Ron's Amazing Stories

Ronald Hood

Ron's Amazing stories is a weekly podcast which presents truly amazing tales. These will range from dramatic readings to old time radio. We also have interviews with authors, radio personalities and even sports legends.

  1. 2d ago

    The Signal Around the Bend

    This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we're trying something new. We debut a brand-new segment called "The RAS Signal", where I get behind the microphone and spend a little more time talking about the history, people, and ideas that made old-time radio so remarkable. For our first Signal, we'll look at the writers and hear examples of how their words became pictures in the minds of millions of listeners. That leads us directly to Richard Diamond, Private Detective, created by Blake Edwards and starring Dick Powell. Our story is The Oklahoma Cowboy Murder Case. Diamond is hired to investigate the suspicious death of an expert horseman whose fatal fall may not have been an accident after all. And then there's the music…. What!?!? I wrote some lyrics for Ron's Amazing Stories and wondered what they might sound like as a 1940s-style swing song. It's a Signal, a mystery, and even a song. Like I said, we're trying something new. In This Episode The premiere of The RAS Signal A look at the writers who helped create the golden age of radio Lucille Fletcher, John Meston, Blake Edwards, and the power of writing for sound The debut of Ron's Amazing Stories — Around The Bend A few thoughts on AI, creativity, and turning an idea into music Featured Story The Oklahoma Cowboy Murder Case — September 27, 1950 Richard Diamond is hired by a wealthy Oklahoma man to investigate the death of his brother. The official ruling says he died after falling from his horse, but there's a problem: the victim was an exceptional rider. If it wasn't an accident, Diamond has a murder to solve—and horses aren't exactly his specialty. A New Signal The RAS Signal is something I've wanted to try for a while: a place where we can go beyond simply playing old-time radio and talk about the people, history, craft, and occasional oddities behind it. This first edition is only the beginning, and I'd really like to know what you think. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  2. Aug 20

    The Last Case... Is Never Really The Last

    This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we return to one of old-time radio's greatest series, Suspense, for two stories about detectives who have supposedly left the job behind. But retirement is one thing. Letting go is something else entirely. One detective spends two years working on the case that got away. The other misses the days when his name alone meant that no crime was beyond solving. Both men have something to prove... and both are willing to go to extraordinary lengths to prove it. In This Episode Two classic episodes from the legendary CBS radio series *Suspense* A retired detective determined to solve the only case he ever lost Charles Boyer as a once-famous investigator looking for one last case Two very different stories connected by retirement, reputation, and the need to remain relevant A look at what happens when walking away from a career is easier than walking away from the person you used to be Featured Stories Banquo's Chair — June 1, 1943 Sir William Brent, former head of the Criminal Division, retired with an almost perfect record. There was just one case he never solved. For two years, Brent has patiently gathered evidence and prepared an elaborate plan to finally expose the murderer. But when his plan is put into motion, Sir William discovers that he may not be the only one who has been waiting. Vidoc's Final Case — September 29, 1952 Charles Boyer stars as Vidoc, a famous former commissioner whose greatest days appear to be behind him. When a series of robberies baffles the local police, Vidoc gets another opportunity to demonstrate the skills that once made him famous. He calls it his final case... but there is much more going on than anyone realizes. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  3. Aug 13

    The Many Faces of the Falcon

    This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we meet Michael Waring, better known as The Falcon. But exactly who was The Falcon? That question turns out to be a little more complicated than you might expect. The character had a tangled history that stretched from novels to movies, radio, and television. Even Michael Waring himself changed considerably during the run of the radio series, evolving from a private detective into an international intelligence agent. Our double feature demonstrates that journey with two stories broadcast nearly seven years apart. In This Episode Meet Michael Waring and discover the surprisingly complicated history of The Falcon. Learn how two different fictional detectives became associated with the Falcon name. Hear Michael Waring during his earlier years as a private detective. Travel overseas with a very different Falcon working for Army Intelligence. Explore how the changing world of the 1940s and 1950s helped reshape the series. Featured Stories Murder Is a Family Affair — November 27, 1945 Michael Waring is still working as a private detective when he and Nancy face a grim situation. A friend has been sentenced to death, and there appears to be nothing Michael can do to save him. Before the sentence is carried out, Michael promises to look after the man's younger brother. Keeping that promise soon draws The Falcon into one of his most difficult cases, involving murder, family loyalty, and the consequences of choices already made. Rolling Stones — August 10, 1952 Nearly seven years later, Michael Waring has left his private detective days behind. Now working for Army Intelligence, The Falcon travels overseas on a mission to locate wanted war criminal Mario Tessely. When a friend is killed, the assignment becomes personal. Michael finds himself caught in an international mystery filled with deception, Cold War intrigue, and hints of Communist activity. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  4. Aug 6

