I hear what you're saying.... and my first instinct is that you, yourself have an inside track on this info... maybe you're the more analytical one who makes regular appearances on the wrap-up show and a personal friend of his.... just an observation.
Concerning "'what he could get away with on terrestrial radio'", you will recall that tremendous amounts of bare-bottomed spanking has occurred as a regular part of the show as far back as I can remember, as well as fondling of the breasts, among other titillating activities that can be tied to the BDSM lifestyle. But I always remember Howard himself commenting (a lot) that he has nice feet for a guy... anywhere he could slip that bit of info in he would... and the fact that it was his idea to make girls drink tons of water before being tied into the tickle-chair so they could be tickled to point of peeing... IMO this could not have come from the mind of someone who does not have this fetish.
Also, I think Howard plays off his lack of tickling ability to throw-off the general listening audience. I believe he, in his personal life, is a superb 'ler.
Similarly, recently, i sent a pic of my wife in to the contest e-mailbag of the show to see if we could be selected to win Fred's money or stump the Booey, etc. and if I lost my wife would get naked... In the email, I expressed my wife's desire to be tickled by Howard. So far we have had no response and i think it could be that there is an inner conflict within Howard as to whether to bring any members from here on as guests...?
A couple months ago, I prompted Addie Juniper (Ticklish-Chicks, Clips4sale) to begin asking if she and her friend Willa could make an appearance on the show ( clips4sale is already a sponsor )and i believe she has at least established contact, but so far no appearances... Is Howard conflicted?
My last point is of a sensitive nature so I will send it to you, Darvon, in a PM
Very interesting topic, even if you're not who i think may be