The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett - podcast cover

The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett

I was a broke, university dropout, at 18 I built an industry leading social media marketing company, and at 27 I resigned as CEO. At 28 I co-founded Flight Story – a marketing and communications company, and thirdweb - a software platform, making it easy to build web3 applications. I then launched private equity fund, Flight Fund, to accelerate the next generation of European unicorns. During this time I decided to launch 'The Diary Of A CEO' podcast with the simple mission of providing an unfiltered journey into the remarkable stories and untold dimensions of the world’s most influential people, experts and thinkers. If you enjoy the show, please hit the follow button! That's a small way you can help us carry on doing this, thank you for listening. My New Book: https://g2ul0.app.link/DOAC IG: https://www.instagram.com/steven LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenbartlett-123

Episodes

Most Replayed Moment: Wim Hof's Simple Breathing Technique For Focus, Tranquility and Resilience

In today's Moments episode, Wim Hof reveals the breathwork exercise that helped him reprogram his mind, boost immunity, and help others around the world to do the same. He breaks down the science behind the breath, coaches us through a short practice, and explains how you can access deeper healing - starting today. Listen to the full episode here - Spotify - https://g2ul0.app.link/Inhudts2vUb Apple - https://g2ul0.app.link/lvgrUqw2vUb Watch the Episodes On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/%20...

Jun 27, 202524 min

Tom Aspinall: The UFC Doesn't Want You To Know This! Jon Jones Wasn't Living Like An Athlete!

BREAKING: Dana White announces Jon Jones retirement…but UFC Heavyweight star Tom Aspinall still wants a title fight. He reveals the truth about Jon Jones’ retirement, and breaks down the champion mindset, fear, and mental toughness required for UFC title fights. Tom Aspinall is the undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion, a top-ranked professional mixed martial artist, and the first British heavyweight in history to claim a UFC title. He was set to face UFC legend Jon Jones until Jones announced his...

Jun 26, 20252 hr 14 min

CEO Diaries: Bozoma Saint John on Growing Through Grief & Leading with Purpose

Bozoma Saint John’s story isn’t just about leading the world’s biggest brands - it’s about surviving unimaginable loss, breaking every “career rule,” and redefining what success really means. In today's episode of CEO Diaries, the former Netflix and Apple CMO reveals why she quit chasing work-life balance, why being selfish saved her, and how personal tragedy shaped her path to the top. Visit - ⁠⁠⁠www.linkedin.com/DOAC⁠⁠ Listen to the full episode here - Spotify - ⁠https://g2ul0.app.link/yzrBsXp...

Jun 25, 202517 min

Buddhist Teacher: No One Is Talking About This Hidden Epidemic! The Western Lie Behind Depression and Anxiety

From 6 years in isolation to sounding the alarm, Buddhist Gelong Thubten reveals the hidden epidemic no one is talking about with Stress, Depression, Buddhism, Meditation, Mental Health and more. Thubten is one of the UK’s most influential meditation teachers, who spent 6 years in isolated meditation retreats, including one which lasted 4 years. He is also the bestselling author of books such as, ‘Handbook for Hard Times: A Monk's Guide to Fearless Living’. He explains: The hidden mental health ...

Jun 23, 20251 hr 53 min

Most Replayed Moment: Instantly Calm Your Anxiety - Dr. Martha Beck

Dr. Martha Beck explains how to calm anxiety by shifting from the left brain's worry loop to the right brain's creative capacity. Learn practical techniques like sensory imagination and mirror writing to quickly soothe your nervous system. Dr. Beck introduces the CAT framework (Calm, Art, Transcendence) as a path to peace, emphasizing treating anxiety gently like a frightened animal and the power of making things to unlock a state of flow.

Jun 20, 202528 min

THE FEMINISM DEBATE: Is Feminism Betraying Women? The Hidden Risk Of Casual Sex!

Has feminism betrayed the very women it promised to empower? Deborah France-White, Louise Perry, and Erica Komisar go head-to-head on the hidden costs of sexual freedom. Deborah Frances-White is a bestselling author and host of The Guilty Feminist podcast, Louise Perry is a journalist and author of The Case Against the Sexual Revolution, and Erica Komisar is a clinical social worker, psychoanalyst, and author of books such as, ‘Chicken Little the Sky Isn't Falling: Raising Resilient Adolescents ...

