Smitty Reveals He Was Let Go From Barstool Sports After Mental Health Crisis
"Finally learned that 'we're a family' is the most manipulative phrase you can possibly use in a workplace by far." — Smitty
Adam "Smitty" Smith, a long-time fixture at Barstool Sports, has finally broken his silence regarding his departure from the company, confirming that he was let go despite initial assurances his job was safe. Smitty detailed a harrowing series of events that began with a public confrontation with his boss, Dave Portnoy, over his absence during the Phillies' playoff run. Smitty explained that he was actually at Children's Hospital Philadelphia with his son at the time and felt "fearful" of his private life being exploited for content. The situation escalated when public figure Patrick Bet-David used a video of Portnoy berating Smitty as a talking point in a college speech, calling Smitty a "loser" who didn't care about his family. Smitty described entering a "manic state" in the office, characterized by screaming and security being called, which he now identifies as a complete mental breakdown. He sought help from colleagues like Erica Nardini and eventually consulted a psychiatrist who diagnosed him as manic and in need of medication. During his recovery, Smitty claimed he was told by the "powers that be" to focus on his health and that he would be welcomed back when ready. However, when he attempted to submit a "re-entry plan" — which included comedy sketches and a stand-up show — he was informed via email that he would be paid through the end of his contract but that his time at the company had ended. "Finally learned that 'we're a family' is the most manipulative phrase you can possibly use in a workplace by far," Smitty reflected. The fallout has sparked debate within the podcasting world about toxic workplace culture and the dangers of treating companies as families. While Smitty appears to be in a better place mentally, he has now launched his own independent channel, the Smittyverse, to tell his side of the story. The Barstool side remains largely unspoken, with Smitty suggesting that an NDA or general mandate may be preventing other employees from discussing his exit.