Synopsis
In this captivating story of Steven Bartlett, you’ll delve into the life of a British-Nigerian entrepreneur who defies norms, challenges, and stereotypes. From his early days as a college dropout to the founder of groundbreaking startups, Bartlett’s journey unfolds as a lesson in tenacity and self-belief.
Through triumphs and tribulations, Bartlett co-founds Social Chain, a social media marketing phenomenon that reshapes the corporate landscape. Unveiling his own podcast, “The Diary of a CEO,” he invites listeners to embrace vulnerability and self-improvement.
Introduction
In a world where entrepreneurship is the heartbeat of innovation and success, one name stands out as a beacon of inspiration and ingenuity – Steven Bartlett. This is not just a story of a young entrepreneur; it’s a journey of relentless determination, turning adversity into advantage, and breaking barriers with every step. Strap in, because this is a tale of ambition, resilience, and the art of turning dreams into reality.
1. Who Is Steven Bartlett?
Meet the incredible Steven Cliff Bartlett, a true entrepreneur and podcaster sensation. Born on August 26, 1992, this guy is a British-Nigerian dynamo with a background as unique as his ventures. Picture this: born in Botswana to an English father and a Nigerian mother. Talk about a melting pot of awesomeness, right?
Now, Steven didn’t just pop out of nowhere. He lands on planet Earth with a splash and grew up in Plymouth, England. Secondary school? Check. Plymstock School is where he rocks his early education, then a stint at Manchester Metropolitan University. But here’s the kicker: he drops out after just one lecture. Who needs a lecture when you’re destined for greatness, right?
Entrepreneur extraordinaire? You bet! Steven is the mastermind behind Thirdweb, Flight Story, and Flight Story Fund. But wait, there’s more. He co-founds and is the co-CEO of Social Chain, shaking up the marketing universe. And even though he steps away from the co-CEO gig in December 2020, his impact keeps echoing.
But that’s not all! Steven isn’t just about the business realm. He’s like a superhero investor on the BBC One show “Dragons’ Den,” swooping in to champion fresh ideas. And hey, have you heard of “The Diary of a CEO” podcast? Yep, he’s the charismatic host sharing nuggets of wisdom, leadership insights, and thoughts on success. And he never fails to emphasize that sentiment of “I said what I said” which is also the name of a podcast by two Nigerian ladies, Jolla and Fayikemi.
So there you have it, the whirlwind of awesomeness that is Steven Bartlett.
2. What Makes Steven Bartlett So Special?
Ladies and gentlemen, take a moment to marvel at the whirlwind of awesomeness that is Steven Bartlett. What makes him special? Hold onto your hats because it’s quite the ride:
- College Dropout Turned Entrepreneurial Maverick: Imagine dropping out of college and not only surviving but thriving in the world of business. Yep, that’s Steven. He waves goodbye to lecture halls and textbooks, and oh boy, did he find his true calling.
- Leadership Extraordinaire: This guy isn’t just leading; he’s leading with style. Picture this: a global squad of over 700 innovators dancing to his entrepreneurial beat. For four years, they’ve been crafting social brands for giants like Apple, Amazon, Coca-Cola, and more. It’s like he’s the conductor of a branding symphony.
- Champion of the Underrepresented: Steven isn’t just in it for the success; he’s here to make a change. His Flight Story Fund isn’t your typical investment venture. Nope, it’s a beacon of hope for diverse founders, a lifeline for those who need a chance to shine.
- Tech Mogul on the Rise: Brace yourselves because Steven isn’t just settling for the ordinary. He’s raising the bar (and $100 million) for his tech investment fund. This isn’t just about money; it’s about unleashing the potential of high-growth startups that are shaping the future.
- Exploring Frontiers: Talk about ambition! Steven’s Flight Story Fund isn’t sticking to the safe lanes. No. They’re diving into blockchain, biotech, health, wellbeing, and even space. Yep, you read that right—space. It’s like he’s on a mission to invest in the future itself.
