Bartlett Acquires Co-Founder's Stake in Podcast Firm Behind Diary of a CEO
Deal News | Apr 28, 2025 | Business Cloud
Steven Bartlett, known for his role on Dragons Den, has purchased shares from his co-founder Oliver Yonchev in Flight Story Group, increasing his controlling interest in the company. The transaction saw Bartlett acquiring 150,000 shares, previously owned by Yonchev, through SB Invest Ltd, a company controlled by Bartlett. This acquisition consolidates Bartlett's position within the company known for producing the Diary of a CEO podcast. Yonchev’s departure in September 2024 paved the way for this transaction. The move follows Bartlett’s recent hiring of key personnel, including Leon Farrell from Warner Music Group as product director, Amy Golding as CEO of his private office, and Jules Davies Marriott as chief of staff. Furthermore, Bartlett has secured representation in the U.S. with WME, the world’s top talent agency. Bartlett’s entrepreneurial journey, beginning with a podcast recorded in his home, has led to significant developments in his business ventures.
Sectors
- Media and Entertainment
- Investment and Private Equity
Geography
- United Kingdom – Flight Story Group, the company central to the article, is based in the UK, and Steven Bartlett is a prominent UK entrepreneur.
- United States – Bartlett’s recent deal with WME to represent him in the USA highlights transatlantic business interests.
Industry
- Media and Entertainment – The article discusses the acquisition related to a company involved in podcast production, which is a part of the media and entertainment industry.
- Investment and Private Equity – SB Invest Ltd, the entity used to purchase shares, highlights activities in investment and strategic ownership within private equity realms.
Financials
- 150,000 shares – Number of shares acquired by Steven Bartlett from Oliver Yonchev.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steven Bartlett | Acquirer | People | Co-founder of Flight Story Group, Dragons Den star, and host of The Diary of a CEO podcast. |
| Oliver Yonchev | Seller | People | Co-founder of Flight Story Group, who sold his shares to Steven Bartlett. |
| Flight Story Group | Target Company | Company | Producer of The Diary of a CEO podcast. |
| SB Invest Ltd | Bidding Company | Company | Owned by Steven Bartlett, used to acquire shares from Oliver Yonchev. |
| Leon Farrell | Product Director | People | Recently appointed Product Director at Flight Story. |
| Amy Golding | CEO of Private Office | People | Recently appointed CEO of Steven Bartlett's private office. |
| Jules Davies Marriott | Chief of Staff | People | Recently appointed Chief of Staff. |