Email marketing expert Liz Wilcox has acquired the online business education brand Smart Passive Income from founder Pat Flynn and partner Matt Gartland, effective April 1, 2026.

Key Points

• Liz Wilcox has assumed the roles of owner and CEO of SPI Media and SPI Labs.
• Founded in 2008, Smart Passive Income has served over 50,000 students and reached 80 million podcast downloads.
• The acquisition includes the brand's educational programs, community, and digital resources, with no major operational changes planned.
• Pat Flynn will step away from daily operations to focus on new ventures in Pokémon-focused media and family-oriented storytelling.
• Wilcox previously served as the company's Director of Community before finalizing the purchase.

Why it Matters

This transition marks a significant leadership change for a foundational brand in the creator economy, signaling a shift toward a new generation of entrepreneurial guidance. By maintaining the existing brand mission while pivoting to a "What's Important Now" strategy, the acquisition aims to preserve community trust while refocusing on early-stage business growth.