In a nutshell, what makes Steven Bartlett special? He’s not just a college dropout; he’s a trailblazing entrepreneur with a global squad, a heart for change, a tech investment fund that’s making waves, and a vision that’s reaching for the stars. Who said ordinary was an option?
Steve is really another therapy for you or do you prefer a therapy for black girls with Dr Joy Harden Bradford?
3. What Does Steven Bartlett Care About?
Steven Bartlett is a force of passion and purpose, and what he cares about is as captivating as he is.
He’s all about leveling the playing field. Steven’s heart beats for supporting underrepresented founders. Through his Flight Story Fund, he’s on a mission to give diverse voices a megaphone, making sure everyone gets a chance to shine. Innovation is his middle name! Steven cares deeply about harnessing the power of social media to reshape industries.
With his global squad crafting social brands for giants, it’s clear that Steven values the art of branding. He cares about helping companies define their identity and connect with their audience in meaningful ways.
In essence, Steven Bartlett cares about creating a world where everyone has a chance to succeed, where innovation drives progress, and where the entrepreneurial spirit is celebrated. He’s not just about talking the talk; he’s walking the walk and making a tangible impact on the things that matter most to him.
4. What Are Steven Bartlett's Greatest Deeds?
Picture this: Steven Bartlett’s journey is a tapestry woven with threads of sheer brilliance.
- Unleashing Thirdweb: With a stunning $5 million in seed investment and a jaw-dropping $24 million in a Series A funding round, Thirdweb’s value skyrockets to an astonishing $160 million. This platform doesn’t just simplify building decentralized applications on the blockchain; it makes it look like child’s play.
- Social Chain’s Thunder: Back in 2014, Steven co-founds Social Chain and ignites a wildfire in the social media marketing arena. Later, the fusion with Lumaland creates The Social Chain AG, an entity at a jaw-dropping $200 million plus value!
- Podcasting Sensation: “The Diary of a CEO” isn’t just a podcast; it’s a sensation. Europe’s most downloaded business podcast, it hosts an eclectic mix of guests, from entrepreneurs to luminaries like Matt Hancock and Jordan Peterson.
- Educational Revealer: Remember “The Secret Teacher”? That’s Steven, going incognito in a Channel 4 series to uncover the nitty-gritty of education. It’s like he’s the James Bond of raising awareness.
- Empire of Equity: Steven crafts Catena Capital, his private equity masterpiece. Then, he strolls into Huel, a £72 million food replacement giant, not as an ordinary guest, but as a non-executive director. He’s not just in the game; he’s rewriting the rules.
- Dragon on a Mission: Hold onto your hats because Steven’s the youngest-ever investor on “Dragons’ Den.” He’s not just rewriting history; he’s making it. As the first black, young Dragon, he’s carrying a responsibility that’s as heavy as it is groundbreaking.
- Flight into the Future: His latest showstopper? The Flight Story Fund. It’s like a rocket fueled with $100 million, aims at propelling diverse European entrepreneurs and high-growth startups to the stars. From blockchain to biotech, he’s transforming sectors that are shaping the world.
- Author Extraordinaire: In 2021, his book “Happy Sexy Millionaire” lands with a boom, becoming a Sunday Times bestseller. It’s like his words are on a mission to inspire and captivate.
Imagine being in a world where every move you make creates waves, where every venture you touch turns into gold. That’s the Steven Bartlett phenomenon – a whirlwind of brilliance, innovation, and transformation. He’s not just a player; he’s the conductor of a symphony that’s changing the game.
5. What Has Steven Bartlett Faced as Challenges?
Imagine this: Steven Bartlett’s journey isn’t a stroll in the park; it’s a rollercoaster of epic challenges.
Just picture it – telling his mom he’s dropping out of college to chase entrepreneurial dreams. Seems like another story read by LeVar Burton on his podcast, “LeVar Burton Reads” right?
Like how did he do that?!!!!
It’s like he’s defying norms with a mic drop, even if it means breaking his mom’s heart. But guess what? He finds his true calling in entrepreneurship.
