Welcome To The Heartland: Todd McComas
For those of you who are fans of The Pat McAfee Show, you may know Todd McComas as one of the best ad readers in realm of podcasting. You may know him for his legendary cop stories in the popular segment, “Behind the Badge.” What you may not know is how he got to become an integral part of the podcast and an important piece of the Barstool Heartland puzzle that is being put together in the beautiful city of Indianapolis.
“I was a detective with the Indiana State Police for 21 years,” said McComas. “I was undercover which I spent the greatest amount of my career doing in the narcotics unit.”
When McComas met Pat he was working on a fugitive task force where he hunted down bad guys no one else could find. At the time, McComas was a touring stand up comedian and part owner of three comedy clubs in the midwest. When Pat booked a show for NBC sports at one of his clubs, they had an instant connection because of their story telling comedy styles. Pat was fond of McComas’ comedy and asked him if he wanted to be his opener for a few shows in theaters around Indiana.
Toward the end of Winter 2016, Pat approached McComas about possibly retiring and starting his own business.
“Pat wanted to start an internet media company.” said McComas. “Basically it’s what we’re doing now at Barstool Heartland, but it would’ve been run on it’s own app without the blogging, just strictly video production, and he asked me if I would want to help with it.”
Pat and McComas worked for about four months getting the business ready. They had an app created and they were planning their shows. They had a talent show in the works, a sitcom, a movie, and other content ideas then one day Dave Portnoy called Pat. Portnoy talked to him about the potential of joining Barstool at the end of his NFL career. (little did Portnoy know that was happening MUCH quicker than he thought) That is when Pat asked McComas if he would like to join.
“I was like let me think about it, Yup!” I was over police work, I was kind of burnt out on it and I was a comedian.” said McComas. “I just wanted to be funny and work on creative stuff everyday. I did not know exactly what it was going to consist of.”
McComas is the Vice President of Barstool Heartland where he does a little bit of everything.
“Anything that Pat tells me that needs to be done, I do. I help facilitate all of the ideas and projects Barstool Heartland has.” said McComas. “I deal with most of the things Pat doesn’t have time for. He is very hands on, he wants in the mix on everything, but he doesn’t have time to deal with all the minor details. I deal with a lot of those and let him know whats what.”
McComas believes with Pat leading the charge, there are no limits as to what this company can become.
“We’re gaining ground exponentially every month, as far as building a fan base.” said McComas. “Fortunately the people we have found intern wise and full time employees are phenomenal. With Pat at the helm, his popularity is growing so fast because he is so relatable to people. His magic power is that everyone can relate to him. We’re enjoying it everyday, and so far I love my decision to chase my dream here in the Heartland.”
Follow @BarstoolHrtland and @toddmccomas
Written by @JakeBass657