Steven Bartlett is one of the most notable entrepreneurs of our generation, boasting a net worth of $50 million. Known for his work as the founder of Social Chain, a groundbreaking social media marketing agency, and the Web3 platform Thirdweb, Bartlett’s journey is a remarkable tale of determination, innovation, and resilience. As of 2025, Steven Bartlett has become an influential voice in the entrepreneurial landscape, from hosting a globally recognized podcast to investing in groundbreaking startups.
Early Life: A Multicultural Beginning
Steven Cliff Bartlett was born on August 26, 1992, in Botswana to a Nigerian mother and an English father. His mother had a challenging upbringing, leaving school at the age of seven and unable to read or write, while his father worked as a structural engineer. The Bartlett family moved to Plymouth, England, when Steven was just two years old. Growing up in a working-class household shaped Steven’s ambition and resilience.
Despite being expelled from Plymstock School during his sixth form and later dropping out of Manchester Metropolitan University after attending only one lecture, Steven Bartlett always dreamed big. These early experiences cultivated a strong sense of self-belief that would define his career.
Career: From Social Chain to Thirdweb
Steven Bartlett began his entrepreneurial journey in 2013 with the launch of Wallpark, an online messaging platform for students. However, it was his co-founding of Social Chain in 2014 that catapulted him into the spotlight. Alongside Dominic McGregor, Bartlett built Social Chain into a powerhouse in social media marketing, leveraging platforms like Facebook and Twitter to create viral campaigns for brands. By 2019, Social Chain went public with a valuation exceeding $200 million. Under his leadership, the company achieved a valuation of $600 million on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange in 2021.
In 2020, Steven stepped down as CEO of Social Chain but maintained a significant equity stake in the company. In 2023, however, Social Chain was sold for just £7.7 million, a surprising turn of events for a company once valued in the hundreds of millions. Despite this, Steven Bartlett’s influence in the digital world has only grown.
In addition to Social Chain, Bartlett co-founded Thirdweb, a Web3 development platform that has seen impressive success. Within nine months of its launch, Thirdweb raised $5 million in seed funding and later achieved a $160 million valuation during its Series A funding round. Bartlett also launched Catena Capital, a private equity firm, and became a non-executive director at the meal replacement company Huel.
Podcast Success: “The Diary of a CEO”
Steven Bartlett launched his podcast, The Diary of a CEO, in 2017. Known for its raw and unfiltered conversations, the podcast has become one of the most popular business shows worldwide. In 2024, it was recognized as one of Spotify’s top five podcasts globally. Featuring interviews with industry leaders and public figures, the podcast offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth.
Bartlett’s ability to connect with his audience authentically has made him a beloved figure among aspiring entrepreneurs. His candid discussions about mental health, failure, and self-doubt resonate deeply with listeners, further solidifying his influence.
Books: Bestsellers and Awards
Steven Bartlett has authored two books: Happy Sexy Millionaire (2021) and The Diary of a CEO: The 33 Laws of Business and Life (2023). His debut book, Happy Sexy Millionaire, became a Sunday Times bestseller, while The Diary of a CEO was nominated for the British Book Awards’ Book of the Year.
Both books offer readers a glimpse into Bartlett’s mindset, with lessons on achieving success, maintaining authenticity, and redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life.
Dragons’ Den and Investments
In 2021, Steven Bartlett made history as the youngest investor on BBC’s Dragons’ Den. His digital-first approach and fresh perspective brought a new energy to the show. Bartlett’s investments span a variety of sectors, including tech startups, sustainability-focused brands, and businesses led by underrepresented founders. His portfolio reflects his commitment to empowering innovative entrepreneurs and supporting impactful ideas.
Steven Bartlett Net Worth Breakdown: How He Built $50 Million
| Source | Details |
|---|---|
| Social Chain | Co-founder and CEO; the company was valued at $600 million before his departure. |
| Thirdweb | Co-founder; valued at $160 million during its Series A funding round. |
| Flight Group | Includes Flight Fund, Flight Books, Flight Story, and Flight Studio. |
| Podcast Revenue | Host of The Diary of a CEO, one of the top five podcasts on Spotify in 2024. |
| Books | Author of two bestsellers, Happy Sexy Millionaire and The Diary of a CEO. |
| Dragons’ Den Investments | Youngest investor in the history of the show, with a diverse portfolio of innovative startups. |
Controversies
Steven Bartlett’s success hasn’t come without criticism. He has faced backlash for his comments on mental health and hustle culture, with critics accusing him of promoting toxic productivity. Additionally, early tactics used by Social Chain, such as creating fake viral trends, raised ethical concerns. Bartlett, however, remains unapologetic, often addressing these controversies directly.
Personal Life
Steven Bartlett keeps his personal life relatively private. He has spoken about his struggles with mental health and the pressures of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of transparency and self-awareness. Despite his fame, Bartlett remains grounded, attributing much of his success to the values instilled in him by his parents.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Bartlett is deeply committed to social causes, including mental health awareness and diversity in business. His philanthropic efforts focus on empowering underserved communities and promoting equality.
Conclusion: The Journey Ahead
Steven Bartlett’s journey from a university dropout to a self-made millionaire is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and authenticity. With a net worth of $50 million, he continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, proving that success isn’t just about wealth—it’s about impact, purpose, and living authentically.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and reflects publicly available information as of January 2025. Steven Bartlett’s net worth and achievements are subject to change over time.
