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Summary

The Diary Of A CEO is a popular podcast hosted by British entrepreneur Steven Bartlett. Launched in 2017, it has become one of the world's most listened-to podcasts, ranking in the top 5 globally on Spotify in 20241. The show features long-form interviews with various guests, including business leaders, celebrities, and experts in different fields.About the HostSteven Bartlett, born on August 26, 1992, is a British-Nigerian entrepreneur, investor, and media personality1. He founded the social media marketing company Social Chain in 2014 and has since ventured into various business endeavors. In 2021, Bartlett joined the BBC One show Dragons' Den as an investor, becoming the youngest "dragon" in the show's history 1.

Podcast Format and Success

The Diary Of A CEO offers in-depth conversations with guests, covering topics such as business, personal development, and health. Notable interviewees have included Simon Cowell, Jada Pinkett Smith, Boris Johnson, and Richard Branson1. The podcast's success has led to live events, with Bartlett hosting discussions in front of large audiences 3.

Recent Controversies

Health Misinformation Concerns

In December 2024, a BBC investigation found that The Diary Of A CEO was amplifying harmful health misinformation 26. The study analyzed 15 health-focused episodes and found an average of 14 misleading health claims per episode1. These claims included:

  • Unsupported treatments for cancer
  • Anti-vaccine conspiracy theories
  • Assertions that conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome and autism can be "reversed" with dietary changes 2

Experts criticized Bartlett for allowing guests to make controversial health claims without sufficient challenge or scrutiny 26. Conflict of Interest IssuesIn 2024, Bartlett faced criticism for failing to disclose his financial interests in companies promoted on his podcast:

  • The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) banned Facebook ads featuring Bartlett promoting Huel and Zoe products without revealing his investor status 6.
  • Bartlett stepped down as director of Huel following the controversy 6.

Dragons' Den Controversy

In 2024, Bartlett invested in "Ear Seeds," an acupuncture product pitched on Dragons' Den that falsely claimed to cure Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) 16.

Response to Criticisms

Bartlett's production company, Flight Studio, defended the podcast, stating that it offers "open-minded, long-form conversation" and includes a range of voices, not just those the team agrees with 614.

Further Reading

For a detailed analysis of the health claims made on The Diary Of A CEO, including expert rebuttals, please read our article: "No, Fibre Isn't Useless – Why Dr Ede's Comments on DOAC Are Wrong" on foodfacts.org 7.

Despite the controversies, The Diary Of A CEO remains a highly popular podcast, reflecting the complex relationship between media influence, health information, and public trust in the digital age.