Steven Bartlett, the youngest investor on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, has not only made a name for himself as a millionaire entrepreneur but has also captured the hearts of fans with his inspiring personal journey. At 32 years old (as of 2024) and with an estimated net worth of £58 million, Bartlett’s story is one of ambition, hard work, and love. Let’s dive deeper into his life, including his entrepreneurial achievements and his relationship with influencer Melanie Vaz Lopes.
Who Is Steven Bartlett?
Steven Bartlett was born in Botswana and grew up in Plymouth, England. Known for founding The Social Chain at the age of 21, he became a millionaire by 23 through the meteoric success of his social media marketing agency. Despite dropping out of Manchester Metropolitan University after just one lecture, Bartlett’s risk-taking attitude paid off. In 2023, he sold his shares in The Social Chain for a reported £7.7 million, solidifying his place among the UK’s most successful young entrepreneurs.
Today, Bartlett is not only a business tycoon but also a celebrated author, podcaster, and motivational speaker. His podcast, Diary of a CEO, remains one of the most downloaded business podcasts in Europe.
Who Is Steven Bartlett’s Girlfriend, Melanie Vaz Lopes?
Steven Bartlett’s personal life is just as inspiring as his professional accomplishments. His girlfriend, Melanie Vaz Lopes, is an influencer and entrepreneur originally from Bordeaux, France. With over 135,000 Instagram followers (@meloai as of August 2024), Melanie shares her holistic lifestyle, wellness practices, and passion for vegan living.
Melanie is a certified reiki master and runs a beauty and well-being business. She has also authored a raw vegan recipe book and a fitness and nutrition guide titled Booty Academy. Her influence extends to promoting self-care and mindfulness, aligning perfectly with Steven’s journey toward personal growth and self-awareness.
How Did Steven Bartlett and Melanie Vaz Lopes Meet?
Steven and Melanie’s love story began in 2016 when they connected on Instagram. Their relationship blossomed, but the couple parted ways a year later in 2017 due to Steven’s demanding work schedule. However, their story didn’t end there.
In February 2022, Steven made a grand gesture to win Melanie back. He flew to Bali, where she was living at the time, to rekindle their romance. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Steven shared in an interview how he apologized and expressed his desire to give their relationship another chance. Melanie, moved by his efforts, agreed, and the pair have been inseparable since.
What Does Steven Bartlett Say About His Relationship?
Steven has often described his relationship with Melanie as his greatest achievement. In a 2022 interview, he opened up about his struggles with understanding love due to witnessing his parents’ toxic relationship. “Getting myself into a loving relationship with a wonderful woman has totally been my greatest achievement,” he said.
He revealed that growing up, he believed relationships were destined to be difficult. However, through self-reflection and personal growth, he found the maturity to nurture a meaningful connection with Melanie. Steven credits her for inspiring him to explore meditation and other practices to manage his busy lifestyle.
Do Steven Bartlett and Melanie Vaz Lopes Have Children?
As of August 2024, Steven and Melanie do not have children. Neither has children from previous relationships. However, Steven has expressed his desire to start a family in the future. In a 2022 interview with Metro, he shared his aspirations to get married and have kids, emphasizing the importance of building a loving and stable environment.
How Does Steven Bartlett Balance His Work and Personal Life?
Steven Bartlett has often spoken about the challenges of balancing his work and personal life. During his earlier years as an entrepreneur, he admitted that his tunnel vision for business left little room for meaningful relationships.
In a YouTube video from 2017, Steven candidly shared how his intense focus on work led to the end of a previous relationship. He described his daily schedule as one where business dominated his attention from morning until late evening. This lack of balance is something he has worked hard to address in recent years.
Now, with Melanie by his side, Steven prioritizes mindfulness and self-care. He credits her influence for helping him adopt meditation and other practices to stay calm and focused amid his demanding schedule.
What Is Steven Bartlett’s Current Role on Dragons’ Den?
Steven Bartlett joined Dragons’ Den in 2022, becoming the youngest investor in the show’s history. Known for his sharp business acumen and relatable approach, Steven quickly became a fan favorite. He brings a fresh perspective to the panel, joining the likes of Deborah Meaden, Sara Davies, Peter Jones, and Touker Suleyman in investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs.
The 2024 series of Dragons’ Den has been a hit with audiences, showcasing Steven’s ability to identify innovative ideas and connect with aspiring business owners. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a seasoned investor continues to inspire many.
What Does the Future Hold for Steven Bartlett?
Steven Bartlett’s future appears brighter than ever. With his successful ventures, popular podcast, and loving relationship with Melanie Vaz Lopes, he continues to evolve both personally and professionally. As he looks ahead, fans can expect more inspiring projects, investments, and perhaps even milestones in his personal life, such as marriage and starting a family.
Steven Bartlett’s story serves as a testament to the power of determination, self-reflection, and love. Whether in the boardroom or his personal life, Steven embodies the spirit of resilience and growth, making him an icon for aspiring entrepreneurs and dreamers worldwide.