Before radio began making money by broadcasting entertainment, it was a device for sharing information. The idea of The Answer Man was to share information in the most entertaining means possible. Albert Carlyle Mitchell was The Answer Man from 1937 to 1956, both on Mutual and over syndication. The 15 minute programs were written to make it appear as though Mitchell was answering the questions sent in by listeners off the top of his head. In fact, the program was tightly scripted and researched (the show’s offices were just across the street from the New York Public Library). Interestingly, questions which were sent in but not answered on the air did get a reply through the mail. Click here to read more about Answer Man, The