Meet Cleveland Wilson
We had the good fortune of connecting with Cleveland Wilson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cleveland, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business as a personal trainer was driven by two key factors: financial freedom and control over my time. I wanted to build a career that allowed me to create my own schedule, work with clients on my terms, and avoid the limitations of traditional employment.
Financially, I saw entrepreneurship as an opportunity to increase my earning potential beyond a fixed salary, scaling my business based on demand, expertise, and the quality of service I provide. Owning my own business also meant I could diversify my income through personal training sessions, online coaching, group classes, and even branded fitness programs.
Beyond finances, having control over my time was just as important. I wanted the flexibility to balance my professional and personal life, prioritize self-care, and be available for important moments outside of work. Being my own boss allows me to shape my business in a way that aligns with my values, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Ultimately, starting my own business was about taking charge of my future—building something I’m passionate about while creating the freedom to live life on my own terms.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a reflection of resilience, pain, and consistency—three elements that have shaped my journey and set me apart. Through my work in the fashion and modeling industry, I strive to bring a unique vision to life, one that represents strength, perseverance, and excellence.
Am I most proud of something? Absolutely. I’m proud of the journey itself—of pushing through when things got tough, of the people I’ve been able to uplift, and of the legacy I’m building through hard work and passion.
Was it easy? No, not at all. The road to where I am today was filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But through it all, I overcame because of one thing—my faith. Believing in God’s plan, trusting the process, and knowing that every hardship had a purpose kept me going even when things seemed impossible.
Lessons learned? Life isn’t always fair. You won’t always get what you deserve right away. But if you truly want something, go get it. No one is going to hand it to you—you have to fight for it, work for it, and prove to yourself that you deserve it.
What do I want the world to know? No matter what you’re facing, it’s going to be alright. Keep going. Keep pushing. Never give up. The pain, the struggles—they’re temporary. But the results of perseverance? Those last forever.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect mix of nature, culture, great food, and nightlife—all while exploring the best of Raleigh, NC.
Day 1: Arrival & Relaxed Start Lunch: Kick things off with a South American feast at Gonza Tacos y Tequila for incredible Colombian-Mexican flavors. Afternoon: Walk around Downtown Raleigh, explore the street art, and check out City Market and the State Capitol. Dinner: Try some flavorful Indian dishes at Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar. Evening: Grab some craft cocktails at Watts & Ward, a stylish speakeasy downtown. Day 2: Nature & Adventure Morning: Hike the trails at Umstead State Park for some peaceful nature and fresh air. Afternoon: Drive out to Hanging Rock State Park for stunning mountain views and waterfalls. Evening: Head back for a casual dinner at Garland, an amazing Indian-Asian fusion spot downtown. Day 3: Beach Day Trip Morning: Take a road trip to Wrightsville Beach (about 2 hours away) for sun, sand, and ocean breeze. Afternoon: Have fresh seafood at Oceanic right by the beach. Evening: Return to Raleigh for a chill night at a rooftop bar like The Willard. Day 4: City Exploration & Culture Morning: Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art and its outdoor park. Afternoon: Stop by Pullen Park for a relaxing walk and paddle boating. Dinner: Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Machu Picchu Peruvian Cuisine. Night: Explore the vibrant bar scene on Glenwood Ave, starting at Alchemy and Cornerstone Tavern. Day 5: Adrenaline & Sports Morning: Try indoor skydiving at Paraclete XP or go go-kart racing at Rush Hour Karting. Afternoon: Catch a Carolina Hurricanes hockey game or check out an event at PNC Arena. Evening: Late-night tacos and margaritas at Centro. Day 6: More Nature & Chill Vibes Morning: Take a peaceful kayak trip at Falls Lake. Afternoon: Explore the hipster vibes of Raleigh’s Warehouse District and grab coffee at Joule Coffee. Dinner: Enjoy some South American steak at Cortez Seafood & Cocktail. Night: Wind down with live jazz at C. Grace. Day 7: Farewell Brunch & Departure Brunch: End the trip with a classic Southern brunch at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey before heading to the airport.
That would be the ultimate mix of adventure, nightlife, food, and relaxation, making sure my best friend leaves with unforgettable memories!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! I want to give a huge shoutout to my wife, Michelle Wilson, for all the unwavering support she has given me throughout my journey. Her love, encouragement, and belief in me have been instrumental in my growth, both personally and professionally.
Another pillar that has kept me grounded is my Bible—a constant source of wisdom, strength, and guidance that has helped me navigate challenges and stay focused on my purpose.
I also want to recognize my incredible friends who have stood by me through thick and thin, offering support, motivation, and genuine brotherhood. And, of course, a special shoutout to my international modeling group, the Queensmen—a family that continues to inspire and push me to be my best.
Success is never a solo journey, and I’m beyond grateful for the people and influences that have shaped mine!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleveland_wilson?igsh=eWx6emtzdTV1cHo5
Facebook: Cleveland anthony Wilson
Other: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm10048954
Image Credits
Photocredit Gregory Jones
Photocredit Megan Kjarbo
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
