Steven Bartlett: ‘i’m Less Than 1% Into My Journey’

Steven Bartlett: The Journey of a Creator Economy Entrepreneur

Business magnate Steven Bartlett continues to make waves in the startup and podcasting worlds. His latest venture, Steven.com, recently secured an eight-figure investment valued at $425 million (£320 million). This deal positions Bartlett as a key player in the burgeoning creator economy, aiming to build a business that could rival the cultural impact of Disney.

International Expansion and Independence

The newly established entity is headquartered in the United States and serves as the parent company for Bartlett’s existing businesses, including FlightStory. This move marks an important step in his plans to expand internationally, particularly into America. According to Bartlett, this strategic decision allows him and his teams to maintain full independence, with Bartlett retaining more than 90% ownership of the company.

Vision for the Creator Economy

Bartlett envisions a future where individual creators have unprecedented reach and value, much like how Disney’s iconic characters define an era. He believes that by commercializing and scaling IP from creators, he can establish a powerhouse in the creator economy. “The business we’re building here is called Flight,” Bartlett explains. “Diary Of A CEO is one such IP. Flight is the company and within it you have FlightStory, which is the media business, and you have Flight Fund, which really focuses on ventures.” His goal is to create a world around these creators, scaling their reach, audience, and community.

AI Technology in Content Creation

Bartlett is also at the forefront of integrating AI into content production. He sees it as a tool to bring down costs while maintaining quality output. “The way we use AI is to bring down the cost of content production,” Bartlett states, adding that he believes AI will revolutionize media industries by making production more efficient. However, he acknowledges the need for human expertise in directing these tools effectively.

Expanding Reach and Vision

Bartlett’s vision extends beyond podcasting; it encompasses a wide range of businesses, including his investment in Perfect Ted, a matcha brand. His approach to business allocation is driven by personal enjoyment rather than solely financial return, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance. “I speak to them every single day,” Bartlett says about Perfect Ted’s founders, highlighting his commitment to daily interaction.

Bartlett’s company, Steven.com, is already making significant strides in podcasting innovation with tools like Davina McCall’s podcast ‘Begin Again’ and the animated junior version of DOAC. These initiatives reflect his belief that AI can democratize content creation, making it more accessible and cost-effective for creators.

The Future of Creator Economy Leadership

As Bartlett looks ahead, he remains committed to building a business that will endure long after his involvement. His strategic decisions, including the international expansion and the incorporation of AI technology, underscore his vision for the future of content creation. With an estimated $425 million in backing and a clear roadmap, it seems likely that Steven.com is poised to become a leader in the creator economy.

Bartlett’s journey so far has been marked by rapid growth and innovation.

As he continues to navigate the complexities of building a business with Disney-like potential, his vision for the future remains unshakable. Whether or not he achieves that goal, Steven Bartlett’s story is one of relentless pursuit and visionary leadership in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and media.