Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Episode: Paul Harvey - Wiley Post
Introduction In the March 13, 2025 episode of Harold's Old Time Radio titled "Paul Harvey - Wiley Post," host Harold delves into the intriguing and lesser-known story of American aviator Wiley Post. This episode transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, weaving a gripping narrative that combines suspense, historical facts, and human ingenuity.
Setting the Scene: A Desert Encounter [00:56] The episode opens with a vivid description of a lone motorist traversing the Mojave Desert. The narrator sets a tense and mysterious tone as the driver experiences mechanical issues and contemplates the silence of the vast desert. This serene yet isolated setting becomes the backdrop for an unexpected and otherworldly encounter.
The Mysterious Spaceman Pursuit [01:20] As the motorist waits for his car to cool down, he begins to hear faint echoes that hark back to ancient explorers and war cries, suggesting a connection to the desert's rich and tumultuous history. Suddenly, the tranquility is shattered when a "spaceman" appears on the horizon. The narrator describes the creature with eerie detail:
"Its head is proportionally large, almost perfectly round, like a big metal ball. Its body is bulky and seemingly encased in a peculiar thick material" ([02:15]).
The presence of this enigmatic figure triggers a heart-pounding chase, with the motorist desperately attempting to escape. The tension escalates as the pursuer closes in:
"Anywhere Just to get away. Running out into the desert." ([03:05]).
Revealing the Truth: Wiley Post's High-Altitude Adventure [03:35] The suspenseful narrative takes an unexpected turn as the story transitions from a chilling desert pursuit to the true tale of Wiley Post. The narrator unveils that the mysterious spaceman was, in fact, Post himself. Post was a pioneering aviator who, in 1934, achieved unprecedented heights by flying nine miles above the Earth’s surface, well into the stratosphere. His quest for reaching such altitudes led him to design one of the very first functional space suits, crafted with heavy rubberized cloth and metal—a testament to innovation and determination.
The Emergency Landing and Unbelievable Encounter [03:50] During his daring high-altitude flight, Post encountered an engine failure that forced him to make an emergency landing in the Mojave Desert. Clad in his meticulously hand-sewn spacesuit, Post sought assistance from a passing motorist. However, the motorist’s extraordinary story was met with skepticism and disbelief, leading to Post’s remarkable yet tragic end. The narrator poignantly reflects:
"The motorist was never able to get anybody to believe his story. Until now that we all know the rest of the story." ([04:10]).
Conclusion Harold's storytelling not only captivates with its dramatic flair but also sheds light on Wiley Post's significant contributions to aviation and space exploration. By blending historical facts with engaging narration, the episode honors Post's legacy and underscores the challenges faced by early aviation pioneers.
Notable Quotes:
- "Its head is proportionally large, almost perfectly round, like a big metal ball." ([02:15])
- "Anywhere Just to get away. Running out into the desert." ([03:05])
- "The motorist was never able to get anybody to believe his story. Until now that we all know the rest of the story." ([04:10])
Final Thoughts This episode serves as a tribute to Wiley Post, highlighting his adventurous spirit and the extraordinary lengths he went to push the boundaries of human flight. Through meticulous research and evocative storytelling, Harold brings to life a pivotal yet often overlooked chapter in aviation history, making it accessible and enthralling for modern listeners.