Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 2: Don's Book & The List
Release Date: June 4, 2025

1. Introduction to Don's Book of Lists

In this episode, the hosts—Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg—delve into the exciting prospect of transforming Don's extensive collection of curated lists into a published book. The conversation kicks off with Don expressing enthusiasm about the idea:

Don LaGreca [02:27]: "It's 100 things. It's 100 chapters of 100 things about the Knicks that you need to know."

2. Authorship and Collaboration

Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg discuss the logistics of authoring the book. Alan emphasizes his role as the writer, while Peter highlights the need for professional assistance to ensure the book’s readability and marketability:

Alan Hahn [01:15]: "All of it. Does he have them all written down?"

Peter Rosenberg [04:18]: "I have kicked around that if I was ever gonna do this, I wanted to do it right and actually get a professional author."

3. Publishing Plans

The hosts explore potential avenues for publishing, discussing the importance of garnering support to attract a publishing house. Don outlines the next steps, including reaching out to agents and preparing example chapters:

Don LaGreca [05:39]: "But regardless, if people are interested in something like this, let us know. Because the more support we have behind it, the more likely we got a publishing house to make this thing happen."

Alan reveals promising developments from agencies showing interest:

Don LaGreca [08:23]: "Already got a text from somebody who published a book recently."

4. Promotion Strategies

The conversation shifts to marketing strategies for the book. Ideas include featuring dynamic photos and involving the hosts in promotional roles. Peter suggests incorporating notable figures to enhance credibility:

Peter Rosenberg [07:22]: "We can have whatever the photo. Evans up being in the front, something about the lists or whatever."

Don emphasizes the importance of pre-orders and engagement with listeners to demonstrate demand to publishers:

Don LaGreca [06:49]: "Anybody's face has to be on."

5. Developing the Book’s Content

The core of the episode revolves around developing a compelling list for the book. The hosts brainstorm themes and potential collaborators, drawing inspiration from successful formats like Sasha Jenkins' "Ego Trip Book of Rap Lists":

Alan Hahn [01:31]: "The an amazing talent and writer in hip hop passed away a week and a half ago. His name was Sasha Jenkins... the Ego Trip Book of Rap Lists."

6. Historic Examples of Coaching Changes (The List)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to a curated list showcasing instances where sports teams fired successful coaches, hired new ones, and subsequently won championships swiftly. The hosts provide detailed historical examples:

• New Jersey Devils (1999-2000 Season):
  Peter Rosenberg [30:00]: "They fired Robbie Fatoric and hired Larry Robinson... won that year's Stanley Cup."

• Detroit Pistons (2003-2004 Season):
  Don LaGreca [30:35]: "Rick Carlisle was the Detroit Pistons head Coach in the 2002-2003 season... they won a championship after hiring Larry Brown."

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001-2002 Season):
  Peter Rosenberg [33:22]: "Tony Dungy's team improved but didn't win until Jon Gruden took over and secured a Super Bowl victory."

These examples illustrate the potential for immediate success following strategic coaching changes, which the Knicks hope to emulate.

7. Listener Engagement and Feedback

The hosts encourage listeners to participate by sending emails and voting on potential book ideas. They stress the importance of listener support in making the book a reality:

Don LaGreca [06:02]: "You'll get on the list right away. Signed book. Once it comes out, we'll have a book signing."

8. Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Concluding the episode, Don, Alan, and Peter reaffirm their commitment to bringing Don's Book of Lists to fruition. They highlight ongoing efforts to secure publishing deals and express optimism about the project’s success:

Alan Hahn [37:05]: "I like this list, right?"

Peter Rosenberg [39:15]: "But you know, Toronto never won. I mean, Bulls never won either, but look at the dynasty they became..."

The episode wraps up with a teaser for upcoming shows and continued discussions on sports strategies and team management.

Notable Quotes:

• Don LaGreca [02:27]: "It's 100 things. It's 100 chapters of 100 things about the Knicks that you need to know."
• Peter Rosenberg [30:35]: "They fired Robbie Fatoric and hired Larry Robinson... won that year's Stanley Cup."
• Alan Hahn [01:15]: "All of it. Does he have them all written down?"
• Don LaGreca [06:49]: "Anybody's face has to be on."
• Peter Rosenberg [33:22]: "Tony Dungy's team improved but didn't win until Jon Gruden took over and secured a Super Bowl victory."

Conclusion

This episode of "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" provides an insightful look into the potential publication of Don LaGreca's Book of Lists, blending creative brainstorming with strategic planning. The hosts effectively engage in dynamic discussions about authorship, publishing strategies, and the impact of coaching changes in sports, offering listeners valuable perspectives and anticipating an exciting new addition to sports literature.