Steven Bartlett: The Entrepreneurial Genius Behind Social Chain, FlightStory, and Thirdweb
Steven Bartlett is a name that resonates deeply in the worlds of entrepreneurship, podcasting, and investment. As a highly successful British entrepreneur, his influence continues to grow, with numerous ventures under his belt and a reputation that inspires countless aspiring business owners. From co-founding the globally recognized social media marketing agency Social Chain to founding innovative platforms like Thirdweb, Steven Bartlett has carved out an exceptional career for himself.
Early Life and Background
Steven Bartlett was born on August 26, 1992, in Botswana, where he spent his early years before moving to Plymouth, England, at the age of two. Growing up in the United Kingdom, he displayed an early interest in business and entrepreneurship. He briefly attended Manchester Metropolitan University but left after only one lecture to chase his entrepreneurial dreams—a decision that would significantly shape the rest of his life.
Bartlett’s passion for business was not just an interest; it became the very core of his identity. At the young age of 21, he co-founded Social Chain, a social media marketing agency that would later disrupt the digital marketing industry. This bold move, driven by a mixture of youthful ambition and a clear vision, set the stage for his future successes.
Rise to Fame with Social Chain
In 2014, Steven Bartlett co-founded Social Chain alongside his business partner, Dominic McGregor. The agency quickly grew into one of the most successful and influential social media companies in the UK. Social Chain became known for its innovative strategies in influencer marketing and social media campaigns, playing a key role in shaping the way brands interact with their audiences on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
The company’s rapid growth culminated in a merger that led to the creation of Social Chain AG, a publicly traded company valued at approximately $300 million. During his time as co-CEO, Bartlett played a pivotal role in scaling the company to global success, managing over 500 employees. However, in 2020, he made the decision to step down from his leadership position at the age of 27, just six years after founding the company.
Transition to FlightStory and Thirdweb
After departing Social Chain, Steven Bartlett turned his focus to new ventures, further cementing his position as a serial entrepreneur. In 2021, he co-founded Thirdweb, a groundbreaking platform that helps developers build and launch decentralized applications (dApps). The platform has quickly become a key player in the rapidly growing Web3 and NFT space. Under his leadership, Thirdweb has raised significant funding, attracting attention from major investors like Shopify and Coinbase, with a valuation of $160 million.
In addition to Thirdweb, Bartlett launched FlightStory, a multifaceted company that encompasses several projects and ventures. As the founder of FlightStory, he continues to push boundaries with Flight Fund and Flight Studio, further expanding his entrepreneurial empire. With a focus on investment, creative direction, and innovation, FlightStory has become a hub for business growth, incubating new ideas and revolutionizing industries.
Steven Bartlett’s Podcast: The Diary of a CEO
In 2017, Steven Bartlett launched his highly successful podcast, The Diary of a CEO. The podcast features in-depth interviews with some of the most influential figures in business, entertainment, and beyond. Bartlett delves into the personal and professional lives of his guests, offering listeners unique insights into their journeys, challenges, and successes.
The podcast has rapidly grown in popularity, and by 2024, The Diary of a CEO was ranked among the top five most popular podcasts globally. With Bartlett’s candid and honest approach to interviewing, the podcast has become a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of business and personal growth.
Steven Bartlett on Dragons’ Den
In 2021, Steven Bartlett joined the panel of investors on the popular BBC One show Dragons’ Den, making him the youngest investor in the show’s history. His fresh perspective and business acumen have earned him a reputation as a forward-thinking investor, with a focus on startups and technology-driven businesses.
As a Dragon, Bartlett has invested in several high-potential startups, offering guidance, mentorship, and financial backing to help them scale and succeed. His presence on the show has added a new dynamic to the panel, with his approach being a blend of innovation, empathy, and strategic thinking.
Personal Life: Girlfriend and Relationship
While Steven Bartlett is an entrepreneur and public figure, he keeps much of his personal life private. As of now, he is in a relationship with Melanie Vaz Lopes, a French lifestyle influencer and entrepreneur. Melanie is known for her work in the wellness industry, particularly in the fields of breathwork and bodywork. The couple met on Instagram in 2016, briefly parted ways in 2017, and later reconciled in 2022.
Though Steven Bartlett maintains a relatively low profile when it comes to his personal life, he has been open about the importance of balancing work and personal relationships. His relationship with Melanie is a significant part of his life, but they continue to keep many aspects of their romance out of the public eye.
Net Worth and Investments
Steven Bartlett’s success as an entrepreneur has translated into significant financial success. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $50 million, though figures vary depending on the source. This wealth has come from his various ventures, including the rise of Social Chain, his investments in companies like SpaceX and Huel, and his work with Thirdweb.
Bartlett’s approach to investment is a key part of his success. He has become known for backing innovative companies in emerging fields like Web3, NFTs, and wellness. His portfolio includes investments in companies like WHOOP, a health and fitness tracking company, and Huel, a leading provider of plant-based nutrition.
Conclusion
Steven Bartlett is more than just an entrepreneur; he is a visionary who has consistently pushed the boundaries of business and innovation. From his early days founding Social Chain to his current ventures with FlightStory and Thirdweb, Bartlett has proven time and again that he has the ability to spot opportunities, create value, and drive change.
Whether through his podcast, his investments, or his role as a Dragon on Dragons’ Den, Steven Bartlett continues to inspire and motivate countless individuals who aspire to follow in his footsteps. His story is one of relentless ambition, creativity, and the belief that anything is possible when you’re willing to take risks and embrace new challenges.
As his career continues to evolve, Steven Bartlett remains a force to be reckoned with in the business world, and his future projects are sure to make waves in industries across the globe.
