Harold's Old Time Radio: The Jean Shepherd Show 63-01-24 (x) 097 Getting Ham License

Introduction

In the episode titled "Getting Ham License," hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, listener Jean Shepherd shares a captivating autobiographical narrative from the Golden Age of Radio. Released on May 1, 2025, this episode delves into Shepherd's personal journey of overcoming challenges to obtain an amateur radio (ham radio) license, set against the backdrop of harsh cold weather. The story not only highlights the technical and emotional hurdles he faced but also reflects the enduring allure of radio in a pre-television era.

Setting the Scene: The Cold Night

The episode opens with Shepherd describing a particularly frigid night, "around 18 or 20 below" temperatures in Chicago (00:31). This severe cold serves as both a literal and metaphorical backdrop for his story. He nostalgically recalls watching streetcars struggle along frost-covered wires, painting a vivid picture of the challenges posed by extreme weather:

"It looked like an enormous blue white skyrocket going from left to right directly across a totally black landscape." (00:45)

The Allure of Amateur Radio

Shepherd transitions to discussing amateur radio, explaining how the biting cold ignited his passion for this elusive hobby. He likens the irresistible urge to engage in radio activities to an old golfer feeling the need to putt, emphasizing the deep-seated drive he felt:

"On nights like this... you just never know what's going to happen. Absolutely have no idea." (05:10)

The Journey Begins: Building Interest

As a teenager, Shepherd was fascinated by radios. His curiosity was piqued when a classmate, Ray Galambus, introduced him to his father's elaborate radio setup. This encounter was transformative:

"I discovered that world that day... I went out of the house in a daze." (09:15)

Despite struggling academically, with grades slipping due to his intense focus on radio, Shepherd remained undeterred. He describes his obsessive study habits and the isolation that came with his singular focus:

"I couldn't stop. All day long I am reading this stuff... It was just like suddenly being dropped in the middle of Nigeria." (12:30)

Facing the Examination: A Test of Resolve

Obtaining a ham license during Shepherd's time was notoriously difficult, with pass rates as low as 25-28%. He recounts the nerve-wracking experience of taking the code test at the FCC offices in Chicago:

"I sat down there, of course, I'm a kid... all this time and. And they open the door, and the man is standing in there." (19:44)

The stringent testing process included rigorous code tests and complex essay questions on electronic theory and transmission. Shepherd vividly describes the atmosphere of anxiety among test-takers and the sheer difficulty of the examinations:

"They are absolutely ruthless, cold, ruthless, rough guys they didn't fool." (20:00)

Triumph and Transformation

After a year of relentless study and multiple setbacks, Shepherd finally passed the code test. The moment of receiving his official ham license was a culmination of his arduous efforts:

"I could hardly wait... it was like the culmination of an insane, ridiculous, nutty, weird." (25:50)

He details the technical aspects of his first radio setup, illustrating his deep technical knowledge and passion:

"My equipment consisted of a 2A5 oscillator period tri tech with my Bliley BC3 crystal... I could barely light a 2 watt neon bulb." (27:10)

The First Connection: A Moment of Success

Shepherd's first successful radio transmission was a defining moment. After countless attempts, he finally made a contact with a fellow ham operator in Brooklyn during a bitterly cold night:

"I had talked to a guy, me, a 14 year old kid... but I've never heard from that guy again." (34:20)

This breakthrough not only validated his efforts but also solidified his lifelong passion for amateur radio:

"I never thought that I would get it... it changed me forever and ever." (35:00)

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Passion

Jean Shepherd's recounting of his quest to obtain a ham license is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Set against the challenges of severe cold weather and academic struggles, his story underscores the profound impact that a singular interest can have on one's life. The episode beautifully captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, where families gathered around the radio, and individuals like Shepherd pursued their dreams with unwavering dedication.

Notable Quotes

• Jean Shepherd at 00:31:

  "Tonight's program is about the unattainable, the secret mystery, the awful thing that lies just beyond that great black curtain out there."

• Jean Shepherd at 05:10:

  "It's like trying to learn a language with nobody around to teach you the language."

• Jean Shepherd at 12:30:

  "It's just like suddenly being dropped in the middle of Nigeria."

• Jean Shepherd at 19:44:

  "I was this little kid... you could see the guys are sweating."

• Jean Shepherd at 25:50:

  "It was like the culmination of an insane, ridiculous, nutty, weird."

• Jean Shepherd at 34:20:

  "I have never heard from that guy again, but I've never turned back. It changed me forever and ever."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully intertwines personal narrative with the technical fascination of amateur radio. Jean Shepherd's story is not only a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era but also an inspiring tale of youthful determination and the pursuit of one's passions against all odds.