Steven Bartlett has become one of the most dynamic business figures in the UK, transforming from a university dropout to a multimillionaire entrepreneur, investor, and media personality. At just 32 years old in 2025, Bartlett has amassed a net worth of $50 million, driven by his ventures in social media, Web3, publishing, and broadcasting. His ability to connect with audiences and investors alike has made him a household name, particularly after his addition to Dragons’ Den in 2021.
Early Life and Background
Steven Cliff Bartlett was born on August 26, 1992, in Botswana to a Nigerian mother and an English father. His family moved to Plymouth, England, when he was just two years old, giving him a multicultural upbringing that shaped his worldview. His mother’s life story deeply influenced him—she left school at the age of seven and could not read or write—while his father worked steadily as a structural engineer.
Bartlett attended Plymstock School but was expelled during sixth form. Later, he briefly enrolled at Manchester Metropolitan University but dropped out after attending just one lecture, realizing that academic life wasn’t the right path for him. Despite this, his ambition was clear early on, and he began exploring business opportunities almost immediately.
First Steps into Entrepreneurship
In 2013, Bartlett launched his first company, Wallpark, an online student message board. While Wallpark never grew into a global success, it gave him essential experience in building digital communities.
His big breakthrough came the following year in 2014 when he co-founded Social Chain with Dominic McGregor. The company specialized in social media marketing and quickly attracted major clients who wanted to reach younger audiences online. Bartlett’s instinctive understanding of social platforms made Social Chain one of Europe’s fastest-growing media groups.
By 2019, Social Chain had merged with German retailer Lumaland to form The Social Chain AG, valued at €186 million at the time. Listed on the Düsseldorf Stock Exchange, its value climbed past $200 million, and by 2021, the company reached an estimated $600 million market cap on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.
Career Highs and Business Ventures
Despite the growth, Bartlett stepped down as CEO of Social Chain in 2020. However, he kept a significant shareholding and maintained strategic ties with the company. Surprisingly, in 2023, Social Chain was acquired for just £7.7 million, a dramatic drop from its earlier valuation.
Far from being defined by Social Chain alone, Bartlett expanded into other ventures. In 2020, he launched Catena Capital, a private equity company, and soon after joined the nutrition brand Huel as a non-executive director.
Perhaps his most notable new project has been Thirdweb, a Web3 development platform. Launched in 2021, Thirdweb raised $5 million in seed investment and later secured an additional $24 million during Series A, valuing the startup at $160 million. His success in tech demonstrates his ability to stay ahead of digital trends and emerging industries.
Bartlett also established Flight Group, which includes Flight Fund, Flight Books, Flight Story, and Flight Studio. These ventures combine his interests in media, finance, and business growth, further cementing his status as a versatile entrepreneur.
Media Success and The Diary of a CEO
In 2017, Bartlett started a podcast, The Diary of a CEO, initially as a personal experiment. Over time, it became one of the most popular podcasts globally. By 2024, it was ranked among the top five most listened-to shows on Spotify. The podcast features in-depth conversations with leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs, offering insights into both business and personal growth.
His books have also been well received. His debut, Happy Sexy Millionaire (2021), made it onto the Sunday Times bestseller list, while his second book, The Diary of a CEO: The 33 Laws of Business and Life (2023), was shortlisted for the British Book Awards’ Book of the Year. Both works reflect his philosophy on success and self-improvement, drawing from his own unconventional path.
Family, Personal Life, and Age
At 32, Steven Bartlett is not only known for his professional success but also for his personal charm and relatability. Though he has kept details of his romantic relationships largely private, he often shares aspects of his personal life with fans through interviews and social media. He has mentioned owning a seven-year-old French bulldog named after Kanye West’s The Life of Pablo album.
Before his rise in business, Bartlett even tried his hand at music, performing under the stage name “Lyricist.” In 2019, he appeared on Channel 4’s The Secret Teacher, where he went undercover as a teacher to better understand the challenges in education.
He is also committed to social issues. In 2023, Bartlett joined Prince William’s homelessness initiative Homewards and accompanied the future king on royal visits across Bournemouth. His advocacy highlights his dedication to using his platform for social good.
Achievements and Recognition
In recognition of his business success and cultural influence, Bartlett was inducted into the Manchester Hall of Fame in 2020. His influence stretches across business, media, and philanthropy, making him one of the most respected young entrepreneurs in the UK.
As the youngest-ever investor on Dragons’ Den, Bartlett brought a fresh perspective to the long-running show. His presence has resonated with younger viewers and aspiring entrepreneurs, many of whom see him as proof that unconventional paths can lead to extraordinary success.
Conclusion
Steven Bartlett’s journey is one of bold risks, resilience, and constant reinvention. From dropping out of university to building companies worth hundreds of millions and creating one of the world’s top podcasts, his story is an inspiration for a new generation of entrepreneurs. With a net worth of $50 million at age 32, Bartlett has already achieved more than many do in a lifetime, yet his ambitions continue to grow. Whether through his investments, his podcast, or his advocacy, he is shaping both business and culture in the UK and beyond.
