It’s not every day a podcast episode causes a wave of medical criticism — but that’s exactly what’s happening with Steven Bartlett’s latest Diary Of A CEO installment.
The popular Dragons’ Den entrepreneur welcomed Dr Roger Seheult to the show, and what followed has stirred up some serious concern.
The Bold Claims from the Podcast
Dr Seheult, introduced as a world-renowned expert in lung health and internal medicine, told a powerful story: a teenage boy with blood cancer and a deadly lung infection who, after being taken outside into the sunlight, began to recover dramatically.
According to Seheult, within two days, the infection was nearly gone.
He linked this to the health benefits of sunlight and even claimed patients closer to hospital windows are discharged faster.
The episode’s trailer alone has been watched over 4.5 million times.
But it’s not just the popularity that caught attention — it’s the scientific accuracy, or lack thereof, that has critics speaking out.
A Surgeon’s Concerns
Dr Liz O’Riordan, a retired surgeon and vocal cancer awareness advocate, didn’t hold back.
She warned that the way the podcast clipped this story for dramatic effect was problematic and potentially misleading.
Her main issue? The anecdotal nature of the story.
The claim came second-hand from the patient’s mother, not from medical records. Dr O’Riordan also pointed out a strong bias in the podcast’s approach and noted that Bartlett didn’t seem to challenge any of Seheult’s claims with evidence or further questioning.
Hidden Motives?
Adding fuel to the fire, critics noticed a promotional link to a sunlight lamp on the podcast’s social media — a coincidence that didn’t go unnoticed.
Not the First Time
Bartlett’s podcast is no stranger to controversy.
A BBC World Service investigation last year flagged several episodes for spreading unverified or misleading claims, including one where a guest suggested COVID-19 vaccines had a net negative impact on society.
That statement went unchallenged, and no scientific counterpoint was offered.
Another guest alleged that gluten could cause autism and schizophrenia, while yet another implied food could replace chemotherapy.
These claims were never addressed or balanced with scientific fact.
The Show’s Defence
In response, Bartlett’s production team stood by the show’s approach.
They claim each guest is carefully researched and that the podcast encourages a diversity of voices — even those they might not personally agree with.
The Business Behind the Mic
As Dr O’Riordan noted, podcasts are now big business — and shock sells.
Bartlett himself reportedly projected his podcast earnings to hit £20 million in 2024.
With numbers like that, the drive to go viral might just outweigh the responsibility to vet what’s being said.
A Fresh Face in The Thomas Crown Affair
Switching gears to Hollywood — filming for the new version of The Thomas Crown Affair has hit a bump.
Taylor Russell stepped away from the project due to creative clashes with co-star Michael B. Jordan. Thankfully, Adria Arjona stepped in.
She’s known for her roles in Disney’s Andor and the Netflix film Hit Man, and she’s also dating Aquaman himself, Jason Momoa.
Margot Robbie Grows to New Heights
Margot Robbie is set to star in a remake of Attack of the 50 Foot Woman, with none other than Tim Burton directing.
The 1958 cult sci-fi classic is getting a fresh twist, and Robbie will not only headline but also produce the film.
Meanwhile, Burton’s Netflix hit Wednesday is coming back for its second season next month, with season three already greenlit.
Macca’s $6,000 Concert Tickets Shock Fans
Fans were still reeling from Taylor Swift’s pricey Eras tour tickets when news broke that Paul McCartney’s Got Back tour tickets were being resold for more than $6,000 each in the U.S.
McCartney’s team hasn’t commented yet, but the backlash has already begun, with many wondering whether any concert could be worth that much.
From £94 at the Box Office to TV Stardom
Stephen Mangan proudly recalls the movie where he met his wife — Offending Angels.
Despite being the lowest-grossing British film ever (it made just £94), it brought him love.
He returns to TV with The Fortune Hotel on ITV this August.
Plastic Surgeons and the Ratajkowski Effect
In Hollywood, plastic surgeons say Emily Ratajkowski is the most-requested beauty template — her cheekbones and jawline are apparently in high demand, thanks to her role in Lena Dunham’s Too Much on Netflix.
Big Departures from Talent Agency YMU
Olympic diver and TV star Tom Daley has reportedly left his talent agency YMU, following the exit of stars like Claudia Winkleman, Amanda Holden, and Gabby Logan.
Ted Lasso Moves to the Midwest
Fans of Ted Lasso may be surprised to learn that the next season will be filmed mostly in Kansas City, the hometown of star Jason Sudeikis — even though the show is still set in Richmond.
The new season will focus on Lasso coaching a women’s football team, with familiar faces like Hannah Waddingham returning.
Stay tuned — both the podcasting world and the entertainment scene seem to be getting bolder by the minute.