Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Wednesdays With You 45-06-13 with Alan Young
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Guest: Alan Young
Duration: 30:02 minutes

Episode Overview

In this vibrant episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are treated to a nostalgic journey reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio. Hosted by Eddie Cantor, alongside co-hosts Don Wilson and Bert Gordon, the show masterfully blends comedy, guest interactions, and light-hearted discussions. The highlight of the episode is the appearance of Alan Young, an emerging comedian poised to become a household name. Additionally, renowned MGM star Marilyn Maxwell graces the show, adding star-studded charm to the evening's programming.

Main Segments

1. Comedy Skits and Banter (01:31 - 15:15)

Eddie Cantor and Don Wilson kick off the episode with a series of humorous exchanges and light-hearted jokes. Eddie shares amusing anecdotes about life in the army, including a heartfelt story at [03:19] about a soldier facing discharge at the age of 40, highlighting the personal struggles of servicemen.

A notable moment occurs at [04:07], where Eddie humorously debates his age with Don, showcasing the playful rapport between the hosts:

• Eddie Cantor ([04:17]): "Life begins at 40?"
• Don Wilson ([04:30]): "If I were 35, I'd be the first one to admit it."

The hosts continue with witty dialogues, poking fun at military life, relationships, and everyday mishaps. At [05:20], Eddie shares advice on maintaining a happy marriage, attributing it to Georgie Jessel's wisdom:

• Eddie Cantor ([05:20]): "When you get married, tell your wife you have to have one free evening a week to go out with the boys. Don't waste that free evening going out with the boys."

2. Guest Interactions (15:15 - 30:02)

Marilyn Maxwell's Appearance (16:15 - 28:12)
Marilyn Maxwell joins the show, bringing Hollywood glamour to the radio waves. Eddie introduces her warmly:

• Eddie Cantor ([16:15]): "Men, we're very proud to have as our guest tonight that lovely MGM star, currently appearing with Van Johnson in their latest hit, Between Two Women. Here she is, Marilyn Maxwell."

Throughout her segment, Marilyn engages in playful banter with Eddie and Bert Gordon, including humorous exchanges about name confusion and aviation anecdotes. Notable interactions include:

• Marilyn Maxwell ([16:26]): "I happen to know Jack Benny got his flat feet pacing up and down."
• Eddie Cantor ([27:37]): "You're mixed up. My name is Maxwell, but I'm not a car."

Harry Von Zell's Introduction (17:56 - 20:15)
Harry Von Zell makes a cameo, adding to the comedic flair with his lovable innocence and childlike antics:

• Harry Von Zell ([17:56]): "Goo."
• Marilyn Maxwell ([18:28]): "I wonder what he's trying to say with his goo goo goo goo."

Eddie and Harry share light-hearted moments, including jokes about aviation history and interactions with Mayor LaGuardia, enhancing the show's comedic depth.

Alan Young's Feature (21:00 - 29:06)
The episode's centerpiece is the appearance of Alan Young, a promising comedian seeking advice on handling relationship woes. Alan engages in a humorous yet genuine conversation with Eddie:

• Alan Young ([22:23]): "I had a fight with my girlfriend, Betty Dittenfeffer."
• Eddie Cantor ([22:49]): "Alan, what makes you think I can help you make up with your girl?"

Eddie offers comedic solutions, such as orchestrating a fake romantic encounter with Marilyn Maxwell to make Alan's girlfriend jealous, leading to a series of amusing exchanges:

• Eddie Cantor ([25:04]): "If you really want to make up with Betty, why don't you take her out tonight?"
• Alan Young ([25:15]): "All right, Ms. Maxwell, will you kiss me on the forehead?"

The segment culminates in a playful interaction where Marilyn kisses Alan, delivering laughs and showcasing the chemistry between the hosts and guests.

3. Light-Hearted Discussions and Jokes (28:12 - 30:02)

The latter part of the episode features a blend of jokes, humorous stories, and light-hearted discussions about aviation, Hollywood, and everyday life. Eddie and Bert Gordon engage in spirited dialogues, often leading to comedic misunderstandings and funny punchlines.

A memorable exchange at [28:24] involves a fictional vocal teacher claiming to teach Frank Sinatra, adding a layer of satire to the show's humor:

• Bert Gordon ([28:38]): "I am teaching Frank Sinatra how to sing."
• Eddie Cantor ([28:53]): "But Ingrid Bergman didn't sing in Gaslight. Why did she keep going to her house every night?"

The episode wraps up with final jokes and a dedication to the war effort, maintaining the show's balance between humor and heartfelt messages.

Key Discussions and Themes

• Military Life and Sacrifices: The show touches on the personal lives of servicemen, their sacrifices, and the emotional challenges they face, particularly highlighting the impact of war on individuals and families.

• Relationships and Marriage: Through comedic narratives, Eddie offers insights into maintaining healthy relationships, blending humor with genuine advice.

• Comedy and Mentorship: The interaction between Eddie Cantor and Alan Young underscores the importance of mentorship in the comedy world, showcasing the passing of the torch from established comedians to the next generation.

• Hollywood and Showbiz: Marilyn Maxwell's segment delves into the glamorous yet humorous side of Hollywood, blending on-air personas with real-life anecdotes.

Notable Quotes

1. Eddie Cantor on Marriage Advice ([05:20]):

   "When you get married, tell your wife you have to have one free evening a week to go out with the boys. Don't waste that free evening going out with the boys."

2. Eddie Cantor on Age Discrepancy ([04:27]):

   "There were 34 candles on the piece I ate."

3. Alan Young on Relationship Troubles ([22:23]):

   "I had a fight with my girlfriend, Betty Dittenfeffer."

4. Marilyn Maxwell on Parenting Harry Von Zell ([17:58]):

   "Harry Von Zell brought him over to my house when he was only a couple of months old. And what a fuss he made over me."

5. Eddie Cantor on Making Up with Betty ([26:38]):

   "Why don't you take her out tonight? Take her to some nice place for dinner."

6. Alan Young's Insight on Eddie's Advice ([22:23] - [22:42]):

   Alan Young: "That's no joke." Marilyn Maxwell: "No?" Alan Young: "No, because colonels are brave and they would not be afraid to pass a butcher shop even if it was raining."

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio epitomizes the charm and wit of classic radio shows, blending comedy, heartfelt discussions, and engaging guest interactions. Eddie Cantor's infectious humor, combined with the talents of Don Wilson, Bert Gordon, Marilyn Maxwell, and Alan Young, creates an entertaining and memorable listening experience. Whether sharing personal stories, offering relationship advice, or delivering comedic sketches, the hosts and guests work in harmony to evoke laughter and nostalgia, making this episode a standout installment in the series.