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