Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast: Hour 2 – Carlin vs. Peter
Release Date: April 17, 2025
In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast titled "Hour 2: Carlin v Peter," hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg navigate a heated discussion sparked by recent on-air comments and delve deep into the burgeoning rivalry between New York's baseball and basketball stars. The episode, rich with candid conversations, listener interactions, and spirited debates, offers listeners an insightful glimpse into the dynamics of New York sports media and fan culture.
I. The Spark: Criticism on First Take
The episode kicks off with Chris Carlin expressing his frustration over comments made about Don Hahn during a recent appearance on ESPN’s First Take. The trio discusses how Stephen A. Smith publicly criticized Don, leading to a sense of betrayal and disappointment among the hosts.
Don Hahn [06:38]:
"I've had a lot of people I've considered friends criticizing me on something I thought we shared."
Peter Rosenberg [05:59]:
"Our friendship is not important."
This criticism has not only affected Don but also sparked a broader conversation about loyalty and respect among colleagues in the sports media landscape.
II. Audience Support and Caller Reactions
The hosts open the lines to listeners, receiving mixed reactions ranging from support for Don Hahn to skepticism about the criticisms. Callers like Mark from Atlanta and Matt from Cherry Hill express their backing, emphasizing the importance of standing by friends in the face of unwarranted criticism.
Caller Mark [11:36]:
"Don't let anybody tear you down, Peter. You're the man."
Don Hahn [12:26]:
"He has, by the way."
These interactions highlight the community aspect of the podcast, where listeners feel a personal connection to the hosts and their professional struggles.
III. Proposing a Showdown: Carlin vs. Rosenberg
Amidst the tension, a playful yet competitive spirit emerges as the idea of a direct debate between Chris Carlin and Peter Rosenberg takes shape. The hosts entertain the notion of a structured argument to settle their differences, though uncertainty remains about its feasibility and the impact on their friendship.
Don Hahn [21:14]:
"Now? Maybe if we did. Maybe if we did Rutgers football or sandwiches on the Lower East Side, I'd lose."
Peter Rosenberg [21:07]:
"All right, who wants this?"
This proposal underscores the blend of professionalism and camaraderie that defines the podcast’s dynamic.
IV. Shift to the Back Page: Yankees vs. Mets Rivalry
Transitioning from internal conflicts, the conversation veers into the heart of New York sports rivalries, specifically focusing on Juan Soto of the Mets and Aaron Judge of the Yankees. The hosts dissect recent performances, media portrayals, and fan reactions, emphasizing the intense scrutiny players face.
Peter Rosenberg [26:37]:
"It's Willie, Mickey, and the Duke. We haven't had that. Whose players better? Whose guy is better in this town?"
Chris Carlin [35:05]:
"And that's gonna be a conversation all summer."
Their analysis touches on how media narratives, whether through traditional newspapers or modern social media, shape public perception and fan sentiment.
V. Media Influence: Traditional vs. Social Media
A significant portion of the episode critiques the role of media in amplifying rivalries and fan disputes. Chris Carlin challenges the relevance of traditional newspaper back pages in the digital age, advocating for focusing on more substantial interactions rather than sensational headlines.
Chris Carlin [27:10]:
"What is this, 1984? The newspapers were something that you got information from because you didn't know what happened the night before."
Peter Rosenberg [30:08]:
"How social media comments. You want that? That's the new back page."
This discussion highlights the evolving landscape of sports media, where immediacy and virality often overshadow in-depth analysis and balanced reporting.
VI. Listener Engagement and Final Thoughts
As the episode progresses, listeners continue to call in with their perspectives, further enriching the conversation. The hosts reflect on the passionate, albeit sometimes toxic, nature of fan interactions and the responsibility of media personalities in moderating these discussions.
Chris Carlin [35:04]:
"But please do not tell me you're riled up on what was the back page of the Post or the Daily News."
Don Hahn [38:19]:
"But I get your overall point."
The episode concludes with a look ahead to upcoming sports events, promising more debates, analyses, and listener interactions in future episodes.
Conclusion
"Hour 2: Carlin v Peter" masterfully balances personal grievances with broader sports discourse, showcasing the complex interplay between media personalities and their audience. Through honest dialogue, listener participation, and a keen analysis of sports rivalries, Don, Hahn & Rosenberg deliver a compelling episode that not only addresses internal tensions but also captures the vibrant spirit of New York's sports scene.
Notable Quotes:
- Don Hahn [06:38]: "I've had a lot of people I've considered friends criticizing me on something I thought we shared."
- Peter Rosenberg [05:59]: "Our friendship is not important."
- Chris Carlin [27:10]: "What is this, 1984? The newspapers were something that you got information from because you didn't know what happened the night before."
- Peter Rosenberg [26:37]: "It's Willie, Mickey, and the Duke. We haven't had that. Whose players better? Whose guy is better in this town?"
This episode serves as a testament to the dynamic and often contentious world of sports media, where personal relationships intertwine with professional rivalries, all under the watchful eyes of a passionate listener base.