    A Theater of Shadows: Radio At Its Finest

    This week we step into the darkness with two classic adventures from The Shadow, starring the legendary Orson Welles as Lamont Cranston and Agnes Moorehead as the ever-resourceful Margo Lane. When Orson Welles took over the title role in 1937, he was only 22 years old, yet his commanding performance helped define one of radio's greatest heroes. Paired with Agnes Moorehead, whose remarkable talent made every scene come alive, the two created radio magic that still captivates listeners nearly ninety years later. These two stories also showcase something that made The Shadow unique. Being invisible wasn't enough—The Shadow succeeded because he understood how criminals thought. Whether facing a ruthless counterfeiting ring or solving a murder aboard an ocean liner, he always stayed one step ahead. So dim the lights, let your imagination take over, and enjoy an evening of radio at its finest. In This Episode Introduction to The Shadow and the legendary partnership of Orson Welles and Agnes Moorehead. The League of Terror (January 9, 1938) Thoughts on why The Shadow was the perfect hero for radio. Aboard the Steamship Amazon (May 8, 1938) Reflections on imagination, suspense, and why these stories continue to entertain today. Featured Stories The League of Terror Originally aired January 9, 1938- A ruthless counterfeiting gang uses extortion and murder to protect its criminal empire. With the help of the daughter of one of the gang's victims, The Shadow devises an ingenious plan to bring the organization crashing down. Aboard the Steamship Amazon Originally aired May 8, 1938 - A relaxing ocean voyage turns deadly when Randolph Todd is murdered aboard the Steamship Amazon. With Lamont Cranston locked inside his stateroom, only The Shadow can uncover the truth before the killer strikes again. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  5. Jul 30

    Not Every Mask Hides a Hero: A Lone Ranger Double Feature

    Pull on your boots and saddle up for another journey into the Old West! This week, we're celebrating one of radio's most beloved heroes with two exciting adventures starring The Lone Ranger. Along the way, we'll encounter mistaken identities, dangerous outlaws, and a villain whose name may sound familiar to longtime listeners. We'll also take a nostalgic look back at the incredible legacy of The Lone Ranger, the impact the series had on generations of children, and share a few personal memories about my brother, whose love for the masked rider made this episode especially meaningful. In This Episode A look back at the remarkable history of The Lone Ranger radio series. Little-known facts about the actors who brought the masked man to life. Memories of my brother's childhood adventures with his Lone Ranger outfit. "The Notorious El Diablo" (March 28, 1956) "The Apache Kid" (March 2, 1938) Which Apache Kid is the more dangerous outlaw—the one from The Lone Ranger or the one from The Cisco Kid? You decide! Featured Stories The Notorious El Diablo Originally Aired: March 28, 1954 - The Lone Ranger goes undercover by impersonating the infamous outlaw El Diablo in hopes of infiltrating a dangerous gang. Unfortunately, there's one problem—someone else is already pretending to be El Diablo! What follows is a fast-paced tale of deception, mistaken identity, and classic western action. The Apache Kid Originally Aired: March 2, 1938 - A notorious outlaw known as the Apache Kid is terrorizing the frontier, and only the Lone Ranger and Tonto stand between him and justice. If the name sounds familiar, that's because we recently encountered another Apache Kid while riding with Cisco. Are they the same villain? Probably not—but this one is every bit as dangerous. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  6. Jul 23

    No Laughing Matter!

