The Little Man Inside 45-05-21

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Little Man Inside (45-05-21)
Release Date: March 15, 2025

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Introduction

The Little Man Inside transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with an engaging portrayal of everyday struggles and inner dialogues. Hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, this episode delves into the life of John Nelson, an ordinary man navigating the complexities of work and personal life, all while contending with his enigmatic inner voice—the "little man inside."

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1. Setting the Stage: Introducing John Nelson and the Little Man Inside

The episode opens with a narrator setting the tone for the story:

Narrator [00:00]: "Presenting The Little Man Inside. The Blue Network introduces The Little Man Inside. It's the story of that peculiar character within us that dictates our thoughts and runs our machinery sometimes so differently from the way we want it run."

These opening lines establish the central theme of internal conflict and self-dialogue, highlighting John Nelson's unique inner struggle.

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2. Morning Commute: The Bus Ride and Inner Conversations

John Nelson’s day begins with his morning bus ride, where he interacts with Jim Frazier, the bus conductor. The dialogue showcases John’s polite demeanor juxtaposed with Jim’s frustration and cunning nature.

John Nelson [00:39]: "Sure, sure. I know it's hard for you dealers to get cigarettes."

Jim Frazier [00:44]: "I'll bet he's got a couple of cartons stuck back there somewhere. I should have tried a different approach..."

This interaction highlights the everyday challenges John faces, not just externally with Jim but also internally through his little man inside.

Notable Quote:

Jim Frazier [01:23]: "Run, run, run. That's all I do—run for buses, run for lunch, run for a train. Yeah, I'll make it this morning."

This quote emphasizes Jim's exhaustion and possibly his envy or frustration with John’s situation.

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3. The Quest for a Raise: Confrontation with Mr. Corning

The crux of the episode revolves around John’s attempt to secure a raise from his boss, Mr. Corning (affectionately nicknamed "Fish Face" by Jim). John’s internal dialogue, represented by Jim, adds depth to his character’s motivations and anxieties.

Key Scenes:

• Preparing to Ask for a Raise

  John Nelson [04:10]: "You can say that again."

  This exchange underscores the camaraderie and shared frustrations between John and Jim.

• At the Office

  John Nelson [08:41]: "Good morning, Mr. Corning."

  Jim Frazier [08:44]: "Boy, he looks as if he had a bad night."

John’s respectful approach contrasts with Jim’s cynical outlook, illustrating the internal tug-of-war between optimism and doubt.

Notable Quotes:

John Nelson [09:17]: "Well, you see, my... I feel that with the added duties I have and also the fact that I've been here a good number of years, you know, I'm entitled to a raise in salary."

Jim Frazier [10:09]: "He can't see the logic of anything that involves more money."

These quotes capture the essence of John’s request and the internal skepticism that threatens his confidence.

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4. Interactions with Family: Navigating Personal Life

After the tense meeting with Mr. Corning, the episode shifts focus to John’s home life, revealing the strain his job struggles place on his relationship with his wife.

Key Scenes:

• Homecoming Tension

  John Nelson [13:25]: "Good evening, honey."

  Jim Frazier [13:26]: "Put on the personality kit."

John’s attempt to mask his disappointment contrasts with Jim’s cynical advice, highlighting the pressure to present a strong facade at home.

• Rejection and Acceptance

  John Nelson [14:05]: "I didn't get quite the raise we talked over."

  Jim Frazier [14:11]: "She isn't mad, though, I don't think."

These interactions portray the delicate balance John maintains between his professional setbacks and personal life harmony.

Notable Quote:

Jim Frazier [14:24]: "Now, you come here and give me that big kiss. Come here."

This line showcases the resolution of tension, blending humor and relief as John seeks reassurance from his wife.

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5. Conclusion and Teaser for Next Episode

The episode wraps up with the narrator hinting at future developments:

Narrator [14:43]: "And so closes another episode in the life of John Nelson and the little man inside. Listen again tomorrow at the same time as John Nelson, with the help of the little man inside, tries to solve the mystery of why his son punched the neighbor boy in the left eye."

This closing sets the stage for ongoing storytelling, promising listeners more insights into John’s life and inner conflicts.

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Insights and Themes

• Inner Conflict: The "little man inside" serves as a personification of John’s internal struggles, reflecting self-doubt and conflicting desires.

• Workplace Dynamics: The interaction with Mr. Corning illustrates the challenges of advocating for oneself in a hierarchical environment.

