Steven Bartlett Faces Backlash Over “Sympathetic” Ivanka Trump Interview

Steven Bartlett is facing significant criticism following the latest episode of his podcast, The Diary of a CEO, which featured an interview with Ivanka Trump. Listeners have expressed disappointment over what many describe as an uncritically sympathetic portrayal of the former First Daughter.

The 90-minute episode, titled “Ivanka Trump: I Learned What Most People Never Do at 9 Years Old!”, showcased a conversation covering Trump’s upbringing, personal philosophy, and time in the White House. During the interview, Trump described her life as “extraordinary,” referenced her appreciation for Stoic philosophy, and called her experience working in her father’s administration “extremely mind-expanding.”

Critics have taken issue with Bartlett’s approach, which they describe as overly deferential. At one point, the 33-year-old entrepreneur characterized his guest as a “pure, soft, empathetic soul” and openly stated he had “zero desire” to ask questions that might “drive a wedge” between Ivanka and her father, former President Donald Trump.

“This is not an interview. This is PR,” wrote one viewer in the YouTube comments section. Another added: “So disappointed you didn’t ask the real hard questions that matter.”

Many listeners expressed particular concern about the lack of critical questioning regarding controversial political matters, especially given the current global context of Trump’s controversial war with Iran. “Not a single question about the war?? It feels like a flat, pre-arranged interview. I was expecting more,” one commenter noted.

The reaction on social media platforms has been similarly negative. On TikTok, users questioned Bartlett’s judgment, with comments like “What in the propaganda?!?!” and “Extremely disappointed you would platform this family in any way.”

This controversy follows a pattern of recent criticism aimed at Bartlett’s podcast, which some loyal listeners believe has strayed from its original focus on self-improvement and entrepreneurial insight. Critics argue that the show has increasingly provided a platform for controversial right-wing perspectives without sufficient critical examination.

A previous episode featuring Chris Williamson sparked similar backlash when a discussion about declining birth rates evolved into questioning the validity of women’s independence and claims about “anti-family” culture. Critics argued that the conversation reduced complex social issues to grievances about feminism without challenging problematic viewpoints.

For many longtime fans, the concern isn’t just about who appears on the podcast but how Bartlett contextualizes—or fails to contextualize—their more controversial ideas. The show’s measured, calm tone can potentially lend credibility to contentious perspectives when presented without meaningful pushback.

Media experts note that this controversy highlights the growing tension between maintaining a “neutral” interview style and the responsibility that comes with platforming influential figures, particularly those associated with divisive political movements or administrations.

Not all feedback has been negative, however. Some viewers have praised Bartlett for featuring guests across the political spectrum. “Love this interview!!!! Thank you for interviewing everyone no matter what political side they are on,” wrote one supporter. Another commended Bartlett’s “kind-heartedness.”

Bartlett, who is also known for his role on the UK’s Dragons’ Den (the British equivalent of Shark Tank), has built his brand around thoughtful discussions about success, mental health, and personal growth. His podcast has featured numerous high-profile guests from business, entertainment, and politics, making it one of the most successful entrepreneur-hosted shows in the UK.

As the controversy continues to unfold, many observers are watching to see if Bartlett will address the criticism or if this marks a permanent shift in his approach to interviewing controversial figures.