At around 54 years old in 2025, Eddie Wilson has become a billion-dollar success story, with an estimated net worth of $1 billion. Known as an American entrepreneur, investor, and corporate leader, Eddie has achieved what few can—owning over 125 companies and successfully selling more than 90. But behind those staggering numbers is a man of strategy, vision, and purpose. So, how exactly did Eddie Wilson build such a powerful business empire?
Let’s take a closer look at his journey—from his early days in radio to becoming the powerhouse CEO of Collective Influence and founder of the Empire Operating Model.
Who Is Eddie Wilson and Where Did His Story Begin?
Eddie Wilson was born around 1970 in the United States and currently resides there with his wife, Misty Wilson, and their three sons. Despite his high profile, Eddie tends to keep the details of his early life and family private. What we do know is that Eddie grew up in the U.S. with a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit that would shape his future.
He pursued education from a variety of institutions—Tennessee Temple University, the Ohio School of Broadcasting, Center for Sales Strategy, Emory University, and Hyles-Anderson College, where he earned a master’s degree in practical theology. That blend of marketing, sales, theology, and business management built the foundation for a leader with both business acumen and strong values.
How Did Eddie Wilson Start His Career?
Eddie began his professional journey in 1998 at Susquehanna Radio, working as a manager until 2003. He then co-founded The Wilson Group, eventually taking full ownership in 2005. These early ventures gave him firsthand experience in media, business development, and team leadership.
His breakthrough came as he diversified—partnering with CRI in 2011, leading Affinity Worldwide as president from 2015 to 2018, and founding Go Media in 2015, a media company that grew under his leadership.
These roles marked the start of Eddie’s rise in the business world. But his biggest leap came when he started founding and acquiring companies across sectors—media, real estate, finance, crypto, fitness, and more.
What Is Collective Influence, and How Does Eddie Use It to Grow Businesses?
Eddie Wilson is currently the CEO of Collective Influence, a private equity firm that invests in and scales multiple brands. Through this firm, Eddie manages companies including:
- Go Media
- Because Coffee
- Empire Operating System
- Power Room Mastermind
- Money Is
- Tax-Free Crypto
- MobileVested
- Fitcon
- First Coast Fund
Collective Influence has allowed Eddie to strategically acquire and grow companies with long-term potential. What sets him apart is his unique Empire Operating Model, a system designed to simplify scaling and managing multiple ventures—something he teaches and uses in his own businesses.
How Does Eddie Wilson Make His Money?
Eddie Wilson’s wealth isn’t tied to one company or industry. His billion-dollar net worth comes from a blend of savvy investments and well-timed exits. Here’s how he does it:
1. Owning and Operating Companies
Eddie owns more than 125 companies, with holdings in media, real estate, marketing, tech, and finance.
2. Exiting Businesses
He has successfully sold over 90 companies, often after scaling them to peak performance, generating massive returns on investment.
3. Private Equity
Through Collective Influence, Eddie invests in high-growth potential businesses, mentoring founders and injecting capital where it matters most.
4. Real Estate
Eddie also plays in the real estate sector through platforms like Think Realty, buying, selling, renting, and teaching others to invest wisely.
5. Consulting and Speaking
A respected figure in entrepreneurship circles, Eddie speaks at conferences, offers private mentorship, and delivers business workshops.
6. Media and Marketing
His roots in media remain strong. Brands like Go Media generate revenue through marketing services, content creation, and digital campaigns.
What Is the Aspire Tour, and Why Did Eddie Co-Found It?
The Aspire Tour is one of Eddie’s most passionate projects—an organization focused on helping individuals achieve their dreams and goals. It’s a national movement that brings speakers, leaders, and mentors to inspire people toward personal growth and success.
The tour reflects Eddie’s broader mission: empowering people to live purposefully and build their own legacies.
What Is Eddie’s Personal Life Like?
Behind the billion-dollar empire is a family man. Eddie is married to Misty Wilson, a brand ambassador for Bucked Up, and together they have three sons. Their eldest, Skyler, graduated in May 2022 and is currently pursuing a degree in marketing. The names of the other two sons are kept private, preserving the family’s personal space amidst Eddie’s public life.
Misty plays an active role in their home and public endeavors, often supporting Eddie at speaking events and charitable functions. Their strong family bond is evident in everything they do.
Is Eddie Involved in Philanthropy?
Yes. Eddie serves as the Executive Director of Christian Media International (CMI), a role he’s held since 2013. His work in faith-based media and his philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to positive social impact.
He believes in using business for good, whether it’s empowering other entrepreneurs, feeding communities through charitable giving, or mentoring future leaders.
What’s Next for Eddie Wilson?
Eddie continues to scale Collective Influence, build new ventures, and mentor upcoming entrepreneurs. His teachings around the Empire Operating System are growing in popularity, and more business owners are turning to him for guidance.
Whether he’s speaking at events, launching a new startup, or investing in the next big thing, Eddie Wilson shows no signs of slowing down.