• Personal Resilience: Despite setbacks, John maintains his composure and strives to balance professional aspirations with personal relationships.

• Humor and Relatability: The witty exchanges between John and Jim add levity, making the characters relatable and endearing.

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Conclusion

The Little Man Inside masterfully blends humor, drama, and relatable struggles to portray the nuanced life of John Nelson. Through its rich dialogue and character interactions, the episode captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, offering listeners a compelling narrative that resonates with timeless themes of ambition, self-doubt, and personal growth.

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Join Us Next Time

Tune in tomorrow for the continuation of John Nelson’s journey as he delves into the perplexing incident of his son’s confrontation with a neighbor, further exploring the dynamics between John and his persistent little man inside.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jim Frazier [01:23]: "Run, run, run. That's all I do—run for buses, run for lunch, run for a train. Yeah, I'll make it this morning."

• John Nelson [09:17]: "Well, you see, my... I feel that with the added duties I have and also the fact that I've been here a good number of years, you know, I'm entitled to a raise in salary."

• Jim Frazier [14:24]: "Now, you come here and give me that big kiss. Come here."

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About Harold's Old Time Radio

Harold's Old Time Radio resurrects the charm and nostalgia of classic radio shows, bringing timeless stories and characters to modern audiences. Each episode captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, offering a captivating listening experience reminiscent of family gatherings around the radio dial.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Presenting the little man Inside. The Blue network introduces the little man inside. It's the story of that peculiar character within us that dictates our thoughts and runs our machinery sometimes so differently from the way we want it run. Here is the story of everyday John Nelson and his thoughts. But there's nothing commonplace about his thoughts. And through the medium of this program we bring you John Nelson, his down to earth adventures and his out of this world thoughts. Let's meet John Nelson.

[John Nelson]

Sure, sure. I know it's hard for you dealers to get cigarettes.

[Narrator]

And here is the little man inside.

[Jim Frazier]

I'll bet he's got a couple of cartons stuck back there somewhere. I should have tried a different approach. You gotta be cagey. Maybe if I bought a lot of witch hazel he'd throw in a pack.

[Narrator]

You see, we bring you the everyday life of one man, John Nelson. And the little man inside. As we join John Nelson, we find him hurrying to catch the morning bus. With his wife's admonition ringing in his ears. Today's the day he gets a raise from his bus. Or else both he and the little man inside are working overtime as they run the bus.

[Jim Frazier]

Run, run, run. That's all I do is run for buses, run for lunch, run for a train. Yeah, I'll make it this morning. Uh oh, here's that stupid conductor.

[John Nelson]

Good morning. How are you this morning?

[Jim Frazier]

Watch him fumble the change. The oath.

[John Nelson]

Here's a 50 cent piece. That's the best I can do for you today.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at him, look at it. You'd think I offered him a 10.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, that's 43 cent cents I get.

[Jim Frazier]

Back now El Profit. I don't think you can count to 43. Some of the guys they got on this.

[John Nelson]

No, no, no, no. 43 cents.

[Jim Frazier]

What I tell you? What I tell you.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, that's right. Thank you very much.

[Jim Frazier]

Thank you. I ought to get paid for doing your job. Now I climb in this place and stand all the way down.

[John Nelson]

Pardon my William.

[Jim Frazier]

Okay, okay, I'm getting to the back. What do you want me to do, climb over their heads?

[John Nelson]

Excuse me.

[Jim Frazier]

Say, look at this chick. I think this is as far back as I'll go.

[John Nelson]

How do you do?

[Jim Frazier]

Oh, gives me the cold shoulder.

[John Nelson]

Oh, I beg your pardon. I. I mistook you for someone else.

[Jim Frazier]

I didn't go with a dime. I ought to get the cold shoulder for pulling that routine. Hey, but look at the chick behind me smiling. It's worth a million bucks.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, how do you do?

[Jim Frazier]

Well, this is no icicle. I'm Glad I got my hat on. She can't see I'm losing my hair.

[John Nelson]

Are. Are you going downtown?

[Jim Frazier]

Of course she's going downtown. That's the only place this bus goes. Boy, am I stale. It's a good thing I have a winning smile.

[John Nelson]

I haven't seen you on this bus before, have I?

[Jim Frazier]

Darn right you haven't. You wouldn't forget her.

[John Nelson]

Oh. Oh, how do you do, sir? How do you do?

[Jim Frazier]

Oh, sure, she's married.