Meanwhile, college roomies can be buds or barriers, and Steven’s roomies? Total barriers. They weren’t cheering him on; they were throwing doubts like confetti. But hey, instead of backing down, Steven owns his “weird” and turns it into a superpower.
Opening a business bank account should be a breeze, right? Not for Steven. He’s knocking on doors eleven times before one finally swings open. It’s like the universe is testing his persistence, just to see how bad he wants it. Fast forward to Day 813 – it’s the grand launch of his company, WallPark. But wait, what’s this? An empty room. Zero attendees. It’s a punch to the gut, teaching him a life-changing lesson: life doesn’t owe you a thing.
Steven Bartlett isn’t just dancing through successes; he’s tangoing with challenges that could make a superhero sweat. Dropping out with flair, owning his “weird,” tackling banking roadblocks, and even a ghost launch – these are the chapters of his story that show his mettle. It’s like he’s rewriting the hero’s journey, one audacious step at a time.
6. What Keeps Steven Bartlett Motivated?
Steven Bartlett’s motivation runs deep, fueled by a past that’s etched in determination.
Imagine having a mother who’s a serial entrepreneur – a real powerhouse. Her relentless work ethic left a lasting mark on Steven. He describes her as “the hardest working person I know.” Even though her ventures didn’t always succeed, her spirit resonates within him.
Also, money wasn’t a breeze in his household. Bartlett grows up in the midst of financial struggles. He feels the squeeze, and it makes him yearn for things he couldn’t have – the gadgets and clothes his peers flaunt. School wasn’t exactly a walk in the park for him.
While his brothers aced the academic game, Steven finds himself dozing off in class. He had to fight for every ounce of learning. It’s like he was crafting resilience in adversity’s forge.
Ah, being one of the few people of color in his school, Steven didn’t just blend in; he contorts himself to fit the mold. He straightens his hair, adapting to an environment that didn’t mirror his true identity. It’s like he wore a disguise to navigate through life.
You will wonder why Steven’s drive burns so fiercely. It roots in the soil of shame and insecurity he faces in his younger years. Those feelings weren’t shackles; they were the fuel that propel him forward. Insecurity transforms into his compass, guiding him towards excellence.
What keeps Steven Bartlett motivated is not just a simple answer. It’s the symphony of his mother’s tenacity, the tussle with financial constraints, the battle in the classroom, the struggle for identity, and the alchemical transformation of insecurity into a driving force. It’s like he’s rewiring the narrative of his past into the propulsion for his future.
7. Why Is Steven Bartlett Such a Role Model?
Steven Bartlett isn’t just a person; he’s a beacon of inspiration that lights up the path for countless others. Here’s why he’s a role model that’s hard to match:
- Triumph Over Trials: Steven’s journey is a rollercoaster of challenges that he tackles head-on. From dropping out of college to facing doubters and setbacks, he’s proven that adversity is just a stepping stone to greatness. He’s like a living example of turning obstacles into opportunities.
- Fearless Authenticity: In a world that often pushes conformity, Steven stands as a testament to embracing your true self. He didn’t shy away from his “weirdness” and even straightened his hair to fit in – a journey from camouflage to courage that shows authenticity trumps conformity.
- From Insecurity to Impact: Steven’s motivation isn’t just a flame; it’s a firestorm. He channels the shame and insecurity of his youth into a powerhouse of determination. It’s like he transforms vulnerability into a tool for creating massive impact.
- Diversity as a Powerhouse: Being one of the few people of color in his school, Steven knows the struggle of standing out. But he didn’t let it dim his shine. Instead, he’s using his platform to amplify diverse voices, proving that uniqueness is a superpower.
Steven Bartlett isn’t just a role model; he’s a force of nature. His journey from challenges to triumphs, his embrace of authenticity, and his transformation of insecurities into impact – they all create a story that resonates with dreamers, doers, and anyone striving for greatness.
8. What Is Steven Bartlett Currently Working On?
Steven is spreading his wings with the Flight Story Fund. This $100 million tech investment fund is his brainchild, aiming at supporting diverse European entrepreneurs and high-growth startups. Sectors like blockchain, biotech, health, commerce, technology, and space are on his radar. It’s like he’s launching a rocket of support for the next generation of game-changers.