    What happens when two of radio's greatest comedians stop trying to make us laugh? This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we shine a spotlight on a fascinating side of old-time radio history. Suspense was famous for bringing Hollywood's biggest stars to the microphone, and every so often it convinced legendary comedians to leave their familiar characters behind and step into stories filled with danger, fear, and moral choices. In this special double feature, Fibber McGee and Molly become innocent victims trapped with a desperate killer, while Jack Benny trades his famous penny-pinching jokes for a crime that could cost him everything. It's a side of these beloved performers that many listeners have never heard—and it's absolutely unforgettable. In This Episode Why Suspense loved casting famous comedians in dramatic roles. Jim and Marian Jordan step away from Fibber McGee and Molly for one of the series' most acclaimed performances. Jack Benny proves he could create tension just as easily as laughter. Listener email: Ron answers a question about how AI is—and isn't—used to create the podcast. Two outstanding episodes from one of radio's greatest dramatic series. Featured Stories Backseat Driver Originally Broadcast: February 22, 1951 - Jim and Marian Jordan, forever remembered as Fibber McGee and Molly, deliver an unforgettable dramatic performance as an ordinary couple whose evening drive becomes a terrifying ordeal after a desperate killer forces his way into their car. This highly regarded episode demonstrates just how talented the Jordans were beyond comedy. A Good and Faithful Servant Originally Broadcast: June 2, 1952 - Jack Benny takes on one of the most unusual roles of his career. After thirty years of loyal service to a department store, one man's temptation leads him down a dangerous path. It's a gripping tale made even more memorable by hearing America's favorite comedian in such a serious role. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  7. Jul 16

    Kids, Cowboys, and Killers! A Cisco Kid Double Feature

    This week on Ron's Amazing Stories, we're heading into the Old West with one of radio's most enduring heroes—The Cisco Kid. From 1942 to 1956, Cisco and his faithful friend Poncho rode across the American Southwest helping the innocent, bringing outlaws to justice, and proving that courage and kindness could go hand in hand. What makes these adventures especially interesting today is that they were considered children's entertainment! Yet these stories are filled with murder, revenge, dangerous outlaws, and plenty of gunfire. It's a fascinating reminder of how much storytelling—and what we consider appropriate for young audiences—has changed over the years. This week we present two exciting adventures from the golden age of radio. In This Episode A look at the history of The Cisco Kid radio series. The surprising origins of Cisco in O. Henry's 1907 short story The Caballero's Way. How radio transformed a ruthless outlaw into a legendary Western hero. "Cisco Meets the Apache Kid" (January 8, 1953) "The Meanest Man in Arizona" (July 24, 1952) Why these action-packed Westerns were considered family entertainment in the 1950s. The lasting legacy of Cisco and his lovable sidekick, Poncho. Featured Stories Cisco Meets the Apache Kid (1/8/1953) - Cisco and Poncho are asked to track down one of the most feared killers in the Southwest. As they follow a bloody trail across Arizona, they discover that the truth may be even more dangerous than the legend of the Apache Kid. The Meanest Man in Arizona (7/24/1952) - The title only hints at what's to come. What begins as a confrontation with a notorious bully quickly unfolds into a gripping tale of revenge, cattle rustling, murder, and frontier justice. As always, thank you for listening to Ron's Amazing Stories. If you enjoy preserving these wonderful old-time radio programs, please share the podcast with a friend and help keep these classic stories alive for future generations. Stay amazing! 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

  8. Jul 9

    Escape the Heat: A Snowbound Double Feature

    It may be the middle of July, but on this week's episode we're leaving the summer heat behind and heading into the frozen wilderness. Join me for a pair of classic old-time radio adventures where snow, ice, and survival are as much a part of the story as the characters themselves. Our first stop is the legendary series "Escape", where justice is decided far from any courtroom in the icy north during the gold rush. Then we'll travel even farther into the Yukon with Sergeant Preston and his faithful lead dog, King, as they investigate a mysterious icebound ship. So grab a cool drink, settle into your favorite chair, and let these two classic adventures transport you to a much colder place. In This Episode Escape: "Judgment Day at Crippled Deer" (June 24, 1964) - A gold miner stands accused of murder deep in the frozen wilderness. With no judge and no jury, four fellow miners decide his fate. But is justice really being served... or is another crime about to be committed Challenge of the Yukon: "Icebound" (September 22, 1948) - A whaling captain discovers a drifting derelict ship, only to become trapped in the ice himself after a violent storm. Sergeant Preston and King race across the frozen north to uncover the mystery and attempt a daring rescue. Thank you for listening to Ron's Amazing Stories. If you enjoyed this week's episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing the show with a fellow fan of classic old-time radio. Your support helps keep these wonderful stories alive for new generations of listeners. 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. Social Links: Main Podcast Site by LibSynThe Blog Site by WordPressFacebook LinkTwitter Link Contact Links: EmailStory Submissions Contact Ron

4.7
out of 5
84 Ratings

About

Ron's Amazing stories is a weekly podcast which presents truly amazing tales. These will range from dramatic readings to old time radio. We also have interviews with authors, radio personalities and even sports legends.

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