[John Nelson]

Well, it. It certainly is nice having your wife go to work with you.

[Jim Frazier]

No wonder she smiles. She's got her old man to protect her.

[John Nelson]

Yes, yes. Well, if you'll excuse me, I. I like to work my way to the back easier when I get off. Goodbye.

[Jim Frazier]

Well, you can't blame a guy for trying. There's life in the old boy yet.

[John Nelson]

Excuse me. Excuse me. This is where I get off. Let me out, please. Excuse me.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at these sardines. Why don't they let me out of here? Oh, just made it. One of these days I'm gonna be cutting two when that door closes. Hey, hey, here's Jim Frazier.

[John Nelson]

Well, well, well, Jim, you old rascal. How are ya?

[Jim Frazier]

The guy's putting on weight.

[John Nelson]

How do you like your new job?

[Jim Frazier]

He ought to like it. He's making plenty of dough.

[John Nelson]

Well, that's fine, Jim. I. I guess you were smart to quit.

[Jim Frazier]

I'd quit, too, if I had an uncle owning an outfit like he does.

[John Nelson]

Oh, yeah, yeah, I'm. I'm still in the same old rut, brother.

[Jim Frazier]

You can say that again.

[John Nelson]

Well, as a matter of fact, Jim, I'm. I'm going to hit Mr. Corning for a raise today.

[Jim Frazier]

You'll probably get right back.

[John Nelson]

Well, I. I don't know whether I'll get it or not, but my. Why, that is. I always say you can't help trying, you know.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at the guy gloat. He knows darn well I wish I was in his spot. I gotta make this sound good.

[John Nelson]

Oh, things aren't too bad, though, Jim. You know, I took over a charge of stock last week.

[Jim Frazier]

Now I don't get home till seven each night.

[John Nelson]

Well. Well, now, to tell you the truth, I didn't get a raise right then, but, well, you know, fish face or Mr. Corning as good as said got me there.

[Jim Frazier]

But today's a different story.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, Jim, that's why I'm laying down the law today. My wire. I mean, I don't think it's a good idea to let anyone impose on me.

[Jim Frazier]

Go Ahead and talk. You got an uncle.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, that's my intention today, Jim. Either I get a raise.

[Jim Frazier]

Or what?

[John Nelson]

Or everything's over between me and Fish Face, that's all.

[Jim Frazier]

Hey, am I listening to this guy? Right. Is he offering me a job?

[John Nelson]

You. You mean that, Jim? What kind of a job you got?

[Jim Frazier]

There must be a catch to this.

[John Nelson]

Well, that's. That's mighty fine of you, Jim, but I think old Fish Face will see the light.

[Jim Frazier]

Yeah, the only light he'll see is when you open the door to leave.

[John Nelson]

Oh, sure, Jim, sure. I've just about made up my mind. And it's mighty fine of you to make this offer.

[Jim Frazier]

Might as well cultivate this guy. Can't do any harm.

[John Nelson]

Okay, Jim. And why don't you and your wife stop over some night?

[Jim Frazier]

That's it, kid. Turn on the charm. Invest a couple of drinks in this dodo.

[John Nelson]

Oh, fine, Jim. I'll see you then.

[Jim Frazier]

This guy can really get me a job. Kind of hate to leave old Fish Face, though. Still, he's got no right to shove stock off on me and no increase. I might just get mad enough to walk out on a guy at that.

[John Nelson]

Hiya, Jane.

[Jim Frazier]

I get the shivers every time I look at that switchboard trick. It's a good thing I'm a married man or I'd sure date her.

[John Nelson]

Hi, Billy.

[Jim Frazier]

There's a good kid.

[John Nelson]

Morning, Mac.

[Jim Frazier]

Boy, if I'd been around here as long as he has, I wouldn't be able to smile either. Hey, I wonder if I'll grow old like that There.

[John Nelson]

What's that? Oh, no, no, nothing's wrong with me, Billy. I just stopped to think.

[Jim Frazier]

Holy mackerel, I'm getting eccentric. Look at that kid. Look at me. As if I couldn't think. Well, that's human nature for you.

[John Nelson]

Hello, Ellie.

[Jim Frazier]

Sounds like I'm swearing.

[John Nelson]

Is old fish? Is Mr. Corning in yet?

[Jim Frazier]

I gotta stop calling him Fish Face around the house.

[John Nelson]

He is not. Well, when he comes in, will you tell him I have some very important business to do? Talk over with him.

[Jim Frazier]

That's the way to be firm. Let him know I expect to see him.

