**Misinformation in Health Discourse: Steven Bartlett's Podcast Under Fire**

A BBC investigation highlights the dangers of amplifying discredited health advice in Steven Bartlett's "Diary of a CEO" podcast, which may lead to distrust in conventional medicine.

Steven Bartlett, host of the popular podcast "Diary of a CEO," is facing backlash for allowing unchallenged claims that promote harmful health misinformation. A recent BBC investigation has brought to light that the podcast, which initially focused on entrepreneurship, has shifted towards health discussions in the past 18 months, featuring guests who often present dubious health advice without proper scrutiny.

In an analysis of 23 health-related episodes aired between April and November this year, researchers discovered an average of 14 potentially harmful health claims per episode, contradicting established scientific evidence. Claims such as treating cancer with a keto diet and dismissing proven treatments alarm experts, who emphasize the risks associated with such misinformation. Professor David Grimes, a cancer researcher, asserts that this type of content undermines public trust in conventional medicine, potentially endangering patients’ health.

Bartlett's production company, Flight Studio, defended the concept of "freedom of expression" while admitting that guests are thoroughly researched. However, the podcast's soaring popularity—with views increasing from nine to 15 million monthly since the shift in content focus—raises questions about the responsibility of media figures in disseminating accurate health information.

Experts consulted by the BBC highlighted various misleading assertions made by guests on the podcast, including conspiracy theories surrounding vaccines and claims that dietary changes can reverse serious medical conditions. Notably, Dr. Aseem Malhotra, known for advocating against Covid-19 vaccinations, appeared in a July episode, promoting unfounded views that contradict substantial medical evidence showing the vaccine's efficacy in saving lives.

Regulatory bodies like Ofcom do not oversee podcasting standards, allowing hosts like Bartlett to broadcast unchecked health claims. In response to the criticism, Bartlett argued that presenting alternative views is essential, likening it to the historical struggles of figures like Gandhi and Martin Luther King. However, experts caution that this could dangerously mislead the public.

Further investigations reveal that Bartlett may have conflicts of interest due to his investments in health and wellness companies like Huel and Zoe. This raises ethical concerns about the integrity of the information shared on his platform and potential biases in selecting guests.

In a media landscape where misinformation spreads rapidly, Bartlett's podcast serves as a significant reminder of the critical need for accurate health communication. As the line between information and disinformation blurs, the role of creators like Bartlett in shaping public understanding of health issues becomes ever more crucial.