Also, his podcast, “The Diary of a CEO” isn’t just a hit; it’s a phenomenon. Steven continues to host this powerhouse podcast, inviting influential guests to share insights, wisdom, and real-life stories.
Steven Bartlett is the epitome of a multi-dimensional dynamo. Whether it’s investing in tech, podcasting prowess, or pioneering new business horizons, he’s a whirlwind of activity that keeps pushing the envelope. It’s like he’s creating his own orchestra of success, with each endeavor playing a unique, harmonious tune.
9. What Could Slow Steven Bartlett Down?
Even though Steven Bartlett seems like an unstoppable force, there are a few factors that could put a speed bump on his journey:
- Burnout Blues: With his hands in numerous ventures, there’s a chance that the whirlwind pace could catch up to him. Juggling investments, podcasts, and new projects might lead to burnout if he doesn’t prioritize self-care.
- Investment Gambles: Not every investment hits the jackpot. Some ventures might not yield good returns, leading to financial setbacks. While risks are part of the game, a string of unsuccessful investments could temporarily slow Steven’s momentum.
- Public Scrutiny: As a public figure and entrepreneur, Steven’s moves are under a spotlight. Any misstep or controversy could potentially impact his reputation and focus. Public scrutiny comes with the territory, but it could create distractions.
While Steven Bartlett’s determination and energy are unmatched, these potential challenges are like caution signs on the road to success. They might slow him down temporarily, but for Steven? He’ll likely use them as stepping stones to even greater achievements.
10. What Can You Learn From Steven Bartlett?
- Embrace Responsibility: Steven’s emphasis on taking responsibility for your actions and choices is a golden lesson. It’s about owning up to your decisions, whether they lead to success or setbacks.
- Long-Term Vision: Setting your sights on long-term goals is a hallmark of Steven’s approach. It’s a reminder that success isn’t instant; it’s the result of consistent effort and perseverance.
- Self-Belief Matters: Steven’s message of believing in oneself is a resounding echo. Self-confidence is the foundation of every achievement. It’s about knowing you’re capable and worthy of success.
- Work on Weaknesses: While believing in yourself is crucial, Steven also teaches you that identifying and addressing your weaknesses is vital. It’s a call to continuous self-improvement and growth.
- Realism and Optimism: Steven’s balanced perspective reminds us to be realistic about our talents while also believing in your potential. It’s like having one foot in reality and another in the realm of dreams.
Pro Tips
- Embrace Failure: Don’t fear failure; embrace it as a stepping stone to success. Learn from your mistakes, pivot when necessary, and keep moving forward.
- Set Bold Goals: Dream big and set ambitious goals. Having a clear vision of where you want to go can drive you to achieve remarkable things.
- Prioritize Self-Improvement: Constantly work on improving yourself. Identify your weaknesses and actively seek opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Believe in Yourself: Cultivate unwavering self-belief. Trust in your abilities and have the confidence to pursue your goals with determination.
- Persistence Pays Off: Success rarely happens overnight. Stay persistent and keep pushing forward, even when facing challenges and setbacks.
- Learn from Others: Seek wisdom from mentors, books, podcasts, and successful individuals. Learning from the experiences of others can accelerate your growth.
- Adapt to Change: Embrace change and be adaptable. The world is constantly evolving, and your ability to pivot and innovate will set you apart.
- Take Risks: Be willing to take risks, but do your research and assess potential outcomes. Smart risks can lead to great rewards.
Recap
In the extraordinary journey of Steven Bartlett, you encounter a British-Nigerian entrepreneur whose life story defies convention. From his early days as a college dropout to becoming the founder of groundbreaking startups, Bartlett’s path is a testament to resilience and self-belief.
Through a series of triumphs and challenges, he introduces “The Diary of a CEO,” his own podcast, inviting audiences to embrace vulnerability and personal growth. His unrelenting pursuit of progress leads to the creation of Flight Story Fund, a tech investment initiative designed to support diverse European entrepreneurs in pioneering sectors.
