When a team of NPR journalists approached Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, for an interview, he was taken aback. “If you told me I’d be on NPR and in a political leaning podcast like five years ago, I’d be like: You’re crazy,” he said during a conversation in a podcast studio near his home in Miami.
Portnoy’s rise to fame coincided with the internet and sports gambling boom. Barstool podcasts are filled with gambling ads, and as the creator, Portnoy has amassed significant wealth, owning homes in Nantucket and Miami, and making high-stakes bets on football games and cryptocurrency. Despite his success, he has faced criticism for controversial remarks about unions, race, women, and other sensitive topics, which he claims were meant as jokes. He even engaged in a legal battle with Business Insider over allegations of sexual misconduct, which was ultimately dismissed in 2023.
As a prominent figure catering to a predominantly male audience, Portnoy is often associated with the “manosphere,” a group of internet personalities that resonate with male voters’ interests and grievances.
Portnoy’s interview with Morning Edition is part of a series that aims to delve into the lives of controversial or influential figures, offering a deeper understanding beyond the surface perception shaped by national discourse. Previous guests have included Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, podcaster Steve Bannon, and Harvard president Alan Garber.
Here are some key takeaways from the interview:
Culture and Attitudes Matter
Portnoy emphasized that his support for Trump was more a critique of the Democrats than an endorsement of Trump’s policies. He criticized what he perceived as excessive “woke politics” and a tendency to shame men, including himself.
Differing Views on Issues
While Portnoy aligns more with Democrats on certain issues like abortion rights and immigration, he acknowledges differences with the Trump administration’s stance. He advocates for a more lenient approach towards productive members of society who are not legally present.
Success and Perceived Judgement
Portnoy highlighted his journey from starting Barstool as a small sports gambling newspaper to building a successful business. He expressed frustration at feeling shamed for being a white individual striving for financial success and a fulfilling life.
Evolving Language and Controversies
Portnoy acknowledged past use of offensive language and inappropriate behavior, attributing it to a different era. He has since distanced himself from such actions and has taken a stand against discriminatory language in his own establishments.
Political Flexibility
Despite his leaning towards conservative views, Portnoy stated that he has voted for Democrats in the past and remains open to supporting candidates from across the political spectrum. He emphasized the importance of not being judged solely based on language or opinions.
