Podcast Summary: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg – Hour 4: Don's Phone

Episode Details

• Title: Hour 4: Don's Phone
• Release Date: March 14, 2025
• Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
• Description: As the first voice of ESPN New York and New Jersey, Don LaGreca teams up with sportswriter and Knicks broadcaster Alan Hahn, alongside Hip Hop veteran and WWE personality Peter Rosenberg. Together, they delve into New York sports, hip hop culture, and a variety of engaging topics.

1. Opening Banter and Sponsorships (00:00 - 02:22)

The episode begins with a lighthearted exchange about the latest smartphone technology, highlighting the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra's AI capabilities. Don LaGreca humorously questions whether the AI-driven transactions would be handled via cash or credit.

• Don LaGreca [00:14]: "Will that be cash or credit?"
• Alan Hahn [00:16]: "Credit. 4 Galaxy S25 Ultra, the AI companion that does the heavy lifting."

Peter Rosenberg expresses his admiration for the seamless technology integration, stating, "That sounds like heaven to me."

Transitioning into sponsorship mentions, the hosts acknowledge Sun Cruiser, Sam Adams American Light, and Pollocampero, setting the stage for the episode's thematic focus on sports and community engagement.

2. Big East Semifinals and Game Preparations (02:22 - 05:00)

The hosts shift their focus to the upcoming Big East semifinals at Madison Square Garden, expressing enthusiasm for the basketball action featuring St. John's, Marquette, UConn, and Creighton.

• Don LaGreca [02:22]: "The Big East semifinals kickoff at MSG at 6:30. St. John's Marquette followed by UConn and Creighton. That is what's happening at the Garden."

They discuss recent hockey matchups, drawing parallels to classic Stanley Cup Finals, and emphasize responsible enjoyment of sponsored beverages during the games.

The conversation delves into a controversial officiating call involving Rempe, a hockey player who has faced suspensions impacting his reputation on the ice.

• Don LaGreca [02:19]: "But he's starting to play well. He's getting up near. Last night was close to eight minutes, but he's been playing 10 minutes consistently."
• Peter Rosenberg [03:13]: "It's just an egregious, lazy call, man. I'm sorry. If you watch the replay, it was an outright embarrassment."

3. Analyzing Officiating and Player Reputation (05:00 - 09:13)

Peter Rosenberg provides a detailed breakdown of the controversial call against Rempe, highlighting inconsistencies and the impact on game outcomes.

• Peter Rosenberg [05:00]: "But he's starting to play well. He's getting up near... He's showing some ability, but that was Just an egregious, lazy call, man."
• Don LaGreca [05:03]: "He just stepped into the goal. Cause he's like twice the size."

Alan Hahn criticizes the repetitive nature of the strikes against Rempe, emphasizing unfair treatment despite his improved performance.

• Alan Hahn [04:43]: "Yeah, but is Anthony just texted this so true. It's just become like the judge low strike."

The hosts express frustration over the lack of fair officiating and its consequences on the team's performance, particularly noting how missed calls can alter the course of crucial games.

4. Engaging with Listeners: The Richard from Manhattan Segment (09:13 - 12:01)

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing a recurring caller, Richard from Manhattan. The hosts explore his personality, likening him to iconic characters and considering a potential dating game format.

• Don LaGreca [07:13]: "Stevie B. That we love, who follows the show a ton, making his recovery from hip surgery. He said, I need a Don Legra. I need a Don LaGreca and Alan Hahn rant tomorrow."

The trio debates Richard's charismatic yet challenging demeanor, comparing him to Kramer from Seinfeld and contemplating his integration into show segments.

• Alan Hahn [07:37]: "Richard from Manhattan looks like Jay Wright, who is regarded as one of the more handsome men in college basketball."
• Don LaGreca [09:07]: "Is he the Kramer of callers? Because he's like, very charming, very funny, has a lot of facts, but also just like, it's just his way or no other way."

They reflect on Richard's impact on their show dynamics, sharing anecdotes and viewer interactions, highlighting the unique personalities that enrich their broadcast.

