Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary
Episode: Hour 2: RSNs and Rodgers
Release Date: March 28, 2025

1. The Evolution and Decline of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs)

Peter Rosenberg initiates the discussion by addressing the shifting landscape of sports broadcasting, particularly focusing on the Mets' recent move to Apple TV and the implications for traditional RSNs like SNY. He expresses concern over the diminishing presence of beloved local voices, questioning whether fans still value the personalized commentary that RSNs have historically provided.

"Imagine a world where there is no Sam Rosen doing it for 40 years as the voice you grew up with. Imagine that world."
— Peter Rosenberg [03:15]

Don La Greca agrees, attributing the decline of RSNs to dwindling viewership and exorbitant costs associated with broadcasting rights. He highlights that RSNs initially thrived by securing comprehensive programming but are now struggling to justify their expenses as fan engagement decreases.

"There are other ways to consume sports. And these regionals are going out because they overpaid for the product."
— Don La Greca [03:15]

Alan Hahn adds that while national broadcasts offer high-profile game coverage, they often lack the depth and personal connection that local RSNs provide. He contrasts this with platforms like WWE, which successfully manage multiple global broadcasts without losing their unique voices.

"There's a lot of places that you're going to consume your sport... But you can't lose the voices."
— Peter Rosenberg [08:42]

2. Listener Interactions and Community Concerns

The hosts engage with listener calls, addressing various opinions and concerns. Adam from California shares his pride in certain Yankees moments, while expressing indifference towards Juan Soto's move to the Mets, reflecting a nuanced fan perspective.

"I could see the look on my own face. It was like... I'm just indifferent about that whole thing."
— Adam [20:12]

Don La Greca responds by debunking narratives created by fans, emphasizing that Juan Soto's decision was financially motivated rather than influenced by fabricated loyalty.

"Juan Soto's dream was to make more money. And that's... he's never going to leave because of a narrative you created."
— Don La Greca [21:11]

Additionally, a call from Mike in Hawthorne addresses internal station drama, revealing tension between hosts and underscoring the importance of accountability within their team dynamics.

"I never thought I'd get on to talk about this... But you know what? It was wrong, bro."
— Mike [23:02]

3. The Rise of New Sports Media Personalities

A significant portion of the episode delves into the emergence of new figures in sports media, particularly focusing on Pat McAfee's meteoric rise. The hosts speculate on McAfee's upcoming event in Pittsburgh and the potential surprise appearance of Aaron Rodgers, drawing parallels to WWE-style promotions.

"This is going to happen... Maybe he signs the day before, but his first official appearance in front of anybody will be on that show as a Steeler."
— Don La Greca [30:50]

Peter Rosenberg praises McAfee's ability to captivate audiences without a traditional media background, likening his approach to entertainment-focused models that prioritize opinion and engagement over journalistic integrity.

"This is basically taking the WWE model and bringing it into sports media. It is loud. It is entertaining. It is drama-based."
— Peter Rosenberg [33:12]

Alan Hahn concurs, highlighting McAfee's strategic departure from platforms like Barstool to cultivate his unique brand without inherited negative associations.

"He took the people, but he did not take the Barstool brand. People probably forget he was even at Barstool."
— Alan Hahn [34:15]

4. Speculations on Pat McAfee's Event and Aaron Rodgers' Involvement

The hosts delve deeper into their theory regarding Pat McAfee's upcoming sold-out event in Pittsburgh, anticipating it as the platform for Aaron Rodgers to announce his move to the Steelers. They discuss the strategic timing and media impact of such an announcement within an entertainment-centric environment.

"And the only thing I'll say is that maybe he signs the day before, but his first official appearance... that's the bare minimum."
— Don La Greca [31:03]

Peter Rosenberg emphasizes the transformative effect McAfee is having on sports media, noting his unconventional rise and the significant following he's amassed in a short period.

"He's taking it for himself. He's relentless in a pursuit of greatness, always pushing to one up himself."
— Peter Rosenberg [32:09]

5. Changing Dynamics in Sports Journalism

Don La Greca reflects on the historical context of sports journalism, noting the shift from traditional writers and broadcasters to athletes and personalities without conventional media training. He credits this evolution to the growing distrust in traditional media sources and the public's desire for more relatable and opinion-driven content.

"I think we're even opening it wider to not only other people, but I think there's almost a feel among the fans... that it's a refreshing take."
— Don La Greca [37:08]

Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg further discuss how this shift caters to a broader audience seeking entertainment and authentic opinions rather than polished journalistic narratives.

"The media, Allen, for some reason over the last few years, has become the enemy."
— Don La Greca [37:08]

Conclusion

The episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg provides an insightful exploration into the evolving world of sports broadcasting, the decline of traditional RSNs, and the rise of new media personalities who resonate with modern audiences. Through engaging dialogue and listener interactions, the hosts highlight the challenges and opportunities facing sports media, emphasizing the importance of authentic voices in maintaining fan engagement.

Notable Quotes:

• "Pat's brilliance started with. He stayed at Barstool long enough to get their audience, but short enough to not have any of the negative stink that can come from."
  — Alan Hahn [34:15]

• "They want opinion. They want hot takes."
  — Don La Greca [33:14]

• "I never felt Juan Soto had blood in the ground."
  — Peter Rosenberg [20:47]

Timestamp Highlights:

• 03:15 – Discussion on RSNs' decline and the importance of local voices.
• 08:42 – Peter emphasizes the necessity of maintaining local announcers.
• 21:11 – Don addresses fan narratives surrounding Juan Soto.
• 30:50 – Speculation on Pat McAfee's event and Aaron Rodgers.
• 37:08 – Reflection on the changing landscape of sports journalism.

For those interested in the intricate dynamics of sports media and the future of broadcasting, this episode offers a comprehensive and engaging analysis, capturing the essence of the ongoing transformation within the industry.