

Steven Bartlett Chose Creative Control Over $100M
Apr 25, 2025
50:09
What would you do if someone offered you $100 million for your podcast?
In this episode, we dive into Steven Bartlett’s recent disclosure that he turned down not one, but two massive podcasting deals — including a $100M offer. Why? Because they came with strings attached: platform exclusivity, ad overload, and a loss of creative control.
We discuss why prioritizing your listeners, values, and long-term vision might be worth more than the biggest paycheck. Plus, we hear the drawbacks of video podcasting through perspectives of reluctant celebrity podcasters.
Mentioned in this episode:
- The Only Men Allowed to Podcast Are Tween Boys
- The Diary of a CEO Turned Down $100M Podcast Deal
- Smartless: Maria Shriver
- Office Ladies: Webisodes: The Podcast & The Office Ladies Podcast Pilot
- The Compassion of Sound
Sound-off question: What is the strangest podcast growth tip that actually works?
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