[John Nelson]

Okay, Ellie. Thank you. I'll be in my office. Thank you.

[Jim Frazier]

What an icicle. Just because she's. Fish. Fish. Mr. Corning. Secretary. Gotta get some, I think Corning, or I'll call him Fish Face. Sure.

[John Nelson]

Good morning, Betty.

[Jim Frazier]

There's the secretary for you.

[John Nelson]

I'm going to be in my office, Betty, and I'm expecting Fisher. A blast at Mr. Corning to call.

[Jim Frazier]

Me in yes, sir. I can still pick him.

[John Nelson]

And let me know, kid, as soon as he wants me, no matter what I'm doing.

[Jim Frazier]

Yes, sir. Beautiful little office. An office like this. A nice salary, cute little wife and a couple of boys to be proud of. What am I complaining about?

[John Nelson]

Oh, yes, Betty.

[Jim Frazier]

I gotta act like I'm more busy after this when someone comes in.

[John Nelson]

Oh, he is. Oh, good. I'll see him right away.

[Jim Frazier]

Now I'm in for it. I gotta be firm, though. Be cheerful, but act as though this isn't a problem. Doesn't mean a thing to me. What's beautiful about it? Maybe I better postpone this thing. Let's see, what could I take up with him instead of this? I've got to see him. He knows I wanted to see him. I wonder if Jim Frazier really can get me a job. Oh, stop weeping, John boy. That's it. Bolster your courage. Let's go, boy.

[John Nelson]

Well, buddy, wish me luck.

[Jim Frazier]

Shouldn't have done that. Now she'll be able to figure what I'm doing.

[John Nelson]

Can. Can Mr. Corning see me now? Ellie.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at that cold nod. I should have walked right in. Fine thing. Well, don't stand here. Go on in.

[John Nelson]

Good morning, Mr. Corning.

[Jim Frazier]

Boy, he looks as if he had a bad night.

[John Nelson]

I have something very important I'd like to discuss with you, sir.

[Jim Frazier]

This is bad. I'm scared.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, well, at least it's very important to me.

[Jim Frazier]

Fine. He just glares at me and I'm beat. Come on, get confident. Relax. Sit down.

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir. Mr. Corning, this is something we should have taken up a couple of weeks ago. Mind if I sit down?

[Jim Frazier]

Now you're talking.

[John Nelson]

Thank you. Thank you. This is a personal matter, as I said.

[Jim Frazier]

Of course, by now he has no idea of what I'm talking about.

[John Nelson]

Well, you see, my. That is, I feel that with the added duties I have and also the fact that I've been here a good number of years you know, I'm entitled to a raise in salary. That is, an increase in my remuneration. You understand.

[Jim Frazier]

I'm muffing this thing again. Somehow it doesn't work the way it did in front of the mirror. Yeah.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, well. And so I feel that this is as good a time as any to put in a request for a little more money. Money?

[Jim Frazier]

Well, say something. Face. Face. I can't talk forever.

[John Nelson]

You see, I have added expenses these days and naturally, you want me to work at top efficiency and, of course, I can't. That is, if I have a lot of things to worry about.

[Jim Frazier]

Well, it's playing the old waiting game, huh? Well, in about two minutes, I'll shut up and do some waiting myself.

[John Nelson]

I mean, you can see the logic of that statement, can't you?

[Jim Frazier]

He can't see the logic of anything that involves more money. Well, here's where I shut up. And either he talks or we both take up Yogi. Hey, he's moving. At last, he's speaking.

[John Nelson]

Well, Mr. Corning, I don't know exactly what would be a fair raise. It's rather hard to determine. I thought maybe you would name something.

[Jim Frazier]

Why do these guys always put you on the spot by asking what you want?

[John Nelson]

Well, if I must name something, the.

[Jim Frazier]

Wife said to ask for 50 more a month.

[John Nelson]

I'd say about $35 a month.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at him. Look. You'd think I stole his back teeth.

[John Nelson]

25. Well, that's not much of a raise.

[Jim Frazier]

Hold out for 35 and you'll get it.

[John Nelson]

How about 30? 30?

[Jim Frazier]

Now he'll balk.

[John Nelson]

Well, look, Mr. Corning.

[Jim Frazier]

Ouch. I knew I'd do it. Yeah.

[John Nelson]

It seems to me that $30 a month isn't asking too much. Now, now, certainly taking over stock alone should be worth that. To say nothing of how long I've been in this business.

