Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast Summary Episode: Hour 4: Hurts & HR Derby | Release Date: July 14, 2025

In this engaging episode of the Don, Hahn & Rosenberg podcast, hosts Don La Greca, Alan Hahn, and guest speaker Peter Rosenberg delve into a variety of topics ranging from high school sports ethics to the intricacies of quarterback performance in the NFL. Additionally, they touch upon the upcoming Home Run Derby and reflect on the historic Live Aid concert through a CNN documentary. This summary breaks down the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn during the episode.

1. High School Sports Ethics and Coach Privileges

Timestamp: 00:29 - 05:59

The episode opens with Alan Hahn addressing recent challenges faced by high school sports programs in New York amidst severe weather conditions. He introduces a contentious issue involving a high school football coach from Bridgewater who was suspended for providing additional services to his players, such as rehabilitation for injuries, Uber rides, and meals. Alan shares an anecdote overheard at a doctor's office highlighting the financial struggles families face, particularly concerning expensive Uber fares for transporting children home late from practices.

Alan Hahn reflects on the coach's intentions:

"He was sitting on a lot of money and he wants his kids to be taken care of and not have to go without." ([02:00])

The discussion pivots to analyze whether such actions constitute unfair advantages or genuine acts of kindness. They draw parallels with a similar case involving Kia Wright, a high school basketball coach who was fired for taking her players to an unsanctioned St. John's game despite having parental consent and organizing the trip under her own AAU program.

Guest Speaker Peter Rosenberg emphasizes the complexity:

"It's just, you're out." ([04:00])

Alan Hahn questions the fine line between providing support and creating competitive imbalances:

"Is he getting Ubers for the kids because he wants them to win and he's trying to take advantage of something because he happens to be a millionaire and the rival coaches aren't?" ([05:00])

The hosts agree that while the intentions may be noble, the perception of favoritism and potential league regulations pose significant issues.

2. Quarterback Performance Debate: Jalen Hurts vs. Others

Timestamp: 05:09 - 16:14

Transitioning to NFL discussions, Alan Hahn introduces a debate sparked by listener Matt, who questions the validation of certain quarterback rankings.

Caller Matt critiques the reliance on traditional metrics:

"These are team games. This is not tennis." ([07:27])

The conversation centers on evaluating quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts, Justin Herbert, Patrick Mahomes, and Lamar Jackson. Alan argues for assessing quarterbacks based on individual performance metrics rather than team achievements.

Alan Hahn states:

"We're judging who's the better quarterback. And I'm bringing in different stats and their skill set as the judge." ([07:56])

Peter Rosenberg counters by highlighting the importance of the system surrounding a quarterback:

"Mahomes is the system. And Hertz is in a system that fits him, but Mahomes is the system." ([12:38])

The hosts debate the merits of each quarterback, discussing Pro Football Focus grades and playoff performances. They acknowledge that while some quarterbacks may excel individually, team dynamics and external factors significantly influence their success.

Alan Hahn underscores the complexity of attributing team success to a single player:

"There’s a whole team that won, not just the quarterback, right?" ([07:50])

The debate remains unresolved, emphasizing the subjective nature of ranking quarterbacks and the multitude of factors that contribute to their evaluation.

3. Reflections on the Live Aid CNN Documentary

Timestamp: 17:34 - 24:46

Shifting gears, the hosts reminisce about the Live Aid concert, marking its 40th anniversary. Alan Hahn expresses excitement over the CNN four-part documentary covering the event, highlighting its historical significance and global impact.

Alan Hahn recalls:

"It's considered one of the greatest concerts of all time." ([22:13])

They discuss the logistics of organizing Live Aid, including Bob Geldof's pivotal role and the challenges faced by performers like Freddie Mercury, who was unknowingly battling AIDS at the time.

Peter Rosenberg shares a behind-the-scenes moment:

"Boy George agreed to do 'Do They Know It's Christmas?'" ([24:10])

The hosts appreciate the documentary's portrayal of the event's grandeur and the collaborative efforts that went into making Live Aid a landmark moment in music history.

4. Upcoming Home Run Derby and Local Sports Highlights

Timestamp: 24:49 - 26:22

The episode concludes with excitement for the upcoming Home Run Derby. Alan Hahn and Peter Rosenberg discuss local interest, particularly highlighting James Wood, whose athletic lineage includes his father Kenny Wood, a legendary basketball player from East Hampton High School.

Peter Rosenberg adds:

"His father is Kenny Wood... There's a lot of connection there." ([24:56])

They encourage listeners to tune in to the Home Run Derby and support local athletes, emphasizing community pride and the continuation of athletic excellence across generations.

Conclusion

This episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg offers a multifaceted discussion that intertwines ethical considerations in high school sports, the complexities of evaluating professional quarterbacks, nostalgic reflections on a historic concert, and anticipation for major sporting events. Through thoughtful dialogue and insightful commentary, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive look at both local and national sports narratives.

Notable Quotes:

• Alan Hahn ([02:00]): "Maybe he's just being a really good guy. He's sitting on a lot of money and he wants his kids to be taken care of and not have to go without."

• Peter Rosenberg ([12:38]): "Mahomes is the system. And Hertz is in a system that fits him, but Mahomes is the system."

• Alan Hahn ([07:56]): "We're judging who's the better quarterback. And I'm bringing in different stats and their skill set as the judge."

• Peter Rosenberg ([24:10]): "Boy George agreed to do 'Do They Know It's Christmas?'"

This structured and detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, providing a clear overview for those who haven't listened while highlighting the depth and breadth of the discussions held by the hosts and their guest.