Dale Hansen on Rod Stewart, Don Nelson Stories, and Why Troy Aikman Was Built for Broadcasting

In this B-side episode of Set List and Bruce, Jesse welcomes back Dale Hansen for a wide-ranging conversation that begins with Hansen reflecting on long-winded interviews and leads into his love of Rod Stewart, first seeing him live at the Cowboys’ 1996 Super Bowl in Phoenix, and why Stewart’s persona, gravelly voice, and story-driven songs resonate with him—so much so that he’s planned Rod Stewart songs for his funeral. Hansen then shares memories of late NBA coach Don Nelson, including their first meeting tied to Nelson’s 1961 Iowa–Ohio State game and a darkly comic Maui poker story involving Willie Nelson. The discussion also covers Nelson’s Dirk Nowitzki draft, Hansen’s approach to avoiding definitive hot takes, and why he always believed Troy Aikman would thrive in broadcasting, illustrated with personal stories from an Iowa graduation visit and the “potato salad” saga. https://www.youtube.com/@DallasDialoguewithDale 00:00 Talking Too Much 02:13 B-Side Episode Intro 02:53 Rod Stewart Discovery 04:17 Funeral Playlist Plans 10:59 Don Nelson Tribute 11:34 First Meeting Story 17:11 Maui Poker Tale 24:25 Dirk Draft Debate 27:14 Trusting Coaches and Scouts 29:22 Aikman on the Mic 30:56 Iowa Graduation Surprise 36:53 Potato Salad Legend 41:13 Protecting Sources on Planes 43:22 Winning Over Stats 45:39 Fantasy Numbers Debate 50:45 Podcast and Homeless Crisis 54:30 Final Thanks and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices