Uncle Ezra Show 44xxxx 001 Sales Audition and Intro to Uncle Ezra

Summary

Podcast Summary: Uncle Ezra Show 44xxxx 001 Sales Audition and Intro to Uncle Ezra

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: Features radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the era before television when families gathered around the radio to enjoy popular programs like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and many more.
• Episode: Uncle Ezra Show 44xxxx 001 Sales Audition and Intro to Uncle Ezra
• Release Date: January 25, 2025

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1. Sales Audition Presentation by Jack Holden [00:01 - 02:28]

The episode opens with Jack Holden delivering a persuasive sales audition aimed at radio station executives and representatives. His primary objective is to convince station personnel of the commercial viability and audience appeal of the Uncle Ezra program.

Key Points:

• Targeting the Right Prospect: Jack emphasizes the importance of selecting a "tough, discriminating prospect" to ensure the show's success. He advises executives to keep this ideal prospect in mind throughout the presentation.

  "Please fix in your minds that tough, discriminating prospect. That you want most to sell." [00:30]

• Introducing Uncle Ezra as a Trust Builder: He positions Uncle Ezra as an unparalleled goodwill builder and business attractor, capable of engaging even the most skeptical listeners.

  "Once properly introduced by you, he will surely bring your prospect to your studio... no quicker goodwill builder, no surer business getter can be found than Uncle Ezra." [01:15]

• Identifying Ideal Audience Segments: Jack outlines various demographics Uncle Ezra can appeal to, including bankers, merchandisers, and manufacturers, highlighting Ezra's understanding of human nature and his resourcefulness.

  "He understands human nature, too. Call on that discriminating merchandiser... see that hard, driven manufacturer." [01:45]

• Call to Action: Jack urges the station executives to take Uncle Ezra seriously and thoughtfully pursue their best prospects with the support of Uncle Ezra’s engaging presence.

  "Take Uncle Ezra with you. Watch him open up that sail and watch him close it, too." [02:20]

Conclusion of Sales Audition: Jack Holden wraps up his segment, signaling the transition to the main content of the show, setting the stage for Uncle Ezra's introduction.

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2. Introduction to Uncle Ezra by Narrator [02:28 - 03:37]

Following Jack Holden's presentation, the Narrator introduces Uncle Ezra, establishing him as a beloved and familiar character to the audience.

Key Points:

• Familiarity and Popularity: The narrator evokes nostalgia by mentioning the distinctive melody of an old-fashioned music box playing "When the Bees Are in the Hive," immediately connecting it to Uncle Ezra.

  "It's called 'When the Bees Are in the Hive.' And millions of people... will immediately develop a mental picture... Uncle Ezra." [02:45]

• Character Traits: Uncle Ezra is portrayed as a lovable figure known for his sage philosophy, witty stories, and "thoughts for the day," which have endeared him to listeners across numerous radio stations.

  "His witty and laughable stories. Those unforgettable thoughts for the day that have endeared him to the hearts of the nation's radio audience for years." [03:05]

• Audience Engagement: The narrator emphasizes Uncle Ezra's role as a daily visitor in listeners' homes, highlighting his consistent presence and the warmth he brings to American households.

  "Yes, I'm sure that you're going..." [03:25] (implying the audience's anticipation)

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3. Interactive Conversation Between Uncle Ezra and Narrator [03:37 - 07:06]

The heart of the episode features a lively and engaging dialogue between Uncle Ezra and the Narrator, showcasing Uncle Ezra's charming personality and his involvement in community and patriotic activities.

Key Points:

• Friendly Banter and Character Establishment:

  • Uncle Ezra greets the narrator with a colloquial remark, setting a light-hearted tone.

    "Hey, young fella. Say, what are you spouting off about?" [03:37]

  • The Narrator responds by referencing the ongoing discussion about Uncle Ezra and the new program series.

