Radio Rental - Episode 77 Summary
Title: Radio Rental
Host/Author: Tenderfoot TV & Audacy
Episode: 77
Release Date: June 13, 2025
Introduction
Radio Rental transports listeners into the eerie yet nostalgic setting of an 80’s video rental store, managed by the enigmatic Terry Carnation, portrayed by Rainn Wilson. This episode delves into real-life horror stories that blend bizarre crimes with paranormal activities, all narrated with a touch of dark humor.
Story 1: Lamont Jones – Death in the Bushes and the Stalker
Timestamp: [01:03] – [15:33]
Lamont Jones recounts a harrowing experience from the early 2000s when he and his friend Michael, both avid motocross enthusiasts, explore abandoned areas to ride their bikes. Their adventures lead them to an overgrown, defunct amusement park near Manhattan.
Key Points:
- Exploration of Abandoned Sites: Lamont and Michael seek out illegal motocross tracks, enjoying the thrill of untouched terrains.
- Mysterious Phone Rings: While riding, they frequently hear an old Nokia phone ringing intermittently, but find no source.
- Encounter with Thuggish Riders: The arrival of aggressive riders leads to a violent confrontation, during which Lamont spots the elusive phone ringing amid the chaos.
- Discovery of a Deceased Man: Upon leaving the motocross site, Lamont and Michael discover a dead man in the bushes, dressed in a black suit, indicating possible gang affiliations.
- Anonymous Police Report: They report the discovery anonymously, later learning that the deceased was a known gangster who had been missing for days.
- Connection to the Stalker: Lamont suspects that the strange phone rings were a haunting presence related to the gangster’s death, suggesting a deeper, possibly supernatural connection.
Notable Quote:
Lamont Jones [10:45]: "I saw him wearing a black suit and black shoes. I was right next to him. That's a fucking dead guy in there."
Discussion and Commentary
Timestamp: [15:33] – [20:00]
Terry Carnation interjects with a mix of humor and empathy, reflecting on the unsettling nature of Lamont’s story. He draws parallels between the dangers of chasing thrills and the real-life consequences that can ensue.
Notable Quotes:
Terry Carnation [15:34]: "Unbelievable. Imagine going out for a serene day of dirt biking and having to deal with that wild."
Terry Carnation [19:50]: "I can't call the police. You know full well I have some tax situations."
Story 2: Listener from Utah – Creepy Incident at a Survival Store
Timestamp: [21:26] – [43:09]
A listener from a small town in Utah shares a chilling account of a seemingly ordinary evening that spirals into terror. At 15 years old, working as the first and only employee at a family friend's survival store, the listener encounters a peculiar and unsettling customer.
Key Points:
- Suspicious Customer Behavior: A man exhibits unusually intense interest in the young employee, making unsolicited compliments and offering college tours.
- Eerie Follow-Up at Home: That night, the listener experiences a paranormal intrusion with unexplained phone calls and the appearance of a landline phone inside the house.
- Police Investigation: After a frantic search and an anonymous tip to the police, surveillance footage reveals a connection between the creepy store customer and the intrusion at home.
- Psychological Impact: The incident leaves the listener grappling with fear and the realization of how interconnected and sinister the events were.
Notable Quotes:
Listener [34:57]: "It was cool, he wasn't old, just a little bit older. And he came in and I kind of waved at him and said, hey, welcome to the store."
Listener [42:10]: "I think that's the man in my house that night. My mind went back to the items he'd bought, but in that moment, it didn't seem so random to me."
Discussion and Commentary
Timestamp: [43:09] – [End]
Terry Carnation wraps up the episode by reflecting on the interconnectedness of fear and reality. He humorously contemplates the possibility of being stalked himself, maintaining his characteristic blend of suspense and levity.
Notable Quotes:
Terry Carnation [34:57]: "Oh God, the call is coming from inside the house. Literally. I wonder if it was that odd guy from the store..."
Terry Carnation [43:09]: "The psychological warfare starts now. I know it's only 7pm but I better start packing and hit the hay."
Production Credits
The episode features contributions from a talented team, including showrunner Meredith Stedman, lead producer Eric Quintana, and executive producers Payne Lindsey and Donald Albright. The original score is crafted by Makeup and Vanity, with additional compositions by Jay Ragsdale. Editing and sound design are managed by a dedicated group of professionals ensuring a seamless and immersive listening experience.
Final Note: Radio Rental Episode 77 masterfully intertwines true crime with paranormal elements, enhanced by Terry Carnation’s engaging storytelling and sharp commentary. The narratives explore the thin veil between reality and horror, leaving listeners both spooked and entertained.
For more stories and merchandise, visit Radio Rental's website and follow them on Instagram @radiorental.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Lamont Jones [10:45]: "I saw him wearing a black suit and black shoes. I was right next to him. That's a fucking dead guy in there."
- Terry Carnation [15:34]: "Unbelievable. Imagine going out for a serene day of dirt biking and having to deal with that wild."
- Listener [34:57]: "It was cool, he wasn't old, just a little bit older. And he came in and I kind of waved at him and said, hey, welcome to the store."
- Terry Carnation [34:57]: "Oh God, the call is coming from inside the house. Literally. I wonder if it was that odd guy from the store..."
- Terry Carnation [43:09]: "The psychological warfare starts now. I know it's only 7pm but I better start packing and hit the hay."
Conclusion
Episode 77 of Radio Rental continues the tradition of blending true horror with fictional storytelling, offering listeners a captivating journey through real-life mysteries and paranormal encounters. With engaging narratives and Terry Carnation’s unique flair, this episode stands out as a compelling installment in the Radio Rental series.