GoKawiilDiary of a CEO podcast tracking $60M in annual revenue, Steven Bartlett says
Steven Bartlett, who launched his podcast in 2017 with a $100 microphone while running marketing agency Social Chain, told Fortune the show is on pace for $60 million in revenue this year. The Diary of a CEO now has over 20 million YouTube subscribers and nearly 1,000 episodes, earning money through ads, products, subscriptions and events.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Bartlett's decision to reject a higher-paying deal requiring 12 ads per episode and exclusive distribution suggests he views audience retention and creative control as more valuable long-term than short-term ad revenue. His trajectory illustrates how independent podcasters can build media businesses rivaling traditional outlets without legacy infrastructure or formal credentials.
- The Diary of a CEO is projected to generate $60 million in revenue this year.
- Bartlett turned down a lucrative deal requiring more ads and less creative control.
- The podcast has grown from solo diary entries to interviews with major executives like Uber's Dara Khosrowshahi.
Samson Q2U USB Microphone — Steven Bartlett started his podcast empire with just a $100 microphone, proving great content matters more than expensive gear. The Samson Q2U is a budget-friendly USB/XLR mic perfect for aspiring podcasters wanting to start recording immediately without breaking the bank. It's a classic entry point for anyone inspired to follow Bartlett's path into podcasting.
See Samson Q2U USB Microphone on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: entrepreneur.com — Sherin Shibu, 2026-10-22
Published there as: “He Dropped Out of College and Started a Podcast With a $100 Microphone. Now His Business Is on Track for $60 Million in Revenue.”
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