    "Well, hello there, Uncle Ezra. Say, this is timely..." [03:41]

• Discussion of Uncle Ezra’s Ventures:

  • 5-Watt Radio Station: The narrator inquires about Uncle Ezra's small radio station, to which Ezra humorously remarks about its potential fragility.

    "Oh, just fine. Yes. Might bust out over the elements any minute." [04:05]

  • Stetson Hat Collection: They discuss Ezra's impressive collection of 10-gallon Stetson hats gifted by governors from various states, highlighting his esteem and connections.

    "I got a 10 gallon Stetson hat from every governor in the United States." [04:25]

  • Victory Garden: Uncle Ezra proudly mentions his 560-acre victory garden, showcasing his involvement in the farming and patriotic movement.

    "I'm working a 560 acre victory garden." [04:53]

• Community and War Bond Efforts:

  • War Bond Sales: Uncle Ezra shares his active role in war bond campaigns, from selling and buying bonds to broadcasting programs and giving speeches nationwide.

    "We've been buying them and we've been selling them. Broadcasting programs for war bonds, giving band concerts..." [05:30]

  • Historical Reference: The narrator references Uncle Ezra's past success in selling Liberty bonds during 1917, reinforcing his longstanding commitment to patriotic causes.

    "If I'm not mistaken, you were helpful in selling millions of dollars worth of Liberty bonds back in 1917." [05:59]

    "We done it before and by cracking, we'll do it again." [06:09]

• Upcoming Broadcasts and Audience Engagement:

  • Return to Airwaves: Uncle Ezra expresses enthusiasm about returning to coast-to-coast radio broadcasts, eager to reconnect with his audience.

    "They tell me the folks around the country would like to have me drop in on 'em for a spell each day." [06:27]

  • Humorous Exit: The conversation concludes with Uncle Ezra steering the topic back to fishing, adding a touch of humor and reinforcing his down-to-earth nature.

    "I told you I wanted to go fishing. Are you coming along?" [06:52]

    "I'll be with you in just a few minutes, Uncle Ezra." [06:59]

    "Cause I'm gonna dig the worms. We get going right away." [07:02]

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4. Closing Remarks by Narrator [07:06 - End]

The narrator wraps up the episode by reiterating Uncle Ezra's significance and the positive impact of his daily visits on listeners.

Key Points:

• Encapsulation of Uncle Ezra’s Appeal: The narrator highlights the depth and warmth Uncle Ezra brings to his five-minute daily segments, emphasizing his wholesome, down-to-earth thinking and American humor.

  "Uncle Ezra will pack into those daily little visits a great deal of good, wholesome, down to earth thinking." [07:06]

  "Those little chuckles that his typical American humor, his timely remarks and observations, his thought for the day will continue to impress millions as they have for years." [07:12]

• Uncle Ezra as a National Friend: Uncle Ezra is portrayed as a friend to all Americans, bridging diverse walks of life—from coal miners to senators, merchants to mothers.

  "He's always been the friend of men in all walks of life." [07:25]

• Anticipation for Future Broadcasts: The narrator assures listeners that Uncle Ezra’s daily presence will remain a cherished part of their routines, fostering relaxation and connection.

  "An entire nation is welcoming the daily opportunity to sit down and relax in their homes when they hear the familiar notes." [07:40]

Conclusion: The episode effectively reintroduces Uncle Ezra to both longtime fans and new listeners, emphasizing his enduring charm, community involvement, and the timeless appeal that has made him a staple of American radio for generations.

