The Rise of Health Podcasts and the Spread of Misinformation: A Case Study of Steven Bartlett’s Diary of a CEO
The digital age has ushered in an era of readily accessible information, with podcasts emerging as a popular medium for disseminating knowledge and engaging in discussions on a wide range of topics, including health. While offering a convenient platform for patient education and expert insights, the unregulated nature of podcasts raises concerns about the potential spread of misleading health information. This issue has come to the forefront with accusations leveled against prominent podcaster Steven Bartlett and his popular show, Diary of a CEO.
A BBC investigation has scrutinized 15 recent health-related episodes of Bartlett’s podcast, which boasts millions of subscribers. The investigation uncovered 14 instances where interviewees made claims contradicting scientific evidence, including anti-vaccine sentiments, without being challenged by the host. This lack of critical engagement raises questions about the podcast’s responsibility in ensuring the accuracy of information shared with its vast audience. The investigation’s findings highlight the potential pitfalls of podcasts as platforms for disseminating health information, particularly when rigorous fact-checking and editorial oversight are absent.
The popularity of podcasts, particularly those focusing on health, has grown exponentially in recent years. A study published in the Open Forum Infectious Diseases journal notes the remarkable trajectory of the podcasting industry, evolving from a relatively obscure format to a multibillion-dollar industry with an estimated 500 million listeners worldwide in less than 15 years. This rapid growth underscores the significant impact podcasts can have on public discourse and the dissemination of information, including health advice. Bartlett’s Diary of a CEO, with its reported 15 million monthly views on YouTube, exemplifies this reach and influence. According to a BBC report, Bartlett projected a revenue of £20 million ($25 million) from the podcast this year, highlighting the significant financial stakes involved.
The BBC’s investigation revealed several concerning claims made on Diary of a CEO, including assertions that the keto diet can treat cancer and that evidence-based medication is "toxic." The promotional tactics employed by the podcast, featuring provocative strap lines such as "23.3 million people will die yearly because of this" and "we’ve been lied to about medication," have also drawn criticism. These sensationalized pronouncements, often associated with controversial figures like cardiologist Dr. Aseem Malhotra, who has advocated for suspending mRNA COVID-19 vaccination programs, raise concerns about the podcast’s role in amplifying potentially harmful misinformation. Cécile Simmons, from the Institute of Strategic Dialogue, characterized this type of content as "health-related clickbait" designed to attract a larger audience. This raises ethical questions about prioritizing audience growth over the responsible dissemination of accurate information.
The accusations against Diary of a CEO reflect broader concerns about the proliferation of misinformation on digital platforms, particularly in the realm of health. As traditional media outlets face financial pressures and reduce staff, the responsibility of disseminating health information increasingly falls on a network of digital platforms with varying levels of editorial oversight. This shift presents a challenge in ensuring the quality and accuracy of health information available to the public. In the UK, podcasts currently fall outside the regulatory purview of Ofcom, the media regulator, further highlighting the need for mechanisms to address the spread of misinformation through this medium.
Bartlett’s production company, Flight Studio, responded to the BBC’s allegations by emphasizing the podcast’s commitment to showcasing a "range of voices" and offering "freedom of expression." They also pointed out that the BBC’s investigation focused on a "limited proportion" of the nearly 400 guests featured on the podcast. While defending the platform’s openness to diverse perspectives, this response fails to address the core issue of unchallenged misinformation presented to a large and potentially vulnerable audience. This case highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the balance between freedom of speech and the responsibility to prevent the spread of potentially harmful misinformation, particularly in the context of health information.
The Diary of a CEO controversy mirrors similar allegations directed at other popular health-focused podcasts, including The Huberman Lab, hosted by Stanford neuroscientist Andrew Huberman. This recurrence suggests a systemic issue within the podcasting landscape, emphasizing the need for greater scrutiny of health-related content and the development of strategies to mitigate the spread of misinformation. The increasing reliance on digital platforms for health information necessitates a broader discussion about the ethical responsibilities of podcasters and the need for mechanisms to ensure accountability and accuracy in the information shared with the public.
