priest and Rabbi

In a moving retelling, Jimmy Durante narrates an incident involving a priest and a rabbi confronting anti-Semitism and religious prejudice during a Thanksgiving meeting. Their unified stance against hatred and their collaborative efforts to support community youth exemplify the spirit of brotherhood and mutual respect.

Notable Quotes:

• Jimmy Durante [20:46]: "But what he began, the priest went on to finish."
• Jimmy Durante [21:22]: "You say you're a Catholic priest, You're a liar."

6. Award Presentation: 1952 B'nai Brith Annual Award

The episode culminates with Frank Goldman presenting Jimmy Durante with the prestigious 1952 B'nai Brith Annual Award for Humanitarian Service. Goldman praises Durante’s dedication to humanitarian causes and his role in promoting brotherhood across diverse communities. Durante humbly accepts the award, expressing his pride and commitment to serving humanity.

Notable Quotes:

• Frank Goldman [26:26]: "We are most privileged at this time to present to you, Mr. Jimmy Durante, for your devotion to all peoples ... the 1952 B'nai Britt Annual Award for Humanitarian Service."
• Jimmy Durante [28:08]: "I've always taught that deeds were more important than words. ... it's a privilege, ladies and gents, to do a bit for the human race."

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a final acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts between NBC and B'nai Brith, emphasizing ongoing community support initiatives such as blood donation programs. The production credits highlight the creative talents involved in bringing this heartfelt tribute to life.

Notable Quotes:

• Frank Goldman [29:08]: "Remember B asks you to give blood for the fighting men in Korea ... This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company."

Insights and Themes

• Brotherhood and Community Support: Central to the episode is the theme of unity and mutual support, exemplified by the actions of B'nai Brith and individuals like Jimmy Durante.
• Balancing Personal Responsibility: Tommy’s struggle between education and family obligations underscores the broader societal challenges faced by many.
• Impact of Recognition: Earl Jordan’s story illustrates how recognition and support can reignite passion and lead to significant personal achievements.
• Combating Prejudice: The Thanksgiving story serves as a powerful testament to overcoming hatred and fostering interfaith and interracial respect.

Conclusion

"I Got A Million Of Em" is a poignant tribute to American ideals, weaving together stories of personal struggle, community support, and the enduring power of brotherhood. Through Jimmy Durante’s engaging narration and the heartfelt narratives of individuals like Tommy and Earl, the episode celebrates the best of humanity and the impact of collective goodwill.

Note: Advertisements and non-content sections, including sponsorship messages for "Chumba Casino" and other interruptions, have been excluded from this summary to maintain focus on the core content and narratives of the episode.