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Notable Quotes:

1. Jack Holden on Prospect Selection:

   "Please fix in your minds that tough, discriminating prospect. That you want most to sell." [00:30]

2. Uncle Ezra on His Collection:

   "I got a 10 gallon Stetson hat from every governor in the United States." [04:25]

3. Uncle Ezra on Broadcasting:

   "We've been buying them and we've been selling them. Broadcasting programs for war bonds, giving band concerts..." [05:30]

4. Uncle Ezra’s Spirit:

   "We done it before and by cracking, we'll do it again." [06:09]

5. Narrator on Uncle Ezra’s Impact:

   "Those little chuckles that his typical American humor, his timely remarks and observations, his thought for the day will continue to impress millions as they have for years." [07:12]

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Conclusion

The "Uncle Ezra Show 44xxxx 001 Sales Audition and Intro to Uncle Ezra" episode serves as both a promotional piece and an engaging introduction to the beloved radio character, Uncle Ezra. Through Jack Holden's strategic presentation and the warm, interactive dialogue between Uncle Ezra and the narrator, listeners are reminded of Uncle Ezra's enduring legacy, community spirit, and the heartfelt connection he maintains with audiences nationwide. This episode not only aims to secure Uncle Ezra’s place on radio stations but also reaffirms his role as a cherished voice in American households.

Transcript

[Jack Holden]

Gentlemen, this is a separated band on the transcription. Not for your prospect, mind you. But a direct message to your station executive and representative. Naturally, you are particularly concerned with the saleability of this production. And your success. And the success of the production will depend upon the proper selection of a prospect. Now, let me make a simple suggestion. But one to which we have given a lot of thought before the presentation that will follow immediately. Please fix in your minds that tough, discriminating prospect. That you want most to sell. And as you follow the presentation along, keep that prospect vividly in mind. Having done this, I'll wager that you'll take this warmly. Human, philosophical old friend of yours, Uncle Ezra, along with you on the next call. Once properly introduced by you, he will surely bring your prospect to your studio. And depend upon it, once your prospect is there, an audition will convince that tough, discriminating individual. That no quicker goodwill builder, no surer business getter can be found than Uncle Ezra. So call on that shrewd, pragmatic banker. And don't forget that he understands human nature, too. Call on that discriminating merchandiser. The general manager of your largest department store. He'll know how to tie his daily shopping news to such human interest. And see that hard, driven manufacturer. He's not too occupied to realize that he can't wait till peace to win public trust and popularity. He'll listen. He's resourceful, imaginative and very human. But go today seriously and thoughtfully after your toughest and best prospect. And take Uncle Ezra with you. Watch him open up that sail and watch him close it, too. Now, in just a moment, you'll hear from Jack Holden. Thank you, gentlemen.

[Narrator]

The sound of the old fashioned music box. Sounds familiar to you, doesn't it? I'm sure that particular melody does. It's a most familiar and welcome melody. In homes all over the United States and Canada. It's called when the Bees Are in the Hive. And millions of people, on hearing it. Will immediately develop a mental picture. Of one of radio's best loved and most popular stars. Need I go any further? I think not, for you all know I'm referring to that lovable character. The old jumping Jenny Wren. Uncle Ezra from Rosedale, down in Coles County. Yes, you were way ahead of me, weren't you? And no doubt as happy as I. When you know that Uncle Ezra is going to be a daily visitor in your home and mine. We're going to hear more of his typical sage philosophy. His witty and laughable stories. Those unforgettable thoughts for the day that have Endeared him to the hearts of the nation's radio audience for years as he's been heard on hundreds of radio stations. Yes, I'm sure that you're going.

[Uncle Ezra]

Hey, young fella. Say, what are you spouting off about?

[Narrator]

Well, hello there, Uncle Ezra. Say, this is timely. I was just telling the folks about you and this new program series.

[Uncle Ezra]

Well, cut it short. Let's go fishing.

[Narrator]

All right, Uncle Ezra, I'll go fishing with you. But now, look, I'm sure that you can answer some questions the folks would be glad to hear about.

[Uncle Ezra]

Well, good. Fire away.

[Narrator]

How's the little 5 watt radio station coming along, Uncle Ezra?

[Uncle Ezra]

Oh, just fine. Yes. Might bust out over the elements any minute.

[Narrator]

Well, when it does, you'll certainly have an audience. Oh, by the way, Uncle Ezra, I meant to ask you. You know, the last time I visited Rosedale, you showed me your fine collection of Stetson hats that the governors of various states had sent you.

