A psychiatric inmate named John Burns opportunistically escapes from an asylum and assumes the identity of a renowned psychiatrist, Dr. George Maitlin, who is taking a break from his radio therapy show. Seizing the chance of freedom and adventure, John heads to Los Angeles, where he starts dispensing unconventional and unorthodox advice on the radio. His charismatic and bold approach quickly wins over the listeners, making him an unexpected media sensation. However, his unfiltered and aggressive methods attract suspicion from some quarters, including some genuinely concerned colleagues in the mental health field.

Meanwhile, the real Dr. Maitlin is struggling with his own crises and becomes aware of the impostor's growing popularity. As John's advice continues to stir controversy and his fame grows, the lines between sanity and insanity blur. Every step John takes to maintain his ruse brings him closer to risking exposure, which could land him back to his previous life behind bars. The narrative delves into the ensuing chaos as misunderstandings and comic situations compound, leading to a series of unexpected twists.