Steven Bartlett
“The most convincing sign that someone will achieve new results in the future is new behaviour in the present.” – Steven Bartlett
Steven Bartlett is a British entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his rapid rise in the business world and his engaging approach to business and personal development. Born in Botswana and raised in Plymouth, England, Bartlett left university at age 18 to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions. In 2014, he co-founded Social Chain, a social media marketing agency that became a leader in the field, known for innovative campaigns targeting Gen Z and millennial audiences. The company grew quickly, ultimately going public in 2019, with Bartlett serving as its CEO.
As the youngest-ever investor on the UK television show Dragon’s Den, Bartlett has expanded his influence to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs. His down-to-earth personality, combined with his candid style, resonates with many, especially young audiences who look up to his unorthodox path to success. Through his podcast, The Diary of a CEO, Bartlett interviews leading figures across industries, exploring themes of success, failure, mental health, and resilience, providing insights into the minds of some of the world’s most successful people.
Bartlett is also the author of Happy Sexy Millionaire, a memoir that delves into his life journey and explores the misconceptions around happiness and success. He challenges the traditional ideas of material wealth as a marker of success, instead emphasising emotional fulfilment, mental health, and personal growth. His work in self-development and his open conversations about mental health have earned him a large following on social media, where he continues to share lessons from his journey.
Bartlett’s story is celebrated not just as a business success, but as a voice for authenticity and resilience in the entrepreneurial world, making him a modern influencer in both business and personal growth spaces.
The Body Of Work
Steven Bartlett's body of work spans entrepreneurship, personal development, social media influence, and mental health advocacy, making him a multi-dimensional figure with broad impact. His notable works include:
1. Social Chain
Bartlett co-founded Social Chain in 2014, a pioneering social media marketing agency that rapidly became influential in shaping digital campaigns for global brands. His work with Social Chain focused on leveraging social media to engage Gen Z and millennial audiences, achieving high visibility and creativity in brand marketing. The company went public in 2019, marking a major milestone in Bartlett’s career and solidifying his position as a leading digital entrepreneur.
2. The Diary of a CEO Podcast
Bartlett’s podcast, The Diary of a CEO, is a platform where he interviews industry leaders, celebrities, and visionaries across sectors. The show has become widely popular, known for its candid conversations that explore the complexities of success, mental health, and the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial journey. His interviews with guests like Ben Francis, Wim Hof, and Mo Gawdat offer listeners insights into both professional achievements and personal struggles.
3. Happy Sexy Millionaire (Book)
In his memoir, Happy Sexy Millionaire, Bartlett examines the myths surrounding happiness and success, challenging the notion that wealth alone equates to fulfilment. Through reflections on his personal experiences, he advocates for a redefined perspective on success—one that values mental health, self-acceptance, and emotional well-being. His book has resonated with many young readers who seek a more balanced approach to personal and professional achievements.
4. Dragon's Den
In 2021, Bartlett joined the UK’s Dragon’s Den as the youngest-ever “Dragon,” bringing a fresh perspective to the show. His presence has helped the series connect with younger audiences, as he invests in promising entrepreneurs, shares insights on modern business strategies, and provides mentorship to up-and-coming business owners.
5. Social Media and Public Speaking
Bartlett is also active on social media, where he regularly shares advice on business, mental health, and self-development with millions of followers. His authentic and motivational posts have solidified his role as a social influencer and advocate for personal growth.
Together, these works reflect Bartlett’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit, mental wellness, and redefining traditional success. His contributions inspire young entrepreneurs and those seeking purpose in their personal and professional lives.
Big Takeaways
Here are five major takeaways from Steven Bartlett’s work and philosophy:
1. Redefining Success Beyond Wealth
In Happy Sexy Millionaire, Bartlett advocates for redefining success to prioritise fulfilment, mental health, and meaningful connections over purely financial achievements. He argues that wealth doesn’t guarantee happiness and encourages people to focus on purpose-driven goals and emotional well-being.
2. Authenticity and Vulnerability are Powerful
Bartlett emphasises authenticity, especially on social media, where he candidly shares both his achievements and struggles. Through his podcast The Diary of a CEO, he demonstrates that vulnerability can foster deeper connections and inspire others. This approach resonates strongly with his audience, showcasing that genuine personal experiences can be as impactful as professional success.
3. Entrepreneurial Resilience
Bartlett’s journey is marked by resilience and learning through failure. He openly discusses his experiences with setbacks, highlighting that resilience isn’t just about "bouncing back" but about learning and adapting. His approach to challenges as growth opportunities offer a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs facing their obstacles.
4. The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
A consistent advocate for mental health, Bartlett integrates mental health discussions into his business conversations. Through his work and writing, he destigmatises seeking help and encourages others to prioritise mental well-being, especially in high-stress fields like entrepreneurship.
5. Building Meaningful Relationships and Networks
Bartlett stresses the value of strong professional and personal relationships. His success with Social Chain and his podcast is a testament to the power of networking and collaboration. He advises people to surround themselves with mentors, friends, and colleagues who inspire and challenge them, fostering growth and opportunities.
Together, these takeaways offer insights into achieving success with a balanced, holistic approach, encouraging audiences to pursue meaningful and sustainable personal and professional growth.