Podcast Summary: "We Are Leaving Barstool Sports"
Episode Details:
- Title: We Are Leaving Barstool Sports
- Podcast: Bussin' With The Boys
- Release Date: January 21, 2025
- Hosts: Will Compton & Taylor Lewan
- Platform: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Amazon Music (ad-free for Prime Members)
1. Introduction and Context
The episode, titled "We Are Leaving Barstool Sports," marks a significant turning point for the podcast "Bussin' With The Boys." Hosted by NFL players Will Compton and Taylor Lewan under the Barstool Sports banner, this episode dives deep into their decision to part ways with Barstool. The hosts open the discussion with a blend of humor and seriousness, setting the tone for an engaging conversation about their journey and future plans.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [06:18]: "We have a show that brings a locker room to life through content, through conversations, interviews, access."
- Taylor Lewan [05:01]: "It's a fun time, it's a good time."
2. Speculation and Announcement
The hosts address the swirling rumors about their departure from Barstool Sports. They acknowledge the mixed reactions from loyal listeners—some who are supportive and others who are skeptical or disapproving.
Key Points:
- Anticipation of varied audience reactions, including tier one followers (loyal fans) and "stoolies" (Barstool enthusiasts).
- Recognition of potential backlash from those who wish to see them fail after leaving.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [05:03]: "There are going to be stoolies that are haters that are going to want to see how we're going to fail."
- Taylor Lewan [05:16]: "A healthy balance of haters and lovers."
3. Reasons for Leaving Barstool Sports
The core of the episode revolves around explaining why Will and Taylor decided to leave Barstool Sports. They reveal that a lucrative offer from another entity presented an opportunity they couldn't refuse, prompting their departure despite valuing their relationship with Barstool.
Key Points:
- Financial Incentives: A significant offer from another sponsor that surpasses what Barstool could extend.
- Creative Freedom: Desire to have full control over their intellectual property (IP), branding, and creative direction.
- Business Growth: Transitioning from contractors to having full-time employees and building an independent operation in Nashville.
- Relationship with Barstool: Appreciation for the camaraderie and experiences gained while affiliated with Barstool, coupled with the challenge of parting ways.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [07:03]: "It was a massive offer that ultimately we could not say no to."
- Taylor Lewan [07:12]: "We love being a part of the ecosystem. We love the guys there with the camaraderie, the locker room vibes."
4. Negotiation Process and Challenges
Will and Taylor recount the negotiation phase, highlighting the complexities and emotional toll it took on their relationship with Barstool's leadership, particularly Dave Portnoy.
Key Points:
- Initial Conversations: Dave Portnoy's attempt to retain them despite not being able to match the lucrative offer.
- Market Testing: Will and Taylor exploring external opportunities to gauge their value in the broader market.
- Final Decision: Realizing that Barstool couldn't meet the new financial demands, leading to an amicable split.
- Emotional Impact: The difficulty of making such a decision while maintaining their friendship and professional relationship.
Notable Quotes:
- Taylor Lewan [08:27]: "It's been a very cool experience... It has been awesome."
- Will Compton [09:08]: "Dave was transparent when they were bringing Gruden on. It's just tough to keep up with the way he wants to do business."
5. Transition to Independence
The hosts outline their vision for "Bussin' With The Boys" moving forward as an independent entity. They emphasize maintaining the essence of their show while expanding their reach and creative endeavors.
Key Points:
- Ownership of IP: Complete control over their content, branding, and business operations.
- Creative Control: Freedom to collaborate with diverse sponsors and explore new content formats.
- Operational Setup: Establishing their own production team and infrastructure in Nashville.
- Future Opportunities: Exploring partnerships outside the Barstool ecosystem, including potential collaborations with mainstream sports media like NFL Network and ESPN.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [14:51]: "We wanted to control our own lives. We did not want to be tied down."
- Taylor Lewan [15:08]: "We have complete creative freedom. We have the ability to do what we want. This is our show."
6. Audience Questions and Clarifications
The episode includes a segment where the hosts address frequently asked questions from their audience, clarifying misconceptions and providing transparent answers about the transition.