[Uncle Ezra]

Yes, Jack, I'm mighty proud of those fine gifts. Jumping, Aunt Hannah. I got a 10 gallon Stetson hat from every governor in the United States.

[Narrator]

Golly, 48 of them, huh?

[Uncle Ezra]

No, 92. It may come in mighty handy, though, when I'm working out in the field.

[Narrator]

Oh, yes, that's another thing I wanted to mention. I hear that you're really in this farming business.

[Uncle Ezra]

You mean you ain't seen my victory garden?

[Narrator]

Victory garden?

[Uncle Ezra]

I'm working a 560 acre victory garden.

[Narrator]

Well, good for you, Uncle Ezra. And now tell us, how are things in Rosedale?

[Uncle Ezra]

Oh, everything's moving along Cordin to schedule, Jack. And all the folks are just busier and bees in the hive.

[Narrator]

Oh, and how's old Peck Mullen?

[Uncle Ezra]

Oh, well, Peck was laid up a spell last winter with Rheumatiz. But when he heard the first robin and chirping on the fence post, he was up and at it again.

[Narrator]

Well, good.

[Uncle Ezra]

Yeah, you see, Peck is one of the active members of our spit and Whittle club. And come nice weather, there ain't no holding him in the house.

[Narrator]

I see.

[Uncle Ezra]

Yeah. So I tell you, things are humming in Rosedale. Yeah, we're mighty proud of our war bond sales, too. We got a big wooden thermometer there in the park. And on every lone drive we've had that red ribbon way over the top.

[Narrator]

Oh, that's great, Uncle Ezra.

[Uncle Ezra]

Thank you. Oh, mercy. Yes, we've been a buying them and we've been a selling them. Broadcasting programmers for war bonds, giving band concerts. And Jack, I've even been going around the country giving speeches.

[Narrator]

Well, now, that's nothing new to you, Uncle Ezra. If I'm not mistaken, you were helpful in selling millions of dollars worth of Liberty bonds back in 1917.

[Uncle Ezra]

Yeah, that's right. Say, what was the name of that song? We done it before and by cracking, we'll do it again.

[Narrator]

That's the spirit, Uncle Ezra. But say, young fellow, tell me, are you all set to hit the airwaves coast to coast again and visit with all the folks who want to hear you?

[Uncle Ezra]

Well, Jack, I'll put it this way. They tell me the folks around the country would like to have me drop in on em for a spell each day. Yes, sir, I never was a body who liked to talk to himself, so I'm all for it. Yep, I'll be mighty happy to have a little chat with my friends.

[Narrator]

Oh, and there are millions of your friends who will be mighty happy to hear that, Uncle Ezra.

[Uncle Ezra]

Yeah, but. Say now, looky here, you young whipperstapper. You got me off the track. I told you I wanted to go fishing. Are you coming along?

[Narrator]

I'll be with you in just a few minutes, Uncle Ezra.

[Uncle Ezra]

Well, hurry up now, cause I'm gonna dig the worms. We get going right away.

[Narrator]

All right, Uncle Ezra. Well, friends, there's the grand old man we're going to visit with every day. The five minutes he spends with us will go all too fast, as you know. But rest assured, Uncle Ezra will pack into those daily little visits a great deal of good, wholesome, down to earth thinking. Those little chuckles that his typical American humor, his timely remarks and observations, his thought for the day will continue to impress millions as they have for years. Here is our kind of a lovable man. It's his kind of man that has helped to build America. And the things for which it stands. The simple yet lofty ideals that make for honest to goodness living. And that's why Uncle Ezra for years has been loved by men, women, children, the nation over. He's always been the friend of men in all walks of life. The coal miner and the senator, the ditch digger and the governor. The merchant, the banker, the clergy, the mother and the child. Yes, an entire nation is welcoming the daily opportunity to sit down and relax in their homes when they hear the familiar notes. The old fashioned music box which tells them it's time for Uncle Ezra.