Michael Ballard at a Glance
Michael Ballard: From Mischief to Millions – The Full Throttle Saloon Story
Introduction: The Biker Bar Baron
Michael Ballard is an American entrepreneur, bar owner, and motorcyclist best known for his ownership of the Full Throttle Saloon. This iconic establishment, self-proclaimed as the world’s largest biker bar, has cemented Ballard’s place in the world of entertainment and motorcycle culture. With a net worth estimated at $10 million, Ballard’s journey from a mischievous youth to a successful businessman is a testament to his drive and entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Life and the Seeds of a Dream
Born in 1965 in Trimble, Tennessee, Michael Ballard’s early life was marked by a rebellious streak. His antics earned him the nickname “Little Al Capone” from local law enforcement. This formative period revealed an early fascination with the world of bars and nightlife. At the young age of 12, Ballard was already sneaking into the town’s biggest bar, the Silver Dollar Cafe, foreshadowing his future career path.
Full Throttle Saloon: The World’s Largest Biker Bar
After a period of settling down and entering the cellular phone business, Ballard’s life took a decisive turn in the late 1990s. A trip to Sturgis, South Dakota, during the annual motorcycle rally, ignited a new vision. He sold his successful cellular phone company, Cellular Plus, and invested the proceeds in purchasing 30 acres of land in Sturgis. This marked the beginning of the Full Throttle Saloon, a massive indoor/outdoor complex designed to cater to motorcycle enthusiasts.
The Full Throttle Saloon, open from March to mid-November, quickly became a mecca for bikers from across the country and around the world. The facility boasted multiple restaurants, a tattoo parlor, retail stores, two stages for live performances, a wrestling ring, a zip line course, a burn-out pit, and even cabins for overnight stays. During the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the bar hosted upwards of 20,000 people each night, consuming massive quantities of beer and food.
David McNew/Getty Images
To handle the enormous demand during the Sturgis rally, vendors delivered supplies during the early morning hours, navigating the influx of bikers. The Full Throttle Saloon’s ability to cater to so many people made it a world-renowned destination. The bar attracts a diverse crowd, from blue-collar workers to seasoned bikers, all drawn to the lively atmosphere and entertainment.
(Photo by Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images)
The Rise to Fame: The “Full Throttle Saloon” Reality Show
In 2009, Ballard’s Full Throttle Saloon gained even wider recognition when truTV approached him about creating a reality television series. The show, aptly titled “Full Throttle Saloon,” offered viewers an inside look at the daily operations of the bar. It chronicled the challenges of running a seasonal business that could see over 300,000 visitors during its peak season.
The series ran for six seasons, from 2009 to 2015, providing compelling drama and entertainment, as it showcased the struggles and triumphs of managing the bar, the staff, and the constant influx of patrons. The show significantly increased the bar’s visibility and solidified Ballard’s status as a celebrity in the biker community and beyond.
Angie Carlson and Angieland
A key figure in the “Full Throttle Saloon” reality show was Michael Ballard’s girlfriend, Angie Carlson. Angie served as the bar’s Marketing Director and was also the leader of the “Flaunt Dancers,” a group of performers who entertained guests at “Angieland,” a special bar within the Saloon. Angie’s performances, including her signature move of sitting on a gentleman’s head during a dance, added a unique element to the Full Throttle Saloon experience, capturing the attention of viewers and contributing to the bar’s lively reputation.
Beyond the Bar: Ballard’s Entrepreneurial Spirit
Ballard’s entrepreneurial endeavors extended beyond the Full Throttle Saloon. In 2013, he returned to his hometown of Trimble, Tennessee, to launch “Michael Ballard’s Full Throttle S’loonshine,” a moonshine distillery. This venture allowed Ballard to capitalize on the popularity of the Full Throttle Saloon brand and enter a new market. The distillery has become a popular tourist attraction, further diversifying his business interests and showcasing his capacity for innovation.
Michael Ballard’s Net Worth: A Financial Overview
Through his various business ventures, including the Full Throttle Saloon, the reality show, and the S’loonshine distillery, Michael Ballard has accumulated a net worth of approximately $10 million. This figure reflects his success in the entertainment and hospitality industries. Ballard’s financial success is a direct result of his ability to identify opportunities, take calculated risks, and build a brand that resonates with a loyal customer base.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leather and Liquor
Michael Ballard’s story is a captivating tale of entrepreneurial spirit, perseverance, and the pursuit of a dream. From his early days as a mischievous youth to becoming the owner of the world’s largest biker bar, Ballard’s journey exemplifies the American dream. His ability to transform an idea into a thriving business, coupled with his ventures into reality television and the liquor industry, has solidified his place as a prominent figure in motorcycle culture and entertainment. With a substantial net worth and a lasting legacy, Michael Ballard’s story continues to inspire.