Is there a way to release the ball so that it wont hook as much, like more end over end or more side rotation or hand position?

Index closed in towards my middle finger always does the trick!

Swing coaches teach that you should release the ball as if you are "shaking hands" with some one. I have tried to get this ball motion and the ball still comes off of my hand with side roll instead of forward roll. It does go into forward roll before it hits the pins, but I cannot get the early forward roll I want.  I have studied tons of video with no success. I guess "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" and I am definitely an old dog!

I disagree with handshake position if you are trying to go straighter.  That position gives you too much axis rotation to minimize hook.  Best way to go straighter is to minimize axis rotation by trying to keep your palm under the ball and thumb at 12 oclock as you release.  You natural instinct will still get the thumb down a bit, but less than hand shake position, giving you lower axis rotation