In a world where podcasting has become a lucrative industry, Steven Bartlett stands out as a trailblazer who rejected a $100 million deal to build his podcast empire, FlightStory, on his own terms. As the founder and host of The Diary of a CEO, Bartlett has accumulated over 10 million YouTube subscribers and 20 million social media followers, making his show one of the most popular podcasts in the world, second only to Joe Rogan.
What started in 2017 as a hobby to delve into the minds of other CEOs quickly turned into a sensation, with over 1 billion streams and 50 million monthly listeners in December alone. Bartlett’s podcast has featured a diverse range of guests, from comedian Trevor Noah to self-help experts and YouTube sensations, attracting a massive audience and generating $20 million in revenue in 2024.
Despite offers from major media networks, Bartlett made the bold decision to reject lucrative contracts and pursue his vision independently. He believed that he could innovate and experiment more effectively on his own, rather than being constrained by traditional partnerships. This decision led him to establish Flight Story, a studio focused on producing multiple podcasts and creating commercial opportunities for hosts through book deals, speaking engagements, and merchandising.
Flight Story’s success lies in its data-heavy strategy, with Bartlett keen on capitalizing on artificial intelligence to drive growth and expand their offerings. As the studio continues to scale and develop new shows, Bartlett remains committed to building a podcast empire that prioritizes innovation and autonomy.
In a landscape dominated by media giants and mega deals, Steven Bartlett’s story is a testament to the power of independence and creativity in shaping the future of podcasting. As Flight Story continues to soar, it serves as a reminder that success can be achieved on one’s own terms, even in an industry as competitive as podcasting.
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Video “Diary Of A CEO Founder Rejected A $100M Deal To Build Podcast Empire FlightStory On His Own Terms” was uploaded on 04/21/2025 to Dailymotion Channel Forbes