5. Music Preferences and Personal Stories (12:01 - 15:08)

The conversation shifts to music, with Alan Hahn sharing his admiration for the Counting Crows, sparking a discussion about their favorite albums and songs.

• Alan Hahn [13:48]: "I googled what are the best Counting Crows albums. And I am going to August and... it was between the '93 and the '96 ones that are regarded as the two best."
• Don LaGreca [14:05]: "They're so good. No, no, the Unplugs are fantastic."

Don expresses a dislike for certain tracks from the Shrek soundtrack, adding a personal touch to their varied musical tastes.

• Don LaGreca [15:07]: "I could do without. It doesn't make sense. What my music doesn't make. I never try to force it on people."

This segment underscores the hosts' diverse interests beyond sports, fostering a relatable and multifaceted connection with their audience.

6. Knicks Performance and Upcoming Games (15:08 - 19:12)

A focused discussion on the New York Knicks' recent performance follows, with hopes pinned on their upcoming national television game. The hosts analyze the team's potential to break their losing streak in national broadcasts and the impact of player dynamics on their chances.

• Alan Hahn [15:36]: "Tv, by the way. Get that game. Go get that game. You. They just... they just broke, right? They took three days in the middle of their road trip. They get a three day break."
• Don LaGreca [15:52]: "You don't have Jaylee Brunson. I understand that in mind."

The conversation touches on key players like Anthony Towns and Draymond Green, debating strategies and the importance of physicality in the game.

• Peter Rosenberg [16:03]: "Because you know he gets. You know, you could say the timing and who you play, but this would be 08 in standalone. Nationally."
• Don LaGreca [16:22]: "But it doesn't mean. Right. Exactly. It doesn't mean. And it doesn't have to be the old school."

The hosts emphasize the competitive spirit required for the Knicks to succeed on a national stage, encouraging the team to leverage their recent victories and maintain momentum.

7. Closing Remarks and Final Interactions (19:12 - 21:06)

As the episode nears its end, the hosts express gratitude towards their audience and sponsors, reflecting on the community support that fuels their show.

• Don LaGreca [19:24]: "Yeah."
• Peter Rosenberg [20:14]: "We love you."

Alan Hahn shares his positive experiences with listener interactions, mentioning the live segment updates on Instagram and the unique characters they encounter, like Richard from Manhattan.

The hosts wrap up with a mix of humor and sincerity, emphasizing the importance of their listeners and the memorable moments shared on the show.

• Don LaGreca [21:03]: "I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good."

Finally, the episode concludes with a brief mention of upcoming broadcasts and a promotional message from National University.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Don LaGreca [00:14]: "Will that be cash or credit?"
• Peter Rosenberg [00:34]: "That sounds like heaven to me."
• Don LaGreca [05:03]: "He just stepped into the goal. Cause he's like twice the size."
• Alan Hahn [07:37]: "Richard from Manhattan looks like Jay Wright, who is regarded as one of the more handsome men in college basketball."
• Don LaGreca [09:07]: "Is he the Kramer of callers? Because he's like, very charming, very funny, has a lot of facts, but also just like, it's just his way or no other way."
• Alan Hahn [13:48]: "I googled what are the best Counting Crows albums. And I am going to August and... it was between the '93 and the '96 ones that are regarded as the two best."
• Don LaGreca [15:07]: "I could do without. It doesn't make sense. What my music doesn't make. I never try to force it on people."
• Alan Hahn [15:36]: "Tv, by the way. Get that game. Go get that game. You. They just... they just broke, right? They took three days in the middle of their road trip. They get a three day break."
• Don LaGreca [19:24]: "Yeah."
• Don LaGreca [21:03]: "I don't want to know how the sausage is made, man. I just want to know. It's good."

Conclusion

In "Hour 4: Don's Phone," the hosts of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg deliver a dynamic and engaging episode, blending sports analysis with personal anecdotes and listener interactions. From dissecting controversial sports officiating to celebrating unique listeners like Richard from Manhattan, the trio offers a well-rounded and entertaining discussion. Their camaraderie and diverse perspectives provide valuable insights for both dedicated fans and casual listeners, making this episode a standout installment in their ongoing series.