Jun 19, 20252 hr 28 min

CEO Diaries: The Lessons I Wish I Knew at the Start of My Career…

In this CEO Diaries episode, Steven Bartlett and LinkedIn's CMSO Jessica Jensen discuss key B2B marketing lessons. They explore AI's transformative impact on business workflows and content creation, emphasizing the need for human oversight. They also detail the core principles of effective content and highlight why LinkedIn is the most crucial platform for founders seeking customer acquisition, hiring, and overall business growth.

Jun 18, 202513 min

Godfather of AI: I Tried to Warn Them, But We’ve Already Lost Control! Geoffrey Hinton

AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton discusses the significant risks of AI, distinguishing between misuse by bad actors (cyber attacks, election manipulation, echo chambers, bioweapons, autonomous weapons) and the potential existential threat from superintelligence that could surpass human control. He reflects on his role, the challenges of regulation, increasing wealth inequality, and the unique capabilities of digital AI. Hinton stresses the urgency of prioritizing AI safety research and figuring out how to prevent superintelligence from wanting to harm humanity, despite the uncertainty of success.

Jun 16, 20251 hr 30 min

Most Replayed Moment: Would You Still Love Them If You Came Off The Pill...? Your Hormones Are Controlling You!

Dr. Sarah Hill - psychologist and leading researcher on women's hormones - reveals the ways hormonal birth control can shape attraction, emotion, and long-term relationships. She explains how women’s natural cycles influence who they’re drawn to, how birth control can blunt or shift those instincts, and why this matters for both women and the men they're with. If you've ever wondered why your feelings change - or if the pill could be influencing your type - this conversation is for you. Listen t...

Jun 13, 202529 min

The Sex Expert (Esther Perel): The Relationship Crisis No One Talks About That's Killing Your Sex Life!

Swipe left, feel empty, and wonder why? Esther Perel reveals the hidden truths behind the dating crisis, loneliness, and the shocking decline in sex and intimacy. Esther Perel is a world-renowned psychotherapist and relationship expert, widely recognised as one of today’s most insightful and original voices on modern relationships. She is the bestselling author of books such as, ‘The State of Affairs’. She explains: Why MEN Over 30 Aren’t Having Sex Anymore. The SEX GAME that could Save Your Rel...

Jun 12, 20251 hr 30 min

CEO Diaries: The Mistake That Nearly Derailed MrBeast’s Entire Empire

MrBeast discusses the critical importance of surrounding yourself with 'A-players' when scaling a business and the negative impact of less ambitious team members. He shares insights into the challenges of growing his company from a small team to over 500 employees as a first-time founder, admitting to mistakes made due to inexperience. The conversation also touches upon the difficulties faced by public figures when former employees share negative experiences and how to navigate such situations.

Jun 11, 20259 min

Scooter Braun: The Lie I Chased Almost Broke Me... You’re Probably Chasing It Too!

What happens when you build a billion-dollar music empire, but lose yourself along the way? Music mogul Scooter Braun reveals the raw truth behind his mask. Scooter Braun is a renowned music executive, entrepreneur, and manager behind the careers of global stars like Justin Bieber, amongst many others. He is CEO of HYBE America and founder of SB Projects, a dynamic entertainment and media company. He discusses: The mask he wore as “Scooter” and the journey back to being Scott Why he carries guil...

Jun 09, 20251 hr 54 min

Most Replayed Moment: Chris Williamson Explains Why Finding Love Feels Harder Than Ever.

This episode explores the increasing difficulty of finding relationships in modern society, examining alarming statistics on singlehood and childlessness. It analyzes how the rise in female educational and professional achievement, combined with dating preferences, creates an imbalance in the mating market. This leads to challenges like invisible men and intense competition among women for a smaller pool of partners, causing frustration and retreat from dating for both sexes, emphasizing the need for empathy.

Jun 06, 202512 min

World's No.1 Investing Expert: The Big Shift Is Coming And This Investment Could Be 15x in 5 Years! - Cathie Wood

What if everything you thought you knew about investing is about to change forever? Cathie Wood reveals the best investments to make in 2025 to get rich fast. Cathie Wood is one of the world’s most influential investors, and the founder and CEO of ARK Invest. She oversees nearly $30 billion in assets under management and is renowned for her bold predictions and investment strategies in technology-driven industries. She explains: How there’s only 5 years until everything changes, and what you mus...

Jun 05, 20251 hr 43 min

CEO Diaries: The Brutal Mistake That Almost Crippled Snapchat!

Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel reflects on the critical hiring mistakes that nearly crippled the company, such as overvaluing experience over adaptability. He dives into Snapchat's core values of Kind, Smart, and Creative, explaining why kindness is crucial for a creative culture and differentiating it from merely being nice, especially regarding feedback. Spiegel also discusses the importance of T-shaped leadership and offers advice on making and fixing decisions, plus the challenges of maintaining culture during rapid scaling.

