An Uber Eats driver’s heartfelt video has gone viral, shedding light on the harsh realities of working in the food delivery industry. Smithson Michael, known on TikTok as @itssmithsonmichael, broke down in tears as he shared the frustration of earning just a $1.19 tip after an hour-long delivery.
In the emotional clip, Michael’s pain is palpable. “I wish people knew what it was like to deliver for Uber Eats, Postmates, DoorDash—all these companies,” he says. He recounts the experience of driving for an hour, only to earn a tip that barely covers gas. “Would it hurt y’all to tip us, throw us five dollars? I got a $1.19 tip and two dollars from the app… That’s not even enough to survive.”
@its.smithsonmichael #helpme #ubereatsdriver #traction #positiveforce ♬ Deliverers deserve better – Smithson Michael
Michael’s struggles didn’t end there. In the caption, he revealed that his car was repossessed and sold shortly after he made the video. “If possible, please tip your driver. It goes a long way. You never know how much it means to them,” he urged.
The video quickly gained traction, sparking a heated debate online. While some sympathized with Michael, others were less understanding. One commenter argued, “The food be like $15. Tax, delivery fee, and tip gon bring it to $24. That’s outrageous.”
Still, many rallied behind him. “I’m sorry to hear you’re struggling with this, bro! Sending good vibes your way,” one supporter wrote. Another criticized the notion that delivery drivers should “get a real job,” pointing out that for many, these roles are essential and fit their unique circumstances.
@its.smithsonmichael Reply to @lord13520 This is for my people! We.Will.Win! #positiveforce #traction #ubereatsdriver #dg100 #traction ♬ original sound – Smithson Michael
As the conversation grew, Michael used the spotlight to advocate for better pay and respect for food service workers. “I am the voice of the foodservice industry workers that deserve respect, proper pay, and better treatment,” he tweeted. “No one deserves to work and be paid so little—especially during times when demand is at an all-time high.”
Michael also called out companies like Uber Eats and DoorDash, emphasizing that the responsibility doesn’t lie solely with customers. “Tips are at the discretion of the consumer. But pay and treatment are at the discretion of the companies, and that is who needs the work,” he stated.
I am the voice of the food service industry workers that deserve respect, proper pay, and better treatment. No one deserves to work, and be paid so little. Especially not in an unprecedented time where the demand for these services is at an all-time high.
— its.smithsonmichael (@itssmithson) November 1, 2021
The video not only highlights Michael’s personal struggles but also raises broader questions about how society values those in service roles. Should tipping culture change? Or is it time for companies to step up and ensure their workers earn a livable wage?
What do you think? Share this story with your friends and join the conversation—it’s a debate worth having.
