Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 3: Beach Bash Performance
Release Date: June 27, 2025
Hosts: Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Guests: Jordan Ronan, Chris Carlin, Michael Kay, Bart Scott
1. Introduction to the Beach Bash Event
The episode opens with a lively atmosphere as the hosts reflect on the recent Beach Bash performance. Peter Rosenberg kicks off the discussion with enthusiasm about the event's success.
- Peter Rosenberg [00:47]: “Don on a Rosenberg Live at the Beach Bash. Hanging out with you little six o' clock. Then it's Mets baseball. Thanks for everybody coming out. It's been a lot of fun.”
Guests Jordan Ronan and Chris Carlin join the conversation, sharing positive feedback about the event's entertainment and band performances.
- Jordan Ronan [01:02]: “Overboard's been outstanding.”
- Peter Rosenberg [01:04]: “So just a lot of fun.”
2. Giants Football: Current State and Future Prospects
a. Optimism Amidst Challenges
The core discussion centers around the New York Giants' performance and prospects for the 2025 NFL season. The hosts express a cautious optimism about the team's direction despite past struggles.
- Peter Rosenberg [01:24]: “So half of like one of the $100 that are on my outfit.”
- Chris Carlin [01:54]: “I think you could be optimistic. They're heading in the right direction.”
b. Quarterback Debate: Russell Wilson vs. Jackson Dart
A significant portion of the conversation delves into the Giants' quarterback situation. The team has been split between veteran Russell Wilson and rookie Jackson Dart, with ongoing debates about who will lead the team forward.
- Peter Rosenberg [02:23]: “So half of like one of the $100 that are on my outfit.”
- Chris Carlin [03:22]: “So it's now we're waiting for Jackson D. That's the guy they invested in. He's your hope to be legitimately good and build yourself into an ultimate contender.”
The hosts discuss the potential and readiness of Jackson Dart to take over as the starting quarterback, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding Russell Wilson's future with the team.
- Chris Carlin [03:26]: “All we want to know is about the quarterback. And the reality in the NFL is the team isn't going anywhere unless they have a high-end quarterback.”
- Jordan Ronan [04:09]: “He's the savior job card for this crew.”
c. Coaching and Brian Daboll’s Tenure
The episode examines Coach Brian Daboll's position amid the team's performance woes. Past records show consecutive losing seasons, putting his job security in question.
- Peter Rosenberg [05:07]: “...if you fire Daboll or give him an extension, like having him in limbo doesn't make sense to me because I'm trying to develop a quarterback and also win games.”
- Chris Carlin [06:07]: “That's why they are where they are right now. This is, this is not a well-oiled machine.”
The discussion emphasizes the difficulty of balancing team development with the immediate need to secure wins, highlighting the precarious situation Daboll faces.
d. Defensive Improvements and Team Strategy
Improving the Giants' defense is seen as critical for the team's success. The hosts discuss the recent investments in defensive players and the expectation that a stronger defense will keep the team competitive in close games.
- Chris Carlin [07:41]: “You need to. They need to win games and feel like they're really close.”
- Peter Rosenberg [10:47]: “And that keeps you in games. Right? I mean, I think that's so important because you're not going to score a ton of points.”
The conversation underscores the importance of a robust defense in compensating for offensive uncertainties, especially with a rookie quarterback in the mix.
e. Season Expectations and Benchmarks
To gauge the season's success, the hosts propose benchmarks such as achieving a minimum number of wins and demonstrating progress with Jackson Dart’s development.
- Chris Carlin [07:30]: “They need to win at least six games. Like, you can't be 5 and 12.”
- Jordan Ronan [13:54]: “They're going to be a good... You think it’s Kosovo? Don’t know, maybe lettuce. It's like a lot of words here…”
The consensus is that surpassing a disappointing past season is essential for maintaining optimism and securing coaching staff positions.
3. Light-Hearted Banter and Personal Stories
a. Personal Appearance and Hair Color
The conversation takes a humorous turn as Jordan Ronan discusses his gray hair, leading to playful ribbing among the hosts.
- Michael Kay [16:12]: “You look, I gotta say, this is a beautiful 45. 46 year old.”
- Jordan Ronan [17:20]: “She thinks if you start to look...”
The segment highlights the camaraderie and light-hearted nature of the show, providing a contrast to the serious sports discussion.
b. Food Reviews: Bradley Cooper's Cheesesteak and New Haven Pizza
The hosts transition into a segment reviewing local eateries, focusing on Bradley Cooper's Cheesesteak and the renowned pizza scene in New Haven, Connecticut.
- Bart Scott [23:48]: “I would say this right now. I can do that right now.”
- Michael Kay [24:11]: “I think it's on the level. It's legit.”
The debate on the best pizza underscores regional pride, with Bart Scott advocating for New Haven’s offerings over competitors.
- Michael Kay [28:07]: “The sign says, welcome to Connecticut. The best pizza in America.”
- Bart Scott [27:35]: “An objective individual will go up there and have Sally's, have Frank Pepe's...”
The discussion showcases the hosts' deep connections to their local food scenes, adding a flavorful dimension to the podcast.
4. Musical Performance: Don La Greca’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” Tribute
The episode culminates in a high-energy musical performance by Don La Greca, performing a live rendition of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The performance is met with enthusiasm from both the live audience and the podcast hosts.
- Don La Greca [32:34]: Performs the song with passion and energy.
- Peter Rosenberg [37:21]: “Let it roll.”
The performance not only entertains but also serves as a communal experience, reinforcing the podcast’s connection with its listeners.
5. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Content
In the final moments, the hosts thank the audience, promote upcoming sports coverage, and tease future segments, maintaining engagement and anticipation for the next episodes.
- Alan Hahn [31:56]: “Hear more of Don, Alan and Peter weekday afternoon starting at 3 on 8 80, ESPN, the ESPN New York app, and your smart speakers.”
Notable Quotes:
- Peter Rosenberg [02:26]: “But it's a matter of can he be that guy and when is it that he's that guy?”
- Chris Carlin [06:07]: “This is not a well-oiled machine.”
- Bart Scott [23:45]: “Listen. It's a good burger. Is it the best burger in my home state? We must do better, people. I'm sorry. It was average.”
- Don La Greca [32:34]: “Load up your guns, Bring your friends, it's fun to lose…”
Conclusion
Hour 3 of the "Don, Hahn & Rosenberg" podcast offers a blend of in-depth sports analysis, particularly focusing on the Giants’ football season prospects, and engaging lighter segments that showcase the hosts' personalities and local interests. The episode effectively balances serious discussion with humor and entertainment, making it both informative and enjoyable for listeners.