[Jim Frazier]

I'm really getting mad at this guy.

[John Nelson]

Why, I know this business from top to bottom. Suppose you had to break someone new in here?

[Jim Frazier]

That's it. Give him the idea I'm quitting.

[John Nelson]

Yeah, you'd have a lot of trouble with a new man.

[Jim Frazier]

Well, bet I get the 30 now.

[John Nelson]

What? That?

[Jim Frazier]

Oh.

[John Nelson]

Oh, no, no. Of course I'm not thinking of leaving.

[Jim Frazier]

Good heavens, he looked as though he were going to take me up on it.

[John Nelson]

Oh, no. No, sir, Mr. Corning, I'm not making an issue of this. No, sir. While leaving here never entered my head.

[Jim Frazier]

Holy mackerel. Maybe he was thinking of firing me all the time and I come in and ask for a raise.

[John Nelson]

Oh, I'm perfectly happy here, Mr. Corning. It's just that I felt that you'd want an efficient employee.

[Jim Frazier]

That was the wrong thing to say.

[John Nelson]

Of course, I expect to be efficient if I get the raise or not. You just don't understand what I mean.

[Jim Frazier]

This guy presses a nasty counter attack.

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir, Mr. Corning.

[Jim Frazier]

Now comes lecture number four. Well, I'm okay now. I've heard this one before.

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir.

[Jim Frazier]

Oh, this is gonna be brutal.

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir, Mr. Corning.

[Jim Frazier]

Here's the end of this. Blast.

[John Nelson]

That's right, Mr. Corning. You said a few Things there that have caused me to stop and consider.

[Jim Frazier]

If he only knew.

[John Nelson]

Well. Well, yes. In view of the things you just stated which were very well summed up, Mr. Corning, I think I'll take the 25 and be satisfied.

[Jim Frazier]

But will my wife?

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir, Mr. Corning. You can rest assured that I'll be efficient. Things aren't quite as bad as I pictured them.

[Jim Frazier]

Better grab the 25 and get out of here.

[John Nelson]

Yes, sir, Mr. Corning. Well, good day, and thanks a lot.

[Jim Frazier]

The old phony. Oh, I wish I had an uncle. Let's see now. How could I evade the issue? She's bound to remember it. Maybe if something big happened in the neighborhood today, it'll slip her mind. Oh, no, no. Four hours before we go to bed. She's bound to think of it in that time. Can't miss. Oh, well. Heigh ho. Guess it's just best to face the music. Put up a big front as I go in the door. That's the spirit. This is no time to look depressed. A good feeling is infectious, so they say. Here we go.

[John Nelson]

Good evening, honey.

[Jim Frazier]

Put on the personality kit.

[John Nelson]

Where are you, sugar? And what's cooking?

[Jim Frazier]

There is a lack of welcome and warmth about this house tonight. I had better have the bacon.

[John Nelson]

Where are you? Oh, there you are. Oh, so busy. You didn't hear me come in?

[Jim Frazier]

Look at that twinkle in her eye. I suspect she suspects.

[John Nelson]

Well, if you. If you heard me, why didn't you answer me?

[Jim Frazier]

No affection till I earn it.

[John Nelson]

Oh, how about the raise? Oh, that's a fine way to greet a man.

[Jim Frazier]

Nothing unusual happened in the neighborhood.

[John Nelson]

Don't I even get a kiss?

[Jim Frazier]

Bread isn't the only thing I earned by the sweat on my brow.

[John Nelson]

Well, to tell you the truth, honey, I. I didn't get quite the raise we. We talked over.

[Jim Frazier]

Look at her grin. What a smart aleck.

[John Nelson]

Well, I. I only got $25 a month, sugar.

[Jim Frazier]

She isn't mad, though, I don't think.

[John Nelson]

Why, you little devil, you. You knew all the time. That's all I get.

[Jim Frazier]

Sure. That's why she built me up for $50. Who says brains don't go with beauty?

[John Nelson]

Now, you come here and give me that big kiss. Come here.

[Jim Frazier]

Yes, sir. Woman is certainly a wonderful institution.

[Narrator]

And so closes another episode in the life of John Nelson and the little man inside. Listen again tomorrow at the same time as John Nelson, with the help of the little man inside, tries to solve the mystery of why his son punched the neighbor boy in the left eye. And tune in every day at this time for the unusual new program, the Little Man Inside. This is the Blue Network of the American Broadcasting Company.