Key Questions Addressed:
- Employment Status: Assurance that all current employees remain with "Bussin' With The Boys" and continue their roles seamlessly.
- Operational Changes: Confirmation that the show's structure, location (Nashville), and creative direction will remain consistent unless they choose to evolve it further.
- Relationship with Barstool: Assurance that relationships with Barstool personalities remain strong, and there is no ill will despite the departure.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [28:00]: "We have complete creative freedom. We have the ability to do what we want. This is our show."
- Taylor Lewan [29:23]: "Everything in Nashville is remaining intact. We own this bus—it is ours, the equipment's ours."
7. Reflections on Barstool Sports
Will and Taylor reflect on their time with Barstool Sports, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and experiences while also acknowledging the necessity of moving forward independently.
Key Points:
- Growth and Learning: Gaining valuable business insights and professional growth through their partnership with Barstool.
- Memorable Experiences: Highlighting significant moments such as negotiating deals and participating in large-scale content projects.
- Appreciation for Leadership: Acknowledging Dave Portnoy's role in facilitating their creative endeavors and supporting their initial growth.
Notable Quotes:
- Taylor Lewan [08:28]: "I feel very humbled by the experience to be able to be a part of a company like Barstool for as long as we have been."
- Will Compton [09:29]: "We found that Barstool couldn't match the offer. It was like, someone has to truly pull us away."
8. Future Plans and Excitement
The hosts express excitement about their future ventures, emphasizing the potential for growth and the thrill of building something entirely their own. They discuss upcoming initiatives, touring plans, and the limitless possibilities that come with independence.
Key Points:
- New Opportunities: Exploring new partnerships and sponsorships that align with their brand vision.
- Expansion: Potential plans to tour and engage with audiences in different regions, building a broader fan base.
- Content Evolution: Plans to diversify their content, possibly incorporating more mainstream sports media collaborations and expanding their digital presence.
Notable Quotes:
- Will Compton [25:16]: "We're betting on ourselves and we're winning."
- Taylor Lewan [16:39]: "There's a new game about to start, a whole new opportunity for what 'Bussin' With The Boys' can be in the next three to five years."
9. Q&A and Listener Engagement
In the latter part of the episode, the hosts engage in a lively Q&A session, addressing audience queries and sharing personal anecdotes. This segment reinforces their connection with listeners and adds a personable touch to the significant news of their departure.
Key Questions Addressed:
- Employee Transition: Confirmation that all current team members remain with "Bussin' With The Boys" as independent employees.
- Show Structure: Assurance that the show's central format—the "locker room" vibe and dynamic conversations—will remain unchanged.
- Future Content: Discussions about maintaining the show's integrity while embracing new creative directions.
Notable Quotes:
- Mitch [28:00]: "Are you guys going to be bringing the people in the back of the bus along with you?"
- Will Compton [29:45]: "The shop and everything you know about 'Bussin' With The Boys' is remaining intact."
10. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts
The episode wraps up with heartfelt acknowledgments and optimistic outlooks. Will and Taylor reiterate their gratitude towards Barstool Sports and express unwavering confidence in their independent path forward.
Key Points:
- Gratitude: Sincere thanks to Barstool Sports for their support and the opportunities provided.
- Optimism: Strong belief in the future success of "Bussin' With The Boys" as an independent entity.
- Commitment: Continued dedication to producing high-quality content and engaging with their audience.
Notable Quotes:
- Taylor Lewan [26:20]: "We want to leave it better than we found it, with a smile on our faces instead of tears in our eyes."
- Will Compton [25:27]: "We've already won because we're doing something that's just, you know, blessed, man."
Conclusion
In "We Are Leaving Barstool Sports," Will Compton and Taylor Lewan provide an in-depth and transparent explanation of their departure from Barstool Sports. Through candid discussions, personal reflections, and audience engagement, they outline their journey towards independence, emphasizing creative freedom, business growth, and unwavering commitment to their show's essence. The episode strikes a balance between addressing significant career changes and maintaining the engaging, personable tone that "Bussin' With The Boys" is known for, ensuring listeners are well-informed and connected to their path forward.