The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz: Episode Summary – "The Big Suey: Golden Globes & The AJ Burnett Story" (January 8, 2025)

Hosted by Dan Le Batard and Stugotz, this episode from the Elser Hotel in Downtown Miami delves into a variety of topics, including podcast scheduling controversies, insights into corporate podcast management, highlights from the Golden Globes, and an in-depth look at the AJ Burnett story. Special guest David Samson joins the conversation to provide expert perspectives.

1. The "12 Days of Gregmas" Scheduling Controversy

Chris Cote initiates the discussion by addressing the backlash from listeners regarding the "12 Days of Gregmas" holiday episodes.

• Chris Cote (01:17): "Why were our listeners so mad about that? What happened?"

Jeremy takes responsibility for the scheduling mishap, explaining that episodes were rescheduled strategically but some listeners missed them due to podcast app settings.

• Jeremy (02:01): "We took episodes that were already in our megaphone feed and rescheduled them purposefully... some folks didn't see it. They were upset."

Stugotz slightly shifts the blame, suggesting it might have been the fans' fault for not staying updated.

• Stugotz (02:42): "If anything, it sounds like it's the fans' fault."

Despite the attempts to clarify, the hosts engage in playful banter, highlighting the tension between organizational planning and audience reception.

2. Introduction of David Samson and Corporate Climate Insights

To address internal podcast management, Chris Cote introduces David Samson, who is focused on improving the corporate environment.

• Chris Cote (02:55): "David Sampson is working very hard... but he's the guy who says, hey, Mike Evans, you're not getting $3 million in incentives."

David Samson expresses frustration with the current operations, emphasizing inefficiencies and time management issues.

• David Samson (03:37): "Your sleep habits... lead to me sitting here since 9:40 waiting for you."

The conversation becomes more contentious as Chris Cote, Billy, and Stugotz respond to David's critiques, leading to a mix of humor and tension.

3. Highlights from the Golden Globes: Jeremy Strong's Appearance

The hosts pivot to discuss Jeremy Strong's appearance at the Golden Globes, focusing on his unconventional outfit.

• Chris Cote (06:03): "What was the most interesting thing from the Golden Globes?... Is he just self-serious?"

Billy provides background on Jeremy Strong, noting his dedication to method acting and his deliberate choice to wear a standout outfit.

• Billy (06:20): "He was trying to remake his image but still at least trying."

David Samson adds his perspective on Strong's performance and predicts his future moves in the industry.

• David Samson (07:37): "Tom Brady will not return as an analyst for Fox next year."

The discussion highlights the intersection of celebrity image management and career trajectory in the entertainment industry.

4. The AJ Burnett Story: Contractual Decisions and Player Relations

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the AJ Burnett narrative, where David Samson provides a comprehensive overview.

David Samson (21:34):

"We had a player named AJ Burnett. He was young, brash, got a tattoo the day before a start, which impacted his performance. His contract had clauses that penalized extra starts, so we made a strategic decision to start another pitcher, Josh Johnson, instead. This led to the end of our relationship with AJ as he realized our stance and his contract expired."

Chris Cote and Billy interject with skepticism and additional context about Burnett's on-field behavior, including a notorious game where he threw at a truck and a mascot.

• Chris Cote (23:29): "This was the part that was more interesting... I do think David Sampson would not have approved that moment if he were running the Bucks."

David Samson clarifies that disciplinary actions were taken to maintain team integrity and performance standards.

• David Samson (24:25): "We charged players for equipment mistakes because we paid them every two weeks. When they would damage equipment, we took deductions from their salary."

The segment underscores the complexities of player management, contractual obligations, and maintaining team discipline within professional sports.

5. Padres Management and Succession Planning

Chris Cote solicits David Samson's expertise on the ongoing management issues within the San Diego Padres, particularly following the untimely death of team owner Peter Seidler.

• Chris Cote (18:24): "Why we're covering what's happening behind the scenes with the Padres so poorly..."

David Samson elaborates on the familial disputes arising from Seidler's death and the ensuing lawsuit between Seidler's widow and his brother.

• David Samson (19:23):

"The succession plan was clear in coordination with Major League Baseball... This lawsuit is frivolous... It's a sad lawsuit because she is painting the brothers as racist, ignoring the actual succession strategy."

He emphasizes the importance of legal and organizational succession plans in preventing such disputes, highlighting how the Padres' situation serves as a cautionary tale.

6. Documentary Review: "Chasing Amy"

In a lighter segment, David Samson reviews the documentary on Kevin Smith's film "Chasing Amy."

• David Samson (26:29): "Can you make a lesbian not a lesbian? Can you somehow get her to fall in love with you as a man…"

Chris Cote and Billy briefly discuss the film's impact and its reception within the LGBTQ community, with Billy praising it as Kevin Smith's smartest movie.

• Billy (26:55): "It's probably his smartest movie."

David Samson reflects on the film's divisive themes and its personal interpretation as a love story, demonstrating the subjective nature of film appreciation.

Notable Quotes

• Jeremy (25:03): "He was the starter when Marlins Park opened in 2012." – Referencing Josh Johnson's role.

• David Samson (15:57): "Tom Brady will not be with Fox next season. He will be full time in the Raiders front office running that team. Period." – On Tom Brady's career move.

• Chris Cote (12:30): "Do you promise you know it? Come on, David." – Challenging David Samson on his certainty.

Conclusion

This episode of The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz offers listeners a deep dive into the intricacies of podcast management, celebrity culture, and professional sports dynamics. Through candid discussions and expert insights, the hosts and guest navigate controversies, strategic decisions, and cultural critiques, providing a comprehensive and engaging narrative for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.