RAS #691 – The D.O.A. Story

This time on Ron’s Amazing Stories we have the man who solved his own murder. We explore the curious case of Frank Bigelow—a man who was murdered but lived long enough to solve his own case. Sound unbelievable? That’s the premise of the 1949 film D.O.A., and today, we’re bringing you its radio adaptation from the Screen Director’s Playhouse, featuring Edmund O’Brien reprising his role.

Episode Highlights:

The baffling question: “Have you ever been murdered?” (Hopefully, no!)
Film Thoughts: A humorous, insightful look at D.O.A. (1949), starring Edmond O’Brien. Discover why this film stands out in the film noir genre and how it became a cult classic despite mixed initial reviews..
Radio Adaptation: Edited for this podcast, we present the Screen Director’s Playhouse version of D.O.A., originally aired on June 21, 1951.

D.O.A. is more than just a film noir; it’s a tale of irony, determination, and dramatic flair.

Frank Bigelow’s story serves as a reminder of resilience—even when time is quite literally running out.

Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow mystery and film noir enthusiasts. Until next time—stay curious!

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

Your Stories: Do you have a story that you would like to share on the podcast or the blog? Head to the main website, click on Story Submission, leave your story, give it a title, and please tell me where you’re from. I will read it if I can. Links are below.

Music Used In This Podcast: Most of the music you hear on Ron’s Amazing Stories has been composed by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) and is Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. Other pieces are in the public domain. You can find great free music at FreePd.com which is a site owned by Kevin.

Program Info: Ron’s Amazing Stories is published each Thursday. You can download it from Apple Podcasts, stream it on Stitcher Radio or on the mobile version of Spotify. Do you prefer the radio? We are heard every Thursday at 10:00 pm and Sunday Night at 11:00 PM (EST) on AMFM247.COM. Check your local listing or find the station closest to you at this link.

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RAS #690 – Reflection From The 50s

On Ron’s Amazing Stories! Imagine standing at the mythical “Lake of Wisdom,” only to find that even shallow waters can reflect the sky. This episode is a quirky dive into unexpected connections, featuring two stories that seem worlds apart—but are they really? Take on Ron’s challenge: Can you figure out the twisted thread tying them together?

Story 1: Like Man, Somebody Dig Me
Series: Suspense
Aired: May 25, 1958

Synopsis: A tale straight from the Beatnik era—cool cats, existential dread, and a man determined to exhaust everyone he meets. It’s a wild ride through history’s most dramatically unimpressed generation.

Story 2: The Outer Limit
Series: X Minus One
Aired: November 11, 1955

Synopsis: Fasten your seatbelts for a leap into the “future”—1965, that is—where experimental rocket tests set the stage for humanity’s triumphs and cautionary tales. Spoiler: Things don’t go exactly as planned.

Did you spot the connection between these two tales? Was it delusion, inspiration, or something more? Share your thoughts—we’d love to hear from you. Thank you for tuning in to Ron’s Amazing Stories Episode #690. Don’t forget to support the show by starting your free Audible trial at audibletrial.com/ronsmazingstories.

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

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RAS #689 – The Legacy of The Virginian

In this episode, Ron investigates one of his favorite TV shows from childhood—The Virginian. Saddle up as he explores the story’s origins, and its transformation through literature, film, and radio. The Virginian’s evolution from novel to screen shaped a genre. Gary Cooper’s portrayal of the character remains a benchmark in Western cinema.

What You’ll Hear:

Ron’s memories of The Virginian TV show starring James Drury, and favorite character, Trampus.
The History of The Virginian. A literary journey beginning with Owen Wister’s 1902 novel, its role in defining the Western genre, and its adaptation into films—highlighting Gary Cooper’s iconic performance and his famous line, “When you call me that, smile.”
Listen to the 1936 Lux Radio Theater’s adaptation of The Virginian, featuring Gary Cooper reprising his role.
Learn about one of Hollywood’s first gossip columnist, his influence on Tinseltown, and the origin of the term “Oscar.”
Ron investigates the Virginian’s real name—and why it remains a mystery to this day.

Thank you for listening to Ron’s Amazing Stories—where history, mystery, and classic tales come alive.

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

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RAS #688 – Discovering the Real Madame Curie

In this episode of Ron’s Amazing Stories, we embark on a personal journey to dispel a long-held myth that Ron had about Madame Curie. Initially he mistook her or a war vixen akin to Joan of Arc or Tokyo Rose. Ron shares his initial misconceptions about Madame Curie and how these were dramatically altered after listening to a classic episode from the Lux Radio Theater.

In this episode we will learn about Curie’s groundbreaking achievements. Then we will listen to a Lux Radio Theater production of the heartwarming tale of Madame Curie and her husband Pierre, portrayed by cinema legends Greer Garson and Walter Pidgeon.

Madame Curie aired on Lux Radio Theater on September 6, 1946.

Listen Now and Rediscover History!

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.

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RAS #685 – William Conrad

On Ron’s Amazing Stories this week we explore one of radio’s most legendary figures: William Conrad. We will uncover the remarkable career of a man whose resonant baritone and versatile talent left an indelible mark on the golden age of radio.

Born John William Cann Jr. in 1920, Conrad’s journey into the world of radio began in the late 1930s. His compelling voice quickly captured attention showcasing his range across numerous genres.

From his iconic role as Marshal Matt Dillon in “Gunsmoke” to his chilling performances in “Suspense” and “The CBS Radio Workshop,” Conrad’s contributions were vast and influential. We’ll listen to two of his most memorable performances, including “Sundown,” which he wrote and directed, and “The Wax Works,” a testament to his ability to captivate audiences single-handedly.

Join us as we celebrate William Conrad’s legacy, exploring the depth of his talent and the enduring impact of his work on both radio and television.

Show Links:

On the show today Ron talked about two additional stories. From CBS Radio Work shop, 1489 Words with William Conrad and Backseat Driver a story staring Fiber McGee on Suspense.

Ron’s Amazing Stories Is Sponsored by: Audible – You can get a free audiobook and a 30 day free trial at audibletrial.com/ronsamazingstories.