Jun 04, 202516 min

Jimmy Fallon: I Wasn’t Prepared For The Hate… It Was Brutal. I Was Starving, Living on $7.25!

Jimmy Fallon discusses his journey from a people-pleasing altar boy with a strict upbringing to becoming the host of The Tonight Show. He opens up about his relentless obsession with joining Saturday Night Live, the struggles with rejection, poverty, and mental health during his early career in LA, and the emotional moment he achieved his dream. Jimmy also shares insights on coping with fame and criticism, the profound impact of his mother's death, his diverse business ventures driven by a desire to make people happy, and how becoming a father changed his perspective on life.

Jun 02, 20251 hr 41 min

Most Replayed Moment: The Science Of Building Muscle Faster With Smarter Training - Dr. Mike Israetel

Dr. Mike Israetel breaks down the science of muscle growth and how to maximize your gains. Whether you’re new or experienced, learn key hypertrophy principles, effective training frequency, and why you don’t need endless gym hours to see results. Plus, discover how muscle memory helps you bounce back after breaks. Listen to the full episode here - Spotify - https://g2ul0.app.link/yjVHL6vrLTb Apple - https://g2ul0.app.link/qaWpqCyrLTb Watch the Episodes On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/%20T...

May 30, 202517 min

Your Toes Can Predict If You'll Die Early And Heres's How To Fix Your Plantar Fasciitis! - Dr. Courtney Conley (Foot Expert)

What if the secret to fixing back pain, avoiding dementia, and living longer is…your feet? Dr. Courtney Conley breaks down why your shoes are failing you. Dr Courtney Conley is a physician specialising in foot and gait mechanics. She is the founder of ‘Gait Happens’ and ‘Total Health Solutions’, where she aims to educate people about the importance of the human foot to overall health. She explains: How foot pain leads to emotional distress, depression, and inactivity How 500 extra steps a day ca...

May 29, 20251 hr 32 min

CEO Diaries: Airbnb’s Founder Brian Chesky on Brutal Rejection, Great Leadership, and The Biggest Mistake Founders Make!

Airbnb founder Brian Chesky joins Steven Bartlett to share the unfiltered story of Airbnb's beginnings, starting with a brutal early rejection letter. They explore the resilience required for the entrepreneurial journey, the unique role and challenges faced by founders, and why building a strong company culture is ultimately more critical than product or profit. Brian details how culture is not just a list of values but a living, designed system driven by shared actions and leadership examples.

May 28, 202514 min

Simon Sinek: You're Being Lied To About AI's Real Purpose And We're Teaching Our Kids To Not Be Human!

Simon Sinek joins Steven Bartlett to discuss the profound impact of AI on human connection and skills. They explore how technology shifts focus from the journey to the destination, diminishing the value of struggle and imperfection. The conversation covers the rise of loneliness, the importance of authenticity, building community, prioritizing relationships, and embracing vulnerability. Sinek emphasizes that human skills, like friendship and emotional intelligence, are becoming more critical than ever in a world increasingly shaped by automation and superficial interactions.

May 26, 20252 hr 8 min

Most Replayed Moment: How to Know If You're Being Gaslit by a Narcissist And What to Do About It: Dr Ramani Durvasula

Dr. Ramani Durvasula explains the toxic and insidious nature of narcissistic abuse and gaslighting. In this powerful conversation, learn the psychological tactics narcissists use, from denying your reality to invalidating your experiences, and how to reclaim your sense of self in the face of manipulation. Listen to the full episode here - Spotify - https://g2ul0.app.link/iSxOEXrTzTb Apple - https://g2ul0.app.link/JjQg2rvTzTb Watch the Episodes On YouTube ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/%20TheDiaryOfA...

May 23, 202518 min

How Alcohol Rewires Your Brain and Increases Cancer Risk by 40%! The Alcohol Doctor, Dr. Sarah Wakeman

Are you unknowingly damaging your brain and raising your cancer risk with just one drink? Discover the alarming truth about alcohol from Dr. Sarah Wakeman, what every adult needs to know now. Dr. Sarah Wakeman is senior medical director for substance use disorder at Mass General Brigham healthcare system, the number one research system in the U.S. She is also the Medical Director of the Mass General Hospital Addiction Consult Team and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Sh...

