Netflix Executive Fired After Confession During "Trust" Exercise

Netflix has fired a vice president responsible for creative operations at its subsidiary Eyeline, partly after the executive admitted to receiving ketamine therapy for depression during a company-wide retreat. The termination decision also cited instances of profanity and a drinking stunt during the same event.

The incident occurred in January 2026 at a retreat held at a Netflix-owned property in Northern California. Vice President Kevin Baillie reportedly disclosed his ketamine treatment as part of a "Vulnerability-Trust" exercise. According to court filings, Netflix's company attorney stated that the ketamine therapy issue factored into the termination.

Baillie's legal team contends that the firing was unlawful and that using a legal, prescribed medication as grounds for termination is problematic. Ketamine is a legally prescribed drug used for conditions such as depression under professional medical supervision.

This case highlights the potential pitfalls of mandatory vulnerability exercises in the workplace. While intended to foster openness, such activities can lead to unintended consequences if employees feel compelled to share personal information that may later be used against them.

Experts advise companies to exercise caution with these types of exercises, ensuring that employee disclosures are not used as a basis for disciplinary action or termination. Clear distinctions between professional conduct and personal health matters are crucial.