ABWilson's Heart of the Matter
Welcome to the ABWilson Heart of the Matter podcast. I'm Aderonke Bademosi Wilson, and I'm thrilled to be your host. From the stunning shores of Bermuda, nestled in the heart of the North Atlantic Ocean, comes a podcast that goes beyond the mysteries of the Bermuda Triangle. Here, we dive into the depths of human experience, one heartwarming story at a time. Heart of the Matter isn't just another podcast.
It's a journey of exploration and discovery. In each episode, I sit down with remarkable individuals from all walks of life. These aren't household names. They're everyday heroes with fascinating tales to share. Drawing from my passion for Appreciative Inquiry, a management methodology focused on amplifying positivity, strengths, and successes.
In fostering meaningful change, we seek to uncover the moments that define us. I unearth stories of joy, kindness, and resilience through overwhelmingly positive questions.
Tell me about a recent accomplishment or success you're particularly proud of.
Can you recall a situation where you overcame a challenge that led to personal growth?
What did you learn from that experience? And what book recommendations do you have?
These are just a few of the questions we explore together. We will delve into the heart of each story, one conversation at a time, but be warned, laughter and tears are both frequent companions on this journey. That's the beauty of authenticity. It knows no bounds.
What sets ABWilson's Heart of the Matter apart is its consistency. I ask each guest the same questions in the same order, creating a blueprint of diverse experiences woven together by a common thread. So whether you need a good laugh or a heartfelt moment of reflection, join me as we celebrate the extraordinary within the ordinary.
Welcome to the Heart of the Matter, where every story awaits sharing.
ABWilson's Heart of the Matter
31. Investing in Legacy: Eric Collins on Uplifting Communities and Redefining Success
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In this powerful episode of ABWilson's Heart of the Matter, host Aderonke Bademosi Wilson sits down with Eric Collins, a Southern African American investor and venture capitalist. Eric shares about his remarkable journey, investing in community empowerment, and his dedication to creating opportunities for others. They explore his deep-rooted Southern identity, the power of collective action within the African American experience, and his passion for investment as a tool for change.
Eric discusses his family’s history which dates back to the 1700s and reflecting on the distinct experiences of African Americans in the South, from enslavement to resilience through Jim Crow and beyond. He describes the African American experience as a legacy of hope, hard work, and collective strength, emphasizing the sense of community and shared struggle that has defined Black America.
Eric elaborates on his role as a venture capitalist and how his investment philosophy is rooted in optimism and the belief that strategic investments can drive transformative change. He shares the story behind ImpactX Capital, a firm dedicated to backing underrepresented entrepreneurs, with a specific focus on Black-owned businesses in the UK. He explains how ImpactX aims to address economic disparities and empower communities through targeted investments that create sustainable growth.
Eric highlights his family’s commitment to lifting up future generations, including a family scholarship fund and the longstanding tradition of the Collins family reunion, which has been held for nearly 70 years. He recounts a deeply personal story about filming his television show The Moneymaker on the day his father passed away. He also shares how he drew on his father’s strength to fulfill his obligations and keep moving forward despite the immense grief he felt.
Reflecting on his demanding career, Eric emphasizes the importance of physical health, exercise, and a deliberate approach to maintaining well-being. Eric encourages listeners to be intentional in their choices—whether in business or daily life—supporting ventures and actions that contribute to social justice and positive change.
Eric Collins' website: ImpactX Capital Partners - https://impactxcapital.com
Book: We Don’t Need Permission: How Black Business Can Change Our World
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