May 22, 20251 hr 48 min

CEO Diaries: LinkedIn Founder Reid Hoffman: The Truth About Elon, Zuck, & Building Great Companies!

Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, discusses his experiences with various entrepreneurs, contrasting different leadership styles, particularly that of Elon Musk. He highlights how approaches to hiring, team building, and personal values differ among successful founders like Anil Busri and Mark Zuckerberg. The conversation explores the inherent trade-offs involved in building companies at scale and the impact on teams and individuals.

May 21, 202510 min

We Can Now Reverse Stage 4 Cancer & These Foods Are Spreading It! Dr. William Li (Chronic Disease Expert)

Dr. William Li, a medical scientist, discusses how diet and lifestyle influence chronic diseases. He explains how the body's natural defense systems, like immunity and blood vessels, fight microscopic cancers and other illnesses. Dr. Li highlights foods and habits that compromise or enhance these defenses, touches on rising young cancer rates, microplastics, and the science behind intermittent fasting, specific foods, and even the gut-brain axis, offering practical, science-backed strategies for leveraging food and lifestyle for lifelong health.

May 19, 20252 hr 7 min

Most Replayed Moment: Mo Gawdat - This Is The Only Thing That Will Survive AI, We Must Act Now!

As AI rapidly advances, Mo Gawdat shares a candid and thoughtful exploration of what the future holds for humanity. From AI’s growing intelligence and its impact on creativity to the looming disruption of jobs and society, this top moment challenges us to rethink our role in a world where machines might outsmart us. Mo also reflects on the irreplaceable value of human connection and the need to prepare for a future shaped by technology. Whether you’re excited or worried about AI, this conversati...

May 16, 202523 min

The Truth About Creatine, Belly Fat, and Getting Shredded! Jeff Cavaliere (The Muscle Expert)

Jeff Cavalier discusses science-based training, debunking fitness myths, and longevity, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to health. He shares insights on creatine, fat loss, nutrition, and functional movements, stressing the need for mobility, stability, and flexibility. Jeff also addresses the impact of modern lifestyles on posture and provides practical tips for improving overall well-being, promoting a balanced and sustainable fitness journey.

May 15, 20252 hr 17 min

AI AGENTS EMERGENCY DEBATE: These Jobs Won't Exist In 24 Months! Containment Has Failed, We Must Prepare For What's Coming!

This episode features a debate on the transformative potential and terrifying warning signs of AI, discussing its impact on jobs, creative industries, and human consciousness. The conversation explores ethical considerations, skills for the AI-powered future, and how to harness AI's power responsibly, offering both optimistic and cautionary perspectives. Ultimately, the panel grapples with how to prepare for a future radically reshaped by AI.

May 12, 20252 hr 34 min

Moment 212: The Dangerous Truth Behind “Sugar Free”!

“Zero sugar” doesn’t mean zero damage. Dr. Robert Lustig exposes how the food industry misleads you with health claims while quietly fuelling obesity and chronic disease. From insulin-spiking sweeteners to mislabeled packaging, this moment unpacks the deception behind so-called healthy foods - and what you should actually be eating instead. Listen to the full episode here - Spotify - https://g2ul0.app.link/KhJ5MG5BcTb Apple - https://g2ul0.app.link/Drk2qW9BcTb Watch the Episodes On YouTube - htt...

May 09, 202526 min

Chris Eubank Jr: I Was Paid $**** For The Fight! The Night Before, My Dad Finally Opened Up!

He silenced the critics, defied the odds, and walked through fire - Chris Eubank Jr. tells the full story of one of 2025’s most unforgettable fights. Chris Eubank Jr. is a world-class professional boxer, middleweight contender, and son of the legendary former professional boxer, Chris Eubank Sr. In April 2025, he won against Connor Benn in one of the most highly anticipated fights in British boxing history. He discusses: Why he refused to shake Conor Benn’s hand. Why the fight almost collapsed t...

May 08, 20251 hr 50 min

The Woman That Makes Millionaires: They're Lying About Work Life Balance! I Built SKIMS Without Fashion Knowledge!

She turned hustle into a $4 billion brand, Emma Grede breaks down how she built Kardashian fashion empires Emma Grede is the founding partner behind the globally successful brands SKIMS, Good American, and Safely, all launched with the Kardashian family. She is also Chairwoman of The Fifteen Percent Pledge, is a board member at Baby2Baby, and was named one of Forbes ‘Richest Self-Made Women in America’. She explains: Growing up in East London, raised by a single mother, and how early hardship fo...

May 05, 20252 hr 16 min
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
Open in Metacast