New fact-checking measures have been introduced on health episodes of Steven Bartlett’s hit Diary of a CEO podcast.
Diary of a CEO (DOAC) claims to be the first major podcast to implement consistent on-screen fact-checking for health episodes after making a ‘significant investment in editorial rigour’.
The announcement was discreetly rolled out via the Dragons’ Den star’s personal website – StevenBartlett.com – on November 24th and has gone largely unreported in the media.
It’s a far cry from the backlash last December’s BBC investigation into the podcast caused.
Back then, BBC World Service claimed their analysis of 15 health-related podcast episodes found each contained an average of 14 harmful health claims that went against extensive scientific research.
At the time Bartlett’s company Flight Studios said each guest on the podcast was ‘thoroughly researched prior to commission’ and offered ‘freedom of expression’.
However, the latest steps introduced go far beyond that and will hopefully allay fears that health-related claims made by guests on episodes of the DOAC aren’t being sufficiently scrutinised.
Following the changes each health-focused episode is now reviewed by a medical PhD graduate, who provides notes that appear alongside the conversation.
The statement on Bartlett’s website said the approach went ‘beyond simple corrections’.
It read: “Each episode is accompanied by an extensive ‘independent research and further reading’ document that can span dozens of pages, complete with peer-reviewed references organised by topic.
“These documents break down specific claims made during conversations, examine the supporting evidence, and present the current scientific consensus.
“The Diary of a CEO’s fact-checking system offers one model for addressing these concerns while preserving the conversational authenticity that makes podcasts compelling.
“Rather than just editing out controversial statements or avoiding complex topics entirely, the show adds layers of context that empower viewers to engage critically with the material.
“The Diary of a CEO’s approach could influence how other major podcasts handle sensitive content. As shows increasingly feature guests discussing health, nutrition, and medicine, audiences may come to expect similar levels of accountability and transparency.
“The model is particularly relevant for long-form interview formats, where hosts cannot reasonably be expected to possess expert knowledge across every topic discussed.
“By bringing in qualified professionals to review and annotate content, shows can maintain the free-flowing nature of conversation while ensuring viewers have access to accurate information.”
The statement makes no reference to last year’s BBC World Service investigation.
Earlier this week it was revealed that Bartlett’s media and investment group FlightStory had made a seven-figure strategic investment in Maggie Sellers Reum’s fast-rising female ambition brand Hot Smart Rich (HSR).
In October, Bartlett told BusinessCloud of his plans to create a Disney-style empire for the creator economy after announced an eight-figure investment in his new company Steven.com.